Located in the heart of the Central Florida Research Park, 11805 Research Parkway is a premier Class A office facility primarily known as Partnership III. As of 2026, it remains a critical infrastructure node for the modeling, simulation, and training (MS&T) industry, housing major defense contractors like SAIC and facilitating collaboration between the University of Central Florida and military branches.
11805 Research Parkway represents more than just a physical address; it is a cornerstone of the East Orlando business corridor. Situated adjacent to the University of Central Florida (UCF), the building is strategically positioned within the Central Florida Research Park (CFRP), which is the largest research park in Florida and one of the largest in the United States by employment. This specific location is synonymous with the "Team Orlando" concept—a collaborative alliance between the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and academic and industry partners focused on advancing simulation technology.
The Strategic Importance of the Central Florida Research Park
To understand the value of 11805 Research Parkway, one must first understand the ecosystem of the Central Florida Research Park. Established in the 1980s, the park was designed to foster a relationship between the university and the burgeoning high-tech industry. By 2026, this park has matured into a global epicenter for the Modeling, Simulation, and Training (MS&T) sector, contributing billions of dollars annually to the regional economy.
The park spans over 1,000 acres and provides a campus-like environment where over 10,000 employees work daily. 11805 Research Parkway sits in a high-density zone within this park, surrounded by other "Partnership" buildings (I, II, IV, and V). These buildings were specifically developed to accommodate the unique needs of defense-related research and development, often requiring specialized security measures, high-speed data connectivity, and flexible floor plans for laboratories.
The synergy at this address is driven by its proximity to the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD) and the Army’s Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation (PEO STRI). For companies located at 11805 Research Parkway, this means being within walking distance of their primary federal clients, a logistical advantage that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Building Profile and Physical Specifications
11805 Research Parkway, known formally in many planning documents as Partnership III, is a multi-story professional office building designed to meet the rigorous standards of both corporate tenants and government agencies.
Architectural and Technical Layout
The building typically offers approximately 123,000 square feet of space. As a Class A facility, it features modern architectural finishes, professional lobby areas, and advanced climate control systems necessary for maintaining sensitive server hardware. In the context of 2026, the building has seen various retrofits to accommodate hybrid work models and enhanced cybersecurity infrastructure.
A significant portion of the interior is often dedicated to Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) or closed-room environments. These are essential for defense contractors who handle classified information or develop proprietary simulation software for the Department of Defense (DoD). The structural integrity and electrical redundancy of the building are designed to support 24/7 operations, ensuring that critical defense projects remain online regardless of external conditions.
Site Amenities and Logistics
The site at 11805 Research Parkway provides ample surface parking, a necessity in the East Orlando area where public transit options, though improving, remain secondary to personal vehicle commutes. The building is surrounded by professional landscaping and is connected to a network of walking paths that weave through the Central Florida Research Park, encouraging pedestrian movement between the various Partnership buildings and the UCF campus.
| Feature | Specification / Detail |
|---|---|
| Building Name | Partnership III |
| Total Square Footage | Approx. 123,000 sq. ft. |
| Building Class | Class A Office |
| Primary Use | R&D, Defense Contracting, Academic Collaboration |
| Major Tenant (2026) | SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation) |
| Proximity to UCF | Less than 0.5 miles |
| Parking Ratio | Approx. 4.0/1,000 sq. ft. |
| Security Status | Managed access; specialized secure zones available |
Key Tenants: SAIC and the MS&T Ecosystem
The most prominent long-term tenant of 11805 Research Parkway is Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC). SAIC’s presence here is a legacy of its acquisition of Engility, which previously held a significant footprint in the building. As of 2026, SAIC continues to utilize this facility as a primary hub for its simulation and mission support services.
The Role of SAIC in Orlando
SAIC is a premier Fortune 500 technology integrator driving digital transformation across the federal government. At 11805 Research Parkway, their work often focuses on:
- Virtual and Constructive Training: Developing software that allows soldiers, pilots, and medics to train in high-fidelity virtual environments before engaging in real-world missions.
- Systems Engineering: Integrating complex hardware and software systems for various military platforms.
- Cybersecurity: Ensuring that the simulated training environments are secure from external threats and data breaches.
The presence of a massive entity like SAIC acts as a magnet for smaller subcontractors and specialized tech firms. This creates a "cluster effect" where specialized talent—including software engineers, game developers, and data scientists—converges on this specific address and its immediate neighbors.
Academic Integration with UCF
11805 Research Parkway is not just a commercial office; it serves as a bridge to the University of Central Florida. UCF’s School of Modeling, Simulation, and Training (SMST) and the Institute for Simulation and Training (IST) are located nearby. The building facilitates an environment where graduate students and researchers can transition easily into professional roles within the private sector. In 2026, this pipeline remains vital for maintaining the technical workforce required by the defense industry.
Connectivity and Accessibility
One of the primary reasons for the enduring popularity of 11805 Research Parkway is its geographical location relative to Florida's transportation infrastructure.
