James Montgomery

Can the Joint Force do without a specialist in the littoral? I'm recommending an addition to the existing operational-level, functional component-based organizational design, and different command and control options for operations in the littoral. I'm proposing a full-time, ready, responsive, and venturesome Joint Littoral Operations Component Commander.    The littoral is a geographic locale with higher than elsewhere rates of change in momentum, tempo, and maneuver, from seaward to hundreds of miles inland. U.S. forces must continually compensate for this, as well as with the dense interconnectedness of things, people[1] and information in time and space, by employing a wide range of means, including, but beyond, conflict-necessary kinetics, by organizations other than those oriented on spatial domains and warfare expertise. In the littorals around the world, synthesized and synchronized multi-domain expertise is more important than is proficiency by individual components or the services. The Nobel Prize-winning economist Herb Simon used an aphorism in a lecture he once gave: “There is a saying in politics that ‘you can’t beat something with nothing.’ You can’t defeat a measure…simply by pointing to defects and inadequacies. You must offer an alternative.” Okay, Professor Simon, you're right: I'm proposing this addition, rather than just point out that our littoral operations ability is sub-optimized with a long journal article pointing out this degradation. This new component commander would coordinate force interoperability capabilities and actions for littoral access, collection, persistent endurance, influence, and combat. He would have the technical / technological means and the skilled personnel and procedures to leverage low observable technology, long-, medium-, and short-dwell multiple sensor fusion, and advanced integrated networks of manned and unmanned capabilities. And the JLOCC would be trained and become experienced in a non-trivial, key set of characteristics: warfighting in the littoral obtains fighting into it, fighting in it, fighting from it, and, potentially, fighting out of it. [1] Including density of settlements: estimates of populations in the littorals range from 40 to 70 percent of the earth’s humans living within 60 miles of coasts. Want to know more? Contact me at [email protected]

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Read our latest blog: 8 key takeaways on delivering disaster recovery support services. Stephen O'Brien, our Director of INDOPACOM Operations, presented to last week's Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) Guam Industry Forum on #contingencycontracting His blog outlines the key elements of his presentation - based on insights from our ongoing experience in the recovery and reconstruction efforts on Anderson Airbase caused by last year's Typhoon Marwar. Read more here - https://lnkd.in/eXtZKC88 #Austability #GuamIndustryForum #SAME #FosteringPeaceandSecurity #IndoPacific

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The Department of Defense acquisition process is more complex than it appears. For those outside formal defense acquisition roles, training and resources breaking down the process are scarce. Mapping the U.S. DoD Acquisition Ecosystem bridges this gap, offering a comprehensive walkthrough of the defense acquisition process—from production to procurement. Join experts from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Defense Industrial Initiatives Group as they break down the full acquisition process, covering requirements, funding, and contracting for systems. Through guided case studies, participants will apply key principles to real-world scenarios. The program concludes with an interactive discussion on current and future acquisition debates, equipping participants with an in-depth understanding of competition and processes. Register at cs.is/acquisition by January 31, 2025. #Acquisition #Defense #Industry #Manufacturing #Government #Security #Contractor #GovernmentContractor #WashingtonDC

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Looking to Make an Impact? Let’s Talk About DISA. In today’s complex and rapidly evolving world, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is at the forefront of innovation and national security. As the backbone of the Department of Defense’s IT infrastructure, DISA delivers secure communication, cutting-edge technology, and critical support to those defending our nation. But here’s the thing—DISA’s mission is massive, and they’re always looking for forward-thinking professionals and partners to help shape the future of defense technology. That’s where YOU come in. Here’s why you should consider working with or alongside DISA: Be a Part of National Security: Every project DISA touches directly impacts the safety and readiness of the United States. If you want your work to truly matter, this is the place. Innovate at Scale: DISA is a leader in adopting technologies like AI, cloud computing, and advanced cybersecurity protocols. If you’re passionate about driving innovation in a high-stakes environment, DISA offers endless opportunities. Collaboration Across Disciplines: Working with DISA means joining a network of dedicated professionals—engineers, analysts, strategists, and innovators—all united by a common mission. Global Impact: Whether supporting troops in the field or enabling secure communication at the highest levels of government, DISA operates on a scale few organizations can match. If you’re interested in learning more about opportunities to work with DISA—whether through a career move, contract partnership, or innovation collaboration—reach out to me! I’d love to share more about what makes DISA such a vital and rewarding organization to work with. This is your chance to make a real difference. Let’s connect and start the conversation. Please shoot me a message or comment on this post and I can reach out! #DISA #NationalSecurity #DefenseTechnology #CareersInTech #Collaboration

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The US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command - Soldier Center (DEVCOM-SC) Combat Feeding Division (CFD) is looking to identify potential sources to provide systems and tools for data management and predictive models, potentially leveraging AI/ML, to aid in combat ration development. Potential solutions could support ration development and formulation with respect to organoleptic properties (sensory scores), shelf-life, micro/macronutrient content, processing parameters, packaging, ingredient selection, labeling, consumer acceptance, and other relevant properties.

