S.Hrg.119-322

1[Senate Hearing 119-322]2[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]34                                                        S. Hrg. 119-32256                TO CONSIDER THE NOMINATION OF LIEUTENANT7                 GENERAL JOHN D. CAINE, USAF (RETIRED)8                 TO BE GENERAL AND CHAIRMAN OF THE9                 JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF10=======================================================================1112                                HEARING1314                               BEFORE THE1516                      COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES17                          UNITED STATES SENATE1819                    ONE HUNDRED NINETEENTH CONGRESS2021                             FIRST SESSION2223                               __________2425                             APRIL 1, 20252627                               __________2829         Printed for the use of the Committee on Armed Services3031[GRAPHICS NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]3233                 Available via: http://www.govinfo.gov34                               __________3536                   U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE3763-038 PDF                  WASHINGTON : 202638-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------3940                      COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES4142  ROGER F. WICKER, Mississippi, Chairman4344  DEB FISCHER, Nebraska			JACK REED, Rhode Island45  TOM COTTON, Arkansas			JEANNE SHAHEEN, New Hampshire46  MIKE ROUNDS, South Dakota		KIRSTEN E. GILLIBRAND, New York47  JONI ERNST, Iowa			RICHARD BLUMENTHAL, Connecticut48  DAN SULLIVAN, Alaska			MAZIE K. HIRONO, Hawaii49  KEVIN CRAMER, North Dakota		TIM KAINE, Virginia50  RICK SCOTT, Florida			ANGUS S. KING, Jr., Maine51  TOMMY TUBERVILLE, Alabama		ELIZABETH WARREN, Massachusetts52  MARKWAYNE MULLIN, Oklahoma	        GARY C. PETERS, Michigan53  TED BUDD, North Carolina		TAMMY DUCKWORTH, Illinois54  ERIC SCHMITT, Missouri			JACKY ROSEN, Nevada55  JIM BANKS, INDIANA			MARK KELLY, Arizona56  TIM SHEEHY, MONTANA                  	ELISSA SLOTKIN, MICHIGAN5758  		   John P. Keast, Staff Director59  		Elizabeth L. King, Minority Staff Director6061                                  (ii)6263                             C O N T E N T S6465_________________________________________________________________6667                             april 1, 20256869                                                                   Page70To Consider the Nomination of Lieutenant General John D. Caine,       171  USAF (Retired) to be General and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs72  of Staff.7374                           Members Statements7576Wicker, Senator Roger F..........................................     17778Reed, Senator Jack...............................................     37980                           Witness Statements8182Caine, Lieutenant General John D., Retired, Nominee for               583  Appointment to Grade of General and to the Position of Chairman84  of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.8586  Advance Policy Questions.......................................    488788  Questions for the Record.......................................   1018990  Nomination Reference and Report................................   1379192  Biographical Sketch............................................   1389394  Committee on Armed Services Questionnaire......................   1419596  Signature Page.................................................   1459798                                 (iii)99100 TO CONSIDER THE NOMINATION OF LIEUTENANT GENERAL JOHN D. CAINE, USAF101   (RETIRED) TO BE GENERAL AND CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF102103                              ----------104105                         TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2025106107                              United States Senate,108                               Committee on Armed Services,109                                                    Washington, DC.110    The Committee met, pursuant to notice, at 9:35 a.m. in room111SD-G50, Dirksen Senate Office Building, Senator Roger Wicker112(Chairman of the Committee) presiding.113    Committee Members present: Senators Wicker, Fischer,114Cotton, Rounds, Ernst, Sullivan, Cramer, Scott, Tuberville,115Mullin, Budd, Schmitt, Banks, Sheehy, Reed, Shaheen,116Gillibrand, Blumenthal, Hirono, Kaine, King, Warren, Duckworth,117Rosen, Kelly, and Slotkin.118119          OPENING STATEMENT OF SENATOR ROGER F. WICKER120121    Chairman Wicker. The Committee will come to order. Our122eager Members of the fourth estate are welcome to clear away,123thanking them for their presence. This morning, the Committee124meets to consider the nomination of retired Lieutenant General125Dan Caine for the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of126Staff.127    General Caine has a tremendous responsibility before him. I128believe President Trump has made an excellent choice in129selecting him to meet the challenges. So I thank General Caine130for his willingness to serve our country, especially in this131hour of need. We live in the most dangerous national security132moment since World War II. An axis of aggressors led by the133Chinese Communist Party, and Vladimir Putin's Russia means us134harm. This axis does not want this century to be an American-135led century or a freedom led century.136    Our adversaries have started two wars against Ukraine and137Israel. They threaten to open a third front against Taiwan. We138must restore peace and we could do that only through strength.139Since his nomination was announced, some people have written140that General Caine is unqualified. They point out that he has141not served as a combatant commander, as a service chief or as a142vice-chairman, roles which are contemplated in 10 USC 152.143    I would suggest these same people read or reread the144Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986. Those who read that law and then145read General Caine's resume will see that the architects of146that legislation would conclude that their reforms were147successful. The driving force behind Goldwater-Nichols was to148inspire, and in some cases, require jointness. So, let's talk149about jointness with regard to Lieutenant General Caine.150    They believed that when our military services work151together, those services are greater than the sum of their152parts. General Caine agrees and his record reflects that. He153began his career as an Air Force fighter pilot in 1992. By the154time he was done, General Caine had operated in every domain,155and he had developed relationships with every service. That156would not have been true 40 years ago.157    General Caine flew and committed aircraft, but he's also158worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, having helped in159the wake of Hurricane Katrina, in the midst of a bird flu160outbreak. At the White House, General Caine wrote early161homeland security strategies. He deployed and commanded162repeatedly to Iraq and Syria, serving within various special163operations forces units. He ran our most secretive programs for164all military services. General Caine worked extensively as the165CIA's [Central Intelligence Agency] senior military officer,166again, collaborating with every military service and combatant167command.168    It's difficult to imagine a better joint and interagency169background for a nominee of this position. Our threat170environment is complex, and General Caine understands how the171services can work together to meet today's dangers. We have172much work to do as this committee knows. We need to grow our173defense budget. We need to reform the Pentagon's processes174drastically. If confirmed, General Caine would play a175significant role in providing military advice to the Secretary176of Defense and the President of the United States on both of177those topics.178    In particular, the chairman plays a significant role in the179requirements process. I hope he will make a priority to180modernize this critical aspect. The statutory role of the181chairman may be limited, but the position is explicitly the182voice of the combatant commanders. That voice matters because183the commanders are largely absent from our requirements and184budgeting processes. The chairman can and should also be an185advocate for a more agile planning process, one that considers186the problems--and I'm going to use two big words here, the187problems of simultaneity and protracted warfare. I guess that's188three big terms, three big words, and two big terms.189    These are technical terms for fairly straightforward facts.190First, that our adversaries are likely to act against us in a191coordinated fashion; simultaneity. Second, that once that war192breaks out, it tends to take on a life of its own; protracted193warfare.194    Last, a chairman is responsible to deliver a serious,195honest chairman's risk assessment to this Committee as soon as196possible. I look forward to General Caine's thoughts on each of197these points. Based on my conversations with the nominee and198based on his actions in uniform, I'm confident that General199Caine will give President Trump his best military advice.200    He will do so without bias as he's required to do. He would201not consider whether the President may like or dislike that202advice. That's exactly what a United States President deserves.203I'm convinced that General Caine sees this role as absolutely204nonpartisan. We can argue politics up here on this dais, but I205expect General Caine to stay out of it no matter the subject.206    I thank the nominee for his service and for appearing207today, and I turn now to my friend and colleague, Ranking208Member Reed for his opening remarks.209210                 STATEMENT OF SENATOR JACK REED211212    Senator Reed. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Lieutenant General213Caine, welcome and congratulations on your nomination.214    Also, I would like to extend my appreciation to your family215because I know they've been with you throughout your entire216career and they're with you today. I also want to offer my217deepest condolences to the families of the United States Army218soldiers who tragically lost their lives in Lithuania during a219mission last week.220    General Caine, you have been nominated to be Chairman of221the Joint Chiefs of Staff. I'm going to start by acknowledging222the unusual conditions around your nomination. Six weeks ago,223President Trump abruptly dismissed General CQ Brown, who was224not even halfway into his tenure as Chairman of the Joint225Chiefs of Staff. Secretary of Defense Hegseth, also dismissed226several other senior officers, including Admiral Lisa227Franchetti, the Chief of Naval Operations, General James Slife,228the Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, and all three Judge Advocate229Generals (JAGs) for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.230    To this day, no explanation has been given for the231dismissal of these officers. As such, I remain deeply concerned232that they were dismissed for political reasons, which sends a233chilling message throughout the ranks. I would take a moment to234salute General CQ Brown, who served this Nation honorably for235more than four decades and led the joint chiefs with dedication236and skill. He and each of the officers who were dismissed had237outstanding careers in the military and represented our Nation238with great courage, honor, and distinction. We all owe them a239debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.240    General Caine, I trust that you understand the fraught241situation within which you have been nominated to be the242Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. In this regard, your243distinguished record of service is encouraging. As an F16 pilot244with thousands of flight hours and multiple combat deployments,245you have served with distinction in the Air Force and the Air246National Guard. You have also served in senior leadership roles247at the Pentagon, the White House, and overseas, including in248the special operations and intelligence communities.249    General, if confirmed, you will serve as the principal250military advisor to the President, the National Security251Council, the Secretary of Defense and Congress. You'll be252expected to be an effective strategist, advisor, and manager,253and your counsel will be relied upon as we confront the254multitude of national security issues before us. Indeed, we255face significant challenges.256    China clearly remains our primary competitor as the only257nation with both the intent and capability to challenge the258interest of the United States and our allies and partners. At259the same time, Russia remains a violent destabilizing force,260and nations like Iran and North Korea continue to push the261boundaries of military brinkmanship.262    To succeed in this environment, the United States Military263must better develop its joint capabilities across all domains,264including space, cyber, and information. Moreover, we must not265lose the combined strength of our allies, nor can we abandon266the soft power of our diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. To267retreat to Fortress America will encourage our adversaries to268exert their influence throughout the world.269    General Caine, I'm interested to know how you would ensure270our military remains the world's premier fighting force. If271confirmed, you'll be responsible for identifying new joint272capabilities and performing net assessments to ensure each of273the services are procuring the right capabilities needed for274the joint force. The chairman must review capabilities275holistically across the total force, which can conflict with276the priorities of individual services. The committee would be277interested to learn how you plan to manage this dynamic.278    In addition, the National Defense Strategy (NDS), the279National Military Strategy, and the annual chairman's risk280assessment of vital documents, this Committee relies upon to281perform its oversight functions. As the Administration begins282its work to review and revise these documents, General Caine, I283would like your assessment of the current strategy and whether284you would recommend any changes to these documents.285    Finally, the joint force is fundamentally about people. As286the Nation's senior most military officer, it will be your287responsibility to understand the needs of America's288servicemembers and to be their greatest advocate. If confirmed,289you'll be the most visible military officer in the Nation.290It'll be critical for you to represent the force with total291professionalism and trustworthiness.292    Frankly, I'm concerned about the health of civilian293military relations in our country. Over the past several294months, the military has been dragged into dangerous political295fights, public trust in the military is eroding, and I fear296that the military's trust in civilian leadership has been297shaken. Civilian control of the military is a sacred duty that298must be carried out responsibly and not exploited. General, I'd299like to know how you work to help improve civil military300relations and demonstrate this ethos yourself every day.301    Above all else, I expect you to pledge to always provide302your best military advice to the President and the Secretary of303Defense, even if that advice is not what they want to hear. The304safety of our servicemembers and the American people depends305upon such candor. General Caine, if confirmed, you will lead306the joint force at a momentous time. I thank you and I look307forward to your testimony. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.308    Chairman Wicker. Thank you. Thank you, Senator Reed.309General Caine, we will now hear your testimony. You're310recognized.311312STATEMENT OF LIEUTENANT GENERAL JOHN D. CAINE, RETIRED, NOMINEE313  FOR APPOINTMENT TO GRADE OF GENERAL AND TO THE POSITION OF314             CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF315316    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, thank you, Senator Chairman317Wicker, Ranking Member Reed, Members of this Committee. My name318is Dan Caine and I am honored and humbled to sit before you319today as the President's nominee to be the 22d chairman of the320Joint Chiefs of Staff.321    I'd like to start by thanking the President and the322Secretary for their trust and confidence in me and if323confirmed, allowing me to again, serve our great Nation. I'd324also like to thank General CQ Brown and his wife Shereen and325their family for their more than 40 years of selfless service326to our Nation. I'd like to thank the team that helped prepare327me for this hearing today.328    Finally, I'd like to thank my family and friends who have329given me so much. It is my family who has made my service330possible always at their own expense. They have given more than331I have and there are not words to express my thanks to each of332them, especially my family in our Nation's Midwest.333    I sit here before you the proud son of an Air Force fighter334pilot who flew F4 Phantoms in Vietnam. My mom was a pediatric335critical care nurse who worked nights so she could be home when336my sister and I got up in the morning and when we got home in337the afternoon. I learned about service from my parents and the338other members of my family who served, not because it was easy,339but because it was the right thing to do.340    In our family, we serve. When asked, we always say yes.341Senators, I acknowledge that I'm an unconventional nominee.342These are unconventional times. It is 9:48 p.m. in Beijing,3436:48 p.m. in Tehran, 4:48 p.m. in Moscow, and 10:48 p.m. in344Pyong Yang. As we sit here now, our Nation faces an345unprecedented rising global risk. Our adversaries are346advancing, global nuclear threats are on the rise and347deterrence is paramount. Our national defense requires urgent348action and reform across the board. We must go faster. We must349move with a sense of urgency.350    We can never forget that our No. 1 job is to create peace351through overwhelming strength and if need be, fight and win our352Nation's wars. I realize for many Americans I'm an unknown353leader, and it is with a heart full of gratitude that I've been354given a given a truly unique set of experiences that I believe355have prepared me to be the 22d chairman.356    For the past 34 years, I've served in the Active Title 10357Force, in the Title 32 National Guard Force, in the Title 50358Force at the CIA. I've served in the interagency and at the359White House, and I've deployed in combat as a fighter pilot, a360special operations officer, and a CIA officer, and I've been an361entrepreneur and investor in the business sector while a362citizen soldier in the National Guard.363    As a general officer, I've had the privilege of serving364three Presidents from both political parties and most recently365was the associate director for military affairs at the CIA. A366job where I was charged to provide military advice to the367director of the CIA and globally integrate DOD and CIA368activities across the world.369    Along the way, I've proudly served alongside some of370America's most incredible warriors and civilian teammates and371their families. I've witnessed them do awe-inspiring things in372the service of our Nation and to a person they've poured more373into me than I could ever have poured into them. Especially our374non-commissioned officer corps. Sadly, I've been there with375them as they made the ultimate sacrifice on the fields of376battle and been with their families as we told them of their377loved one service and sacrifice. I think of our fallen every378single day.379    These experiences help me to better understand how our380Nation considers and uses military force to achieve our381national security objectives. They directly inform my views of382the importance of carefully considering the use of that force383and the risks associated with it beforehand, and always asking384the important question, and then what, before we do, and if the385decision is made to use military force crushing our enemies and386winning.387    I've also had the privilege of serving alongside incredible388business leaders, starting and scaling companies as an389entrepreneur. Along the way I learned what a different kind of390grit looks like. Our American entrepreneurial spirit is a force391multiplier, and my time as an entrepreneur has made me a better392general officer and leader, and if confirmed, I'll bring more393of that spirit into the joint force.394    Senators I'm here today to earn your trust and the trust of395the American people. If confirmed, I'll continue to work as I396have for my entire 34 years in uniform, always focused on the397mission and our incredible people. If confirmed, I'll continue398the traditions and standards of my oath of office and my399commissioned as a non-partisan leader who will always strive to400do the right thing.401    Chairman Wicker, Ranking Member Reed, and Members of the402Committee, thank you for your time and your consideration. As403we gather here today, let us never forget our deployed forces404and their families, and may we always remember our fallen and405their families, especially those three that Senator Reed406mentioned and our one missing. I look forward to your407questions.408    Chairman Wicker. Thank you very, very much General Caine. I409am required to ask you some standard questions that we ask of410all nominees in your situation. If you'll just answer yes or no411to these questions, keep your talk button pressed. Have you412adhered to the applicable laws and regulations governing413conflicts of interest?414    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, Senator, I have.415    Chairman Wicker. Have you assumed any duties or taken any416actions that would appear to presume the outcome of the417confirmation process?418    Lieutenant General Caine. No. Senator, I have not.419    Chairman Wicker. Exercising our legislative and oversight420responsibilities makes it important that this Committee, its421subcommittees, and other appropriate committees of Congress422receive testimony, briefings, reports, records, and other423information from the executive branch on a timely basis. Do you424agree, if confirmed, to appear and testify before this425Committee when requested?426    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator.427    Chairman Wicker. Do you agree when asked before this428committee to give your personal views even if your views differ429from the Administration?430    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator.431    Chairman Wicker. Do you agree to provide records,432documents, and electronic communications in a timely manner433when requested by this Committee, it's subcommittees or other434appropriate committees of Congress and to consult with the435requester regarding the basis for any good faith, delay or436denial in providing such records?437    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator.438    Chairman Wicker. Will you ensure that your staff complies439with deadlines established by this committee for the production440of reports, records, and other information including timely441responding to hearing questions for the record?442    Lieutenant General Caine. I will, Senator.443    Chairman Wicker. Two more General. Will you cooperate in444providing witnesses and briefers in response to congressional445requests?446    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes Senator, I will.447    Chairman Wicker. Will those witnesses and briefers be448protected from reprisal for their testimony or briefings?449    Lieutenant General Caine. They will, Senator.450    Chairman Wicker. Thank you very, very much. Now let me just451start out by asking about some hyperbole that may have been out452there in the press. General Caine, did you wear a MAGA [Make453America Great Again] hat in front of the President?454    Lieutenant General Caine. No, sir.455    Chairman Wicker. Did you wear a MAGA hat at any time?456    Lieutenant General Caine. No, sir.457    Chairman Wicker. Would you like to elaborate on that458answer?459    Lieutenant General Caine. Sir, for 34 years, I've upheld my460oath of office and my commitment to my commission and I have461never worn any political merchandise.462    Chairman Wicker. Thank you for that answer. Now previous463chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of staff have somewhat equivocated464when asked about top line spending issues. I think you know465about the proposals that will soon be before this Senate and466this Congress.467    Is it in your best military advice based on your468experience, is it your opinion that we need real growth in the469defense budget to maintain deterrence against the very capital470cities and interests that you mentioned in your testimony?471    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, thank you for that472question. We definitely must have a sense of