Empty Bins in a Wartime Environment: The Challenge to the U.S. Defense Industrial Base

The U.S. defense industrial base is not adequately prepared for the international security environment, and a major regional conflict could lead to the U.S. running out of munitions in less than one week. The war in Ukraine has exposed serious deficiencies in the defense industrial base, and a revitalization of the defense industrial base is needed to enable the U.S. and its allies and partners to deter and win major theater wars. The Department of Defense should develop a plan to streamline and improve production, acquisitions, replenishment, Foreign Military Sales, ITAR, and other policies and procedures.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 46 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The United States defense industrial base faces significant challenges in meeting the demands of the international security environment. In the event of a major regional conflict, such as a war with China in the Taiwan Strait, the United States would likely exhaust its current stockpiles of munitions much faster than expected. According to the results of CSIS war games, the United States could run out of critical munitions like long-range, precision-guided munitions in less than a week during a conflict in the Taiwan Strait.

The war in Ukraine has further exposed the weaknesses of the U.S. defense industrial base, highlighting the need for a robust and resilient defense industry capable of producing sufficient quantities of munitions, weapons systems, and materiel to replace depleted stockpiles. As tensions in Asia continue to escalate, the goal should be to support the production capacity required to deter and, if necessary, fight and win at least one major theater war. This requires a balanced approach between "just in time" and lean manufacturing operations and the ability to carry additional capacity to ensure readiness.

The U.S. Department of Defense, in coordination with Congress, should develop a comprehensive plan to streamline and improve production, acquisitions, replenishment, Foreign Military Sales, ITAR, and other policies and procedures. This plan should aim to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the overall resilience of the defense industrial base. However, it is important to note that revitalizing the defense industrial base will not happen overnight, and it requires a long-term commitment and investment from the United States and its allies and partners.

In the era of competition, the United States and its allies and partners must be prepared to face the challenges posed by emerging technologies and geopolitical tensions. The defense industrial base plays a critical role in ensuring national security and must be able to adapt and evolve to meet the changing demands of the global security landscape. By taking proactive steps to strengthen the defense industrial base, the United States can better position itself to deter and respond to threats, maintain peace and stability, and protect the interests of its citizens and allies.

Weight: 159g
Dimension: 271 x 219 x 4 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538170601