U.S. defense base invites aggression due to disrepair

In a recent appearance on Fox News Channel's "Special Report," Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, representing Illinois, expressed serious concerns about the state of the United States' defense industrial base. He emphasized that the current disrepair demonstrates a significant weakness, which he argues may invite aggression from adversaries. Notably, he highlighted alarming disparities in the shipbuilding capabilities between the U.S. and China, citing that for every oceangoing vessel the U.S. produces, China is capable of producing 359 in just one year. Further insights from Krishnamoorthi revealed critical gaps in the U.S. capabilities concerning long-range anti-ship missiles and the shortage of manpower needed within the defense industrial sector. He stressed that these issues hinder the United States from fully maximizing its defense budget, resulting in inefficiencies that could compromise national security in the long run. The discussion pointed to an urgent need for the federal government to take action. Krishnamoorthi called for the U.S. to signal demand effectively by entering long-term purchase commitments with defense manufacturers. This approach, he suggested, could provide companies with the financial certainty necessary to invest and ramp up production, ultimately enhancing the United States' military readiness. As global tensions rise, particularly with potential adversaries like China, he argues that the time for comprehensive reform within the defense sector is now. Overall, the remarks made by Krishnamoorthi serve as a wake-up call for policymakers to reassess and reinvest in the nation's defense capabilities to avoid falling into a vulnerable position against international aggression. The congressman’s advocacy for more strategic investment reflects a broader concern within U.S. defense circles about maintaining technological superiority and military readiness in a rapidly changing global environment.