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#ICYMI: On Wednesday, USD(A&S) William LaPlante tested before the United States Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, where he was joined by the Service Acquisition Executives from the Army, Navy, and Air Force to discuss #DefenseAcquisition. "When you're talking about acquisition, there's really three legs to the stool," he said. "One leg is acquisition, which is the contract. The second is the requirement, and this is about [...] getting what the department needs right for the warfighter. And the third is having money in the right year. Those three legs of the stool — moving across all three in an agile fashion — is the secret of really effective acquisition." He also underscored the value of countries working together to build robust defense production capabilities. "That's where this is all headed," he added. "You're going to see much more co-production, co-development and co-sustainment with allies and partners." Watch the full hearing here: https://lnkd.in/eY86ikjR ASA(ALT) | #ExpandTheBase #SucceedThroughTeamwork

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https://lnkd.in/eBVrtAQj The challenges in realizing the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) are monumental. Not only will PWSA enable transformative capabilities, but the process of deploying this multi-phase system also faces a series of significant hurdles. These challenges mirror those faced by space infrastructure procurement efforts across the industry today, including: 1. High supply chain pressures and ongoing strain on resources; 2. Complex, multi-domain and multi-jurisdictional regulations; 3. Financing and cash-flow disruptions resulting from these challenges, affecting both buyers and suppliers. Despite these obstacles, bold companies of all sizes are stepping up to support and supply PWSA. The need PWSA addresses—along with the U.S. DoD’s urgency—is clear and pressing. However, the needle through which to pass in meeting this need is fraught with risk. To successfully navigate these challenges, it’s essential to continuously help companies and agencies address the operational friction and uncertainty in these critical areas.

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Mission readiness in the U.S. Department of Defense and Intelligence Community MUST include the upskilling and reskilling of warfighters and other personnel. "One-size-fits-all" training must be replaced with adaptive learning solutions. Why? To address the diverse learning needs and styles of individuals. In the latest installment of the FedLearn "Online Learning" blog, "Personalized Training for Mission Readiness: How Adaptive Learning Is Revolutionizing the DoD and IC," Dr. J. Keith Dunbar, FedLearn founder and chief executive officer, discusses the power and possibilities of adaptive learning to address emerging national defense and security challenges. Take a look: https://lnkd.in/gx58w_b7 FedLearn offers the only artificial intelligence-powered, adaptive learning platform for the DoD, IC and government contractors supporting agency missions. Contact us to learn more #fedlearn #departmentofdefense #dod #intelligencecommunity #trainingprovider #traininganddevelopment #training #onlinelearning #onlinetraining #onlinecourses #asynchronous #adaptivelearning #artificialintelligence #ai #aipoweredlearning #aienhancedlearning #fedlearnaiadvantage

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The recent bipartisan Commission on the National Defense Strategy Report highlights critical threats facing the U.S. and the world, with key recommendations for Special Operations Forces (SOF). We agree with several of these, especially the need for faster acquisition processes and increased focus on regions like Africa and Latin America, where SOF can act as a critical force multiplier. We’ve long advocated against cuts to USASOC, particularly as the Middle East remains a hotspot for extremist threats. As the Commission states, preserving and refocusing SOF is vital in today’s strategic landscape. We stand by these recommendations. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gQGvhbeE #nationalsecurity #defensestrategy #foreignpolicy #globalsecurity #specialoperations #specialoperationsforces

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𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗨𝗦 𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 To maintain a strong national defense, it is crucial for the U.S. Defense Department (DOD) to innovate faster and keep up with potential adversaries. While Congress has granted various authorities to help streamline research, development, and acquisition processes, DOD continues to face challenges in adapting at the necessary speed. Without recalibrating our approach to defense technology acquisition, the slow, costly, and unsustainable methods in place could undermine both national defense and the international order. Over the past decade, Congress has passed several authorities aimed at enhancing defense innovation, such as other transaction authorities, mid-tier acquisition programs, and protections for commercial technology. These efforts were intended to bring in nontraditional companies and encourage faster progress in defense technology. DOD has also made strides, creating the Defense Innovation Unit and launching initiatives like the Replicator and the Rapid Defense Experimentation Reserve. However, despite these tools, the department continues to rely on slow processes focused more on rigid requirements than on practical results. Cultural issues within DOD contribute to this inefficiency. Officials are often penalized for failures rather than rewarded for creativity and adaptability, which leads to a risk-averse culture. As a result, cutting-edge technology often becomes outdated before it can be fielded. Additionally, DOD's interaction with Congress needs to improve. Early collaboration on bold ideas is essential, as surprising Congress with new programs often leads to those ideas being unsupported. To modernize the defense acquisition system, the fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) calls for a shift from narrow technical requirements to broad capability goals. This will allow DOD to focus on mission outcomes, collaborate more with services, and utilize commercial products more effectively. However, DOD’s research and development proving grounds are strained due to underinvestment, causing delays in testing and experimentation. For real progress, both Congress and DOD must work together to break down barriers, adjust incentives, and foster a culture that values innovation. #NationalSecurity #DefenseInnovation #MilitaryTech #DOD Source: DefenseNews / Danette Baso Silvers/U.S. Navy

