“Today, the Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee will meet to discuss the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act Budget Request for U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). This hearing provides us with an opportunity to review the status of the United States Special Operations Command and its policies and priorities. I would like to thank Admiral Eric T. Olson for attending and lending his expertise to this important discussion. We welcome you and your thoughts.

 “The Defense Budget outlined by Secretary Gates recognizes that the threats we face today, and the emerging threats of the future, require us to make adjustments to our defense spending, including funding for our Special Operations Forces.
“SOCOM is a critical tool in our efforts to confront threats to our security around the globe and we must ensure it is postured and equipped to confront the enemies we face today and in the future.

 “Furthermore, Secretary Gates articulated three strategic goals to be supported through the FY2010 defense budget request: Take care of our people; develop the right capabilities for today and tomorrow; and reform the procurement, acquisition, and contracting process. With this hearing, the committee looks forward to hearing how SOCOM plans to shift their investments to meet these strategic goals.

 “Undeniably, improvements have been made to confront the enemies we face today and in the future, but much more must be done. This subcommittee will continue to evaluate our defense priorities and seek feedback from the professionals who implement these programs to ensure we are constantly updating our strategies to confront these ever changing, irregular threats.

 “Again, I thank Admiral Eric T. Olson for being with us today and look forward to discussing this important issue.”