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	Challenge #1: Increase funding for cutting-edge defense research and development
	Challenge #2: Modernize the U.S. export control system to enable interoperability, capability, and defense cooperation with friends and allies
	Challenge #3: Inspire the nation’s future workforce by motivating students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math
	Challenge #4: Create a 21st century acquisition process that gives our military personnel the best equipment at the best value for the taxpayer
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Challenge #4: Create a 21st century acquisition process that gives our military personnel the best equipment at the best value for the taxpayer.

Although today's global business world operates on the principle of just-in-time manufacturing, America's defense acquisition system runs on "just wait." To keep pace with technology and get the best systems to the people who need them while they are still relevant, these processes have to act with greater speed and efficiency.

Numerous studies have suggested new techniques to define requirements up front, make more accurate predictions of cost, performance, and schedules, and then deliver finished products to warfighters in a timely manner. This new system must also have greater transparency and accountability.

Achieving these standards requires closer collaboration among the Pentagon, Congress, and industry to pursue a revolutionary approach to acquisition procedures. Improving performance and building trust between the players will serve the warfighter better and inspire confidence among American taxpayers.