IBM (NYSE:IBM) moved into focus on Thursday after securing a major U.S. defense contract tied to missile protection.
IBM was selected to support the Missile Defense Agency’s SHIELD program under a large defense framework.
The agreement falls under an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity structure.
The contract supports the Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense initiative. The framework allows rapid delivery of advanced military capabilities.
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Scope Of Work
The program covers a wide range of defense technology and systems integration tasks.
It emphasizes speed, flexibility and innovation for operational deployment. IBM will help accelerate delivery for mission-critical defense needs.
IBM has supported U.S. federal agencies for nearly a century.
The tech behemoth is expanding its role in operationalizing artificial intelligence across government agencies.
In defense, this includes AI-enabled sensing and advanced research investments. The company highlights governance and interoperability as core design priorities.
“IBM is proud to partner with the Missile Defense Agency to accelerate the delivery of advanced, mission-critical capabilities,” said Susan Wedge, managing partner, U.S. Federal Market for IBM.
“By bringing the full depth of our expertise and cutting-edge technologies, we will help ensure the warfighter is equipped to respond with greater speed, agility, and confidence in an increasingly complex threat environment.”
Parallel Education Push
Yesterday, IBM also announced a global request for proposals focused on artificial intelligence and education.
The initiative operates under the IBM Impact Accelerator program. It targets nonprofits and government organizations.
IBM cited shifting workforce demands driven by rapid AI adoption. The company said many executives expect job roles to evolve faster.
It also warned that current employee skills may become outdated by the decade’s end.
The request invites the development of AI-enabled learning tools. These tools aim to improve teaching effectiveness and workforce readiness. IBM seeks scalable solutions for career transitions.
IBM Price Action: IBM shares are trading up by 0.49% to $290.46 at publication on Thursday.
Photo: PJ McDonnell via Shutterstock
