Jul
22
2020
Since 1791, American leaders have made the connection between domestic manufacturing and a strong national defense. But that connection is now at risk.
More than 63,000 U.S. factories have closed since 2001. This erosion of industry has left America with a questionable ability to respond quickly to threats and catastrophes. Through a combination of disregard and unorganized policy responses to global economic challenges, we’ve allowed our defense industrial base – the companies that make the supplies, hardware, and weapons our armed forces use to keep our country safe – to fall into disrepair.
This neglect comes at serious cost to our security. But with a national strategy to rebuild U.S. industry, this security can be recovered. Will lawmakers set one in place?
The Facts
As our supply chains have moved offshore and our critical infrastructure has crumbled, our nation’s security has been weakened.
American Security Must be American-Made
Without a strong manufacturing sector, America can’t provide for its own defense or respond quickly to disasters. That makes addressing the health of our industrial base a serious national security issue.
Resources
American-Made National Security?
Our military is dangerously dependent on foreign nations for the products needed to defend America.
Executive Summary: ReMaking American Security
Overreliance on global supply chains has left our military vulnerable.
Preparing for 21st Century Risks
Improving U.S. infrastructure is critical to our homeland security.