David Driftmier

Addressing the Navy's Civilian Mariner Shortage The US Navy is grappling with a severe shortage of civilian mariners, which threatens the operational readiness of its logistics fleet. Currently, there are only 5,500 mariners employed, far below the required 10,000, putting the Navy’s global military support at significant risk. To tackle this pressing issue, the Navy is exploring several strategies: - Enhanced Compensation: Offering better pay and benefits to attract and retain skilled mariners. - Strategic Recruitment: Partnering with maritime academies to develop the next generation of maritime professionals. - Improved Working Conditions: Emphasizing work-life balance to prevent burnout among civilian mariners. The Military Sealift Command may have to sideline 17 ships to reallocate personnel and maintain operational readiness. This step is crucial to ensure that naval forces remain prepared to respond when needed. Potential Consequences - National Security Risks: Decreased logistics capabilities could undermine national defense. - Increased Burden on Current Mariners: Existing personnel may face higher pressure, leading to burnout and attrition. - Reduced Global Reach: A drop in maritime logistics could hamper the ability to engage in international trade. How can we tackle this critical shortage? Share your ideas to support our naval forces and strengthen national security! #Navy #CivilianMariners #Logistics #MilitarySealift #NationalSecurity #Maritime #Recruitment #OperationalReadiness #MilitarySupport #WorkforceDevelopment

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The Defense Information Systems Agency, has just unveiled its strategic plan for the next five years, called DISA Next Strategy, aligns with the 2022 National Defense Strategy and aims to optimize resource allocation and decision-making within the United States Department of Defense. The plan focuses on simplifying the network globally, developing a resilient enterprise cloud environment, and integrating identity and access management capabilities. DISA's strategic imperatives include operating and securing the DISA portion of the DOD Information Network, supporting strategic command, control, and communications, optimizing the network, and operationalizing data. The plan also outlines eight ambitious goals to be achieved by 2030, such as having a globally accessible, software-defined, and impervious defense information system network, operating a resilient hybrid cloud environment, and modernizing national leadership command capabilities. This strategic plan sets a clear path for DISA's future, enabling the agency to deliver world-class services and support warfighter lethality. #DISA #StrategicPlan #DefenseInformationSystems #CloudEnvironment #ITTransformation #Cybersecurity #NetworkOptimization #DataManagement #DigitalTransformation #MilitaryTechnology #NationalDefenseStrategy

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The Military Sealift Command (MSC) is launching a strategic initiative to address critical staffing shortages that have resulted in the sidelining of 17 ships, impacting operational capabilities. With nearly 300,000 unfilled positions in the maritime sector, MSC recognizes the urgent need to enhance mariner recruitment and retention. The command plans to focus on offering consistent work schedules and competitive compensation to improve work-life balance for mariners. This approach is essential for attracting skilled professionals to a workforce that has struggled to remain competitive in recent years. Rear Admiral Phillip Sobeck outlined that by sidelining 17 ships, MSC can reassign about 800 mariners to higher-priority vessels. This will ensure that critical ships, such as fleet replenishment oilers and ammunition carriers, are fully manned and operational. The goal is to achieve a more sustainable staffing model that enhances the readiness and effectiveness of the logistics fleet. By prioritizing workforce conditions and advocating for pay reforms, MSC is not only working to rebuild trust with mariners but also aiming to enhance the overall quality of service provided. This initiative is crucial for maintaining national security, as a well-staffed and operationally ready maritime force is vital for the U.S. military’s strategic objectives. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for how the military approaches workforce challenges in the future. In summary, the MSC's proactive measures to improve recruitment and retention will help ensure that the US Navy remains capable and prepared to meet emerging challenges. #MilitarySealiftCommand #MaritimeJobs #WorkforceDevelopment #NationalSecurity #Recruitment #Retention #Logistics #MilitaryReadiness #MarinerTrust If you found this post insightful, sparked a new idea, or presented valuable advice, please select 💡!