urgency related to473the budget. I think it comes down to ultimately finding more474deployable or allocatable capital, and there's really three475ways to do that. We can find greater efficiencies in the budget476through cost savings. We can reprogram from different programs,477or we can get a higher top line, I think of it in terms of a478business model where we get more revenue. So we have to move479quickly and figure out how we can get real purchasing growth480over time.481    Chairman Wicker. Well, let's talk about efficiency. In the482special operations community and with the CIA, you've worked483with some of the most innovative and risk-taking parts of484national security enterprise. You also mentioned your485experience in the private sector, which I think can serve you486well. Startup ventures in the private sector. Is that right,487General Caine?488    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.489    Chairman Wicker. If confirmed, you will conduct oversight490on the military's requirement processes. We hear constantly491from our combatant commanders that it takes years for their492military needs to be converted into requirements. Based on your493experience, do you believe the requirements process needs to be494fixed, and do you agree with those who say it needs to be495entirely torn down and rebuilt to get our war fighters what496they need according to a timeline in which they need it?497    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I definitely agree498something has to be done. The solution is probably somewhere in499the middle. I don't know that we need to tear the whole thing500down. I definitely agree that we need to improve the speed and501agility of our requirements process. Technology is evolving so502fast, our requirements process does not evolve at the same503time, and we have to have our combatant commander's voice in504the requirements process.505    The one area that I think we also need to do is to keep a506global picture on those requirement processes. No two combatant507commands have the same requirements, and only the joint staff508has the global view on those requirements along with OSD509[Office of The Secretary of Defense]. So, if confirmed, I'd510like to continue to work with you and the rest of the Congress511to sort through this, so I appreciate it.512    Chairman Wicker. Will have you had a chance to read my513white paper on the FoRGED Act and that proposed legislation?514    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.515    Chairman Wicker. Don't you agree that it's a masterful516piece of legislation?517    [Laughter.]518    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, sir. It was a beautiful519read, sir. Yes.520    Chairman Wicker. Would you like to elaborate on that?521    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes. Well, sir, I mean, I think522it certainly lays out a lot of good markers for improvement in523the requirements process.524    Chairman Wicker. Well, it seems to me you've worked in the525private sector and you work with startups. The number of people526in DOD who have to touch something, touch an idea sign off on527an idea to actually get something done, is far different from528those people who are actually making innovative changes in the529private sector. Is that correct?530    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.531    Chairman Wicker. Do you agree then that we need to move in532the direction of efficiency and that a lot of the top line533money that I mentioned in my second question can be found by534efficiencies and moving things faster, and also we could get to535the war fighter what they need in a timely manner?536    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.537    Chairman Wicker. Well, let me ask--I've got 12 seconds. I538might do a followup at the end there, but thank you very much539for your testimony. Senator Reed.540    Senator Reed. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. General541Caine, as you're aware, it was recently revealed that Senior542Trump administration officials, including the Secretary of543Defense, were sharing sensitive information about upcoming544strikes in Yemen on a Signal group chat.545    In your professional opinion, should a member of the joint546chiefs or the relevant combatant commander been included in547that discussion?548    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, thanks for that549question. I understand that the voice of the joint force had550been expressed through the incredible work of the acting551chairman and current vice chairman. I understand he put a552statement out yesterday or the day before saying that they'd553consulted with the secretary. From what I understand of that554chat, that was a partisan political chat, and so the joint555force should not have been represented in there, sir.556    Senator Reed. In your professional opinion, should the557Yemen strengths have been discussed in a Signal group chat on558an unclassified platform?559    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I understand that560both you and the Chairman have asked for an inquiry into that.561So I don't want to comment specifically on that matter. What I562will say is that we should always preserve the element of563surprise, and that should translate across every information564domain and format and never put our war fighters in any harm's565way.566    Senator Reed. Well, let me ask you, if you were on that567conversation, would you have objected to the fact that it was568being conducted on Signal?569    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I was not in that570chat. I would----571    Senator Reed. I know that, that's why I asked, if you were.572    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I've always communicated573proper information in the proper channels.574    Senator Reed. Thank you, sir. Immediately following the575announcement--and this is a followup to Chairman Wicker's,576first question. Immediately following the announcement of your577nomination press stories started to circulate about comments578President Trump made about you in your past relationship.579According to the reports, the President tells a story where he580spoke to you while you were serving in Iraq on Active Duty, and581you said that you loved him and, ``I'll kill for you, sir.''582    The President then said that you followed up these comments583by putting on a Make America Great Again hat. General Caine, is584any of this true?585    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, as I mentioned to the586Chairman, for 34 years, I've upheld my oath of office and the587responsibilities of my commission. I think I went back and588listened to those tapes and I think the President was actually589talking about somebody else, and I've never worn any political590merchandise or said anything to that effect.591    Senator Reed. Thank you. General Caine, during the592consideration of your nomination, were you ever asked who you593voted for in the last election or 2020 election?594    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I was not.595    Senator Reed. Are you aware of any presently serving596servicemembers or senior civilians in DOD being asked questions597like this?598    Lieutenant General Caine. I'm not, Senator.599    Senator Reed. Do you agree that it's the utmost importance600to keep the military apolitical and questions like this should601not be asked?602    Lieutenant General Caine. I agree with you. Yes, Senator.603    Senator Reed. What steps will you'll take to guard against604potential politicization?605    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I think the question was606what steps will I take to guard against politicalization. I607think it starts with being a good example from the top and608making sure that we are nonpartisan and apolitical and speaking609the truth to power every day.610    Senator Reed. General Caine, do you believe there's any611situation where it would be appropriate for you not to be612consulted prior to a military operation?613    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I'm not in the job614yet, so I can't imagine any hypothetical situation where I615would not be in the conversation, if that's what you're asking.616You know, I believe the joint force, if confirmed, and even if617I'm not in the job, the joint force has a responsibility to618provide best options to the Secretary, the NSC [National619Security Council], and the President. So I can't imagine a case620where the joint force would not be in the conversation.621    Senator Reed. Final question. If confirmed--and you've got62240 seconds and this probably will take longer than that. So623just brief thoughts. How are you going to ensure that the624parochialism, which is endemic in every organization, but625certainly also in the Department of Defense (DOD) is curtailed626or focused to a more joint effort?627    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I appreciate that628and I'll be quick and come back to you with more if need be,629but you know, I'm encouraged by the 648 years of experience630that currently exist in the Joint Chiefs of Staff and in the631joint staff, and I think they're all absolute professionals.632    Senator Reed. Thank you very much, sir.633    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you, Senator.634    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Reed. Senator Fisher.635    Senator Fischer. Thank you Mr. Chairman. Welcome General.636Thank you for putting yourself forward to continue to serve637your country. As you are aware, there's ongoing efforts to638force the Department of Defense to vacate portions of key bands639of the electromagnetic spectrum, particularly the lower three640gigahertz and the seven to eight gigahertz bands.641    General Caine, do you agree that the Department of Defense642should have a meaningful co-leadership in any inter-agency643determinations about the future use of Federal spectrum?644    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, thanks for that645question. You know, there are certain elements of the spectrum646that have unique physics associated with them that can impact647our combat capabilities. So we certainly want to have a voice648in the conversation.649    Senator Fischer. Do you believe that it should be a co-650leadership, though, not just a seat at the table, but because651of the exquisite assets that the Department has and your652knowledge of what those are that you would need to have that653co-leadership position?654    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, you asked what the views655of the Department was. Mindful that I'm not in the job yet, and656if confirmed, I'd have that conversation with the Secretary657about co-leadership related to that.658    Senator Fischer. What are the risks to national security if659the Department is forced to vacate those spectrum bands?660    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator some of that may be661reserved for a conversation in closed session at some point in662the future, but certainly if we lose portions of that spectrum,663we'll lose some exclusivity related to our combat capability.664Certainly one, don't want to tip that off to our adversaries665who might be listening, but two, would rather talk about that666in closed session.667    Senator Fischer. I look forward to having those discussions668with you if you are confirmed, sir. General Caine, for the669first time in history of the United States faces two nuclear670peer adversaries in China and in Russia. Yet our planned671nuclear force was decided back in 2010 when the threat672environment looked very, very different and it hasn't been673reconsidered since then.674    For example, just over the past few years, China surpassed675the United States in the number of ICBM [intercontinental676ballistic missile] launchers it possesses. Russia has suspended677the New START treaty and nuclear saber rattling has been a678defining feature of its invasion to Ukraine. North Korea has679claimed to test the first solid fuel ICBM. I'm concerned that680our current programs or record may not be sufficient to address681these future threats or these current threats, let alone future682threats.683    So if confirmed, how would you work with the Secretary, the684services, STRATCOM, to identify and address any insufficiencies685so that our nuclear deterrent would remain credible?686    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator and it must remain687credible. We must invest in the deterrent side of our nuclear688triad, and there's a lot of work to be done there. If689confirmed, you know, I look to work with the incredible690leadership at STRATCOM. We have a great commander out there691who's very smart, dedicated, and technically all over the692program out there. This will be an area of significant emphasis693to make sure that we're fielding the capabilities that we need.694    Senator Fischer. Have you had an opportunity to review the695Strategic Posture Commission's 2023 report?696    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I've not.697    Senator Fischer. I would highly recommend that you do so.698It very clearly articulates projected threats. It identifies699potential gaps in our capabilities, and it makes a number of700actionable recommendations, many of which were included in last701year's NDAA [National Defense Authorization Act].702    Finally, General Caine, the Nuclear Arms Sea Launch Cruise703Missile or SLCM-N, is a Navy program of record that has been704supported by this Committee on a strong bipartisan basis. I was705pleased to see you affirm the importance of SLCM-N in your706advanced policy questions.707    Can you explain to this Committee the importance of708providing the President with additional theater nuclear options709such as SLCM-N?710    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, when we look at711the global lay down of nuclear weapons that you alluded to, the712United States, having an additional option is a key and713essential component to our overall deterrence. That's where714SLCM-N fits into the equation.715    Senator Fischer. So it's important that our Commander-in-716Chief would have those options?717    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, I won't get out in front of718the President. It may be a decision that he has a different719view on, but certainly the Joint Force should offer him that720option for his consideration based on the needs of the721deterrent capabilities.722    Senator Fischer. It is a program of record?723    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, ma'am.724    Senator Fischer. Thank you, sir. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.725    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Fisher. Senator726Shaheen.727    Senator Shaheen. General Caine, congratulations on your728nomination and thank you for your willingness to continue to729serve the country. I appreciated the time we spent in my office730talking about this role and the challenges that you will be731facing.732    One of the things that we discussed was the Women, Peace,733and Security (WPS) legislation that was signed by President734Trump during his first term. It mandates that women should be735at the table in conflict resolution and peace negotiations, and736at DOD, that's meant having women involved in security737cooperation programs that really give us, I think, an advantage738our adversaries like China and Russia.739    Just for the record, are you familiar with the WPS program,740General Caine?741    Lieutenant General Caine. I am Senator, yes.742    Senator Shaheen. Do you believe that's a DEI [Diversity,743Equity, and Inclusion] program?744    Lieutenant General Caine. I do not.745    Senator Shaheen. Thank you. Can you provide some examples746of the operational advantage that from your perspective, this747gives us? General Caine: Well, Senator, I can just give you my748own personal recollections from being deployed. Before this was749precursors of the program, but when we would go out into the750field and after concluding an assault, we would have female751members who would speak with those women and children who are752on the objective, and they would help us to understand the753human terrain in a new and novel way.754    WPS is I think a program that really help us to understand755the full spectrum of challenges that are in front of us.756    Senator Shaheen. Thank you for that. One of the combatant757commands that has been most effective in using the WPS law has758been United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM). Can you759talk about how this contributes to the mission that INDOPACOM760has?761    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I'm not familiar762with the INDOPACOM specific example. If confirmed, I'll look763into it and come back to you with my thoughts on that matter.764    Senator Shaheen. Great, thank you. I appreciate that. We've765been hearing some rumors that have suggested that the766Administration is considering ending the dual-hat policy under767which our commander of European command serves as the Supreme768Allied Commander of NATO. The commander of EUCOM has served as769the Supreme Allied Commander since Eisenhower, and part of the770reason is to ensure that U.S. command and control of nuclear771weapons on the continent also prevents nuclear proliferation in772Europe.773    So I'm not going to ask you to comment on what the policy774of this Administration may or may not be since I assume it's775not been determined. But can you talk about the importance of776U.S. leadership in NATO as a result of this dual-hat777arrangement? And how would you approach mil-to-mil obligations778with NATO partners?779    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, allies and780partners are a critical component to our ability to protect and781defend our values and virtues around the world. NATO is a key782component to that. The President's been clear on his views of,783of the importance of NATO, as has the Secretary. You know,784related to whether or not SACEUR [Supreme Allied Commander,785Europe] stays a United States military officer, I'll defer to786the President on that.787    I think that's a discussion that he currently is ongoing.788But, for me in particular, I value our allies and partners and789if confirmed, that'll be a significant portion of the job that790I have ahead of me.791    Senator Shaheen. Well, and I appreciate that that's a792policy decision, but what I'm really asking is what the793advantage is for the United States in having the SACEUR be an794American.795    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, as always, anytime we796have United States Forces deployed, we generally have wanted797them under a United States commander. That was the history798behind the establishment of SACEUR and putting the dual-hat799EUCOM commander and SACEUR together. I think it is an800opportunity for global leadership in particular in Europe, but801again, would defer to the President as he considers what the802future policy may look like.803    Senator Shaheen. I know that Senator Reed asked you this804question, and it was part of your official questions from805Senator Wicker, but when you have situations where your806military advice may be different from the direction that the807Administration is heading on policy, how do you intend to808approach those situations and how would you continue to make809sure that the military perspective that you're supposed to810represent is actually being presented?811    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, the same way I812have for 34 years, with candor. Candor has gotten me here813today, and candor will continue to allow me to do my job moving814forward. The President doesn't have to accept the military815advice or the Secretary of the NSC, but we owe it to them for816us to deliver that military advice.817    Senator Shaheen. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.818    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you.819    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Shaheen. Senator Cotton820    Senator Cotton. General Caine, congratulations on your821nomination and thank you for your 34 years of service. Thank822you also for your service at times in the intelligence823community where your reputation is as strong as it is in the824Department of Defense.825    Let's continue on the theme of Senator Shaheen's question826about providing your candid military advice. I think as the827chairman and Senator Reed pointed out, a lot of people don't828understand the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs is not in the chain829of command. Is that correct?830    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.831    Senator Cotton. By law, your role is the principal of832military advisor. So if the President makes a decision on this,833that, or the other, policy or operation about this, that, or834the other country that goes from him to the Secretary of835Defense down to some other commander, say the United States836Central Command (CENTCOM) commander or the Secretary of the837Army or what have you. You're on the side giving advice to838everyone, but you're not actually carrying out decisions in the839chain of command.840    Lieutenant General Caine. That's correct, sir.841    Senator Cotton. I think Congress gave the chairman that842role because we wanted someone who was free from those day-to-843day demands of operational or managerial duties to provide that844candid military advice. As Senator Shaheen said it, it's845important that you provide that advice even when you think the846principal doesn't want to hear it, the Secretary of Defense, or847the NSC, or the President.848    But I think you said in your opening statement that you849were an unusual or an unconventional nominee, which was it?850    Lieutenant General Caine. I think it was unconventional,851sir.852    Senator Cotton. Unconventional. I agree with that. I think853most people would as well. You don't strike me as the kind of854guy who has been angling for this job for 34 years. Is that a855fair statement?856    Lieutenant General Caine. That would be a fair statement,857Senator.858    Senator Cotton. Did you expect to get this job as recently859as, I don't know, 3 or 6 months ago?860    Lieutenant General Caine. I did not, Senator.861    Senator Cotton. So is there any reason to think that you're862not going to be providing your candid and best professional863military advice even, and maybe especially, when you've gotten864wind, say a little birdie has tipped you off that maybe the865Secretary or the President doesn't want to hear what you have866to say?867    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, no, and you know, I went868to VMI [Virginia Military Institute] where I lived in the new869barracks for 4 years and looked out on a statue of George870Catlett Marshall for 4 years. Sir, if I failed to provide my871candid advice to the Secretary, or the NSC, or the President, I872think General Marshall would climb out of his grave and hunt me873down.874    Senator Cotton. Good, thank you. Because I think every875President, every NSC, every Secretary of Defense needs that,876especially from a chairman. Not to give them their candid877advice when it's welcome, but even when they know it's878unwelcome.879    Now, as you said, though, you're advisor, you're not a880decider, you're not a commander. Once the Secretary in some881cases, or the President probably in most cases has made the882decision, then you're on the side making sure that decision is883going to be carried out by the relevant commanders, right?884    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.885    Senator Cotton. Thank you. Let's look at something specific886in this area now, and that's the threat of Iran's nuclear887program. By some estimates say it could be just weeks away from888having at least testable of not workable nuclear devices, maybe889as few as a couple years away from having missiles that could890hit us here in the United States. The President has said891repeatedly that he wants a peaceful resolution to this crisis,892but he is also said, I think as recently as last week, ``If893they don't make a deal, there will be bombing''.894    He said, for at least a decade I've known him, that Iran895cannot be allowed to get a nuclear weapon. Do you agree with896the President's assessment that Iran cannot be allowed to get a897nuclear weapon?898    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, sir.899    Senator Cotton. Do you agree that because of their missile900programs, especially the flimsy cover of the space launch901program, that this is not just a threat to our troops in the902region or Israel or our Arab friends in the region, this could903be an imminent and existential threat to the United States904itself in just a few short years?905    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I think that's an906accurate statement.907    Senator Cotton. If the President asks for military options908to support what he has said publicly, that if Iran is not909willing to make a deal that there will be bombing, do you910commit to provide him the best and candid advice you can about911viable military options and the likely consequences of each?912    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I think that's what the913job of the joint staff is to do. Is to provide a range of914options for the President to consider and then allow him to915select whatever those options work best for him.916    Senator Cotton. Thank you. Finally, there's some hysteria917about the prospect of the President ordering these strikes, or918someone like you in uniform providing him advice that is going919to lead to another forever war or another endless war.920    Are you aware of operations, maybe operations against Iran,921like the Tanker Wars in 1988, in which the forceful but922discriminate application of military power did not lead to a923forever war or an endless war, but rather led to peace and924stability?925    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir. Those examples in our926history do exist, yes.927    Senator Cotton. Maybe the Qasem Soleimani strike in 2020 as928well that caused Iran to pull in its horns for the rest of929President Trump's first term. Thank you, General Caine.930    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you, Senator.931    Chairman Wicker. You can answer that question verbally. I932noticed you nodded. General Caine, you nodded your head.933    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir. I wasn't sure exactly934what the question was, but I agree with you, Senator.935    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Cotton, and thank you936General. Senator Blumenthal.937    Senator Blumenthal. