U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, submitted opening remarks on Mar. 17 for a hearing regarding the U.S. Strategic Forces posture for Fiscal Year 2027.
The hearing marks the start of discussions on national defense priorities as lawmakers prepare to build the National Defense Authorization Act. The House Armed Services Committee oversees programs and agencies related to national defense, including the Armed Forces and related matters under U.S. Code, according to the official website.
In his statement, DesJarlais welcomed members back and thanked witnesses appearing before the subcommittee: Marc Berkowitz, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy; Dr. Robert Kadlec, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological Defense; General Stephen Whiting, Commander of U.S. Space Command; General Gregory Guillot, Commander of U.S. Northern Command; and Admiral Richard Correll, Commander of U.S. Strategic Command.
DesJarlais said that ongoing operations in the Middle East against Iranian threats highlight the importance of ensuring military personnel have necessary resources. He also addressed growing concerns about space security: "Space plays a vital role in everything the joint force does, and it’s more apparent now than ever." He noted that GPS jamming has become common in recent conflicts from Ukraine to Iran.
He further commented on nuclear deterrence strategy: "I was happy to see the administration’s National Defense Strategy recognize that nuclear threats are growing – particularly with China’s rapid nuclear buildup – and emphasize the need for a robust and modern nuclear deterrent." However, he questioned whether current modernization plans are sufficient given evolving threats.
The House Armed Services Committee includes notable members such as Reps. Joe Wilson, Michael R. Turner and Robert J. Wittman according to its official website. The committee operates under jurisdiction defined in Rule X of the U.S. House Rules and Manual for matters of national defense and falls under congressional oversight for military affairs according to its official website.
DesJarlais concluded by expressing interest in how witnesses plan to address complex threats facing their areas of responsibility as they await details from the President's budget request.