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A recent report to Congress outlines the US Navy's force structure and shipbuilding strategies, emphasizing the critical need for modernization to keep pace with evolving global threats. This report highlights that the Navy is grappling with an aging fleet, which poses significant challenges to operational readiness. Many existing ships and systems are outdated, limiting the Navy's ability to respond effectively to potential conflicts. Without substantial investment in new vessels and advanced technologies, the Navy risks falling behind its adversaries, compromising national security. The report lays out a comprehensive plan that includes increasing shipbuilding rates, prioritizing investments in unmanned systems, and enhancing the maintenance of current ships. Specifically, the Navy is looking to accelerate the construction of more versatile and resilient vessels, ensuring that it can adapt to modern warfare demands. This includes a focus on integrating new technologies and capabilities that align with the future of naval operations. For the Navy to maintain maritime superiority, it is crucial for Congress to support these initiatives with adequate funding and resources. A strong and modernized Navy is not only essential for the United States' defense strategy but also vital for ensuring stability in international waters and deterring aggression from potential adversaries. Now is the time to act to secure the Navy's future and uphold our commitments to global security. #Navy #Shipbuilding #ForceStructure #MaritimeSecurity #Defense #Congress #Modernization #NationalSecurity Please select 💡 if you thought this post made a great point, offered a new idea, or shared helpful insights or advice.

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The US Navy has officially broken ground on a state-of-the-art ship-handling training simulator at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, marking a significant step in enhancing maritime training capabilities. The new P-39 Ship Handling and Combat Training Facility will include at least five advanced simulators designed to improve a wide range of skills for sailors. Training will cover critical areas such as navigation, air and missile defense, radar navigation, and anti-submarine warfare. This impressive facility, set to span 32,800 square feet and completed by August 2027, will provide sailors with a realistic training environment that mimics real-world scenarios. Such hands-on training is essential for preparing our personnel for the complexities of modern naval operations. The development of this simulator is part of a broader initiative to invest in innovative training technologies. It follows the introduction of an anti-submarine warfare trainer in 2022, which allows sailors to practice tracking enemy vessels through interactive 3D models and simulated exercises. This commitment to advanced training technologies is crucial for maintaining the operational readiness of our naval forces. It not only enhances the skills of our sailors but also ensures that they are prepared to tackle the challenges of today’s maritime landscape. I#Navy #ShipHandling #TrainingSimulator #Maritime #Yokosuka #MilitaryReadiness #Innovation #Defense #Sailors #Technology #MilitaryTraining #FutureofNavalWarfare

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The US Navy’s future hinges on more than just providing and maintaining a fleet; it requires a well-articulated national maritime strategy that clearly defines its purpose and value. Historically, the U.S. has struggled with its naval identity, often overshadowed by a land-centric perspective that has influenced government funding and support. Key figures like Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal recognized that without a strong narrative around the Navy's role, sustaining its power would be increasingly difficult, especially in a post-war context where political winds could shift. As the global landscape changes, the Navy must effectively communicate its strategic importance to both Congress and the public. Sea power is vital not only for national defense but also for securing trade routes and maintaining global stability. The ability to project military strength is intrinsically tied to naval capabilities, yet this connection is often overlooked in favor of land-based strategies. To ensure its relevance in modern defense discussions, the Navy must prioritize continuous education and advocacy. Engaging the public and policymakers in understanding maritime issues is crucial. Building a strong maritime culture will help citizens appreciate the Navy's contributions to national security, trade, and international stability. The Navy's ability to adapt and innovate—embracing new technologies and strategic concepts—will be essential for its future success. In summary, the U.S. Navy must not only maintain its operational capabilities but also effectively educate and advocate for its critical role in a rapidly changing world. This proactive approach will safeguard its position as an essential pillar of America's defense strategy. #SeaPower #USNavy #MaritimeStrategy #NationalDefense #Geopolitics #NavalPower #Advocacy #Security #Innovation If you found this post insightful, sparked a new idea, or presented valuable advice, please select 💡!