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you938General Caine for visiting my office, for your service and your939families to our Nation. You have a record that is exemplary and940lengthy. You've served in the Air Force, the Air National941Guard, and within the intelligence community with extraordinary942distinction. This position is not one that you sought, is it?943    Lieutenant General Caine. No, sir.944    Senator Blumenthal. Or ever expected?945    Lieutenant General Caine. No. No, sir.946    Senator Blumenthal. The reason is quite simply that the947President of the United States decided to fire the Chairman of948the Joint Chiefs of Staff for political and personal reasons,949and I must say that I find that abhorrent, and I know that you950are not going to comment in those terms on the treatment of951your potential predecessor, but would you agree with me that952politicization of the military is something that should be953avoided at all costs?954    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir. The Nation and the955Constitution all require a non-partisan military.956    Senator Blumenthal. Would you agree with me that this957apparent myth, because you've credibly denied it, that you wore958a MAGA hat, is extremely regrettable and unfortunate?959    Lieutenant General Caine. Sir, I just know that I have960always upheld my oath of office and don't believe the President961said I was wearing a MAGA hat from what I've listened to the962tapes.963    Senator Blumenthal. You don't believe he ever said it, but964it has been attributed to him.965    Lieutenant General Caine. Sir, I think maybe he was talking966about somebody else when I went and listened to the tapes.967    Senator Blumenthal. Let me ask you because of your968extraordinary service General, and I can't imagine anyone969better qualified to answer this question. If you heard that a970mission of a kind that was discussed on an unsecure platform,971Signal, and you were in one of those planes about to launch on972that mission against the Houthis, knowing what you do about the973substance of that conversation, how would you feel?974    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I stand by what I said975before. I think we all can agree that we need to always protect976the element of surprise.977    Senator Blumenthal. That element of surprise was very978likely lost if there had been any intercept by one of our979enemies or adversaries that could be conveyed to the Houthis,980correct?981    Lieutenant General Caine. I mean, sir, that's a little bit982of a hypothetical question, but I am thankful as always that we983protect our servicemen and women who are going into combat984operations.985    Senator Blumenthal. But there are a lot of pilots and other986military men and women who are understandably angry about that987call, correct?988    Lieutenant General Caine. Sir, I've not had anybody come to989me and tell me that they're angry about it. So I can't comment990on that.991    Senator Blumenthal. Have you read reports about that992reaction to the call?993    Lieutenant General Caine. I have not, Senator. No.994    Senator Blumenthal. Would you agree that that kind of995reliance on Signal for that kind of conversation should be996avoided in the future?997    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I just know that I have998always used the right system for the right kinds of999communications. I don't know in particular you know, what1000information was classified in what way on that Signal chat. I1001know that we must preserve the element of surprise.1002    Senator Blumenthal. That platform is not a hardened and1003secure platform?1004    Lieutenant General Caine. That platform is encrypted but1005not secure, I believe in the definition of the term secure.1006    Senator Blumenthal. Let me ask you quickly on another1007topic. Would you agree that the Columbia-class program is the1008Navy's--should continue to be an acquisition priority along1009with the Virginia-class?1010    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I do think Columbia1011needs to continue forward at a pace and tempo equal to the1012threat.1013    Senator Blumenthal. My time has expired. Thank you, Mr.1014Chairman.1015    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Blumenthal. Senator1016Rounds.1017    Senator Rounds. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. General Caine,1018once again, thank you for taking the time in my office to visit1019with me about a number of the items that you're hearing about1020today. I want to go back specifically to an item that Senator1021Fischer began talking with you about. That is with regard to1022the spectrum and the challenges surrounding it.1023    The reason why I want to use that as an example is because1024I know that General Milley and General CQ Brown, both in their1025role as the chief of staff and providing their best military1026opinion and advice were put in a position literally of saying1027to other people within other Administrations, that this1028particular part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which is1029currently controlled by the Department of Defense, is critical1030to our national defense.1031    In fact, over the last several years, I have asked in front1032of this particular Committee, well over two dozen uniformed1033officers to specifically discuss the need to maintain control1034of specific portions of the electronic spectrum. In particular,1035I've asked whether or not the 3.1 to 3.45 gigahertz band, if we1036were to lose that from DODs specific use, if that would1037negatively have or would have negative consequences for our war1038fighting capabilities.1039    I have had 100 percent agreement that if we lost that it1040would have negative consequences. Would you agree with that1041assessment?1042    Lieutenant General Caine. I would, Senator.1043    Senator Rounds. Thank you. You will be asked at some point,1044because this is a valuable commodity. There's a limited amount1045of electromagnetic spectrum available, but there are interests1046within the United States that would love to have access to this1047without regard to what it would do or would not understanding1048what the impact would be on our national defense.1049    Are you aware that under President Trump's proposed concept1050of a Golden Dome or a missile protection system, that a number1051of the radar systems that would be required to be in effect for1052that to move forward, are found within the 3.1 to 3.45 portions1053of the spectrum because of their unique physics competencies?1054    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I'm familiar with the1055basics of that frequency spectrum. I don't know what particular1056radars Golden Dome has brought into their mix of equipment, but1057that would not surprise me.1058    Senator Rounds. Thank you. I just think part of the1059discussion that's been here today has been a concern by the1060Committee that any person that has the role of the Chairman of1061the Joint Chiefs recognize just how serious their role is with1062regard to providing to a very, very group of powerful1063individuals, the best professional military advice that they1064can provide, and recognizing that while you don't control the1065policy that is set, your role as this Committee sees it is in1066many cases, the last resort to providing the right types of1067advice that elected leaders have to hear regardless of whether1068or not they want to hear it. My understanding, and once again,1069I'll ask you to just confirm it, you recognize that that is1070your primary responsibility,1071    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I think that's the most1072important part of this job and the essential part of this job.1073If confirmed, you have my commitment that I'll always speak1074truth to power.1075    Senator Rounds. Well, I think you'll find that this1076committee will be very supportive of you in that role. General,1077the B-21 Raider is one of the most capable military platforms1078in the world has ever seen. It will play a crucial role in any1079conflict the US faces against a near peer adversary because of1080its ability to operate in a highly contested environment. The1081Air Force has committed to at least 100 B-21s.1082    But given its dual missions of conventional long-range1083strike and nuclear deterrence, many of us believe that we will1084need a number closer to 200 bombers. If confirmed, would you be1085prepared to advocate for more than 100 and perhaps as many as1086200 of these platforms if a review of our war plan suggested1087that that is what required for our operational plans moving1088forward?1089    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, the last part of your1090question, I think is the key part for me. After the analysis1091portion, and, you know, mindful that I've not been confirmed1092for this job yet, I'd like to speak to the other joint chiefs1093and the combat commanders whose requirements Raider will1094fulfill before I commit to supporting any particular number of1095B-21s.1096    It's an essential part of our nuclear and conventional1097program, and certainly a key component of it. But before I1098commit to any number, I'd like to study the matter and come1099back to you.1100    Senator Rounds. But if that appears to be the case, you1101would not hesitate to recommend more if those studies warranted1102it?1103    Lieutenant General Caine. I would not hesitate.1104    Senator Rounds. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.1105    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Rounds. Senator Hirono.1106    Senator Hirono. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. General Caine,1107with all due respect to you, we should not be here today. This1108hearing is happening only because of the unprecedented1109dismissal without cause of General Brown as chairman. As a1110highly respected military leader, General Brown faithfully1111served our country for decades. He provided exactly what the1112Constitution asked of him, the best non-partisan military1113advice to civilian leadership.1114    However, for an Administration that is claiming to be the1115most ``transparent in history,'' no reasonable justification1116has been provided for General Brown's termination. Instead,1117General Brown's dismissal reveals once again, President Trump's1118intention to install yes men and women with fealty to him and1119not to the Constitution or the American people.1120    Now, General Caine, you said you will always speak truth to1121power in your responses to advanced questions, and you1122indicated that you would provide independent advice. But let me1123just mention what happens to people who stand up to President1124Trump. General Milley was a former Chair of Joint Chiefs, stood1125up to President Trump, and here's what happened to him.1126    President Trump took away his security detail, his security1127clearance. He even took down his portrait in the Pentagon.1128That's not all. General Milley is now under investigation by1129the Department's Inspector General to see if you'll be able to1130retire as a four-star general. It's always a challenge to stand1131up to this President.1132    Let me just start with the two initial questions, and I'll1133get to some of the questions that have to do with your fitness1134to serve. I ask these questions of all nominees on any of the1135committees on which I sit. Since you became a legal adult, have1136you ever made unwanted requests for sexual favors or committed1137any verbal or physical harassment or assault of a sexual1138nature?1139    Lieutenant General Caine. I have not, Senator.1140    Senator Hirono. Have you ever faced discipline or entered1141into a settlement relating to this kind of conduct?1142    Lieutenant General Caine. I have not, Senator.1143    Senator Hirono. General, you've been asked a number of1144questions regarding what the President attributed to you, that1145it's always been reported that you wore a MAGA hat. You1146testified you did not. If you did wear a MAGA hat, would that1147constitute partisan political activity by a uniform officer?1148    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I did not wear any1149political merchandise.1150    Senator Hirono. If you wore such a hat, would that1151constitute partisan political activity by a uniform officer?1152Yes or no?1153    Lieutenant General Caine. I think it probably would. Yes,1154Senator.1155    Senator Hirono. Thank you. General Caine, you've been asked1156also a number of questions about what's being referred to as1157Signal Gate, and I commend the Chair of this Committee and the1158Ranking Member for asking for an IGA inquiry. You were the1159director for special access programs at the Pentagon, an office1160that manages our Nation's most classified programs. Have you1161ever discussed classified information on an unclassified1162medium, such as Signal?1163    Lieutenant General Caine. No, Senator. I have not.1164    Senator Hirono. What would be the consequences for1165discussing a special access program on Signal?1166    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, we'd have to first1167do an investigation. We'd have to look into the particular1168matters associated with it. We'd have to consult with counsel1169to determine what the way forward was, and then ultimately turn1170it over to the leadership in the Department.1171    Senator Hirono. You wouldn't just let this matter drop?1172Which is basically what this Administration wants to do?1173    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I think that it's1174a little bit of a hypothetical situation asking me about what1175would happen if a SAP [Special Access Program] was dropped into1176Signal.1177    Senator Hirono. It's really not a hypothetical. It is what1178is confronting this Administration and what's happening. You1179know that we need to preserve the element of surprise. Is1180discussing the kinds of matters that were discussed on signal1181preserving the element of surprise?1182    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I don't want to--given1183the fact that the Chairman and Ranking Member of an ask for an1184investigation, I don't want to comment on the particulars. I do1185want to stay at the strategic altitude and say that we should1186always preserve the element of surprise.1187    Senator Hirono. I think it was a very simple question,1188whether or not talking about the things that have been1189reported, whether that preserved the element of surprise. I1190would say that if you're truly speaking truth to power, that1191the answer would obviously be, no, it does not preserve the1192element of surprise. That is why we need to have an inquiry.1193Thank you, Mr. Chairman.1194    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Hirono. Senator Ernst.1195    Senator Ernst. Thank you, Mr. Chair, and I first would like1196to acknowledge the loss of three soldiers from the Third1197Infantry Division, and pray for a speedy recovery on the1198fourth.1199    General Caine, thank you so much for being in front of this1200Committee today, and we all understand that there's a little1201bit of political theatrics that always occur on this Committee,1202but I would like to thank you very much for your integrity and1203your measured responses to the questions today. You are1204carrying yourself with dignity and respect, and that's what we1205would anticipate and expect of anyone that will be serving as1206the Chairman of our Joint Chiefs of Staff. So thank you very1207much for that.1208    You stated that you are an unconventional leader moving1209forward, and I in particular, am very excited about that1210because you have served on Active Duty and Active Duty Air1211Force. But also in regards to my own service, you are a1212national guardsman, and thank you. It gives you a very well-1213rounded perspective when it comes to the men and women that1214serve in various capacities for our great Armed Services.1215    But also very important to me is the fact that you have1216served as an entrepreneur, and this brings a different level1217into the position that you are hoping to attain. That leads me1218into my question. I've been very focused on our defense budget,1219efficiency, and auditability. We spoke about this in my office.1220Because you have the eye of a businessman, you know that your1221investment dollars are very important going into a business.1222    So you will understand that every dollar going into our1223Department of Defense is also going to be very important for1224our war fighters and those that support them. The Department of1225Defense despite managing the largest discretionary budget of1226the Federal Government, has yet to pass a full financial audit.1227We understand that this failure is eroding public trust in the1228Department and hinders our ability as Congress to allocate1229those resources effectively, and our frustrations just continue1230to grow.1231    So, General Caine, if you are confirmed, what steps will1232you take to ensure the DOD finally passes a full audit by 20281233as required by the law or ideally if at all possible, even1234sooner?1235    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, thanks for that1236question. Is not only as an entrepreneur alum, but also an1237American taxpayer, we owe it to the Nation for the Department1238to pass an audit. There are very few levers that the chairman,1239if I'm confirmed, that the chairman can throw other than to1240encourage the services to be prepared for that audit. That's1241something that I'll take on if I'm confirmed for the job.1242    Senator Ernst. Yes, thank you very much for that. In1243regards to our Special Operations Forces (SOF), I serve as the1244chair of the Emerging Threats and Capabilities subcommittee,1245and we'll continue to advocate on behalf of our SOF. They're a1246very cost-effective force multiplier, and they deliver those1247high impact results with a very small footprint. And I know we1248have spoken about this, you do get that.1249    Cuts to SOF funding risk ceding ground to our adversaries.1250So, General Caine, given SOF's proven role in great power1251competition, do you believe a justification exists for reducing1252their footprint and their budget at a time when unconventional1253threats are on the rise?1254    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator mindful that I'm1255not in the job yet, I do understand and appreciate the1256exponential value that SOF can bring to the competition phase1257that we're in right now. If confirmed, I'd like to take that on1258and come back to you with my thoughts on it.1259    Senator Ernst. Yes, thank you, and I will expect that as1260well.1261    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, ma'am.1262    Senator Ernst. I know we could go on, I'll submit a1263question for the record on recruitment and retention1264challenges.1265    Senator Ernst. But I just want to close by saying I'm very1266grateful that President Trump has nominated you to serve as our1267Chairman for the Joint Chiefs of Staff. I do think that you1268will bring a different level into this position, a different1269eye, a different way of looking at things. We are in very1270challenging times. We all recognize this. We need a change. You1271are that change. So thank you very much for being willing to1272continue to serve in this capacity. Thank you, Mr. Chair.1273    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator. Senator King.1274    Senator King. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. General,1275congratulations on your nomination. We've discussed almost1276every member of this panel has discussed the importance of1277giving straight advice to the President and the Secretary of1278Defense. These are two very strong personalities. The Oval1279Office is probably the most intimidating room in the world. I1280hope you'll reiterate. You mentioned you owe it to them to give1281you the best advice. You also owe it to the country that you1282give them the best advice.1283    You mentioned to me when we discussed this before, you have1284been retired, you didn't expect this job, you don't need this1285job. Give me your straight-ahead commitment that when the chips1286are down, you're going to argue for your best military advice.1287    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I don't know any other1288way to operate as a leader. My job, if confirmed, is to always1289provide best military advice to the President, the Secretary of1290the NSC, and to Congress, and to do so with candor every day.1291    Senator King. That, as everybody has mentioned,1292particularly Senator Rounds mentioned, that this is really the1293principle responsibility of the job. We are in a very dangerous1294moment, as you know, there are potential conflicts and1295conflicts all over the world. So you're going to be called upon1296probably in a matter of weeks to make these kind of calls and1297to provide that advice to the President.1298    So I look forward to your honoring that commitment that you1299just made, and making clear not only providing advice that1300sounds sort of neutral, but advocating for advice, saying, this1301is what we believe the best military advice is. Let me move on.1302    It worries me sometimes that we have a tendency1303particularly in national security, to move our focus from one1304area to the other, and then we neglect the area that we're1305missing. What I'm very worried about now is a resurgence of1306terrorism. Syria potentially could become another base for ISIS1307[Islamic State of Iraq and Syria]. There are thousands of ISIS1308fighters in jails in Syria, if they're released, that could be1309a major challenge. West Africa is now a major area of al Qaeda1310activity.1311    Talk to me about the terrorism threat and the fact that we1312can't forget it because 19 people changed American history on1313September 11th, and it doesn't take many terrorists to create1314serious problems for this country and for people around the1315world.1316    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, sir, I think you--I don't1317know that I could say it any better than you just did. We have1318to keep our pressure on the terrorists who would continue to1319like----1320    Senator King. Can you be sure that you got that in the1321record what he just said? Go ahead.1322    Lieutenant General Caine. It's not something Senator,1323unfortunately, we can ever take our eyes off of completely. The1324challenge that somebody who would want to do harm to us or to1325our interests around the world is not going to go away anytime1326soon.1327    Senator King. One of the concerns that I have, we always1328talk about deterrence. That's the main spring of our defense1329strategy. But deterrence doesn't work with a terrorist, with a1330nuclear weapon. They don't have a capital to blow up. They1331don't care about dying. The defense against that eventuality,1332which I think is absolutely terrifying, is intelligence. I hope1333that you will continue to focus the forces in the Pentagon on1334intelligence and intervening if there's any threat of nuclear1335material getting into the hands of a terrorist organization.1336    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.1337    Senator King. Finally, in terms of your leadership within1338the military, and I know that you're a passionate advocate for1339our war fighters. One of the things that concerns me, and I'm1340going from this meeting to a meeting of the Veterans Affairs1341Committee, is the transition from Active Duty military to1342retired, which you have experienced.1343    The testimony that we've had at numerous hearings is it's1344inadequate. It's improved in recent years, but there are still1345gaps that it's very complex and military Active Duty people1346going into veteran status, it turns out it's the highest1347propensity for suicide in the first couple of years after the1348transition from Active Duty.1349    So I hope that's something that you'll pay some attention1350to. I believe that as much money, effort, and time should be1351spent on transition out as we spend on recruiting in.1352    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, it is a bit of an1353arduous process. I can personally attest to that. I appreciate1354your leadership on helping the veterans of the Nation to1355transition appropriately. It is an area of risk for sure, and1356I'll keep my eye on it if confirmed.1357    Senator King. I hope you will. Thank you very much General,1358and again, congratulations on your nomination.1359    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator.1360    Senator King. Thank you.1361    Chairman Wicker. Senator Cramer.1362    Senator Cramer. