East Central Alabama News

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Rob Wittman (R-VA) delivered opening remarks at a hearing on the U.S. Army’s modernization plans in aviation programs. Wittman emphasized the importance of maintaining situational awareness on the battlefield, stating, "the demand for maintaining consistent and clear situational awareness is insatiable on the modern battlefield." He highlighted the need for the Army to adapt to a battlefield filled with unmanned systems, stressing the necessity for modernization to meet future demands.

Wittman expressed particular interest in the Army's Future Vertical Lift initiative, specifically addressing the termination of the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) development. He raised concerns about the loss of taxpayer dollars due to the Army's acquisition strategy and urged for faster pivots to keep pace with changing technologies. Wittman also questioned the Army's decision-making process regarding the Analysis of Alternatives for FARA.

Regarding rotorcraft plans, Wittman commended the Army's progress on Chinook Block II's, increased investment in unmanned systems, and the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft. He expressed the need for a balanced approach in investing in UH-60 Blackhawk upgrades alongside its replacement, the V-280. Wittman also raised concerns about the retirement of the RQ-7 Shadow before the full-rate production of its replacement, the Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System.

In addressing the growing importance of unmanned systems on the battlefield, Wittman proposed the establishment of a Drone Corps within the Army. He emphasized the need for soldiers with specialized skills to maximize the potential of unmanned platforms and bridge capability gaps.

Wittman underscored the broader implications of Army aviation decisions on operational capabilities, the defense industrial base, budget allocations, and national security goals. He stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between legacy platforms and future capabilities, effective use of taxpayer dollars, and staying at the forefront of technological advancements in aviation.

The hearing aims to not only evaluate the Army's aviation modernization strategy but also to ensure its responsiveness to modern warfare, financial sustainability, and alignment with national security objectives. Wittman expressed gratitude to the witnesses for their dedication to national defense and looked forward to a productive discussion on these critical topics.