To Deliver for the Warfighter, Acquisition Reform Must Provide a Level Playing Field
By Sam Mehta
President of the Space & Mission Systems and Communications & Spectrum Dominance segments
The push to completely overhaul America’s defense acquisition system is gaining unprecedented momentum. Driven by escalating threats from global adversaries and the evolving landscape of modern warfare, lawmakers in both the House and Senate have prioritized acquisition reform efforts in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was enacted last December. This critical legislation codifies a range of bold and necessary changes championed by leaders from both political parties on the armed services committees, along with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s Acquisition Transformation Strategy.
As we advance these essential reforms, we find ourselves in a crucial phase. To sustain the progress initiated last year and revitalize the “Arsenal of Freedom” that cemented America’s status as a global superpower in the 20th century, our contemporary defense acquisition system must leverage the capabilities of our entire industrial base. This encompasses not only established defense technology firms but also commercial technology companies, startups, and other innovative newcomers. Each entity within this interconnected ecosystem is vital for fostering a military that can effectively deter and defeat challenges posed by adversaries such as China and Russia.
Central to the latest reform proposals and legislative efforts is the aim to enhance the level of “commerciality” within the system. A defining characteristic of the American commercial landscape is its commitment to free and fair competition. When all companies in the marketplace can engage under identical rules, innovation thrives, thus unlocking the full potential of our nation’s technological prowess.
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Source: L3Harris (2026-05-15)