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you1363General for your service and for your willingness to step back1364into the gap. While I agree that the dismissal of your1365predecessor was unfortunate, it's behind us, and I cannot think1366of a better person to replace General Brown than you. Frankly,1367the unconventionalness of you us as the President's pick is in1368and of itself brilliant in my view.1369    But when you look at your actual history and your actual1370service and the diversity of it, I just can't imagine a better1371choice. So congratulations on that and I look forward to1372supporting you strongly. In your opening statement, you said1373some things that we hear a lot from people that come before the1374Committee and your response to, to Chairman Wicker's1375legislation dealing with the acquisition reform stuff. Very1376welcoming.1377    But everyone says that. Everyone says that, and yet I find1378it--and this is why, frankly, you being unconventional is1379encouraging to me because they all mean it, by the way, when1380they say it. I believe that at the moment they mean it. They1381mean it until the particular service that they served in or the1382particular agency within the service they served in, it was1383disrupted by the very thing they say they support.1384    Who we're dealing with the situation right now, perhaps the1385most disruptive innovator taking over, becoming the first1386director of the most disruptive innovative agency, The Space1387Development Agency, has been on leave for 3 months during a1388witch hunt that's began on the last day of the last1389Administration. Everybody that that says they're an innovator,1390is an innovator, except in this case, maybe we should check1391further into it.1392    All the while, satellites don't go up, all the while China1393goes at the speed of China. So I believe there's a cultural1394problem as well as we have some work to do as Congress,1395policymakers have work to do, the Administration has work to1396do, but we have a culture challenge as well.1397    General, I'd like you to elaborate a little bit on how we1398can really make the difference that you say you want to make,1399and I believe you do want to make, so that we aren't just1400consolidating all of our industry into a couple of giants,1401whether it be a land, airspace, sea.1402    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, you're hitting on1403an area that that is a point of passion for me. We have to stop1404admiring the problem and we have to start executing. I do think1405your point about culture is where it all starts. I think we1406have to take an, an ownership and an entrepreneurial mindset to1407all of these reforms that are in front of us. We can't do this1408alone. We have to do it with you here in the Congress in order1409to actually make these changes.1410    I'm encouraged by the leaders who are coming into the1411Department who have deep substantive business background that1412are not known as people who admire problems. If confirmed, I1413look forward to working with the various leaders in order to1414actually move the ball, and of course, working with the1415Congress to execute these things without continuing to admire1416these challenges in front of us.1417    Senator Cramer. Well, and I appreciate your reference to1418the new style of leaders coming in the entrepreneurs and1419whatnot. I have the same optimism as a result of it, but I am1420getting anxious about actually seeing it happen. So, maybe1421you're the leader that can make that a reality for us now.1422    You know, we get to talk to the combatant commanders.1423You'll get to talk to them a lot. One of the things we hear1424over and over from commanders, of course, is that intelligence,1425surveillance, reconnaissance, ISR, is in great need and low1426supply these days. The Air Force, specifically, has been on a1427mission to eliminate ISR as one of their key missions. It's1428disappeared even as a term in several of their documents in1429recent years.1430    It's not just their fault. I mean, we have a--as we've all1431been talking about, we have a resource challenge in our Defense1432Department, and we're trying to work on that. I just think we1433all have to do a lot more. For sure, I want to recognize that.1434But I also worry that there's this divide between what the1435commanders say they need in the field and frankly what we're1436seeing and where we're investing.1437    I would just love you to, your remaining seconds with me,1438expound a little bit on ISR, where you see it, you know,1439landing as a mission set. Maybe it's everybody has their own1440form, but I don't think that's very practical.1441    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, just in my1442remaining 5 seconds. You know, ISR, and the ability to have1443indications and warnings to make decisions for commanders who1444hold risk is a key and essential part of our overall ability to1445execute the missions that we must do.1446    Senator Cramer. I think that Air Force should keep it as a1447mission. I get that. Other services will have some form of it.1448But anyway, thank you. I look forward to supporting you.1449    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you, Senator.1450    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Cramer. Senator Kaine.1451    Senator Kaine. Thank you, General. Good to see you. I1452enjoyed our visit. I would encourage my colleagues not to hold1453your last name against you. I share comments that some of my1454colleagues have made about the unfortunate circumstances with1455General Brown, but you didn't have anything to do with that.1456    I know from our conversations and my own due diligence VMI1457is very proud of you and folks who've worked with you in the1458past who I hold in high regard, are very proud of you. A lot of1459the questions that have been asked, kind of trying to really1460drill into your ability to give the best candidate advice, I1461think your career has demonstrated to my satisfaction that you1462will do so.1463    One of the things that I really like about your background,1464and I think Senator Ernst and others have commented on it, is1465active and guard, DOD and private sector at the Pentagon, at1466the White House, at the CIA. You've seen pretty deep1467interaction with allies.1468    You've really seen the breadth of our military mission in a1469way that I think is the kind of experience that would inform1470that judgment that you need to provide. In fact, in a way, the1471role of the Head of the Joint Chiefs, the Chairman of the Joint1472Chiefs, as Senator Cotton was walking you through the work that1473you did at the CIA, was a little bit the same role.1474    Why don't you describe in a little more detail that posting1475to the CIA ?1476    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.1477    Senator Kaine. What your job was in that, because I think1478it's almost analogous, the advice you are providing to the CIA1479director, best military advice, is pretty analogous to the1480advice you'd be providing to SEC DEF [Secretary of Defense] and1481the and the Commander-in-Chief.1482    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, thank you for that1483question. You know, I do agree. The ADMA, the Associate1484Director for Military Affairs, was actually established by the1485Congress to detail a three star military officer over to the1486CIA under title 50 authorities in order to provide best1487military advice to the director, the deputy director, and to1488work daily with the secretary, the chairman, the combatant1489commanders, and the service chiefs in order to globally1490integrate same functions that the chairman has, in order to1491globally integrate CIA and DOD activities.1492    If confirmed, I'll continue to do that, working with the1493best of the title 10 forces, the best of title 50, what the1494State Department can bring to the table, what the rest of the1495interagency can bring to the table, along with our allies and1496partners. So, while I'm mindful that I've not led at the four-1497star level, this is not a command job that I'm being considered1498for. It's an advisory job, and there's very similar traits to1499the last job in this one1500    Senator Kaine. The posting that you had to the CIA for this1501important role, was that a--were you delegated by the SEC DEF1502to do that, or did you like interview with the CIA to get that1503post?1504    Lieutenant General Caine. I was nominated by the Department1505and interviewed by the CIA. As far as I understand it, the CIA1506made the selection.1507    Senator Kaine. But you were the nominee of the Department.1508So, I do think that the role is an important one. The one thing1509I don't see in your resume, but I suspect it's probably there,1510and I just--your resume's too long, is interaction that you've1511had with the State Department over the course of your career.1512Could you talk about that a little bit?1513    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir. My first real1514substantive interaction with the State Department was actually1515when I was a White House fellow at USDA, and we were charged1516with working on the Global Pandemic Plan surrounding avian1517influenza H5N1.1518    Senator Kaine. During the Bush administration?1519    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir. During the Bush1520administration. That really began my substantive appreciation1521for what the diplomatic element of power can do, and that1522continued through my time in the military overseas, and have1523deep regard and appreciation for what the State Department can1524do for us.1525    Senator Kaine. I think all of us at times have been1526frustrated with silos. The states and their silo, intel and1527theirs, DOD Pentagon, and their own silo. Sometimes having the1528different perspectives is great. If everybody's just singing1529the exact same note, you sometimes wonder whether it's1530groupthink. So, getting some different perspectives can be1531helpful. The fact that you've been in all parts of the kind of1532broad national security family gives me some real confidence in1533your judgment coming into this position.1534    Last thing I'll just ask is what would you say has been1535your signature experience of the course of your career in terms1536of interacting with our allies?1537    Lieutenant General Caine. Probably sir the scud hunt in15382003, where I had the opportunity to work very closely with our1539British, UK, and Australian allies, which was absolutely a1540coalition effort from day one. We went to war alongside them,1541and I've thankfully sustained all of those relationships now. I1542have deep relationships with our closest allies, and if1543confirmed, look forward to continuing those.1544    Senator Kaine. I'm a strong promoter of the AUKUS1545[Australia, United Kingdom, United States] framework and the1546fact that you've had those relationships in the past and1547maintain them, that's a positive.1548    I yield back. Thank you.1549    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you, sir.1550    Chairman Wicker. Where were you exactly during that scud1551operation, sir?1552    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, sir, the location that we1553flew out of, I think is still classified. Happy to talk about1554that in closed session.1555    Chairman Wicker. Okay. Thank you very much. Senator Scott.1556    Senator Scott. Thank you, Chairman.1557    General, congratulations. You've got the right background.1558I think you're going to do a great job. Always like to see1559business guys succeed. So, that's fun. This is all doable. I1560mean, you look at where we are. We've got Communist China's,1561built a military to defeat us. We've got allies that have not1562invested like they should have. We've got Iran, which appears1563to have, you know, enough money now to continue to support the1564Houthis, Hamas, Hezbollah.1565    We've got China all over Latin America. I mean, what we1566have to do to defend the freedom of this country and try to do1567our best to police a world. Is this actually doable? Do are you1568optimistic? Are you pessimistic?1569    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I'm always an optimistic1570leader.1571    Senator Scott. Why do you believe that we can do it?1572    Lieutenant General Caine. There's a lot of reasons, but the1573power of the American spirit is what leaps out to me right off1574the bat. There are very few things that we set our mind to that1575we can achieve. Despite some of the very serious challenges in1576front of us, we've always rogered up to those challenges.1577    Senator Scott. Do you think the budget that we're going to1578be able to provide is going to allow you to be able to do the1579things you need to do?1580    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I won't get in1581front of the President, or OMB [Office of Management and1582Budget], on what budget markers they set. What I will do1583confirm to you and commit to you, is that whatever capital1584we're given will make the best out of it.1585    Senator Scott. In Florida we have 20 military bases and1586three unified commands. One is Homestead, and we talked about1587this a little bit. It's not that far from Cuba. Homestead is a1588little bit north of Key West, and it hasn't had a dedicated1589flying mission in a while. It seems like it's, it would be an1590important base. Do you see a future for Homestead? Do you think1591it ought to have a flying mission?1592    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I won't get out in1593front of the service, but if confirmed, I'll definitely talk to1594the Air Force Reserve Command and the Air Force to see what1595they're thinking around flying mission at Homestead.1596    The history of that unit, and that base is exemplary. They1597were with us in the Scud Hunt, a small component of them were1598there with us back in 2003. I've got deep appreciation for the1599culture and history of that unit.1600    Senator Scott. This is the first time I have the1601opportunity to be the chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower.1602As you know, we have not been able to build ships, maintain1603ships, keep ships ready. How do you think that's going to1604change?1605    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, I think it's a significant1606challenge for us, and we've got to up our game. I'm encouraged1607by the SEC Navs focus on this, and we've got to get to our1608congressionally mandated number of 355 ships as soon as1609possible, which includes our ability to sustain them and repair1610them around the world. We've got real limits right now,1611    Senator Scott. According to the Navy, they provide the1612combatant commanders with 40 percent of their requirements.1613Didn't make much sense in business. If one division need, well,1614you know, they need to deliver 40 percent, but it's work, we'd1615based the budget on the requirements needed. Do you think1616there's a different way we ought to be allocating resources?1617    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I'm sorry, could you1618repeat the question again?1619    Senator Scott. Command and commanders that, you know,1620they're only getting a portion of what they're asking. Is there1621a better way to allocate the resources?1622    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I appreciate the1623question. You know, that the challenge is that we have to1624globally integrate all the combatant commands, and there's1625never a loss for tension between the COCOMs. What I trust is1626that the joint staff and the joint chiefs are looking carefully1627and thoughtfully considering where that balance is, and then1628passing those options to the secretary for him to decide on1629where that allocation may be. Until we have such capacity that1630there's no need to do that, I think we're going to continue to1631balance those capabilities and capacities across all the1632COCOMs.1633    Senator Scott. So, my final question is, what drives you?1634Why do you want to do this? Let's say you did this for 4 years,1635what would your goal be at the end of those 4 years that you1636said we got this accomplished?1637    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, doing my part to1638make sure that we have a safe and prosperous United States of1639America. That the military element of power has delivered the1640deterrence capability that we needed, and we've taken care of1641our families and our force along the way.1642    Senator Scott. Thank you. You'll do a great job.1643    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you, Senator.1644    Chairman Wicker. Thank you very much. Senator Mullin.1645    Senator Mullin. Thank you, Chairman, and thank you,1646General, for wanting to step back into service. Your retirement1647didn't last too long, and the idea that you're willing to jump1648back and serve just speaks volume to the true inner spirit that1649you have. I want to thank you for doing that. You have made a1650tremendous amount of sacrifice already and, you know, eyes wide1651open what this job is going to entail. You have some real1652challenges ahead of you.1653    I want to start first talking about the defense industry. I1654know you're familiar with the so-called ``last Supper'' in 19941655to where we basically encouraged our defense industry to1656consolidate. I'm a firm believer in looking back and looking at1657things of where it went wrong. Because since then, our defense1658industry really hasn't been to deliver on time and on budget on1659some of the most critical needs we have.1660    We've seen from our planes in the air, to our ships in the1661shipyards, to the equipment that we're needing is constantly1662behind what we're needing today. When we ask for technology1663that's being used against us or that our adversaries have1664already may achieved. When we ask our defense industry to1665deliver, it's 5 to 7 years, if we're lucky, it's 3, and yet,1666it's never on time.1667    Now, you come from a unique position, being Active, being1668Reserve, and being in the private sector. I feel like that this1669is one of the biggest threats that we have. We have a1670technology need today, and it's being delivered 5 years from1671now. We are 5 years behind. How do you plan on tackling this?1672Because I do feel like this is the biggest threat to our1673military today.1674    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I agree. It's a1675huge problem. Technology is evolving so quickly that every time1676we field capabilities, they're obsolete oftentimes when they1677hit the force. That's not acceptable. I think it goes back to1678something that the Chairman and I talked about at the beginning1679of the hearing, and that's related to having agility in our1680requirements and building a system of acquisition that allows1681us to take advantage of the current technologies, not those of1682the past.1683    If confirmed, I'll work with the joint staff, the joint1684chiefs, and of course OSD to pick up the speed, pace, and tempo1685of fielding the capabilities that we need that are not1686obsolete.1687    Senator Mullin. How do you plan on bringing private1688industry back in to actually go around some of our primes that1689are incapable of delivering in a quick fashion?1690    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I think we need a1691mix of both startups that are new entrants to the industry, but1692we also do need the primes. The answer is all of the above.1693There are components that the primes can only do, and we have1694to leverage that capability. Then there's a bunch of things1695that new entrants will do to move forward. So, I think the1696answer is, as I mentioned, all of the above.1697    Senator Mullin. I agree that the primes are important, but1698they have felt they have failed miserably on staying on budget1699and on time and being adequate to delivering today's needs. I1700don't like rewarding those that have not delivered on1701adequately when we've asked. We know that's been a problem. So,1702holding them accountable is important.1703    Now, I want to switch gears real quick about Afghanistan.1704It's deeply personal to me, and I know it is to you and anyone1705else that had the privilege of serving the Nation in1706Afghanistan. But because our disastrous withdrawal, I feel like1707there's a hesitation in our military and our military family to1708actually step forward and make that sacrifice again.1709    I think there's a lot of doubt that the United States is1710able to stand behind what our first mission is, and then to be1711able to bring pride to those that sacrificed. With that brings1712a morale issue to those that are still serving. Those are1713sometimes with the most experience in there. I feel like we may1714be having a drain in knowledge of those that that have1715sacrificed so much.1716    How do you plan on retaining those and restoring that trust1717back in the military that says, 'Hey, we got you. We're not1718going to leave you on the battlefield. We're not going to let1719your sacrifice die, but we're going to let you walk away with a1720tremendous amount of pride knowing that your sacrifice meant1721something to this country.?1722    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I appreciate the1723question. I think that's one of our most important jobs as1724leaders, whether it be at the chairman level or all the way1725down to the platoon leader level, is inspiring those who serve.1726Taking care of them always, but also making sure they know how1727much we appreciate them, and their families, and their service.1728    Senator Mullin. But that doesn't address what happened.1729    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, you mean in1730Afghanistan?1731    Senator Mullin. Yes.1732    Lieutenant General Caine. You know, that withdrawal was not1733what anyone would've wanted. Very difficult circumstances. I1734think the officers on the ground did the best that they could1735with the policy decisions that were made. We mourned the loss1736of the 13 at Abbey Gate, and we have to hold those accountable1737if there was something for them to be held accountable for. I1738know the Department is looking into that. But again, most of1739those professional military officers were executing the1740direction and orders of policymakers above them.1741    Senator Mullin. Thank you.1742    Chairman Wicker. General, is it accurate to say that1743Afghanistan was a 'forever war??1744    Lieutenant General Caine. I'm not sure what the doctrinal1745definition of a forever war is, but it certainly took a--it was1746a long, long time.1747    Chairman Wicker. What was the engagement of NATO [North1748Atlantic Treaty Organization] and American troops at the time1749of our disastrous withdrawal?1750    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, sir, I think there were1751still U.S. Forces on the ground and still NATO Forces on the1752ground. I'm not exactly sure what your question is.1753    Chairman Wicker. Were there casualties?1754    Lieutenant General Caine. At the very end, there were. Yes,1755sir.1756    Chairman Wicker. Oh, no, in the last year before the1757disastrous withdrawal. There were no American casualties?1758    Lieutenant General Caine. Not that I'm aware.1759    Chairman Wicker. Thank you. Senator Gillibrand.1760    Senator Gillibrand. