Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Pentagon Faces Delays in Key Military Acquisition Programs

6/13/2025

26 4

Summary

Story summary

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reveals troubling delays in U.S. military acquisition programs, with the B-52 radar upgrade now pushed to 2030. The Air Force's Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) also struggles, hindering crucial flight tests ahead of its 2027 target. The Pentagon's acquisition methods are falling short against evolving threats.

History

Historical Context

The 1986 Goldwater-Nichols Act restructured U.S. military command to enhance joint operations, reflecting a shift from Cold War strategies to modern warfare needs. Despite these reforms, military acquisition programs, such as the B-52 radar upgrade, continue to face delays, underscoring ongoing challenges in adapting procurement strategies to contemporary threats and highlighting the need for further reforms in defense acquisitions.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reveals troubling delays in U.S. military acquisition programs, with the B-52 radar upgrade now pushed to 2030. The Air Force's Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) also struggles, hindering crucial flight tests ahead of its 2027 target. The Pentagon's acquisition methods are falling short against evolving threats.

1 / 2