Washington, DC − Congressman Lamar Smith (TX−21), Congressman John Carter (TX–31) and Congressman Michael McCaul (TX–10) today announced that they have obtained $2.4 million to help fund a defense project in Austin. The funds were included in the Defense Appropriations Bill that passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

The funds would go to Applied Physical Electronics to continue the development of systems and technology to alleviate terrorist roadside bombs.

"Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and vehicle bombs pose threats to our troops overseas each day," emphasized Congressman Smith. "This funding would help develop solutions to keep our troops safe, improve homeland security and strengthen our military."

"It was a privilege for me to work with Mr. Smith and Mr. McCaul to secure this funding that will allow Applied Physical Electronics to continue the development of systems to moderate terrorist activities and enhance our nation’s defense," Representative Carter said. "We must remain committed to providing our military with the tools and resources they need to successfully serve and protect America."

"We are extremely pleased with the funding in the 08 defense appropriations conference report and grateful to Congressmen Smith, Carter and McCaul and their staffs for their hard work in making this happen. APE will use this money, in partnership with researchers at the University of Texas at Austin, to advance and field the technology our company is developing to detect and defeat the Improvised Explosive Devices that are killing and injuring so many of our soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan," said Jon Mayes, CEO of Applied Physical Electronics, L.C.

The bill will now head to the Senate floor for consideration and then onto the President.