Roadway Access
The building is located just minutes from the Alafaya Trail (SR 434) and University Boulevard, two major arteries in East Orlando. More importantly, it provides quick access to the SR 408 (East-West Expressway), which connects the Research Park directly to Downtown Orlando in about 15-20 minutes. For those traveling from the north or south, the proximity to the SR 417 (Central Florida GreeneWay) allows for efficient travel to the Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is approximately a 20-25 minute drive.
Local Amenities
For employees working at 11805 Research Parkway, the immediate area offers a wide range of services. The nearby University Commons and various plazas along Alafaya Trail provide numerous dining, retail, and banking options. The lifestyle in this part of Orlando is heavily influenced by the university, resulting in a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of student-oriented housing and upscale residential communities in nearby Oviedo and Lake Mary.
Real Estate Context: The 2026 Market
By 2026, the demand for office space in the Central Florida Research Park has remained resilient, despite national trends toward remote work. This resilience is largely due to the "high-touch" nature of defense R&D. You cannot build a flight simulator or manage a SCIF from a home office.
Pricing and Lease Trends
Class A office space in the Research Park typically commands a premium. In 2026, lease rates in this corridor reflect the specialized nature of the buildings. Landlords in this area, often major REITs or specialized commercial developers, maintain these properties to the highest standards to attract and retain high-value defense contracts.
The vacancy rates at 11805 Research Parkway and its sister buildings have historically stayed lower than the broader Orlando office market. This is due to the long-term nature of government contracts, which often span five to ten years, providing a stable tenant base.
Future Developments
While 11805 Research Parkway is a mature asset, the surrounding area continues to evolve. New mixed-use developments have been planned to provide more "live-work-play" options within the park itself, reducing the reliance on commuting. Furthermore, the expansion of UCF’s research capabilities continues to drive the need for additional "Partnership" style spaces.
Navigating Business Requirements at this Location
For organizations looking to establish a presence at or near 11805 Research Parkway, there are several operational considerations that are unique to this defense-heavy corridor.
- Security Clearances: A significant portion of the work conducted at this address requires personnel to hold secret or top-secret clearances. This affects the hiring process and the physical security protocols of the building.
- Compliance with Federal Regulations: Tenants are often subject to strict ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) cybersecurity standards.
- Collaboration with Team Orlando: Newcomers to the building are encouraged to participate in the various industry forums and "Team Orlando" events that take place in the neighboring Partnership buildings, such as the Central Florida Chapter of NDIA (National Defense Industrial Association).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of the Partnership III building?
Partnership III at 11805 Research Parkway was designed to facilitate collaboration between the University of Central Florida, the U.S. military, and private industry. It primarily serves as an office and laboratory space for modeling, simulation, and training technologies.
Who owns 11805 Research Parkway?
Ownership of buildings in the Central Florida Research Park often involves a mix of university-related foundations and private commercial real estate firms. Historically, the UCF Research Foundation has played a role in the development and oversight of the Partnership buildings to ensure they meet the university’s strategic goals.
Can the general public enter the building?
No, 11805 Research Parkway is a secure professional facility. Due to the sensitive nature of the defense contracting work performed by tenants like SAIC, access is restricted to employees, authorized contractors, and scheduled visitors. All visitors are typically required to check in and provide identification.
What are the closest major landmarks?
The building is located near the University of Central Florida main campus, the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD), and the Bright House Networks (now Charter Communications) regional headquarters.
Is there public transportation to this address?
Yes, LYNX (Orlando’s regional bus service) provides routes that service the University of Central Florida and the Research Park. However, most professionals in the area utilize personal vehicles due to the layout of the park.
How does 11805 Research Parkway contribute to the local economy?
The building houses high-wage technical jobs in the modeling and simulation sector. These roles support a broad supply chain of software developers, hardware manufacturers, and service providers, contributing to Orlando’s reputation as a tech hub beyond its famous tourism industry.
Practical Recommendations for Visitors and Professionals
If you are visiting 11805 Research Parkway for a business meeting or starting a new position at this location, consider the following:
- Arrival Time: Allow extra time for parking and security check-in, especially during morning peak hours (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM) when the Research Park experiences significant traffic.
- Security Protocol: Ensure you have a valid government-issued ID. If you are a foreign national, you may need to clear additional security hurdles weeks in advance.
- Networking: Take advantage of the location. Many of the industry’s most influential leaders are located within a two-mile radius. Attending local MS&T meetups or UCF-hosted seminars can provide significant career and business development opportunities.
- Traffic Patterns: When leaving the facility, be aware that Alafaya Trail and the SR 408 on-ramps can become heavily congested between 4:30 PM and 6:00 PM.
11805 Research Parkway stands as a testament to the successful integration of academia, government, and private enterprise. In 2026, it remains a vital asset for national defense and a key driver of technological innovation in the Southeast United States.
