Opening Statement (As Prepared)

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Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to our witnesses for appearing today.
 
Like each of you, I’ve eagerly followed news of the Department’s Replicator program. I applaud the Deputy Secretary’s willingness to push the Department to achieve a difficult goal, and I hope that we can use today’s hearing as an opportunity to address the many challenges that are sure to arise from such an ambitious intent.
 
Advanced technologies alone don't ensure effective capabilities. A new system's success hinges on proper contracting, management, a committed industrial base, and being backed by trained units and robust support functions. Integration into existing defense doctrines and timely upgrades are crucial. Scaling these processes brings unique challenges.
 
Replicator faces significant challenges in its development, and the Department of Defense must shift its paradigm to address them. We, as part of our Congressional oversight, have a responsibility to ensure coordination between authorities, policies, funding, and objectives. I am eager to explore where our attention may be required to address any obstacles that may arise during the Replicator project. This task is challenging but worthwhile.
 
To each of our witnesses, thank you for lending us your expertise in wrapping our heads around potential challenges. Mr. Chairman, I look forward to this discussion.