Based on the separate studies endorsed by the board, the Defense Innovation Board (DIB) advocates for the reunification of the offices of the Undersecretaries for Acquisition & Sustainment (A&S) and Research and Engineering (R&E). The proposed merger, tentatively named the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for International Integration and Cooperation, aims to address issues hindering technological advancement caused by the split of the AT&L office in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2017.
During discussions, DIB member Charles Phillips underscored the need for integrated designs and manufacturing capabilities worldwide, stating that separate organizations make it challenging to achieve this goal. The creation of the International Integration and Cooperation office is seen as a means to boost collaboration with allied nations and streamline partnerships. Notably, the board believes that uniting these offices would benefit start-ups and small businesses seeking to engage with the Department of Defense.
Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Michael Mullen, emphasized the difficulties faced by new companies in navigating the Pentagon’s procurement process due to the current office division. The DIB’s recommendation holds advisory weight, requiring approval from the Secretary of Defense and potentially Congress to reinstate a unified acquisition office model akin to the previous AT&L structure.
Additionally, the DIB highlighted the necessity for the Department of Defense to embrace risk-taking and mirror the commercial sector’s approach to adopting emerging technologies to prevent falling behind China in technological innovation. The board will soon announce forthcoming studies focusing on unmanned systems and engaging with nontraditional defense industry sectors to support key DoD priorities.
