Great Expectations: Building Stronger Government Industry Relationships

As we enter our eighth year in the war on terrorism and our sixth year in Iraq, our defense industry has proven it is up to the challenge of providing the best and most capable equipment the world has to offer. Where past acquisition programs have taken 10 to 15 years to produce, we have seen warfighting capabilities placed in the hands of military service members in a matter of one to two years, or even less. We have also seen major, unprecedented advancements in armoring strategies, electronic countermeasures, and night-vision devices. Given these accomplishments, there is no question that industry is working to meet government expectations, but to what extent? Do your industry partners truly understand your expectations? Have you, as the program manager, discussed your intent with them? Defense AT and L , 01 Jan 0001, 01 Jan 0001,