Defense & National Security
Other Issues on Defense & National Security
More on Defense & National Security
March 1, 2016
Press Release
As we have heard repeatedly in our hearings over the last year, the need to modernize and recapitalize these aircraft and their capabilities is increasingly critical. Rapidly improving A2/AD capabilities, long range weapons and sensing technologies makes upgrading and replacing our legacy fleets that much more important. In order to meet these challenges, we must make the right investments today to ensure that we stay ahead of these trends. In my view, the 2017 budget we are considering here today makes important investments toward this goal and, on the whole, moves us in the right direction.
February 25, 2016
Press Release
This hearing and this budget comes at a critical time for our Navy and Marine Corps. As recent events around the world clearly demonstrate, the presence and capabilities of our forces on, below and above the seas are in higher demand than at any other time in recent history. Yet, as this subcommittee knows all too well, these forces are under significant pressure in meeting growing operational needs and keeping pace with developments around the world in the face of limited resources. I believe that we need to ensure that we make the right investments in the capabilities of our seapower forces while also ensuring that they have the capacity to utilize them. In my view, the 2017 budget request makes important strides to towards this goal – but there are areas where I look forward to working on a bipartisan basis to make further progress.
February 11, 2016
Press Release
Over the years, we have seen the carrier air wing evolve from one with a large mix of aircraft to one composed of multi-mission aircraft capable of performing a variety of missions. Looking ahead, it is clear that the air wing will be remain a key part of our nation’s security and ability to project power well into the future – but only if we make the right investments in its composition, capabilities and reach.
Ranking Member Courtney Statement on 2017 Budget Request for Seapower and Projection Forces Programs
“On balance, the 2017 budget appears to make significant investments in order to enhance the capabilities of the naval and projection forces platforms overseen by our panel,” said Courtney. “From expanding the reach and punch of our surface and subsurface forces, to strengthening our ability to project power through long range strike and refueling capabilities, I am pleased with many of the decisions reflected in this budget.”
January 30, 2016
Op-Ed
Earlier this week, one of Connecticut's oldest employers sent a jolt through the headlines. Electric Boat President Jeff Geiger announced plans to hire 1,500 engineers, metal trades workers and support personnel at its Connecticut facilities in 2016. The announcement included a positive forecast for the years ahead, with projected growth from 14,000 employees up to 18,000 by 2030.
January 26, 2016
In The News
Electric Boat will add more than 800 new jobs in Connecticut this year thanks to robust military spending on the U.S. submarine program, the manufacturer said Monday.
January 25, 2016
Press Release
“The strong hiring outlook for Electric Boat this year will provide a profound boost to the economy of our region and the state,” said Courtney. “As this morning’s presentation clearly shows, the growth in investment in submarine programs over the last several years - and more ahead- is driving growth not just at Electric Boat and the southeastern Connecticut region, but across the state-wide network of suppliers and manufacturers that support this critical work."
January 12, 2016
In The News
The final plan for how dredge material is handled in Long Island Sound supports continued use of the four existing disposal sites.
January 12, 2016
Press Release
“I am pleased that the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers was able to build on cost-effective and environmentally sound options for disposing of dredged material from our waterways in the final DMMP,” said Courtney. “Economic activities that utilize Long Island Sound waterways contribute more than $9 billion annually in economic output and maintaining navigable shipping channels is critical to the long-term health of our regional economy. From family-owned marinas to the SUBASE New London, the livelihoods of thousands of my constituents directly depend on this comprehensive dredging plan. I am particularly happy that the DMMP underscores the need for a strong partnership among the Regional Dredging Team members and recommends new involvement by the U.S. Navy and newly-formed Connecticut Port Authority.”
January 9, 2016
In The News
Groton — Last year, 33 firefighters with the Naval Submarine Base's fire department spent more time at work than they did at home — a result of vacancies that went unfilled almost all year.