The Merge E40 – Air Force Weapons Czar
Aug 25, 2024
Andrew Hunter, the US Air Force's chief weapons buyer with a staggering $60 billion acquisition portfolio, discusses the future of military procurement. He shares insights on the B-21 bomber and Sentinel ICBM programs while emphasizing the importance of civilian oversight. The conversation dives into navigating complex defense contracts, including negotiations for the E-7 Wedgetail, and the need for innovation in defense tech. Hunter also reveals exclusive details about Collaborative Combat Aircraft, providing a rare glimpse into the evolving landscape of military capabilities.
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Managing a Massive Acquisition Portfolio
- The Air Force oversees over 550 acquisition programs with a $60 billion annual budget.
- Delegation to Program Executive Officers helps manage this vast portfolio effectively.
Acquisition Perfect Storm Era
- The current acquisition environment is a 'perfect storm' with nuclear and conventional modernization demands.
- This presents an unprecedented challenge but also an opportunity to shape the Air Force's future.
Choosing Contract Types Wisely
- Align contract types with project certainty: use fixed price when tasks are well understood.
- Use cost plus contracts for cutting-edge projects with high uncertainties while safeguarding government interests.