Thread by @defense_news

➡️ Next, the state of @USArmy: Jen Judson (@JenJudson) will talk with the Hon. Gabe Camarillo, under secretary of the Army, about the future of modern warfare. #DNConf #army

First, a great piece of context to frame today’s discussion: defensenews.com/land/2022/09/0…

Regarding details left to be ironed out for AFC and modernization, “We’ve got a tremendous amount of momentum in our modernization portfolio,” Camarillo said.

Camarillo also warned against false myths around progress and future planning. The greatest of which, he said, was that any “one stakeholder is singularly responsible for acquisition outcomes.”

Camarillo said he had visited AFC while working in the private sector and said he does want to visit again.

“On modernization, China is sprinting, is the U.S. Army?”

“We are sprinting … The biggest shift has been using rapid acquisition authorities by Congress.”

On milestones and what’s to come for several programs moving forward:

Expecting review to be finalized this year and findings will help shape budget for FY 25, Camarillo said. c4isrnet.com/battlefield-te…

Accounting for inflation in FY24 budget: Camarillo said department is working alongside @OMBPress to tackle inflationary pressures, but has seen concerns on retaining workforces on small business and service contracts.

Camarillo said anecdotal evidence suggested a shrinkage in Army’s small business industrial base and dept has asked questions about where declines arose and why. He anticipates answers to these questions this year and in the meantime wants to increase participation incentives.

On the ever-persistent question of recruiting: Camarillo said “we are facing an unprecedented challenge this year and going into next year with regard to our ability to recruit military talent.”
Part of the problem: COVID taking a hit to academic and physical eligibility.