Statement by Marion C. Blakey on the Fiscal 2011 Defense Department Budget Request and Quadrennial Defense Review

ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The fiscal 2011 budget request for the Defense Department is a reasonable target that takes into account the very real demands that two ongoing wars make on our troops and the equipment that supports them. Even in today's budget-reduction climate, it is extremely important that our nation stands firm behind those obligations.

Over the long term, we need to be especially mindful about maintaining and modernizing the equipment that gives our men and women in uniform the technological dominance they require on the battlefield of tomorrow as well as today.

Both the budget request and the Quadrennial Defense Review continue efforts to reform how DOD buys goods and services, with an emphasis on creating stability in requirements and cost. We're looking forward to working with the department to create a more effective and efficient delivery of logistical support to our troops. This will continue our joint efforts for positive reform.

We're also extremely heartened by the inclusion of a discussion of the industrial base in the QDR released today. For the first time since Congress mandated this report in 1996, the industrial base is cited as an important factor that must be considered in the department's strategic planning.

The health of the industrial base is at the heart of our ability to supply our nation with the weapons systems it requires. We're hopeful that DOD will take into account the need for greater investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education as industry recruits the future workforce. We're also optimistic that the next step  inclusion of industrial base considerations in program plans and policy  will be executed as directed by the QDR.

Moreover, the QDR acknowledges the urgent need to reform the export control system, concluding that the proper remedy is fundamental and thorough restructuring. The issue is one of AIA's long time priorities and we look forward to working on this important issue with DOD.

Founded in 1919, the Aerospace Industries Association represents the nation's leading manufacturers and suppliers of civil, military, and business aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aircraft systems, space systems, aircraft engines, materiel, and related components, equipment services, and information technology.

SOURCE Aerospace Industries Association

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