The recent address by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll at the annual Association of the U.S. Army conference has raised eyebrows, marking a significant shift in the Army’s approach to procurement practices. Emphasizing the urgency for innovation, Driscoll criticized the Army’s reliance on outdated technology and procurement processes that delay critical equipment upgrades.
Driscoll’s Call for Urgent Procurement Reform
Driscoll’s fiery speech at the meeting in Washington highlighted the imperative need for the Army to modernize its procurement practices. He stated, “We cannot f-ing wait to innovate until Americans are dying on the battlefield.” His rhetoric reflected the gravity of the situation, indicating that soldiers’ lives depend on timely adaptations in technology and equipment.
New Procurement Strategies on the Horizon
The Army is set to implement a new system that consolidates equipment purchasing under a unified organization directly reporting to Army leadership. This change aims to significantly shorten the current contracting cycle of 12 to 18 months. Driscoll noted, “We will break down barriers until we measure acquisitions, not in years and billions, but in months and thousands.”
Outdated Equipment and Its Consequences
During his address, Driscoll highlighted the troubling issues surrounding outdated military equipment. He exhibited a photograph of a soldier, born in 2004, working on a computer system that was introduced in 1995. This stark contrast demonstrated the urgent need for the Army to update its capabilities.
Among the various failed projects he mentioned were the Boeing–Sikorsky RAH-66 Comanche helicopter and the XM2001 Crusader self-propelled howitzer. These “unequivocal failures,” as Driscoll termed them, have resulted in public distrust and substantial financial losses, crippling operational readiness.
Right to Repair: A Critical Initiative
Driscoll announced earlier this year that future contracts would include a “right to repair,” allowing the Army to maintain its equipment more efficiently. He illustrated the need for this initiative with examples of aircraft parts that could be 3D-printed at a fraction of the cost of traditional manufacturing. This approach could save the Army approximately $180,000 monthly while reducing repair delays.
Embracing Innovation and Advanced Manufacturing
- 3D printing capabilities are to be accelerated across the Army, enabling on-site manufacturing of parts.
- A “Shark Tank”-like program will promote venture capital investment in Army technology initiatives.
- Campus-style dining facilities and 3D-printed concrete structures are other innovative projects aimed at reducing costs.
Driscoll, who served in the Army from 2007 to 2011, emphasized the necessity for adapting a Silicon Valley mindset to military operations. He remarked, “We will train our system to move fast.” This perspective aims to establish the Army as a leader in modern warfare technologies, keeping pace with global innovations.
In conclusion, Secretary Driscoll’s call for a reformed procurement strategy signals a pivotal moment for the Army. His commitment to tackling outdated systems and inefficiencies will be crucial in ensuring that soldiers are equipped for success in contemporary military engagements.
