I had introduced an amendment to the NDAA that passed unanimously--it didn't end up getting adopted in the House--to basically say to DOD to meet the 2014 deadline that the Secretary has set for it.

I appreciate the KC-46A program, and I know that you're going to be going to the basing criteria soon.

I hope you will take an active and personal role with our international partners on the F-35 program.

I'm very proud of our 157th Air Refueling Wing, because we have the highest utilization rate in the Air National Guard for the KC-135.

the United States must shape its [nuclear] deterrent forces to maintain the attributes which lead to stability among major powers

Elimination of one leg of the triad would move the Nation into uncharted territory.

The F-35 was designed to be an international program from its inception.

Has anyone in DOD consulted with the international partners on the proposed LRIP 6/7 procurement strategy?

I'm pleased to see that the Navy is considering enhancements to the Virginia-class subs.

Earlier last month, Senators Gillibrand, Collins, and I sent a letter to the administration to raise specific concerns about the threat of what happens to those conventional and chemical weapons.

I think they are very proud of their contribution. I know that we all appreciate it very much.

I do have some concerns that it not be used as an excuse to further reduce defense spending among our NATO allies.

The importance of the U.S.-European security relationship cannot be overstated, nor can America's commitment to our allies across the Atlantic.

The Chicago Summit is a chance to remind the world that NATO still represents the most capable military alliance the world has ever seen.

I would hope that even though enlargement is on hold for the Chicago Summit, that there will be an effort to make sure that countries like Georgia, Bosnia, Macedonia, and those countries who are interested in being part of NATO, have some…

This meeting presents a unique and timely opportunity to reiterate that the NATO alliance continues to wield unprecedented influence in our world.

Thank you, ma'am.

A NATO that is relevant for the 21st century is flexible, adaptable, and able to transform itself--and is postured to make smart defense investments.