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Omni Federal is pleased to announce a recent award to lead the development of SOCOM’s Enterprise Training Marketplace within Digital University. SOCOM recognized a need for a comprehensive, secure, and user-friendly marketplace where SOCOM units can easily explore, select, purchase, and manage approved training from reputable vendors. Speed, convenience, and flexibility are the three core principles of this simplified procurement process. SOCOM requires an Amazon-like platform with automated procurement features that can be easily changed and adapted to meet evolving mission requirements. This single mission-enabled platform will allow users to acquire the necessary training needs of Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), Theater Special Operations Commands (TSOCs), Special Missions Units (SMUs), and SOCOM service components. We leveraged a deep understanding of SOCOM’s distinct enterprise training requirements to conceptualize a unique SOCOM Training Marketplace design within Digital University. Our initial focus is to create a streamlined user interface and enhance the user experience for effortless navigation through the extensive pool of 100+ SOCOM-specific vendors. To capture SOCOM stakeholder needs, Omni is applying our commercially proven Human-Centered Design process adapted to meet the mission and security needs of DoD agencies. Our scope of work includes integrating an easy-to-use and streamlined procurement process, initially developed, and validated by the Digital University Program Team to expedite the acquisition of training resources. The specific and unique SOCOM Training Marketplace procurement process seamlessly aligns with the well-defined and strategically crafted set of Digital University acquisition stages, enabling integration of the two to meet specific training requirements established by the SOCOM enterprise. We are thrilled at the opportunity to continue our development and expansion of Digital University to support the SOCOM Enterprise and Warfighter readiness across the DoD. #digitaltransformation #weareomnifederal #digital #learning #specialoperations #SOCOM #JSOC Digital University BESPIN USSOCOM

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Tribal businesses are poised to transform the U.S. economy, but access to capital remains a critical barrier. During our "Expanding Access to Capital in Indian Country" webinar, leaders Mahrinah Shije and Councilman Dillon Shije joined MBDA Deputy Under Secretary Eric Morrissette to discuss how investing in tribal digital economies can fuel growth, environmental innovation, and economic resilience. From expanding broadband to overcoming venture capital gaps, the conversation showed how Indian Country is ready to lead the charge. Watch the webinar and discover what’s next: https://lnkd.in/eb6g5Tvg #WeAreMBDA #NAHM

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🚨 New Blog Post Alert! 🚨 🌐 After attending the inaugural NRO Standards Day, I had some thoughts about the critical role of standards in defense, intelligence, and industry. While I can’t share specifics from the event, below are some thoughts I captured in my latest blog post: 🔹 Driving Behavior Over Enforcing Rules – Moving away from rigid mandates to foster standards as enablers, not obstacles. 🔹 Minimum vs. Optimum Compliance – Basics vs. best practices for maximizing efficiency and security. 🔹 Navigating Obstacles – Tackling barriers like training gaps and cultural buy-in for better standards adoption. 🔹 Standards and Interoperability – The foundation for collaboration, but real interoperability requires adaptable implementation. 🔹 Creating Standards for a Decentralized World – Balancing centralized guidance with flexibility for evolving needs. 🔹 Platforms as Innovation Enablers – Core layer standardization reduces complexity and boosts flexibility. 🔹 USG and Industry Standards – Strengthening USG presence to shape critical standards. 🔹 Standards in AI and Cybersecurity – Setting adaptable, future-ready standards for emerging tech. ------------------- 🔍 Question: What are the biggest obstacles or best strategies you’ve seen for effective USG participation in standards bodies? Drop your thoughts below! 📖 Read the full blog post here: https://lnkd.in/emhScJwc ------------------- 🇺🇸  Veterans Day Tribute: A heartfelt thank you to all veterans for your service and dedication. Your commitment inspires our work in ensuring the security and resilience of our nation.

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Are you a military spouse moving overseas this summer? Check out Military OneSource for resources on how to find/maintain employment overseas such as information on legal assistance and overseas employment coaching packages! If you are a federal employee - ask your HR team about the DETO program, return rights, or transfer/detail opportunities so you can keep your career on the move!

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Continuing the Defense Intelligence Agency and NGA #ICBirthdayTwins trivia: ❓❓❓ Both DIA and NGA are United States Department of Defense combat support agencies, but which agency hosts the annual DoDIIS Worldwide Conference, the DOD’s cutting-edge IT event, occurring in late October 2024? Write your guess below, and check the comments for the answer!

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