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The United States Marine Corps is currently grappling with significant challenges in aviation maintenance, which poses a critical vulnerability that impacts its operational readiness and overall mission success. Key issues such as limited resources, aging aircraft, and workforce shortages are creating obstacles that hinder maintenance efficiency and effectiveness. These challenges lead to increased aircraft downtime and operational delays, which can jeopardize mission success and the safety of personnel. The rising complexity of modern aircraft further complicates maintenance efforts, requiring specialized skills that are in short supply. To mitigate these vulnerabilities, it is essential for the Marine Corps to make strategic investments in maintenance capabilities, including advanced technologies and equipment modernization. Additionally, prioritizing workforce training will equip personnel with the necessary skills to perform maintenance tasks effectively. By focusing on these areas, the Marine Corps can significantly enhance its operational readiness and ensure that its aviation assets remain mission-ready. A proactive approach to aviation maintenance is crucial not only for improving operational capabilities but also for strengthening overall national defense. Military leadership must recognize and address these vulnerabilities to maintain air superiority and ensure that the Marine Corps can respond effectively to any threat. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement in maintenance practices, the Marine Corps can secure its position as a vital component of U.S. military power. #MarineCorps #AviationMaintenance #OperationalReadiness #MilitaryStrategy #Defense #NationalSecurity #WorkforceDevelopment #Aviation If you found this post insightful, sparked a new idea, or presented valuable advice, please select 💡!

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This week in Defense Tech: 1️⃣ DoD Chief Information Officer announced the official release of DOD’s new Fulcrum: IT Advancement Strategy, a plan to guide military and civilian components’ sprawling information technology activities and objectives in fiscal years 2025 through 2029. 2️⃣ U.S. Army PEO EIS releases its latest PEO Perspective, covering leadership changes, ATIS, AEISP Hub, and AIE Industry Day. 3️⃣ Is NGAD slipping off the table? United States Air Force chief declines to confirm plans to build next-gen fighter. “We're going to have to make those choices” in the next few years, Gen. Allvin says at an AFA event. 4️⃣ Honeywell is beefing up its defense business by buying advanced electronics firm CAES for $1.9 billion. The all-cash transaction deepens Honeywell's push into aerospace tech months after announcing it would acquire aircraft component maker Civitanavi Systems. 5️⃣ The UK Ministry of Defence is overhauling its internal cloud with a secure by design approach. With the goal of consolidating its internal network, the MoD has turned to automated threat detection and questioning the effectiveness of practices such as air gapping. 6️⃣ More on NGAD... Air Force likely weighing several factors as it contemplates its future. Analysts told DefenseScoop that a number of variables are likely shaping the Air Force's decision on the fate of its sixth-generation fighter jet, including new technologies, budget constraints and more. 7️⃣ US Army is embarking on a strategy to implement a digital engineering environment meant to speed the pace, lower the cost and reduce risk in weapons systems development, according to DASA (DES). 8️⃣ United States Air Force Force is evolving how it does capability development as part of its effort to reoptimize for great power competition, prioritizing the underlying systems rather than the platforms carrying them. 9️⃣ United States Department of Defense working on continuous assessment process for deployed zero-trust solutions. “What we need is a tool … that is constantly going after [zero trust] infrastructures, that is constantly testing against that configuration that was passed,” Randy Resnick said. 🔟 The Pentagon wants to make it easier for its organizations to use data analytics, so it’s overhauling its Advana platform to pull data from disparate sources instead of pooling it in one place. 🔗 Links in comments below 👇 #DoD #defenseinnovation #defense #defensetechnology #technology #tech #nationalsecurity #jadc2 #army #navy #airforce

