If we can’t produce components needed for our most advanced weapon systems domestically, then we could find ourselves at the mercy of stalled global supply chains.
Where we once the U.S. made 30 percent of the world supply of printed circuit boards, the U.S. now makes only 4 percent.
The challenge is ensuring commercial electronics can be scaled, surged and, most importantly, trusted as one element within a national strategy.
U.S production for key UAV electronic components, airframes and propulsion systems remains fragmented, with limited capacity for rapid surge.
Tablets used by the military are assembled with parts that trace back to companies under China’s control, with some flagged by Congress for ties to the Chinese military.
The capability of the Chinese cyber actors has grown, and the last couple of years have taught us that countries with adversarial interests are willing to change their strategy and deploy aggressive actions.
The issue of establishing a more sustainable military doesn’t need to create a political disagreement. The right technology can address concerns of financial responsibility plus environmental sustainability without compromising safety, readiness or ease of operation.
