Thad Cochran: “I believe we have an opportunity to take some action prior to the start of other important ship programs by maintaining…”

Mr. Chairman, let me join you in congratulating our panel here and the participation you're bringing to this challenge.

If we go back in sequestration, what affect would it have on the Corps of Engineers, Mr. Speer?

I understand that the Army's unfunded requirements list includes a $3.1 billion increase in end strength beyond the fiscal year 2017 NDAA mandate.

And I plan to use my best efforts to identify the areas that we can make improvements in, and take a hard look, but at the same time realize we need to get a bill.