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.1761    Thank you, General Caine, for being here. Thank you for1762your family, for their support of this appointment. Based on1763your understanding of relevant classification and authorities,1764do you believe that any of the information that was shared on1765the Signal chat was classified at the time it was sent,1766particularly the details about timing of the target and for the1767manned U.S. aircraft and other details related to the exact1768plan?1769    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I didn't see the1770original CONOP [Contingency Operations Plan]. As I mentioned1771earlier in my testimony, I think we should always preserve the1772element of surprise. That's a key and essential thing that we1773owe our warfighters.1774    Senator Gillibrand. What would you have done if you were on1775that text chain?1776    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, first, I wasn't and I think1777that was a political partisan text chain with policymakers at1778the political level only. So, I can't hypothetically guess what1779I would've done, but I would not have--we would not have----1780    Senator Gillibrand. --I wouldn't call that a political or1781partisan text chain. It had the head of intelligence, it had1782the head of CIA, it had our Secretary of Defense, it had the1783National Security top advisors for the President, and to share1784that type of information from a military perspective, I can't1785imagine if a subordinate of yours shared that type of military1786information in an unclassified setting, such as a Signal text1787chain, they would be fired, would they not?1788    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, as I mentioned1789earlier, I think, the Chairman and Ranking Member have called1790for an investigation, and so, I feel like it's appropriate for1791me to withhold comment until such time that it's either1792determined that there will be an investigation or not.1793    Senator Gillibrand. Well, what would you do in a different1794scenario if you see classified information or war plans,1795information, or tactical information on an unclassified chain?1796What would you do to stop the conversation?1797    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, I think I would weigh in1798and stop it if I was a, a part of it, but in this case, I1799wasn't.1800    Senator Gillibrand. Thank you. The worldwide proliferation1801of unmanned aerial systems is an undeniable national security1802threat, creating challenges in both funding and capability. How1803do you believe the Department and Joint Force should approach1804these two challenges of funding and capability?1805    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, it's definitely a1806big challenge in front of us. The mass and simultaneity of1807especially small UAS [Unmanned Aircraft System] is one that is1808concerning to me, both from a technical standpoint, but also1809from a policy standpoint. As I'm sure you're aware, we have1810somewhat limited capabilities in some cases inside the domestic1811U.S. to stop some of these UASs. I think we have to continue to1812fund the research and development to counter them.1813    Senator Gillibrand. Well, let's make it more direct to you.1814When you have drones hovering over Langley for a 2-week period,1815appearing and disappearing without our technology being able to1816track or trace it, without having the authorities to follow the1817UAS to its point of departure and its point of return, that1818creates a serious national security risk if those UAS are1819indeed being operated by Russia, China, or Iran. So, what will1820you do to protect the military bases and the military secrets1821that are under your purview?1822    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, if confirmed, I'll1823continue to put the appropriate amount of pressure and interest1824on that to work in conjunction with the Commander of NORAD1825[North American Aerospace Defense Command], NORTHCOM, General1826Guillot, who's doing a fantastic job on this issue and others1827to continue to work with the private sector, to find the1828capabilities that we must have, that we currently don't have to1829prevent this from happening again.1830    Senator Gillibrand. Which capabilities don't you have, do1831you have the, do you lack the authorities or do you lack the1832technological capability,1833    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I think it's a little1834bit of a mix of both. There are some authorities? issues1835related to airspace directly over U.S. military bases, and then1836transitioning outside of the geographical boundaries of that1837military base and who has cognizant authority over those small1838UASs at that point. Then, I think there's some technological1839challenges in the states around stopping them and actually1840downing them. There's always collateral damage concerns in1841those types of things.1842    Senator Gillibrand. Will you seek the authority to be able1843to take down UASs above military bases?1844    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I'll speak with the1845Commander of NORAD, NORTHCOM, and the relevant State and local1846authorities to make sure that we're illuminating those1847discussion points.1848    Senator Gillibrand. Senator Cotton and I have legislation1849to do exactly that, and I would request that you review that1850legislation. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.1851    Chairman Wicker. Do you have co-sponsors, Senator?1852    Senator Gillibrand. I don't know yet, but I can ask.1853    Chairman Wicker. Thank you very much. Senator Tuberville.1854    Senator Tuberville. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.1855    Thank you General, for being here, your service, and1856congratulations on your nomination. You're nominated to be the1857senior military advisor to the President of the United States.1858What a chore. I remember a time when generals and retired1859senior officers would avoid political discussions. It was1860extremely uncommon for a former senior officer to even endorse1861a candidate for political office.1862    Lately, that approach seems to be an exception, not to1863rule. Some of your predecessors even appear to support1864political positions while in uniform. Your predecessor was1865deeply involved in politics, which should not be part of this1866approach.1867    General Caine, in your own words, how would you describe to1868this Committee the importance of your responsibility and1869commitment to provide the best military advice, even when that1870advice might differ from what the President of the United1871States believes?1872    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, thank you for that1873question. It ultimately is the whole job is to be the principal1874military advisor to the President, and pursuant to that job,1875provide the President with best military advice even when the1876President may have different feelings about it. That is exactly1877what the Nation pays me to do. So, if confirmed, that is1878exactly what I'll do.1879    Senator Tuberville. General, when you take this job, what's1880your No. 1 concern?1881    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, right now, the No. 11882concern is the passage of time and ensuring that the joint1883force is ready, properly armed with the right capabilities out1884at the tactical edge, properly globally integrated with the1885services themselves, with the other elements of the1886interagency, with our allies and partners, and with the private1887sector, and ready to go tonight. That means their families are1888ready, they're ready, they're properly trained and equipped.1889So, we have much to do.1890    Senator Tuberville. We all know that the machines that we1891build, the guns and the bullets that we have, everything at the1892disposal of the warfighter. But it's usually and is the people1893involved. Our recruiting has much improved in the last couple1894of months. What do you see your role as an advisor to the1895President in recruiting for our all of our military?1896    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, we don't have much1897of a military without the incredible 2.8 million members of the1898joint force that selflessly join the service to do something1899more important than themselves. To answer your question, if1900confirmed, I think it's an opportunity for me to be another1901voice of encouragement for those young men and women who have1902the capability and meet the standards to come into the service1903and do something that they will forever hold so high in their1904past history. The chance to serve this Nation is a special1905privilege for those of us that have come into the cloth of our1906Nation and served. I hope that I'll be able to encourage others1907to do so.1908    Senator Tuberville. Being the chairman of the Subcommittee1909on Personnel of the Armed Services, we had a hearing last week1910with our academies, Naval Academy and Air Force Academy. I1911would hope in the future, and I know your job is to inform our1912President and keep him advised of everything, but I think that1913your job, too, would be able to work with our academies in1914terms of our leadership, help build that leadership to a higher1915standard. To keep it to a higher standard and let our young men1916and women know that that's where it all starts.1917    If we don't have leadership, we don't have anything. I1918think that's a good point, that it pass on to the President.1919Obviously, your information you give to the President is going1920to be No. 1, but also build and help build our military is1921going to be a huge part of you, I think, a part of your job.1922What do you think?1923    Lieutenant General Caine. I agree, Senator.1924    Senator Tuberville. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.1925    Chairman Wicker. You're here. Senator Duckworth.1926    Senator Duckworth. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.1927    I want to begin by expressing my deep gratitude for the1928outstanding service of General Brown and so many other1929dedicated military leaders who were unjustly dismissed as part1930of a politically motivated purge of senior Department of1931Defense officials.1932    General Caine, I really enjoyed our conversations we've had1933recently over the last couple of weeks. If you are confirmed as1934Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, you will serve as the President's1935principal military advisor, and be expected to bring your1936military judgment to bear, to advise against illegal, immoral,1937and advisable courses of action, regardless of partisan1938pressure.1939    However, we are in a moment where that very principle is1940under strain, such as with the dismissal of Judge Advocates1941General responsible for providing critical legal expertise1942because their counsel did not align with the political1943preferences of Secretary Hegseth. This pattern has had a1944chilling effect on the open, honest discourse essential to1945national security decisionmaking at the highest level.1946    Now, the lives of self servicemembers and future of our1947national security depend on expert qualified leaders who1948understand that their decisions have real life or death1949consequences. How will you insulate and empower general1950officers across the force to remain professional and1951importantly nonpartisan and provide unbiased advice to civilian1952policymakers without fear of coercion, undue partisanship, or1953retaliation?1954    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I thank you. I1955also enjoyed our time together. This is the whole job. This is1956why you and I both took our oath of office. It's what is1957contained in our commission and aligned with the Constitution,1958and so, that is what the Nation expects out of our professional1959officer corps, I'm sure what we'll continue to do moving1960forward in history.1961    Senator Duckworth. And will you do your best to ensure that1962the general officer corps, those who give that advice, remain1963unbiased and non-partisan?1964    Lieutenant General Caine. Always.1965    Senator Duckworth. Well, maybe bias on the side of the1966servicemembers and national security.1967    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, yes, ma'am, but1968    Senator Duckworth. Thank you, and it's great to see a guard1969guy at that table going through the confirmation hearing, so.1970    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you, ma'am.1971    Senator Duckworth. You'll also be the senior most uniformed1972officer entrusted with being a model and a leader for the joint1973force. Recently, we've witnessed troubling signs, signs of1974blurred lines between private power and public trust. A1975striking lack of regard for protecting vital national security1976secrets and the absence of accountability for top leadership;1977from Elon Musk receiving invitations for briefings on China, to1978a pattern of mishandling classified information, to Secretary1979Hegseth bringing family members into sensitive meetings with1980allies and partners. Very concerningly.1981    We have also seen a concerted effort to skirt transparency1982to the American people on the use of force with decisionmaking1983being done over disappearing Signal chat. It seems like this1984Administration is more interested in keeping secrets from the1985American people than protecting national security secrets for1986the American people. You have experience running some of our1987most sensitive operations. So, you know that even the need for1988secrecy to enable mission success does not mean skirting1989accountability to the American people.1990    Do you commit to providing the legally required1991transparency to Congress and the American people over decisions1992related to the use of force even in the face of pressure from1993civilian leadership?1994    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator.1995    Senator Duckworth. Thank you. Another concerning focus of1996this Administration has been to distract the military from its1997core mission approval of protecting the American people from1998external threats by redirecting military personnel assets and1999platforms to domestic law enforcement missions.2000    President Trump may have learned from his first term that2001asking one of your Presidents to deploy the military to fire on2002civilian protestors was a no-go. So, instead, he has turned to2003form insidious tactics linking criminal activities or undesired2004political speech to hostile governments like Venezuela or2005terrorist groups like Hamas in order to legitimize military2006involvement.2007    In fact, this kind of threat inflation is exactly what2008dictators do. The separation between military missions and2009civilian law enforcement is a core tenet of our democracy, and2010exists not only to protect the rights of American citizens, but2011also to preserve the integrity of our Armed Forces.2012    When military personnel are thrust into law enforcement2013missions, it places them at risk of moral injury of being asked2014to enforce partisan concerns rather than to defend the Nation.2015It compromises not just their mission, but their conscience.2016What steps will you take to ensure that U.S. military personnel2017or assets are not inappropriately used in law enforcement2018capacities that distract the military from its core mission2019undermine readiness and threaten public trust?2020    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, thank you for that2021question. I think there's strong systems in place, legal2022systems in place that prevent any missteps there. It ranges2023from title 32 authorities to title 10 authorities and have no2024reason to believe at this point that those are insufficient in2025any way.2026    Senator Duckworth. Thank you. I enjoy working with you,2027General.2028    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you.2029    Senator Duckworth. Mr. Chairman.2030    Chairman Wicker. Thank you very much, Senator. Senator2031Sullivan.2032    Senator Sullivan. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.2033    I want to begin by agreeing with our ranking member and2034others, you, Lieutenant General Caine on commending General2035C.Q. Brown for his exceptional four decades of service. I fully2036agree with the accolades he's receiving in this committee, and2037wish him and his family the best.2038    I've worked, served under, met with hundreds of flag2039officers in my positions as a U.S. senator, as a U.S. marine,2040and I will say, General, I think you are one of the most2041impressive flag officers I've met with. I don't say that2042lightly, like I said, I've met with hundreds. I think it's the2043combination of all the experiences, to Senator Duckworth's2044point, Guard, Reserve private sector. I mean, you're bringing a2045lot in here, and I think that's going to be very, very2046important.2047    I do want to touch on this topic that we're playing up a2048lot here on keeping politics out of our military. I couldn't2049agree more with that. I think it's really important. Big part2050of my career here. I've tried to make sure that happens, but I2051will say we're not talking about what just happened the last 42052years. I think the military was politicized in a huge way,2053particularly from the civilian leaders who were pushing left2054wing theories on the military, pushing climate change over a2055ship building.2056    The Under Secretary for Policy came before this committee2057and told us that our military is, 'systemically racist.? It's2058ridiculous, right? Do you believe our military is systemically2059racist? Is that what you saw in your 30-plus years of service?2060    Lieutenant General Caine. No, senator.2061    Senator Sullivan. So, do you agree, just to make 1002062percent sure, what the Secretary of Defense's testimony when he2063came here, that our are military professionals, uniform2064professionals, need to remain apolitical and committed to our2065Constitution identified not as republicans or democrats, but2066warriors and leaders. Is that your commitment?2067    General Caine. It is, Senator.2068    Senator Sullivan. Will you commit to this committee to2069doing that?2070    Lieutenant General Caine. I will, Senator.2071    Senator Sullivan. Thank you. I'm not going to let this2072hearing go by without a famous quote from the father of the2073U.S. Air Force, Billy Mitchell, who was talking about a certain2074place in the world. He said, 'Whoever controls this place2075controls the world. It is the most strategic place in the2076world.? What place was Billy Mitchell talking about, General?2077    Lieutenant General Caine. Alaska.2078    Senator Sullivan. Do you agree with Billy Mitchell's2079incredibly insightful analysis?2080    Lieutenant General Caine. Mitchell was a brilliant2081airpower.2082    Senator Sullivan. That's a yes, I assume, you're saying?2083    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.2084    Senator Sullivan. Okay. Well, look, our adversaries agree.2085You and I talked about this in my office. Again, I appreciate2086the hearing. We've had huge incursions, huge number of2087incursions in the last 2 years. Russian and Chinese. Joint2088Russian and Chinese strategic bomber task forces into our ADIZ2089[Air Defense Identification Zone], joint Russian and Chinese2090naval task forces into our EEZ [Exclusive Economic Zone] up in2091Alaska. We are on the front lines of great power competition.2092    With regard to our adversaries, you and I talked about2093infrastructure in Alaska for our military. The President after2094his election said, we will ensure Alaska gets even more defense2095investments as we rebuild our military, especially as Russia2096and China are making menacing moves in the North Pacific.2097That's from the Commander-in-Chief.2098    The INDOPACOM, NORTHCOM commander recently said that this2099very vital naval base, former naval base, and ADAK, is a former2100sub base, air base, huge fuel depot, one of the biggest fuel2101depots for our Navy in the world. We have a Navy team there2102right now this week looking at reopening that. Can I get your2103commitment to work with this committee and me on infrastructure2104that can protect our northern flying--because as the NORTHCOM2105commander recently testified, these incursions are only going2106to increase.2107    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.2108    Senator Sullivan. Let me talk about another issue. It2109doesn't come up a lot. You talked about urgent action reform to2110go faster with greater efficiency. I think one of our unsung2111success stories in this regard is 8(a) contractors working with2112the Department of Defense. DOD can use these 8(a) contractors2113if they want. They don't have to, but they bring efficiency,2114speed, low-cost contracts, and quality services.2115    I saw a recent example of an integrated request from DOD to2116have a wheeled vehicle that can put a harpoon anti-ship system2117on it. This 8(a) a contractor got it designed in 2 weeks, got2118it produced in a month--or I'm sorry, with inside of 12 months.2119They're already in Taiwan. They're going to produce 20 more in212018 months. The OEMs, big primes, if they tried to do that,2121would've taken them 10 years.2122    Can you commit to me to continue to work with these small2123businesses that I think deliver readiness, efficiency, and2124modernization?2125    Lieutenant General Caine. I will, Senator.2126    Senator Sullivan. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.2127    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Sullivan.2128    Without objection, that chart will be copied into the2129record.21302131    [The information referred to follows:]21322133    [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]21342135    Chairman Wicker. Senator Rosen.2136    Senator Rosen. Well, thank you, Chairman Wicker, Ranking2137Member Reed for holding this hearing. My thanks to you, General2138Caine, for meeting with me. We had a great conversation about2139Nevada, and for your willingness to serve.2140    But I'm going to keep on the subject of Nevada assets and2141documenting exposure at classified locations. From your time as2142a director of special access programs and from your own2143experience serving at a data mass location, a duty station2144whose location and existences classified. You're familiar with2145the delicate balance between protecting sensitive information2146and ensuring that servicemembers' records actually reflect2147their service-connected injuries at those sensitive or data2148mass locations.2149    I've heard from constituents who served at such locations2150like the Nevada Test and Training Range, who believe they were2151exposed to radiation from our days of conducting explosive2152nuclear weapons testing and to burn pits, which dispose of2153classified waste.2154    However, DOD does not classify the range as a place where2155exposure occurred. Despite the Department of Energy (DOE)2156providing a presumption of exposure for their personnel who2157served there at these exact same locations within the range.2158Because their service records are data masked, as you know,2159these veterans can't even prove to the VA that they were ever2160actually stationed there.2161    In fact, Nevada, there are six DOE covered facilities, most2162of most of which are within the Nevada Test and Training Range,2163where DOE employees presumed to have been exposed to a2164radiation. But for our servicemembers, the VA only recognizes2165one, the Nevada test site as a presumed exposure location. So,2166one such facility that is covered for DOE, but not for DOD, is2167the Tonopah test range, which is both A DOE and Air Force2168installation. Portions of the range are still fenced off and2169contaminated.2170    A 1975 environmental assessment acknowledged the2171contamination and the harm it would cause, but the airmen, they2172were never told. They do not have a presumption of exposure as2173their DOE counterparts they served alongside with do, and2174further adding insult to this, they can't even show that they2175were there. All of this have prevented them from being able to2176receive their well-deserved veterans? benefits.2177    I know we talked about this. We need to make this right,2178and I'm committed to fixing this problem in this year's NDAA. I2179hope that I can count on your support to making it happen. Will2180you commit to working with me, of course, and the Committee to2181find a solution that provides DOD, the presumption of exposure2182at such data mass locations, and provides those who served, and2183are serving at these locations, sufficient documentation so2184they can submit their health-related issues, without ever2185compromising the security of their service details?2186    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, thank you for raising2187this in our office call, and thank you for your leadership on2188this matter. I do think we owe our servicemembers a way forward2189through these important jobs that they have, that they can2190never talk about. I do commit to staying close with you on this2191matter, and trying to sort out a way that we can help them2192transition, take the credit and the risk that they've bought in2193the service of their nation with them into the next chapter of2194their lives.2195    Senator Rosen. Thank you. I appreciate it, and I know the2196men and women who serve there will be very pleased if we're2197able to