Arlington, VA – Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) President and CEO Eric Fanning today applauded Secretary of War Pete Hegseth after he announced reforms to the arms acquisition system.
“Secretary Hegseth has launched an ambitious, long-needed overhaul of warfighting acquisition. The Pentagon’s plan is exciting, and it’s what America needs to outpace tomorrow’s threats,” Fanning started. “The message is clear: deterrence requires speed, partnership, and results. By slashing bureaucracy, focusing on incentives, and sending unmistakable demand signals, the Pentagon is opening doors to every corner of the defense ecosystem—from established partners to new players.
“For too long, red tape and outdated rules have slowed our ability to deliver for the warfighter. With accountability at every level and a laser focus on outcomes, we can build a defense industrial base that’s faster, smarter, and more resilient.
“For this plan to work, industry and government must work closely to implement these reforms and finetune the details,” Fanning finished. “We welcome the push for innovation and the promise of real, actionable change. The defense industrial base is ready to answer the call.
“Together, we’ll make sure America’s arsenal is second to none—and that every warfighter gets what they need, when they need it.”
AIA has routinely called on the Pentagon to enact these crucial reforms, including in a recent letter to Secretary Hegseth.
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