One of the aspects of our nation’s military budget is the needed purchase of worn and missing military equipment. Acquisition is inextricably intertwined with military capability. In the ongoing debate about acquisition processes and of the proper balance between industry, civilians and the military, what is often forgotten is that acquisition is about buying things. Too often the lawyer mentality of those shaping the process enforces the notion that process is more important than outcome. The critical question is the ability to buy the right equipment, at the right time, with the right effect and with core capabilities to sustain that equipment worldwide. Given the apparent refusal of senior administration staff to listen to the senior generals and admirals, this is likely to be an area that substantially weakens our military for the foreseeable future.