do this. It really means a lot to them.2198    I just have about a minute we left. So, I want to just ask2199about the force of the future, because over the course of your2200service, you've gone through the rigors of actually training in2201Nevada skies while stationed at Dallas Air Force Base, thank2202you.2203    You know, personally, our military readiness depends on2204meeting immediate warfighting needs while preparing for2205potential conflict our country might face. It requires evolving2206and changing how we train to fight. Which is one of the reasons2207I fought so hard to make sure Nevada's military training2208regions are modernized, keeping pace with emerging threats.2209    So, if confirmed, how would you prioritize investments in2210readiness, in modernization, in force structure, especially in2211these emerging domains like cyber warfare and AI [artificial2212intelligence]?2213    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, we've got to train2214to the realistic threat in order to ensure that we're prepared2215if we ever do go into conflict. Part of that is making sure2216that our training ranges either live virtual or constructive2217accurately replicate the threat so that our warfighters can2218train to the realistic threat. I think we still have some work2219to do both in our fiscal range, at physical ranges, and in our2220virtual ranges. If confirmed, that'll be an area along the2221readiness line of effort that I spend some time on.2222    Senator Rosen. Thank you. I look forward to working with2223you on that. Thank you, Mr. Chair.2224    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you, Senator.2225    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator Rosen. Senator Budd.2226    Senator Budd. Thank you, Chairman. General, it's good to2227see you, again. Thanks for your willingness to serve. I enjoyed2228our meeting in my office last week. It was a great discussion.2229    Let's talk for a minute about China. You know, their2230strategy for expanding their power, it's operated a lot in2231using gray zone tactics or military and civil action, somewhere2232between the boundaries of peace and war, and it's difficult to2233confront with conventional military force. Admiral Paparo, he2234stated that Special Operations Forces are crucial for competing2235in the gray zone, and that is under invested in the Pacific2236command.2237    Can you talk about your views on the role of SOF at all2238stages of conflict and what investments should be made to grow2239these capabilities?2240    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator thanks for that2241question. You know, as somebody who's proudly been a part of2242the Special Operations Forces, I appreciate greatly the2243exponential return that those forces can provide to the Nation.2244When I think about creating multiple dilemmas for Xi Jinping,2245many of those dilemmas are created through America's special2246operations forces where we build great partnerships, we help2247train our allies and partners, when required we're able to2248execute sensitive missions that help us to illuminate the2249threat in a more thoughtful way.2250    I would agree with Admiral Paparo's views on soft forces in2251the Pacific, but would defer to General Fenton who probably has2252strong views on that. If confirmed, I'll consult with him on2253these matters.2254    Senator Budd. Thank you.2255    I appreciate your commentary that they deliver an2256exponential return, I believe indeed they do. In your advanced2257policy questions, you underscore the importance of2258synchronization between the DOD and the intelligence community.2259How do you propose we do that?2260    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, it really starts2261with trusting and deep relationships. You know, I am fortunate2262in my last job to have learned the value of making sure that2263the best of the title 10 community is linked up with the best2264of the title 50 community to get to almost title 60-like2265outcomes.2266    I realize that there is no title 60, but I put that in2267quotation marks. You know, and if confirmed, I'll continue with2268that pathway forward. We have an incredible associate director2269for military affairs at the CIA now Lieutenant General Mike2270Downs, who carries on and is probably doing a much better job2271than I ever did over there.2272    If confirmed, will continue to build on those2273relationships. I think it extends beyond just the DOD and CIA2274relationship. It extends into the relationship that we have2275with the State Department. It extends into the relationship2276that we have with the other elements of the interagency as2277well.2278    Senator Budd. Thank you.2279    Also, in your advanced policy questions, you mentioned that2280the service chiefs and combatant commanders, they use their2281unfunded priorities list as essential tools in communicating to2282us here in Congress the ideas where, or in the areas where2283additional resources could significantly enhance military2284readiness and capabilities. You also State that unfunded2285priority lists, they're not the only tool to build a strategy2286informed defense budget. Where do you think the DOD is2287currently leveraging to align the defense budget and the2288defense strategy, and where's there room for improvement on2289that?2290    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, you know, I'm not2291yet back in the service, so I need to read the current version2292of the National Defense Strategy. If I'm----2293    Senator Budd. Best guess outside looking in, sir.2294    Lieutenant General Caine. I think we need to continue our2295efforts in the Pacific, and that would be my early read without2296actually being into the Intel record.2297    Senator Budd. Thank you. Last year, combatant commanders,2298they testified before this Committee speaking to the value and2299the relevance of the F-15E Strike Eagle and their respective2300areas of responsibility. So, as a fighter pilot with extensive2301experience in combat and Homeland defense missions, can you2302speak to the value and utility of the fourth-generation fleet,2303specifically the F-15E and the F-16, which you flew, and2304whether you find it wise to reduce these inventories prior to2305taking delivery of the potential replacements? I guess it's the2306divest to invest strategy. If you'd comment on that, please?2307    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, Senator, thanks for that2308question. You know, what we can't do is leave something2309uncovered in the interim. When I think about at least the F-16,2310for example, they're predominantly tasked with Homeland defense2311at this point in time, and, you know, we can't ever let another23129/11 happen.2313    So, we have to make sure that we do not divest so much that2314we lose coverage in places that we must have to sustain that2315combat capability. We obviously need a probably fourth, and2316fifth gen, and sixth gen mix for a while until we get to the2317point where we're all where we need to be in sixth gen.2318    Senator Budd. Thank you.2319    Lieutenant General Caine. Thank you, sir.2320    Chairman Wicker. Thank you very much. Senator Warren.2321    Senator Warren. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and2322congratulations.2323    So, if confirmed, you would serve as the principal military2324advisor to the President and swear an oath to defend the2325Constitution of the United States. President Trump once2326described your predecessor, General CQ Brown as, ``an2327outstanding leader'', and it's true, CQ Brown served for 402328years in seven assignments across four combatant commands.2329    The President's removal of the only Black officer and2330removal of the only female officer from the Joint Chiefs of2331staff has sent a chilling message about who is and who is not2332welcome in our military. This worries me deeply about the2333future of our military and the defense of our Nation.2334    I am also concerned that President Trump wants to turn the2335Chairman of the Joint Chiefs into just another political2336position. Last year, President Trump claimed that you once said2337you would kill for him and then you slapped a MAGA hat on. I2338know that others have disputed that story, but it raises2339questions about whether you were selected because Donald Trump2340thinks that you would be loyal to him rather than to the2341Constitution of the United States.2342    Secretary Hegseth has now removed the top legal advisors2343for military services and recommended replacements at a lower2344rank. So, Lieutenant General Caine, if confirmed, your job will2345be to present your best military advice. Do you agree that in2346order to be able to comply with the law and make sure that your2347advice complies with the law that military commanders need2348legal advisors with both enough expertise and a high enough2349rank that they will be listened to during this process?2350    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator. I know I've always2351had great legal advice regardless of what rank they were, but I2352do agree.2353    Senator Warren. So, you think that you need people who have2354good advice, but do you think it helps in making sure that2355others--I'm glad that you listen to good advice no matter where2356it comes from--but that others are more willing to listen if2357the people offering legal advice have high enough rank to carry2358some weight in the room when those decisions are taking place?2359    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator. Although, as I2360mentioned, I've sincerely had great legal advice from O-5s to2361O-7s. I think it's the officer and their professionalism and2362intellect versus what rank they have. I do appreciate the2363efforts to ask the question about what rank they should be, but2364would defer to the secretary on what rank he would want them to2365be.2366    Senator Warren. I have to say that that gives me some real2367concern because the whole point of elevating the rank was the2368concern that not enough people were listening to good legal2369advice. While I appreciate that you say you listen, we need2370people to listen who are making decisions up and down the line.2371    I understand Lieutenant General Caine that the2372circumstances of your nomination are beyond your control, but2373they also place a significant burden on you to show leadership,2374to restore public confidence in the military, and to show that2375you work for the American people. I've long been concerned by2376senior Pentagon leaders who trade on their time in public2377service to cash out afterwards to work for defense contractors.2378That is why during his confirmation hearing, General Brown2379agreed that he would not become a lobbyist or join the board of2380a defense contractor after he resigned.2381    Lieutenant General Caine, are you willing to demonstrate2382that you're taking this job to serve the American people and2383commit that after you leave this job, you'll not work for any2384major defense contractors or companies that are affected by2385your official actions?2386    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, for myself, I've got no2387intent to do so.2388    Senator Warren. Okay. So, you can commit to that?2389    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, Senator. That's not my2390intent.2391    Senator Warren. President Trump's removal of highly2392qualified and talented military leaders is a permanent stain on2393this Nation's history, as well as a blow to our ability to2394recruit the force that we need to compete with China.2395    If confirmed, you will have an important responsibility to2396show the American people that you will defend our Nation with2397integrity, that you will follow the law, and that you will lead2398our men and women in uniform with integrity.2399    Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.2400    Chairman Wicker. Thank you very much, Senator, and we'll2401now move to Senator Schmitt.2402    Senator Schmitt. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It's good to see2403you again, General. Congratulations.2404    Let me first by start by saying I think the people who talk2405the most about making sure you give advice to President Trump2406have no experience with President Trump and interpersonally, I2407should say, and he does seek out advice among a lot of people.2408    I think that your background and your experience will be2409invaluable to him as he asks tough questions, and you give2410honest advice as you've committed here today. So anyway, I2411think the dynamic's going to be great. I think your background2412and experience really prepare you very well for this important2413role.2414    So, I wanted to ask you about a couple of things where I2415think that your experience will play an important role in2416specific decisions. So, this great powers competition that we2417are, you know, with China, I was really happy to see President2418Trump and Secretary Hegseth move quickly on NGAD and not just2419deciding that we were going to move forward with next2420generation air dominance, but actually selecting the F-47 so we2421can move forward on this.2422    I think that was a bold stroke of leadership and2423decisiveness that we need right now. That aircraft will see2424further, go faster, carry bigger payloads, which matter a lot2425in the Indo-Pacific. With your experience, I know that you can2426appreciate that.2427    But one of the big challenges we have, has been mentioned2428by a few already, is just the inability for us to go from point2429A to point B. When we recognize a problem, how do we solve the2430problem? Everyone recognizes that it's an issue. But we haven't2431made a whole lot of progress up until this point. I believe2432there is a commitment to do something about it.2433    You and I talked about this at our office. In your view,2434what would we do differently if we were at war right now? Like,2435if we're at war, what would we do differently than we're doing2436right now on the procurement side and the execution side?2437    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, thanks for the2438question. You know, the Chairman's bill builds on a book that2439was written about the defense industrial base back in the mid-2440?30's. I think if we were in a gunfight at this point in time,2441we'd be doing a lot more with a greater sense of urgency than2442we probably have right now. If I'm confirmed, I'll carry that2443sense of urgency that I think we share into the Department and2444into the joint force to make sure that we do not end up in a2445case where our young war fighters do not have the kit that they2446need prior to them needing it.2447    Senator Schmitt. Yes. That overwhelming force that we need2448to have that advantage that we have is just critical. And the2449concern that I have is that we talk a lot about it, but it's we2450have to move forward on this. We have to move forward.2451    So, again, before I run out of time. Again, your varied2452experience in the military and now outside, I think, give you a2453glimpse of one of the challenges that we face, too. So,2454Missouri is--sort of a Missouri asset. Here is the home of2455Whiteman Air Force Base, which is more broadly known as the2456home of the B-2 stealth bomber and soon to be the B-21. But the2457442d Fighter Wing is also there. The 442d Fighter Wing like2458many of these units punch above its weight class, has flown the2459A-10 in combat missions for decades.2460    The A-10's going away, and I think there's a frustration2461that there hasn't been a follow-on mission named here. We2462talked about this in my office, and there's opportunities,2463whether it's in the short-term, the F-15E and eventually the F-246415EX.2465    The real danger is that because we've delayed these2466decisions, these experienced maintainers, and pilots, they go2467somewhere else, right? They just don't have the certainty of2468knowing that there's going to be a follow-on mission.2469    Will you work with my office and the folks that are2470responsible for these decisions we just have to start making2471these decisions more decisively and timely. I think that2472Whiteman stands right in the front of that line.2473    Lieutenant General Caine. Sure, I will. But, you know, I2474want to make sure I bring the Air Force leadership ?2475    Senator Schmitt. Absolutely.2476    Lieutenant General Caine.--into that conversation as well.2477I've got very little throw weight on those decisions.2478    Senator Schmitt. No, I know. But you're going to be in an2479important spot.2480    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.2481    Senator Schmitt. I think, sir, recognizing strategically2482that this is important and we've had conversations with the Air2483Force about this ?----2484    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir.2485    Senator Schmitt.--As well. I guess with the last remaining2486seconds I have. Just sort of your view of this great powers?2487competition with China. What are some things that we need to2488get better at? What are some things that we need to do to2489prepare for the end as we shift and pivot to Asia so many2490people have talked about of the Pacific?2491    Lieutenant General Caine. Sir, that's with deep respect for2492the question. That's a pretty big question.2493    Senator Schmitt. What is the most important thing? The one2494thing?2495    Lieutenant General Caine. Probably taking advantage of the2496time that we have. As I mentioned earlier in my testimony,2497making sure that we're moving with the speed, precision, sense2498of urgency to get the kit that we need. The challenges range2499from contested logistics, to long range fires, to command and2500control. So, it's a much deeper conversation.2501    Senator Schmitt. Thank you. Look forward to working with2502you. Congratulations.2503    Chairman Wicker. Well, will you supplement that on the2504record then, General, because it was a very intricate question2505that was sprung on you with 10 seconds to go.2506    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir, and you want me to do2507that now, I assume?2508    Chairman Wicker. No. Just take it for the record.2509    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, sir. Got it. Thank you very2510much. I'm getting some signals from behind you.2511    Chairman Wicker. All right. And Senator Kelly.2512    Senator Kelly. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.2513    I'm going to followup on Senator Schmitt's question in my2514second part, if I have time, because I think that is the big2515question of the day; how do we handle the challenges we'll face2516in the Western Pacific.2517    General Caine, first of all, congratulations on your2518nomination. It's a very important role. First, I want to talk a2519little bit about General Milley. So, as a career military2520officer, lifelong public servant who served in this role as2521Chairman under President Trump and President Biden, he's now2522facing an investigation by this Administration and possible2523demotion. This is allegedly because he, in coordination with2524the then Secretary of Defense, Mark Esper, made phone calls to2525Chinese military officials to reassure them that the United2526States was not going to launch an attack preventing unnecessary2527conflict.2528    General Milley did this out of a deep respect and2529commitment to the Constitution of the United States, in my2530view. I asked about this in my office when we met privately,2531but I want to ask, in this public setting, if you are confirmed2532and sworn into this position, to whom or what do you swear an2533oath to?2534    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I as I have for 342535years, it's to the Constitution.2536    Senator Kelly. Thank you, and setting aside the specifics2537of this scenario, if necessary, will you choose the right thing2538to do, even if it's hard over the easier, wrong option?2539    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I've always strived to2540do the right thing, and that's not going to change now.2541    Senator Kelly. Thank you, General. And are you willing to2542get fired from this job for doing the right thing and following2543the Constitution?2544    Lieutenant General Caine. I am.2545    Senator Kelly. Thank you, General. So, back to what Senator2546Schmitt was getting at, a part of what he wanted to discuss.2547So, I want to gears here and go back to INDOPACOM force2548projection, repositioning of forces and resource requirements.2549I think you mentioned TRANSCOM. They play a pivotal role in2550projecting forces from the United States into INDOPACOM.2551    That's why I'm reintroducing the SHIPS for America Act,2552which is a bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening our2553commercial shipping base, which would have the added benefit of2554giving our combatant commander's additional capability so we2555can rapidly respond in crisis and in conflict.2556    If confirmed, what will you recommend to the Secretary of2557Defense and the President to ensure our industrial ship belt2558building base from forging supply chains and production are2559ready for competition in crisis?2560    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I'm not in the job2561yet and I'm, I'm not back in the service yet, but if confirmed,2562I'd like to take that one for study and come back to you.2563    Senator Kelly. It's a logistical problem. 5,000 miles of2564ocean. The Chinese, if we wind up in a conflict in the Western2565Pacific, they've got to go just hundreds of miles to resupply2566their forces. So, I appreciate you being willing to take a look2567at it.2568    One last topic. I want to talk about efforts across the2569Department to modernize our acquisition process. This is a2570topic that I'm focused on as the co-chair of the Defense2571Modernization Caucus. Our system is too slow, it's too2572unwieldy, and it can't modernize currently at the pace of2573China. We currently cannot match them on how fast we can2574innovate.2575    So, we need to foster an ecosystem change that encourages2576some risk from small businesses so they can innovate faster and2577ensures that if a technology meets a current demand signal, we2578have an effective mechanism to bridge the testing and2579evaluation gap that often exists to get that stuff over to2580production.2581    So, General, if confirmed, what changes will you recommend2582to the Secretary and the President to ensure that we take2583advantage of smaller, innovative companies, and acquire at the2584speed that technology is moving forward?2585    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, it's we've got to2586have everyone weighing in small businesses, new entrants, and2587even the primes. The ability to bring advanced technologies2588from new companies, startups into the joint force and make it2589easier for them to bring their products and services into the2590military is something that I'm passionate about. Given my2591background and experience, if confirmed, I think that that'll2592be an area where I spend some time on. I know I'm out of time.2593    Senator Kelly. Thank you, General. