The Center will address maritime logistics and security issues of national and international importance.

Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Southern University and Armstrong Atlantic State University will work directly with the Ports Authority to develop innovative new technologies for the efficient, secure movement of freight.

"This is the first relationship of its kind in the country," said Doug Marchand, Georgia Ports Authority executive director. "Ultimately, this Center will provide global thought leadership on maritime logistics and security and provide a forum for the demonstration of best practices for both industries."

All the technologies developed in SMLIC, both hardware and software, will be evaluated and potentially implemented by the Georgia Ports Authority. Research will focus on increasing security and productivity at the nation's ports and all points of entry.

"Long-term, the work of this Center will have broad and long-lasting impact not only for the nation, but for the world," said Chip White, SMLIC executive director. "This marks a new chapter in Georgia's leadership in transportation and logistics."

The SMLIC will offer logistics and security companies the opportunity to take advantage of the intellectual capital being developed there by becoming members of the center. Wayne Hodges, director of Georgia Tech's Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC), said he also expects the Center's commercialization efforts to result in the creation of new companies based on the research done at the Center.

"The commercialization of this research will create the newest and best ways to move freight around the world," said Hodges. "By creating this strong foundation, new companies will be established, new jobs created and our state will become a world leader."