Congressman Tom Kean Jr. (NJ-07) joined U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll during a recent visit to Picatinny Arsenal in Morris County, New Jersey. The visit included briefings on the installation’s role in Army modernization and its expanding contributions to national defense.
During their time at Picatinny, Secretary Driscoll and Congressman Kean reviewed advancements in counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS) technology and next-generation munitions. Demonstrations showcased net-based drone capture, improved explosives, and electromagnetic tools integrated with defense systems. Secretary Driscoll also met with Major General John Reim, Picatinny’s top commander, to discuss efforts to accelerate drone acquisition and production for the Army.
Secretary Driscoll recognized both military and civilian staff at the Arsenal by presenting challenge coins and discussing potential future investment at the facility.
“I want to thank Secretary Driscoll for his leadership and commitment to strengthening America’s security,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “During our visit to Picatinny Arsenal, we met with the installation’s exceptional workforce whose innovation ensures our military remains the envy of the world. Picatinny continues to step up, delivering groundbreaking technology that directly supports our servicemembers on the battlefield. The talent and expertise here cannot be overstated, and I will always support Picatinny, its workforce, and its mission.”
On October 31, 2025, Congressman Kean and Representative Elise Stefanik (NY-21) sent a joint letter to Secretary Driscoll supporting the establishment of a Close Combat Innovation Cell (CCIC). This initiative would be a partnership between Picatinny Arsenal and Fort Drum’s 10th Mountain Infantry Division aimed at developing new technologies for complex battlefield environments.
The letter described Project STARLING as one of CCIC’s first initiatives—producing up to 100 3D-printed small unmanned aerial systems for light infantry brigade combat teams. The project aims to enable both sites to develop offensive and defensive swarm capabilities using these systems.
Kean and Stefanik also called for $20 million from Congress’s recent reconciliation package to fund counter-UAS development at Picatinny Arsenal—a core area of research for the facility.
Thomas Kean Jr., who has represented New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District since 2023 after succeeding Tom Malinowski (source), previously served in both houses of New Jersey’s legislature between 2001 and 2022 (source). He was born in Livingston in 1968, is currently 54 years old, resides in Westfield, and holds a BA from Dartmouth College.
