Parallel Works Wins DoD Contract for HPC Modernization

Parallel Works has been awarded a contract with the Department of Defense’s High Performance Computing Modernization Program (HPCMP) to provide a unified interface for accessing both on-premises and cloud computational resources. The Parallel Works ACTIVATE High Security Platform (HSP) will connect Defense Supercomputing Resource Centers (DSRCs) with secure commercial cloud infrastructure, enabling defense researchers and engineers to deploy critical workloads across environments. “There is an urgent need for controlled unclassified information (CUI) and ITAR-capable cloud workflows,” said Keith Obenschain, Chief Technology Officer at HPCMP. Thousands of users will gain immediate access to DSRCs through the HSP, which has been approved for the highest non-classified DOD security level, Impact Level 5, and is one of only three SaaS/PaaS programs authorized to handle export-controlled data.

ACTIVATE HSP Enables Secure Hybrid Multi-Cloud Access for DOD Users

This isn’t simply about adding cloud capacity; it’s about orchestrating a unified computing environment spanning on-premises systems and multiple cloud providers like AWS, Azure, Google, and Oracle, enabling distributed workloads to run seamlessly across diverse resources. The implementation of ACTIVATE HSP addresses a critical need for secure handling of sensitive data, as it is one of only three Software as a Service/Platform as a Service programs approved for workloads subject to both International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) requirements. The Naval Research Laboratory served as the initial adopter, implementing the HSP to accelerate and improve the reliability of its weather forecasting models; by automating workflows and securely managing hybrid computing environments, the solution facilitates faster, more informed decision-making in critical DoD operations and ensures operational continuity through proactive workload redistribution.

Beyond improved efficiency, the platform allows defense researchers and engineers to test and deploy workloads on cloud infrastructure before those capabilities are integrated into the DSRC, a strategy that prioritizes cloud prototyping within the existing supercomputing framework. Matthew Shaxted, CEO of Parallel Works, emphasized the broad applicability of the platform, stating, “The HPCMP contract allows our platform to support a broad range of mission-critical HPC and AI workloads across the DOD teams.” This secure environment enables teams to experiment with AI and code-assist tools for model development, accelerating innovation and ensuring that the DoD remains competitive in areas like AI-driven warfare and digital modernization.