Beijing's regional and global aspirations are growing, and properly managing this relationship is vital.

Requirements should be developed so that small and mid-sized businesses are able to compete.

Lieutenant General Van Antwerp, what is the design life of these new facilities versus type 5 construction methods?

Will all five brigades be massed simultaneously or is there some other plan to have all five brigades move more slowly into Baghdad?

General Cartwright, there has been a good deal of skepticism regarding the Pentagon's planning for the 'perfect storm' caused by the culmination of rebasing initiatives.

We ought not leave Iraq without the ability to sustain and defend itself, not just because of what it would mean to our allies, but what it would mean to us, in terms of a failed State in Iraq.

Are you confident that they will be?

General Cartwright, is the plan to draw down troops in Europe outdated, given the ongoing war in Iraq and other world developments?

DOD has explored options to mitigate the UHF availability gap until full fielding of MUOS.

I congratulate them on their nominations, and thank them for their willingness to serve in these important positions.

Do you understand the command and control relationships between the American and Iraqi forces in this new plan? I am very concerned about unity of command.

You are fairly familiar with the Iraqi leadership. You have known these individuals. Based on your experience with them, how effective do you think threats of withdrawal of U.S. troops are in achieving real progress in Iraq?

Lieutenant General Van Antwerp, if confirmed, what will you do to improve the objectivity and transparency of the Corps' processes, particularly as they relate to open competition and contract awards?

Yet your numbers, by any estimate or formula that you use, you are receiving are either inadequate or bare minimum. Does that concern you?

Based on your knowledge of the Army and its state of readiness, how long do you believe the increased troop levels and tempo of operations can be sustained?

I am a strong proponent of defense acquisition reform.

I've always believed that we all want our troops to come home, as soon as possible, but the difference between us are those who want to do so on a timetable--without regard to conditions and consequences.

I want to welcome and congratulate Admiral Roughead, General Ward, General Chilton, Lieutenant General Mattis, and their families on your nominations.