Richard Blumenthal

Thanks, Madam Chairwoman, and thank you for your leadership in the antitrust area and for participating and leading on this hearing.

There may be nothing in this deal that changes the configuration locally, but it increases the bargaining power on one side.

Certainly, I would hope that those reports and records will be made transparent.

You mentioned the issue of transparency.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for your service to our Nation. And you do us proud as a Connecticut native.

The emphasis on competitive prototyping is intended to mitigate this risk for the government.

One of the consistent criticisms of the Department of Defense acquisition is the early commitment to immature technologies that then do not progress as expected or promised.

Cost is widely reported as the main problem with carrying two engines through technology development on a competitive basis.

I know that the three of you--and I'm so glad that you made reference to this aspect of it--see the job of equipping and supporting our military through the eyes of the soldier who is out there doing the job of combat, as you three have…

That's only a very small slice of the recruiting that's done by our military, but I can just say that they are extraordinary young men and women.

Our Military Services are probably the most impactful or one of the most impactful forces in shaping our civilian society

I just wanted to clarify, General Campbell.

So it was really a cost issue more than anything?

What about the loss of the 39 helicopters? Will that break apart the multi-year procurement?

This is serious business and I think as you've sensed at this table it's a bipartisan feeling.

In my view, if it's simply penalties for breaking contracts, let the Russians try to collect from us.

I hope there will be bipartisan support for a letter that I have drafted to be sent to Secretary of State Kerry asking that we cease all purchases of military equipment from Russia across the board.

I think it is brought into the starkest and most staggering profile by the Russians in effect thumbing their nose at us in Ukraine.

I want to express my appreciation to Senator Wicker for his great work on this subcommittee and being my partner in this effort.

I am always awe-struck by the ability and the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of our Army.

Will you request replacement aircraft in the OCO request for fiscal year 2015?

If we authorize a Continuing Resolution with regard to Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) funds, what would the effect be upon your ability to backfill these combat losses?

What is the replacement plan for these lost aircraft?

The Navy's failure to execute the planned purchase of 29 aircraft in fiscal year 2016 would break the multi-year procurement contract.

I think members of the subcommittee have increasing assurance about both the timing and effectiveness of the program as we go on.