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.2594    Chairman Wicker. Thank you very much. Senator Banks2595    Senator Banks. General Caine, congratulations on your2596nomination, and thank you for being willing to come out of2597retirement and serve your country in this most significant way.2598I look forward to having a Chairman of the Joint Chiefs whose2599only focus is national security, but you have a hard road ahead2600of you.2601    As you and I discussed before, General Milley modeled2602inappropriate and political behavior to a whole generation of2603officers. It's why I fully support President Trump's decision2604to relieve General CQ Brown and the unconventional decision to2605go beyond the usual four-star choices and pick an outsider like2606you for this most important role.2607    You spent much of your military career outside of2608    Washington, DC not exclusively inside of the Pentagon.2609Because of this, you have a much better understanding of what's2610important to our warfighters and to the average American. You2611also know that the National Guard often gets the short end of2612the stick and the budget fights, and having a chairman who2613properly appreciates the importance of the guard is critical.2614So, because of all of that, I can't wait to get you confirmed2615as soon as possible.2616    I want to go back and talk for a moment. As I said before,2617General Milley was the most political Chairman of the Joint2618Chiefs that I believe that we've ever had. He actively2619undermined his commander-in-chief. General Milley admitted to2620calling Speaker Pelosi and disparaging President Trump's mental2621fitness and questioning his nuclear command authority. That was2622completely inappropriate and unacceptable. General Caine, I2623want to ask you, how will you communicate differently than that2624with congressional leadership?2625    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I'm committed to2626open and transparent communication, but the first duty of the2627chairman is the advisor to the President. So, you know, I would2628flow through that chain of command, while providing always2629options to the President.2630    Senator Banks. General Milley admitted that under his2631watch, the Pentagon wasted nearly 6-million-man hours on DEI2632and woke trainings. Milley also testified to me before the2633House Armed Services Committee that he wanted to read more2634about critical race theory and understand white rage. Under2635your leadership, General Caine, what kind of training can we2636expect our servicemembers to be focused on?2637    Lieutenant General Caine. Warfighting, lethality, and2638readiness?2639    Senator Banks. General Milley was also the chairman during2640the disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal, and as a veteran of the2641war in Afghanistan, this is very personal to me. Under his2642watch, there was no accountability at all for the deaths of2643American heroes at Abbey Gate, no accountability for the chaos2644at the Kabul Airport, and no accountability for leaving2645Americans behind when military failure and incompetence result2646in the death of U.S. troops. Do you agree that the officers in2647charge must be held accountable?2648    Lieutenant General Caine. Well, Senator, I appreciate the2649question. You know, the Afghanistan withdrawal was not anything2650anybody would've wanted. It was very difficult circumstances,2651and the officers on the ground had very little to do with the2652policies that they were directed to follow. We all mourned the265313 lost at Abbey Gate. Those officers, I'm sure did the best in2654a situation that was not of their making. Certainly,2655accountability is an important tenant in the United States, but2656I hope that we consider the fact that those officers were just2657doing the duties that they were assigned to do.2658    Senator Banks. You do agree, though, accountability2659matters?2660    Lieutenant General Caine. I do.2661    Senator Banks. We should always learn from our mistakes and2662hold those----2663    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator.2664    Senator Banks.--accountable who made those mistakes?2665General Milley told his aides that President Trump was2666preaching, 'the gospel of the furher.? I asked General C.Q.2667Brown last year before the House Armed Services Committee, if2668that was inappropriate. Even General CQ Brown agreed publicly,2669under oath before that committee, that that was a very2670inappropriate statement by General Milley. Do you agree with2671General Brown that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs should2672never disparage the commander-in-chief, the President of the2673United States of America?2674    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator.2675    Senator Banks. When he was Chairman, General Milley2676testified that he, 'does interviews regularly with print media,2677books, documentaries, video, on TV because it is a part of a2678senior official's job. Milley also said he talked to the media26792, 3, 4 times a week. Do you think that's an appropriate use of2680the chairman's job,2681    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, if confirmed, I'll spend2682my time focused on the essential tasks in front of me.2683    Senator Banks. My last question. General Milley promised2684Chinese generals without the President's knowledge that he'd2685warn them if the United States was about to attack. Do you2686think it's inappropriate, were appropriate for the Chairman of2687the Joint Chiefs of Staff to warn our greatest adversary when2688we're about to attack or what we might do?2689    Lieutenant General Caine. No, sir.2690    Senator Banks. Thank you. I yield back.2691    Chairman Wicker. Thank you. I guess that does it, no,2692Senator Slotkin. Thank you. You're recognized.2693    Senator Slotkin. Thank you, Chairman.2694    I apologize for being late. I just got off a plane. We've2695had some weather issues and some followup weather issues. I2696apologize. Congratulations. Happy to see you here. You're2697almost done. I'm between you and being done. So, I'm aware of2698that. I just wanted to make sure we all are on the same page.2699    The Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986 is what established in2700law that the chairman is the principal, military advisor to the2701President, also to the Secretary of Defense, the National2702Security Council. It mandates that you provide strategic2703direction to the Armed Forces, oversee strategic planning2704program recommendations, budget proposals. It gives you a very2705big purview. I think the President Trump even issued a2706memorandum on Inauguration Day that the chairman be a part of2707the National Security Council meetings at the highest level in2708the White House.2709    That's an extremely important role, especially now. We've2710talked--I've heard that other members talked about the fact2711that there was no joint chief representative in this Signal2712chain about military operations, imminent military operations.2713I want you in those rooms giving your best military advice to2714anyone. I was keenly aware that all the decisionmakers on that2715chain were all political appointees. There was not a single2716person there that was there just as a representative, as a2717military officer. There was no COCOM Commander. There was2718nothing, and that I don't think missed anybody's notice.2719    Will you, if confirmed, make a point to get into the rooms2720where military operations are being discussed, planned at the2721strategic level, and when advice to the President is being2722given about the confidence in those military plans, will you2723push to be in that room?2724    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, ma'am.2725    Senator Slotkin. Good. We want you there. You know, I've2726asked a number of folks who have come up here, very similar2727questions and former people who have sat in that chair about2728the importance that I put in swearing an oath to the2729Constitution of the United States. Not to any one President not2730to any political leader. You will swear an oath. You've done it2731many times before. This is not uncommon for you in your2732extensive experience.2733    I have asked all of these appointees or these nominees to2734say, if the President asked you to do something that was2735unconstitutional, to use the military in a way that was2736unconstitutional to put military into the streets of our cities2737or policing and performing law enforcement roles, which they2738are not trained for, et cetera, et cetera. If he asks you to do2739that, will you push back and lay down the law on behalf of the2740Constitution, not for the President's whims?2741    Lieutenant General Caine. I will, Senator. I don't expect2742that to happen, but of course I would.2743    Senator Slotkin. Well, we don't expect it to happen, but it2744did happen under the Trump administration. The first time2745Secretary Esper was asked to bring in the 82d Airborne Active2746Duty military troops to put down a peaceful protest in2747Washington, DC, and in his own book, he wrote that he convinced2748President Trump in the dark of night not to do that.2749    I don't need it to be public. I don't need you to have a2750public fight with President Trump. I'm not asking that. I'm2751asking in the same exact situation, would you act honorably in2752the same way and protect the rules and the of the road for the2753U.S. military to protect the institution you've given your life2754for and make sure that this country doesn't see their uniform2755military as a political arm of any one party. Will you stand up2756and push back similarly to Secretary Esper?2757    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I think that's the duty2758and job that I have.2759    Senator Slotkin. Yes. Well, I appreciate that. I think2760there's lots of other important work. We all want you to be2761focused on the warfighter. Can you confirm for me, though,2762because these reports that keep coming out of Department of2763Defense and uniform military press outlets taking down Jackie2764Robinson's page on and his service to the country, the Tuskegee2765Airmen, which have such a connection to Detroit, Michigan.2766They're taken down, they're putting back up. Can you confirm2767that war heroes, no matter what their color, should be2768recognized by the Department of Defense, and it's not some DEI2769thing to recognize warriors of color.2770    Lieutenant General Caine. Ma'am, I think we should always2771recognize warriors. Period.2772    Senator Slotkin. Okay. Well, I hope you uphold that as this2773ridiculousness continues of taking people and erasing them from2774our military history. It's really, to me, offensive. But we2775look forward to you standing up for those good values. Thank2776you for your work, and I yield back2777    Chairman Wicker. Thank you, Senator, and this concludes2778today's hearing. I want to thank our distinguished witness for2779his testimony. And without anything further, we are indeed2780adjourned.2781    [Whereupon, at 12:08 p.m., the Committee adjourned.]2782                                ------27832784    [Prepared questions submitted to Lieutenant General John D.2785Caine, USAF (retired) by Chairman Wicker prior to the hearing2786with answers supplied follow:]27872788                        Questions and Responses2789                       duties and qualifications2790    Question. Section 151 of title 10, U.S. Code, provides that the2791Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is the principal military adviser2792to the President, the National Security Council, the Homeland Security2793Council, and the Secretary of Defense. Subject to the authority,2794direction, and control of the President and the Secretary of Defense,2795section 153 of title 10 further assigns the Chairman responsibility for2796assisting the President and the Secretary in providing for the2797strategic direction of the Armed Forces; strategic and contingency2798planning; global military integration; comprehensive joint readiness;2799joint capability development; and joint force development activities,2800among other matters.2801    Answer. Given the responsibilities of the Chairman, as enumerated2802in law, what background, experience, and expertise do you possess that2803qualify you to serve as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff?2804    Question. In my 34 years of military service, I have led2805warfighters in a variety of roles across the Joint Force, Total Force,2806and Interagency. These experiences have ranged from flying an F-16 in2807combat overseas and over Washington, DC on September 11th, 2001, to2808helping coordinate our response to Hurricane Katrina while at the2809Department of Agriculture, to serving alongside our Special Operations2810warriors in combat.2811    Answer. My years in the National Guard make me uniquely aware of2812the challenges faced by our citizen-soldiers. I also may be the only2813officer ever nominated for this position with experience in the venture2814capital world, an experience I will draw on as the DOD looks to2815modernize its business systems and revitalize America's Defense2816Industrial Base.2817    Finally, in my last role as Associate Director for Military Affairs2818at the CIA, I built a global perspective on the challenges America2819faces in achieving effective deterrence against our adversaries. Each2820of these experiences have prepared me for the humbling responsibility2821of serving as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at this crucial2822time in our Nation's history.2823    Question. Do you believe there is any action that you need to take2824to enhance your ability to exercise the responsibilities of the2825Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff?2826    Answer. I do not have any recommendations at present. If confirmed,2827I will be attuned to any possible actions necessary to exercise the2828responsibilities of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.2829    In matters requiring global military strategic and operational2830integration, the Chairman is responsible for providing advice to the2831President and Secretary of Defense on ongoing military operations and2832advising the Secretary on the allocation and transfer of forces among2833geographic and functional Combatant Commands, as may be necessary, to2834address transregional, multi-domain, and multifunctional threats.2835    Question. If confirmed, how would you execute these advisory2836functions, while ensuring that your role does not invoke command2837authority or infringe on the responsibilities of the Combatant2838Commanders?2839    Answer. I understand the advisory functions of the Chairman and the2840command authorities and responsibilities of the Combatant Commanders.2841    If confirmed, I would perform the roles and functions of the2842Chairman consistent with all laws and policies, while maintaining2843awareness and knowledge of issues within and across Combatant Command2844areas of responsibility.2845    Question. If confirmed, how would you structure your relationship2846with the Combatant Commanders to carry out these responsibilities?2847    Answer. I am grateful that, during my last assignment as the2848Associate Director for Military Affairs, I had regular interaction with2849all United States Combatant Commanders and I have close relationships2850with each. If confirmed I look forward to working with each of them and2851my relationship with the Combatant Commanders will be structured2852according to the existing mechanisms and procedures specified in law2853and policy.2854    Question. If confirmed, what innovative ideas would you consider2855providing to the Secretary of Defense regarding the organization and2856operation of the Joint Staff?2857    Answer. If confirmed, I intend to look more closely at the Joint2858Staff's use of advanced tech tools (AI/ML) to improve efficiencies and2859make recommendations for the prioritization and allocation of forces to2860the Secretary.2861    Question. To the extent the Joint Staff performs functions that2862overlap with those of other DOD components--particularly with regard to2863regional or functional topics--what would be your approach, if2864confirmed, to consolidating and reducing those redundancies?2865    Answer. If confirmed, my approach to this topic would be based on2866thoroughly examining the details and history of related functions and2867processes prior to making any recommendations.2868    Question. Section 163(a) of title 10 provides that the President2869may assign duties to the Chairman to assist the President and the2870Secretary of Defense in exercising their command function.2871    In your view, are there other roles or responsibilities that should2872be assigned to the Chairman, to better enable the Chairman's assistance2873to the President and the Secretary of Defense in their exercise of2874command functions?2875    Answer. At this time, I believe the roles and responsibilities2876currently assigned to the Chairman are sufficient. I do not have2877recommendations for any additional roles and responsibilities.2878    If confirmed, I will consult with the Secretary and with Congress2879should I conclude there are additional roles or responsibilities that2880should be considered.2881                   major challenges and opportunities2882    Question. What do you consider to be the most significant2883challenges you would face if confirmed as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs2884of Staff?2885    Answer. The President directed the Joint Force to achieve Peace2886through Strength and defend our Homeland.2887    The President made clear that this begins with securing our own2888borders. The Joint Force is moving out alongside our Interagency2889partners to achieve this objective, but significant challenges remain2890to achieve lasting security of America's borders.2891    Additionally, the threat posed by China to American interests in2892the Indo-Pacific is real and growing. Th U.S. needs to work with Allies2893and Partners to deter China's aggression in this region.2894    Unfortunately, at this critical moment, the Joint Force is2895contending with an acquisition process and Defense Industrial Base that2896are not optimized for protracted conflict. The U.S. does not have the2897throughput, responsiveness, or agility needed to deter our adversaries.2898    Question. What plans do you have for addressing each of these2899challenges, if confirmed?2900    Answer. Given the global set of challenges before the United States2901the Joint Force must enhance the integration of options with the2902Services, the Interagency, our Allies and Partners and the Private2903Sector. The U.S. cannot miss a single opportunity to integrate fully2904our mutual efforts to provide the greatest return on those investments.2905    If confirmed, I will focus on working with the Secretary of Defense2906and Congress to implement recommendations made by recent congressional2907commissions on PPBE, Acquisition Reform, and Strategic Posture. I will2908also review the Joint Staff's recommendations on reforming the2909requirements process as directed by the Fiscal Year 2024 NDAA. We know2910what the problems are and how to solve them, we just need to focus on2911implementing the solutions.2912    I strongly believe in the primacy of people. The Joint Force needs2913the talent found in America's sons and daughters to meet the challenges2914of the 21st century. The warrior ethos, meritocracy, and clear2915standards will attract this talent, and I will work with the Services2916and the Department to strengthen recruiting.2917                    civilian control of the military2918    Question. If confirmed, what specific actions would you take to2919ensure that your tenure as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff2920epitomizes the fundamental requirement for civilian control of the2921Armed Forces embedded in the U.S. Constitution and other laws?2922    Answer. For my 34 years of service, I have been fully committed to2923the laws, policies, and norms of civilian control of the military. It2924is a fundamental pillar of our Armed Services.2925    Question. If confirmed, what specific actions would you take to2926ensure that the Secretary of Defense and the Under Secretary of Defense2927for Policy are fully engaged in preparing guidance for and reviewing2928contingency plans?2929    Answer. If confirmed, I will stress to my Staff in the J3 and J52930the need for a close and trusting relationship with OUSD/P as both2931Staffs prepare plans.2932    Question. If confirmed, what specific actions would you take to2933ensure that the Secretary of Defense and the Under Secretary of Defense2934for Personnel and Readiness are fully engaged in evaluating and2935reporting on the readiness of DOD components, and if necessary, in2936mitigating readiness gaps and shortfalls?2937    Answer. If confirmed, I will continue the relationship and practice2938of frequent coordination and collaboration on readiness issues between2939Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) and the Joint Staff, ensuring2940we are fully engaged in evaluating and reporting the readiness of DOD2941components. OSD and the Joint Staff share a statutorily mandated title294210 sec 482 readiness reports with each other before submitting to2943Congress, and each host high level reviews and discussions at Deputies2944Management Action Group (DMAGs) and JCS Readiness Tanks semi-annually.2945The statutory functions of the CJCS require joint planning sessions to2946align priorities and strategies for mitigating readiness issues, while2947also advocating for necessary resources and funding to address2948identified gaps.2949    Question. How would you define effective civilian control of the2950military? Aside from civilian control of the military via the executive2951branch, please describe the extent to which you believe Congress plays2952a role in furthering civilian control of our military?2953    Answer. Per Article 1, the Congress is charged to raise our Army2954and Navy and, therefore a key constituent in the totality of our2955National Defense. If confirmed, I intend to have a strong, trusting,2956bipartisan relationship with the Congress.2957    Question. As a military officer, you take an oath to support and2958defend the Constitution. How do you balance this obligation with the2959responsibility to provide your best military advice to civilian2960leadership, even when that advice may differ from civilian political2961priorities?2962    Answer. If confirmed, in accordance with my oath to support and2963defend the constitution, I will provide military advice to the chain of2964command, identifying options in support of national policy and2965security. The advice would be focused on overall strategy, risk,2966readiness and resourcing considerations to best enable decisions from2967the Nation's civilian leadership. As I always have for 34 years, I will2968always speak truth to power.2969    If confirmed as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, you will2970testify regularly before Congress and may be asked to comment on2971partisan political matters.2972    Question. What is your view of your responsibility to provide your2973best military advice to Congress while also ensuring that you and your2974office remain apolitical, recognizing that you serve as a model for2975other senior uniformed officers and the entire Armed Forces?2976    Answer. If confirmed as Chairman, I will meet my responsibilities2977to advise the President and Secretary and consult with Congress. My2978best military advice will remain non-partisan and apolitical.2979                       the joint chiefs of staff2980    Question. Section 151 of title 10, U.S. Code, codifies the role of2981the Joint Chiefs as military advisors to the President, the National2982Security Council, the Homeland Security Council, and the Secretary of2983Defense.2984    If confirmed, would you commit to provide your best military advice2985to the President, the National Security Council, and the Homeland2986Security Council, even when your advice and opinions might differ from2987those of other members of the Cabinet, the President's other senior2988advisors, or from the President's own views?2989    Answer. I will.2990    Question. If confirmed, would you commit to provide your best2991military advice to the Secretary of Defense, even when your advice and2992opinions might differ from those of other DOD senior officials, or from2993the Secretary's own views?2994    Answer. I will.2995    Question. If confirmed, how would you elicit from the individual2996Service Chiefs, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, and the2997Combatant Commanders, their best military advice, including advice and2998opinions that may diverge your own?2999    Answer. If confirmed, I would elicit military analysis and advice3000from the Joint Force, to include other Service Chiefs, the Chief of the3001National Guard Bureau, and Combatant Commanders. The Unified Command3002Plan directs communications between the President, or the Secretary and3003the Combatant Commanders be transmitted through the CJCS unless3004otherwise directed by the President or the Secretary. As the global3005integrator, I will have mechanisms in place to elicit this advice and3006communications from all Combatant Commanders and pass them through the3007appropriate channels along with my own advice.3008    Question. What is your assessment of the size and effectiveness of3009the Joint Staff?3010    Answer. I have not yet had the opportunity to observe and assess3011the Joint Staff's size and effectiveness. If confirmed, I will conduct3012a thorough assessment before deciding to recommend any changes to the3013Secretary of Defense, the President, and Congress. In my past3014experience, they are the most professional staff in the world.3015            role of department of defense inspector general3016    Question. The Inspector General Act of 1978 requires that3017Inspectors General of Federal departments ``be appointed by the3018President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, without3019regard to political affiliation and solely on the basis of integrity3020and demonstrated ability in accounting, auditing, financial analysis,3021law, management analysis, public administration, or investigations'' in3022order to ``conduct and supervise audits and investigations relating to3023the programs and operations of'' the Department of Defense.3024    What is your view of the necessity of the Department of Defense3025Inspector General to conduct and supervise audits and investigations3026relating to the programs and operations of the Department in an3027independent, objective, and apolitical manner?3028    Answer. The necessity of the Department of Defense Inspector3029General (DoD IG) conducting and supervising audits and investigations3030in an independent, objective, and apolitical manner is crucial for3031ensuring the integrity, accountability, and