Green Bay Reporter

Rep. Mike Gallagher, the Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee's Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation, recently participated in a committee hearing focused on U.S. Military Posture and National Security Challenges in the Indo-Pacific Region. During the hearing, Rep. Gallagher raised concerns about the funding shortfall in critical defense capabilities, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

In an exchange with Admiral Aquilino, Rep. Gallagher highlighted the importance of securing additional funding for defense priorities. He pointed out that the President's budget only includes 58% of the critical capabilities identified in a report, resulting in an $11 billion shortfall. Rep. Gallagher emphasized the consequences of failing to secure this funding, especially in terms of defending Guam and maintaining the joint fires network.

Admiral Aquilino acknowledged the importance of finding the necessary funding, stating that any delays or reductions in funding would impact the timely delivery of crucial capabilities, affecting the deterrent effect in the region. Rep. Gallagher further expressed his concern over the cancellation of expired funding, amounting to $11 billion, which could have been rerouted for critical priorities in the Indo-Pacific.

Rep. Gallagher criticized the Department of Defense for not utilizing available funds effectively, stating, "By some estimates, we've lost $125 billion over the last decade, which is unacceptable and I fear we're sleepwalking into a conflict that would be horrific." He underscored the urgency of addressing funding issues to prevent potential conflicts in the region.

The exchange between Rep. Gallagher and Admiral Aquilino sheds light on the pressing need to allocate resources effectively to enhance national security preparedness in the Indo-Pacific region. Rep. Gallagher's advocacy for securing adequate funding for critical defense priorities reflects a commitment to addressing potential security challenges in the region.