Senator Tim Sheehy and Katherine Boyle, general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, have called for significant reforms to the United States defense acquisition system. In an op-ed published by Fox News, they argue that the current system is hampered by bureaucracy and outdated regulations, which could put national security at risk.
“The United States simply cannot afford to wait until the next war starts to fix our broken acquisition system. We cannot sacrifice our national security on the altar of bureaucracy,” wrote Sen. Sheehy and Boyle.
They highlight that while adversaries such as China have rapidly advanced their military capabilities over the past two decades, the U.S. has lost its industrial edge due to an emphasis on process rather than outcomes. The authors point out that a 2024 congressional report found America faces some of its most serious global threats since World War II and is unprepared for a major conflict.
According to Sheehy and Boyle, “Reports suggest the U.S. could exhaust our long-range, anti-ship missile supply in as little as a week of conflict with China.” They also note that it takes nearly 12 years for the Pentagon to deliver new weapons systems and that outdated equipment remains in use by troops.
The op-ed supports the Dynamic Tech Defense Reform initiative included in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This initiative aims to overhaul incentives within defense contracting and open participation to more innovative businesses outside traditional government contractors.
Key reforms outlined include a “commercial first” model that prioritizes commercial solutions over custom development programs, potentially saving time and taxpayer money. Additionally, narrowing contract requirements would allow more companies—both large and small—to contribute to defense projects, reducing reliance on a limited pool of suppliers.
Sheehy and Boyle also advocate for changes in how past performance is evaluated during contracting decisions: “By reforming how the Department of War values past performance, Congress is ending the tyranny of incumbency at the Pentagon.”
They reference recent conflicts such as Russia’s war against Ukraine as examples where rapid production and deployment of military equipment are crucial. The authors stress that maintaining a vibrant defense industrial base capable of quick iteration is essential for modern warfare.
The full op-ed can be read at Fox News: https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/us-could-lose-next-major-war-due-pentagons-broken-acquisition-system
