This afternoon, NSA Director Lt Gen Michael V. Hayden, USAF, and Maryland Governor The Honorable Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., signed a precedent-setting Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that formalizes a partnership between NSA and the State to advance technology in Maryland.
NSA/CSS and Maryland State representatives signed the MOU detailing the specifics of the new partnership between the Agency and the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) in the Governor's Reception Room at the Maryland State House. In attendance were:
- Lt Gen Michael V. Hayden, USAF, Director, NSA/Chief, CSS
- The Honorable Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., Governor of Maryland
- The Honorable Aris Melissaratos, Maryland DBED Secretary
- Dr. Eric C. Haseltine, NSA Associate Director for Research
"This agreement, the first of its kind between the Agency and the State of Maryland, will enhance NSA/CSS' transformation efforts to provide quality intelligence to the national leadership while promoting economic prosperity in Maryland," said General Hayden.
"Maryland is looking forward to a closer relationship with NSA," said Governor Ehrlich. "We are happy that the Federal government has found another avenue to utilize the vast technology resources that the State has to offer."
Secretary Melissaratos added, "In today's increasingly global marketplace, Maryland has a great deal to offer to the high-tech industry. We are extremely pleased that NSA has decided to partner with the State on this endeavor."
NSA/CSS' Research Associate Directorate explores new technology for the Agency's information assurance and signals intelligence missions. Engaging in technical exchanges with industry concerning new trends, theories, techniques, and problems in research will further industry's understanding of the unique research needs of NSA/CSS.