Everyone is talking about the upcoming budget crunch that the US is facing in the defense sphere and reacting as if its the end of the world.
I beg to differ. While the wars have been going on in Iraq and Afghanistan, we've seen a number of projects and initiatives started that don't fit our needs and should be done away with today.
1. JLTV. This vehicle started out as a HUMVEE replacement and then turned into a more modern M-ATV. Its too heavy, costs too much and if we need protection against IED's then its time to pull MRAPs out of storage. A number of manufacturers have developed upgrades for HUMVEEs that we should buy. The JLTV is just not needed.
2. GCV. The ground combat vehicle. Wow. Where do I start. First the Bradley in its ultimate form is already a world class vehicle. Second we have excess Bradley's and if the US Army needs a M-113 replacement, a better option would be to modify those excess Bradley's by removing the turrets, adding a RWS and installing ballistic seats and spall liners. Improvements in its suspension and power train along with additional armor in required areas should hold be sufficient for Army use.
3. Observation Helicopter Replacement. The US Army might as well face it. Its going to fly Kiowas till 2030. Just get on with it and upgrade the helicopters it has and buy new ones instead of developing a brand new supply chain and training centers. The AA-72X might be impressive. The OH-6 too and the AH-64 lite or whatever they're calling it but common sense and urgency require that the foolishness stop and reality accepted.
4. NGB. The next generation bomber is a pipe dream. Penetration of enemy defenses by large bombers is not going to happen. Money better spent would be to develop ultra high speed cruise missiles. Fixing existing bombers might help too. I find it hard to believe that the B-1 can't be re-engined to fill this role.
Of course there are a number of other programs that can go on this list ranging from small arms to nuclear weapons. The point is quite simply this. We can afford to make cuts in some of our defense programs without jeopardizing our safety and the safety of our allies. Even with as big as a one quarter cut in the defense budget and we still should be fine. Even in the face of a rising China.
Now if we could only make some cuts that would really help...you know, like getting rid of a whole ton of flag officers! That would make my day!
Disclaimer:
The Flag Officer remark is not aimed at Admiral Venelet. I simply believe that we have too many. Generals are in positions once commanded by Colonels. Etc...
