WASHINGTON — Defense secretary nominee Ash Carter says he favors using requirements and contract structures to properly incentivize defense companies, while getting the top US military commanders more involved in buying weapons.
Carter, who is poised to sail to full Senate confirmation this month, has a deep history with contracts, weapon programs and dealing with arms manufacturers. He previously was the Pentagon's acquisition executive and deputy secretary.
During his confirmation hearing Wednesday before the Senate Armed Services Committee, he said using requirements "and contract structures are a way to control incentives with industry."
He also stressed "the need for people on the government side capable of negotiating" favorable contract terms and "who know industry."
Carter also endorsed the notion of "returning" the chiefs of the armed services to the weapons development and acquisition system — especially in coming up with the specs for new weapon systems.
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He said he wants to work with lawmakers such as committee Chairman Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., who are pushing the idea of enacting substantial Pentagon acquisition reform.
What's more, Carter said Pentagon officials must closely monitor and act to tamp down F-35 fighter program costs "as long as that program is in existence."
Email: jbennett@defensenews.com
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