Pentagon initiates procurement overhaul and domestic supply investments

The U.S. Department of Defense is implementing several strategic shifts in procurement and manufacturing. Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg has ordered an overhaul of how the Pentagon determines contractor prices and profits. This initiative aims to reduce government-unique accounting and audit requirements to encourage competition and lower costs.

To secure critical materials, the Department of Defense is making a $450 million equity investment in the only U.S.-owned, fully integrated tungsten producer. Additionally, Sea Machines Robotics has been awarded a five-year contract for deployable autonomy kits. Meanwhile, the pause of phase two of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program has led to workforce cuts at some assessment firms.

In maritime technology, researchers at the University of Maine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center have launched the 3Dirigo X, a high-performance 30-foot boat created using large-scale 3D printing. The project, supported by federal funding, has significantly increased print rates from 20 pounds per hour to 500 pounds per hour, offering potential for faster, mold-free production for both commercial and defense applications.