What are the national security implications of cuts to the defense budget? How will the U.S. operate in light of recent actions taken by the Obama administration? Frank opens today’s Secure Freedom Radio reflecting on the connection between energy security and national security and implications of the proposed defense budget cuts. James Roche, 20th Secretary of the U.S. Air Force, stresses the connection between fuel diversity and less dep...
What are the national security implications of cuts to the defense budget? How will the U.S. operate in light of recent actions taken by the Obama administration? Frank opens today’s Secure Freedom Radio reflecting on the connection between energy security and national security and implications of the proposed defense budget cuts. James Roche, 20th Secretary of the U.S. Air Force, stresses the connection between fuel diversity and less dependence on foreign oil on national security. Roche also speaks to the difficulty of maintaining U.S. presence and power worldwide in light of proposed cuts to an already diminished military force.
Next the Aerospace Industries Association Vice President for National Security, Fred Downey examines recent study findings. Downey describes how the aerospace and defense industrial base has dramatically declined in the 21st century and we are at risk of no longer being the “top dog” in this important area if we do not protect this base. Findings show that the number of large aerospace production companies has gone from one hundred fifty in 1960 to about seven currently. This has also led to more reliance on foreign sources of supply for our weapons systems. Finally, Downey states that an estimated 1 million jobs, of which 350,000 include highly skilled workers, are at risk if the proposed $1.2 trillion Super Committee cuts are taken from defense.
Jim Hanson, contributor for Big Peace and writer for the military website BLACKFIVE, concludes today’s show touching on topics related to Iran, Turkey, and Libya. Hanson condemns Obama’s recent announcement to remove all troops from Iraq by the end of the year. The lack of U.S. presence will give power-hungry Iran an opportunity to gain control and also leave our diplomats and civilians in an unsafe situation. In addition, attributing the death of Moammar Qaddafi to Obama’s success as Commander-in Chief is shortsighted and the Obama administration must also question its current relationship with NATO ally Turkey.
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