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Engaging the Pega Community: Lessons from the Boeing Tragedy The Senate testimony of Boeing’s CEO highlights the severe consequences of a broken safety culture, resulting in the loss of 346 lives. Senators Richard Blumenthal and Josh Hawley exposed Boeing’s prioritization of profit over safety. Concealing information from the FAA and a $243 million penalty five years later show systemic flaws and lack of accountability. Questions to think about: • How do we, as Pega architects, ensure transparency and accountability? • Are we prioritizing safety and ethics? Lessons Learned: 1. Transparency: Concealing information can be disastrous. Ensure all risks are communicated. 2. Accountability: Crucial to hold all levels accountable. 3. Safety First: Prioritize user safety and system integrity with rigorous testing. Ecosystem Thinking: • Promote Learning: Encourage ongoing education. • Foster Openness: Create forums for open discussion. • Implement Reviews: Regularly audit projects for compliance. This event reminds us that excellence requires unwavering commitment to ethics and proactive measures. Let us lead by example and exceed expectations of safety, transparency, and accountability. #PegaCommunity #EthicsInTech #SafetyFirst #Accountability #Transparency #LessonsLearned

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The United States Marine Corps has introduced a new billet to ensure that couples serving in the military can stay together during stressful moves and deployments. According to a recent article on Military.com, the billet, known as the dual-military coordinator, will serve as a liaison between couples and their career monitors. The goal is to alleviate the stress associated with orders assignments, which often result in extended periods of separation for families. Long separations due to training, deployments, or moves to new duty stations can have a significant impact on military spouses, who often have to take on additional responsibilities in the household and reintegrate the family once the separated spouse returns. This can lead to decreased job performance, mental health issues, and even affect the decision of service members to leave the military. To address these challenges, Staff Sgt. Nancy Acuna has been selected as the Marine Corps' first dual-military monitor. Her role will involve working with troops and their career monitors to ensure that families can move together. Acuna will also act as a resource for couples who may be unsure about the steps needed to remain together. This initiative is a positive step towards supporting the well-being of dual-military families, who make up a significant portion of the Marine Corps community. With more than 8,600 Marines married to another service member, the need for such support is evident. #MilitaryFamily #DualMilitaryFamilies #MarineCorps #SupportOurTroops #MilitaryLife #MilitaryNews #FamilySupport #DeploymentSupport #CareerDevelopment

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Logistics (Supply Chains) Win Wars: Part 1: The Importance of Supply Chain Visibility in Defense Operations In today’s complex global environment, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) faces unprecedented challenges in ensuring operational readiness. One of the most critical factors in maintaining defense capabilities is supply chain visibility—the ability to see, understand, and manage every aspect of the vendor and parts ecosystem. Yet, too often, defense programs only have visibility into their prime contractors, leaving deeper tiers of the supply chain obscured. What’s the risk? Without a clear view into second- and third-tier suppliers, the DoD is left vulnerable to disruptions caused by unseen risks. These disruptions may arise from geopolitical tensions, material shortages, or unforeseen weaknesses in the subcontractor network. When the DoD relies solely on prime contractors to manage these risks, without direct oversight into subcontractor networks, the potential for critical supply chain failures increases. For example, while prime contractors might be held accountable for delivering a system or part, they are often less motivated to proactively manage risks beyond what they are contractually obligated to do. This lack of incentive creates blind spots that can have serious consequences for defense readiness. Moreover, while Bills of Materials (BOMs) may be captured for key systems, these BOMs are rarely mapped for risk or resilience. This means that while we may know what parts are needed, we often lack insight into which suppliers are vulnerable, which materials could be disrupted, and how resilient the supply chain is when faced with challenges. Illuminating the entire vendor and parts ecosystem through advanced data tools and real-time analytics is essential for identifying potential vulnerabilities before they become threats to national security. Programs must go beyond merely knowing their prime contractors and map the full scope of their suppliers to ensure they can proactively manage risks across the supply chain. As we move forward in this series, we will dive deeper into these visibility gaps, explore prime contractor accountability, and discuss the standards and technologies required to ensure a robust and resilient defense supply chain. The stakes are too high to leave these critical networks in the shadows. #Innovation #SupplyChainVisibility #DefenseReadiness #NationalSecurity #EcosystemIllumination #SupplyChainRiskManagement #SCRM #SupplyChainResilience #Technology #Cloud

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