SVDG Reaction: The Future of Defense Task Force Report

Executive Summary:

The Silicon Valley Defense Group (SVDG) endorses the findings of the Future of Defense Task Force Report and the “whole-of-nation approach” it calls for to confront emerging threats to U.S. national security. As an organization composed of technologists, investors, and former national security and acquisition professionals, SVDG views the Task Force’s emphasis on removing barriers to leveraging private sector innovation as paramount. SVDG looks forward to bringing an industry viewpoint as the Task Force continues to develop and implement policies and legislation designed to address the issues identified in the report. 

At the request of Congressman Banks, SVDG conducted a survey of members and compiled feedback. Of the report’s recommendations, SVDG views the following as the most valuable, and critical, to achieving the Task Force’s objectives:

• Review defense acquisition regulations to make them less onerous, particularly for non-traditional entities seeking to partner with the Department of Defense (DoD).

• Train and incentivize the acquisition workforce to utilize existing flexible authorities to quickly push innovative technology to warfighters in the field.

• Expand funding for new innovation efforts such as Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), AFWERX, and NavalX.

• Improve hiring pathways and increase compensation for STEM careers at the Pentagon and in the private sector; create a military commissioning source for STEM talent.

• Enhance essential partnerships with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and Five-Eyes intelligence partners, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand— as well as with Japan and South Korea including implementing programs like a Five-Eyes innovation framework. 

SVDG looks forward to the opportunity to support the Task Force as it works to implement the recommendations outlined in the report. 

To read the recommendations, click here.