Government Shutdown Threatens National Defense and Tech Goals

A defense official warns that a government shutdown would be "horrible" for the Defense Department, as it would halt testing of systems and acceptance of equipment. The shutdown would disrupt acquisition and sustainment projects, sending essential personnel home and conveying the message that they are not essential. Alternatively, passing a continuing resolution would maintain previous funding levels but hinder production increases. The official highlights that China, the department's pacing challenge, does not experience government shutdowns or continuing resolutions.