Initially, my thoughts began with the realization that few Republicans and fewer Democrats have touted the advantages of increasing defense spending in a time of economic downturn. Also worthy of consideration is the fact that, for six or more years, the US has been brutally exhausting its military equipment in the theaters of Iraq and Afghanistan. A colleague and veteran of Iraqi deployment recently reminded me that we will not bring most of our equipment back stateside; it’s just too costly and too used.

So, why would Sec. Gates propose decreasing defense spending? It appears obvious that we may need to replenish inventory of MRAPs, HMMWVs, C-17s, and all the ancillaries. I would imagine we have learned of weaknesses in some system designs which could be corrected prior to a next military engagement; communication, detection, surveillance. Hasn’t the Obama administration been adamant of their objective to create or save 3.5 million jobs? The defense industry is low-hanging fruit in that capacity as well as securing our sovereignty for the next generation.

I will hardly disagree that the F-22 is an over-budget product but slashing production, putting tens of thousands out of work, hardly seems like the right thing to do until the F-35 is ready for full-rate production. But, unfortunately, the F-35 is globally outsourced so even at full-rate the US content will be significantly less than that of the F-22. And the F-22 is one mean bird!

Why would Sec. Gates propose cutting funds for missile defense just a couple of days after North Korea tested a multi-stage, long-range missile? That makes even less sense.

It was World War II that brought us out of The Great Depression and it was partially increased defense spending that brought us out of the early 80s recession yet this administration refuses to recognize that the defense industry is more than building things that go “boom.” It’s a means for the American worker to earn a fair wage in order to provide for himself and his family, to buy products and services from local retailers, and to be a viable part of the federal tax base. The “boom” helps ensure national security. All of these seem important to me.

I work in the defense industry but this is not an industry driven opinion nor is it fodder for partisan debate; it’s just the right thing to do.