Opening Statements

Today, Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-MO), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Tactical Air And Land Forces, made the following remarks, as prepared for delivery, ahead of hearing on Army and Marine Corps ground systems modernization programs:

"Thank you Mr. Chairman and welcome to our witnesses. I want to thank them for their service and for all that they do for our Soldiers and Marines.

"We have a lot to cover in a relatively short time.

"We have a distinguished panel of witnesses here today and given their expertise I look forward to having a healthy discussion.

"This budget request for ground system modernization is essentially flat when compared to last year's levels. General McConville, the Chief of Staff of the Army, stated that 'the Army's budget request represents a downturn in real purchasing power from FY20 and that progress is at risk.'

"The Army has realigned approximately $2.4 billion in fiscal year 2021. These funds were taken from Army identified lower priority programs by eliminating or reducing approximately 80 programs across the future years defense program to better invest in the Army's big six modernization priorities.

"Programs such as the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, the Joint Assault Bridge, and munitions had quantities reduced, while programs such as the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System were eliminated.

"The Marine Corps is also in the process of a major redesign effort and the Commandant, General Berger, has stated that 'we will divest of legacy defense programs and force structure that support legacy capabilities.'

"I fully recognize the importance of prioritizing modernization efforts necessary for great power competition that aligns with the National Defense Strategy, especially when budgets are flat with no real growth. I appreciate the Army's efforts in finding savings through reform and making these difficult choices and trades.

"However, we need to better understand the near-term strategic and operational risks that may result. I look forward to working together to find that right balance between current readiness and future modernization.

"So given this focus on next generation capabilities I expect the witnesses to discuss how they are balancing investments in capabilities for the future fight while at the same time upgrading legacy platforms for current threats and improved tactical readiness.

"Regarding Army modernization. The budget contains $10.6 billion for 31 efforts being worked by the eight cross-functional teams to address the Army's top six modernization priorities. This is about a 26 percent increase over fiscal year 2020 levels.

"I'm sure our witnesses will touch on most of these programs today and I'm interested in hearing more about the status of the optionally manned fighting vehicle, indirect fire protection capability, the next generation squad weapon, and long-range precision fires.

"Regarding Marine Corps modernization. A full rate production decision is planned for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle later this year and I'd like the witnesses to update us on this program and discuss any challenges that could be associated with a production ramp up.

"Finally, I want to stress the importance of jointness between the Army and the Marine Corps. I'd like our witnesses to discuss how they are communicating and coordinating on critical modernization programs that could address similar operational requirements such as body armor, long range precision fires, and next generation small arms weapons.

"I thank the Chairman for organizing this important hearing and yield back."
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