Proposed Bipartisan Bill to Enhance Defense Equipment Delivery
On Thursday, several representatives, including Robert Adderholt from Alabama, Jared Moskowitz from Florida, and Jimmy Panetta from California, joined R-Montana’s Ryan Zinke to introduce the Manufacturing and Sales Act. This bipartisan initiative aims to increase revenues and expedite the delivery of essential US-made defense capabilities to allies and partners by expanding the Special Defense Acquisition Fund (SDAF).
Adderholt expressed that this legislation is crucial, stating, “This bipartisan bill will help American allies and partners receive critical defense equipment in a timely manner. By strengthening the SDAF, the law not only supports national security interests overseas but also invests in our domestic defense industry.”
The statement from Adderholt highlighted that the bill tackles the current inefficiencies and delays in foreign military sales. The need for reform has become pressing as the value of foreign military sales and direct commercial sales has significantly surpassed the domestic defense procurement budget, with international demand for US defense products approaching double that of domestic acquisitions.
Moskowitz commented on the dual benefits of the bill, saying, “The Arms Act serves as a boost for both our economic and national security, investing in vital manufacturing at home and supporting defense globally. It helps protect our allies as we contend with threats from foreign adversaries like Russia and China.”
Panetta added, “It’s unfortunate that unnecessary bureaucratic delays hinder our ability to fully support democratic allies when they need it the most. The expanded bipartisan special defense acquisition fund offers a more efficient solution to meet urgent needs and tackle global threats.”
He further noted, “I’ve been committed to eliminating bureaucratic hurdles that delay lifesaving capabilities from reaching our allies. This bill addresses that mission. The Special Defense Acquisition Fund is an essential, though historically underfunded, tool that fortifies our defense sector while ensuring taxpayers aren’t saddled with unnecessary costs.”
The SDAF has maintained strong bipartisan backing from Congress as well as both current and previous administrations.
The proposed accelerated revenue from the Manufacturing and Sales Act has garnered support from major defense organizations, such as the Professional Services Lawyer, the Defense Industry Association, and the Aerospace Industry Association.
