Jack Reed: “I would be happy to do that, in the future. I would like to highlight some of the aspects of the bill which I think are…”

“I would be happy to do that, in the future. I would like to highlight some of the aspects of the bill which I think are very important. I have had the privilege of working with Senator Cornyn as the ranking member of the Emerging Threats Subcommittee. It has been a real pleasure. He has conducted the committee with great efficiency and great cooperation. The staff has been particularly helpful on a bipartisan basis. I am pleased to note that in the context of our deliberations, several important measures were included in this legislation. First, we have authorized an additional $400 million for science and technology programs. The original request sent by the Department of Defense was woefully inadequate. Science and technology is the key to our future on the battlefield as we match the skill and valor of our soldiers with the very best technology. We have to continue this investment. I am pleased that our legislation increases that item by $400 million. Also, the bill includes language to require a report to Congress on the testing policies and practices that should be pursued with respect to rapid acquisition programs, spiral development programs, quick reaction fielding programs, and the testing for safety and survivability of deployed equipment.…”