effectiveness of DOD3032programs and operations.3033    The DOD IG is necessary for combating waste, fraud, and abuse,3034promoting economy, efficiency, and effectiveness on government programs3035and operations by identifying and recommending corrective actions.3036    Question. If confirmed, do you commit to respecting the3037independence of the DOD Inspector General, subject only to the3038requirements and limitations contained in the Inspector General Act of30391978?3040    Answer. Yes.3041                    role of judge advocates general3042    Question. Federal law states that no officer or employee of the3043Department of Defense may interfere with the ability of the Judge3044Advocate General of a military service to give independent legal advice3045to their chief of service, or interfere with the ability of judge3046advocates of the military services assigned or attached to, or3047performing duty with, military units to give independent legal advice3048to commanders.3049    What is your view of the propriety of and need for uniformed3050military lawyers to exercise their independent legal and professional3051judgment when providing legal advice to military commanders, military3052service leadership, and Department of Defense leadership?3053    Answer. I absolutely value the independence and professionalism of3054uniformed military lawyers to provide legal advice to military3055commanders, military service leadership, and Department of Defense3056leadership. I have relied on JAGs throughout my career to provide3057candid and independent legal advice on the broad range of legal issues3058involved in military operations and activities. I will continue to do3059so.3060    Question. If confirmed, do you commit to respecting the3061independence of uniformed military attorneys to provide their best3062legal advice free from inappropriate influence and reprisal?3063    Answer. I commit to respecting the independence of uniformed3064military attorneys to provide their best legal advice free from3065inappropriate influence and reprisal. I have done so throughout my3066career and, if confirmed, will do so as Chairman.3067     strategic guidance documents within the department of defense3068    Question. If confirmed as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,3069specifically what would be your role in generating and shaping the3070content of, and improving DOD component compliance with, each such3071document?3072    National Security Strategy3073    Answer. If confirmed, as the senior military advisor to the3074President and the Secretary of Defense, I will advise both on the Joint3075Force capabilities necessary to deter aggression and implement the3076President's national security priorities. I will advise on ability,3077options, and risk to execute the strategic direction given to the3078military in the National Security Strategy (NSS) and work closely with3079the Secretary of Defense to implement it.3080    Question. National Defense Strategy3081    Answer. I will work closely with the Secretary of Defense to3082provide advice and assistance on the military ways, means, and options3083for implementing the Secretary's defense priorities. I will focus3084particular attention on the threats and opportunities we face in the3085strategic environment; the military roles, missions, posture, and3086capabilities necessary to defend U.S. interests; and determine the3087investments necessary to protect and simultaneously defend the U.S.3088Homeland and deter or defeat adversaries that work against our Nation's3089interests and security. I will ensure the Joint Staff is collaborative3090and responsive to the Secretary of Defense's staff to ensure they have3091everything they need to develop a strategy that achieves peace through3092strength.3093    Question. National Military Strategy3094    Answer. Title 10, Sec. 153 directs the NMS to support the3095objectives of the United States as articulated by the President and3096Secretary of Defense through national security and defense guidance,3097direction, and strategies. If confirmed as Chairman, I will lead the3098NMS development to support the President's objectives to achieve peace3099through strength and the Secretary of Defense's priorities. If3100confirmed, I will develop an NMS that is integrated with the National3101Defense Strategy. Together, we can ensure the Joint Force has a clear3102understanding of the country's strategic defense priorities over the3103near-and long-term to defend America's interests. I will work closely3104with the Services and Combatant Commands (CCMDs) to provide a strategy3105that includes clear military options to the Secretary of Defense and3106the President. If confirmed, I will provide my military advice on3107implementation of the NMS, assess progress and risk, and adjust when3108necessary and as directed.3109    Question. Chairman's Risk Assessment3110    Answer. Title 10, Sec. 153 directs the Chairman to prepare an3111annual assessment that identifies and defines the military strategic3112risks to United States interests and military risks to the execution of3113the NMS. The Chairman's Risk Assessment (CRA) is developed in3114collaboration with the Services and CCMDs, with the final approval and3115discretion of the Chairman, using a common methodology to appraise and3116communicate risk. If confirmed, I will continue to use the CRA as my3117recommendation to the Secretary of Defense, and ultimately Congress, on3118risks to U.S. security interests and executing the NMS to inform3119resourcing and capability development decisions in the Department.3120    Question. Contingency Planning Guidance3121    Answer. The Chairman directs the implementation of the Contingency3122Planning Guidance (CPG) and integrates contingency planning across3123Combatant Commands for each of the National Defense Strategy key3124threats. The Chairman uses the guidance in the CPG in the development3125of the Joint Strategic Campaign Plan (JSCP). Additionally, the Chairman3126provides guidance for preparing and reviewing contingency plans that3127conform to policy guidance from the President and Secretary of Defense.3128Last, the Chairman ensures that plans are feasible, suitable,3129acceptable, and complete for presentation to the Secretary. If3130confirmed, I will continue directing the implementation of the CPG and3131its use in the development of the JSCP.3132    Question. Defense Planning Guidance3133    Answer. The Defense Planning Guidance (DPG) establishes the3134Secretary of Defense's strategic resource priorities. If confirmed, as3135the Chairman I would produce the Chairman's Program Recommendation3136(CPR) which directly informs the DPG. I would consider a multitude of3137assessments to include the annual Capability Gap Assessment, Chairman's3138Risk Assessment, and others to ensure the Joint Force aligns means to3139ends and ways, in light of risk.3140    Question. Joint Strategic Campaign Plan3141    Answer. The Joint Strategic Campaign Plan (JSCP) enables the3142execution of the Chairman's statutory responsibilities for strategic3143and contingency planning, global military integration, and the3144Chairman's oversight prescribed in Title 10, U.S. Code, Sections 153,3145163, and 113. If confirmed, I would use the JSCP to implement the3146President and Secretary of Defense's strategic planning guidance by3147providing direction for development of campaign and contingency plans3148that advance strategic objectives, priorities, and tasks.3149    Question. Global Force Management Implementation Guidance3150    Answer. The Global Force Management Implementation Guidance (GFMIG)3151enables the Secretary of Defense to integrate complementary policy and3152guidance on directed readiness, assignment, allocation, apportionment,3153and assessment into a single authoritative document. If confirmed, my3154role is to advise the Secretary of Defense on matters of readiness and3155requirements of the CCMDs to achieve U.S. defense objectives.3156Additionally, I would advise the Secretary of Defense on matters of3157risk related to allocation and assignment of forces to better support3158resource-informed planning and enable the force to be dynamically3159employed.3160    Question. Will you commit that, if confirmed, you would undertake3161all necessary action to ensure that each of these strategic guidance3162documents is timely generated and issued, and updated, as necessary to3163reflect changes in assumptions, policy, or other factors?3164    Answer. Yes.3165                         use of military force3166    Question. In your view, what is the appropriate role of the Joint3167Chiefs of Staff in establishing policies for the use of military force3168and the rules of engagement?3169    Answer. The President, as Commander-in-Chief, determines when to3170use military force. The Joint Chiefs of Staff are advisors to the3171President and the Secretary of Defense and should actively advise on3172the policies for the use of military force and the rules of engagement.3173    Question. If confirmed, what factors would you consider in making3174recommendations to the President and the Secretary of Defense on the3175use of military force?3176    Answer. The use of military force must always be carefully3177considered. If confirmed, my recommendations to the President and3178Secretary of Defense on the use of military force will be consistent3179with U.S. domestic and international law. Additionally, I would3180consider probability of success, cost in terms of casualties, and3181strategic risk.3182    Question. What factors would you consider, if confirmed, in3183recommending to the Secretary of Defense which forces of other nations3184should be eligible for Collective Self-Defense by U.S. forces, and3185under what conditions?3186    Answer. When ``collective self-defense'' rules of engagement are3187authorized, U.S. forces may defend foreign forces against any attack or3188threat of imminent attack. The key factors I would consider in a3189recommendation to the Secretary of Defense would be if it is legal to3190do so, and if it is in U.S. interests to do so.3191    Question. What is your understanding and assessment of the3192authorities and agreements in place to permit U.S. military personnel3193to carry out missions under the provisions of title 50, U.S. Code? If3194confirmed, how would you modify these agreements or authorities, if at3195all?3196    Answer. I understand that relevant authorities and agreements3197provide the necessary framework for military forces to support3198activities of other U.S. Government departments and agencies when3199called upon by the President or Secretary of Defense as the situation3200dictates. I believe that the current authorities and agreements are3201sufficient. If confirmed, I look forward to continuing work within the3202Department and with colleagues in other U.S. Government departments and3203agencies to adjust existing arrangements as the need arises.3204                          civilian casualties3205    Question. In your view, what are the primary challenges for the3206combatant commands in mitigating, investigating, and responding to3207allegations of civilian casualties resulting from U.S. military3208operations?3209    Answer. The primary challenges combatant commands face is timely3210access to evidence and the ability to share evidence with our allies,3211our partners, and non-governmental organizations. These challenges are3212due to restrictive data sharing policies with each of these entities,3213which slows the assessment and response process. This results in3214decreased integration, analysis, and dissemination of civilian casualty3215information and effects.3216    Question. What is your understanding of the implementation status3217of the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP) and3218what additional actions do you believe should be taken to enable the3219Department of Defense to effectively and credibly mitigate,3220investigate, and respond to allegations of civilian casualties3221resulting from U.S. military operations?3222    Answer. The Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, or3223CHMR-AP, is in its fourth and final year of implementation. A workforce3224is in place, doctrine has been updated, and education and training are3225ongoing. I understand the combatant commands see positive impacts from3226the program. As with any new program, there comes a time to pause and3227reflect, listen to feedback, and assess the future path. That is where3228we are today. It is appropriate to look at the resources, the3229distribution of those resources, and the changing world environment to3230determine the best course of action moving forward.3231                            joint operations3232    Question. The Goldwater Nichols Act enabled an unprecedented degree3233of jointness within the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Combatant3234Commanders. Today, both the DOD and Congress recognize the need for a3235deeper level of integration and interoperability to overcome anti-3236access and area denial (A2/AD) networks and to deter and defeat large-3237scale aggression.3238    What do you perceive to be the role and capability requirements for3239close combat formations in future joint force operations?3240    Answer. Service led joint and coalition experimentation events are3241improving interoperability and identifying critical gaps.3242    Question. What is the Joint Staff's appropriate role in3243experimentation?3244    Answer. There are two main experimentation roles in the Joint3245Staff. One, within the Chairman's responsibilities for Joint Force3246development, the Chairman formulates policies for experimentation on3247urgent and long-term concepts for force employment, to include3248analyzing prioritized gaps in capabilities. Two, within the Chairman's3249responsibilities for joint capability development, the Joint Staff3250works to recommend new joint military capabilities that maintain3251technological and operational superiority of the Joint Force based on3252advances of new technology and new joint concepts. To do this, the3253Chairman leverages convening power, Joint Experimentation Guidance, the3254Warfighter Lab Incentive Fund, and other tools to catalyze a campaign3255approach to joint experimentation that promises progress in addressing3256specific problems, gaps, and critical capabilities identified in the3257Joint Warfighting Concept. The Chairman also uses the learning from3258this campaign to make annual program recommendations to the Secretary3259of Defense.3260    Question. How would you ensure the Joint Staff is appropriately3261facilitating joint experimentation during the capabilities development3262process?3263    Answer. I would publish specific Joint Experimentation Guidance and3264continue to integrate and synchronize Joint Force experimentation not3265only across the Department of Defense and with Allies and Partners, but3266also with Interagency Partners.3267    Question. What role do you foresee playing in influencing joint and3268enabling capabilities development that will link or knit together3269service-specific capabilities, such as Joint All Domain Command and3270Control (JADC2) or contested logistics?3271    Answer. The Chairman's title 10 authorities for joint capability3272development are exercised through the Joint Requirements Oversight3273Council. The JROC plays a critical role in developing a globally3274integrated and interoperable joint force, without which the DOD risks3275stove-piped, Service-specific capabilities. This function is3276particularly critical with key capability areas such as JADC2 or3277contested logistics, which are inherently joint, multi-domain, and3278multi-theater.3279            joint force headquarters and component commands3280    Question. Is the current model for creating joint force3281headquarters below the unified command level appropriate and adequate3282to meet the challenges articulated in the 2022 National Defense3283Strategy? In your view, are there other models you have seen that we3284should be considering?3285    Answer. While the existing framework for establishing Joint Force3286headquarters beneath the unified command level is suitable and3287sufficient, if confirmed, I will be committed to exploring alternative3288models. This review will encompass an examination of various Joint3289Force headquarters structures to ensure the Joint Force is optimally3290postured to address the challenges outlined in the 2022 National3291Defense Strategy.3292    Question. Given the time required to stand up, man, and train joint3293force headquarters, and the short warning time that is expected before3294a potential conflict in certain areas of operation, would Combatant3295Commanders' operations and contingency planning and preparedness be3296improved by creating and exercising subordinate joint force3297headquarters during the competition phase?3298    Answer. Proactively establishing subordinate Joint Force3299headquarters before a crisis erupts could indeed enhance operational3300readiness, planning, and preparedness. However, this must be assessed3301on a case-by-case basis. A thorough analysis is crucial to determine3302when the benefits of early establishment outweigh the potential costs,3303including manpower allocation, staff workload, and financial3304implications across the Joint Force. If confirmed, I will collaborate3305with the Combatant Commanders and Joint Chiefs to carefully evaluate3306this approach.3307    Question. The Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act3308(NDAA) required the Secretary of Defense to establish a standing joint3309force headquarters (JFHQ) in the INDOPACOM Area of Responsibility3310(AOR). What is your view on the need for a JFHQ in this AOR?3311    Answer. The Indo-Pacific region is a top priority for a United3312States military, with China presenting a significant and evolving3313challenge. As such, the ability to respond effectively to crises in the3314region, using the Joint Force with all its combined capabilities, is3315paramount.3316    While the 2023 NDAA mandates a standing Joint Force Headquarters3317(JFHQ) in the INDOPACOM AOR, the current approach provides a strong3318foundation for responding to potential crises.3319    Admiral Paparo has stated that, in a Joint Operations Area (JOA)3320within the Theater of War, the U.S. Pacific Fleet would serve as the3321Joint Task Force (JTF), a capability for which they were certified in33222023.3323    The existing structure, which leverages the proven capabilities of3324service components and their ability to function as JTFs, provides the3325necessary flexibility and responsiveness to address a wide range of3326potential crises within the INDOPACOM AO, and meets the intent of the3327NDAA to ensure optimal C2 for winning any conflict in the region.3328    Question. What are the most significant obstacles to establishing3329and exercising such joint force headquarters in advance of a crisis,3330and what could be done to overcome those obstacles, in your view?3331    Answer. One of the primary challenges in prematurely establishing3332Joint Force headquarters lies in the potential strain on resources.3333Combatant Commanders currently possess sufficient staffing to manage3334daily operations and pre-crisis scenarios. Creating additional3335headquarters prematurely could divert critical resources from other3336ongoing global missions. Therefore, if confirmed, I will work with the3337Combatant Commanders and Joint Chiefs of Staff to assess each unique3338situation in advance of a crisis on its resources in order to best3339posture the joint force for success.3340    Question. What new technical capabilities, processes, or concepts3341of employment do you think would be needed to improve our ability to3342achieve high levels of readiness for, and realistically exercise, such3343joint force headquarters prior to a crisis, or to rapidly establish in3344the event of an unforeseen crisis?3345    Answer. The Combatant Commanders prioritize maintaining a high3346level of readiness when it comes to establishing Joint Force3347headquarters. The Joint Force conducts regular exercises and tests to3348ensure the ability to stand up these headquarters efficiently, even in3349the face of unforeseen crises.3350    The Joint Force remains committed to innovation, constantly3351evaluating emerging technologies, refining processes, and exploring new3352operational concepts. Regular joint exercises play a crucial role in3353this process, allowing the Joint Force to test and refine these3354advancements while informing the development of new concepts.3355    If confirmed, I will ensure these efforts continue and will3356actively seek opportunities to further enhance readiness in this3357critical area.3358                     2022 national defense strategy3359    Question. The 2022 National Defense Strategy outlines that the3360United States faces a rising China, an aggressive Russia, and the3361continued threat from rogue regimes and global terrorism. The Chairman3362and Vice-Chairman of the National Defense Strategy Commission testified3363in July 2024 that China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea have formed an3364``axis of aggressors'', supporting each other's military aggression and3365illegal wars.3366    What is your assessment of the military threat posed by the3367People's Republic of China?3368    Answer. The PLA has made significant military improvements to3369include adjusting its military structures, fielding modern indigenous3370systems, building readiness, and strengthening its competency to3371conduct joint operations. Numerically, China has the largest navy in3372the world, with a battle force of over 370 ships and submarines,3373including more than 140 major surface combatants. The PLA Air Force is3374modernizing and indigenizing its aircraft and unmanned aerial systems3375rapidly, matching U.S. standards. The PLA Rocket Force and China's3376hypersonic missile technologies have greatly advanced during the past337720 years. Many of China's missile programs are comparable to other3378international top-tier producers. However, the PLA still has3379deficiencies in commander proficiency, long-distance logistics, urban3380warfare, and the PLA lacks modern warfare experience writ large.3381    Question. What is your assessment of the military threat posed by3382Russia?3383    Answer. Russia very likely remains deterred from an overt military3384attack against the United States or NATO; however, Moscow retains the3385ability and willingness to conduct asymmetric activity below what it3386assesses to be the threshold of military conflict. The conflict in3387Ukraine very likely has strained its conventional military forces,3388increasing Russia's dependence on its nuclear arsenal as a means of3389deterrence to protect itself from perceived external military threats.3390Despite the near-term increase in Russia's Defense Industrial Base,3391this production is unlikely sustainable over the mid-to long-term due3392to labor shortages, decreased weapons and equipment shortfalls, and3393inability to fully compensate for dual-use components they can no3394longer acquire due to sanctions.3395    Question. What is your assessment of the military threat posed by3396collusion among Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea?3397    Answer. Russia, China, Iran and the DPRK share broadly similar3398goals and transactionally cooperate at the bilateral--and sometimes3399trilateral--levels on arms sales, sanctions evasion, and limited3400military exercises. However, these countries are not acting as a bloc,3401nor are they trending toward a NATO-style alliance. Militarily, Russia3402likely is emboldened to continue its war in Ukraine, in part, due to3403munitions and soldiers provided by the DPRK, as well as armed UAVs3404supplied by Iran. Moscow and Pyongyang have committed to strengthening3405their defense capacities as part of their comprehensive strategic3406partnership treaty, which could expedite the DPRK's military3407modernization goals. Beijing supports Moscow by purchasing oil, selling3408dual-use technologies such as microelectronics, and providing3409diplomatic cover in international fora, though it has avoided providing3410military aid. Though it is a partner to the DPRK and Russia, Beijing3411has publicly distanced itself from Moscow and Pyongyang's growing3412defense cooperation, referring to it as a strictly bilateral matter.3413Tehran seeks to deepen its bilateral relationships with other U.S.3414adversaries to derive maximum diplomatic, economic, and military3415benefits.3416    Question. In your view, should the Defense Department's force3417sizing construct be based on the need to conduct simultaneous conflicts3418in Asia and Europe?3419    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of3420Defense, Joint Chiefs, and the Combatant Commanders to review and3421evaluate the force sizing construct to ensure that it is focused on the3422most pressing requirements.3423    Question. Are there significant opportunities that, in your view,3424DOD has been unable to leverage, or has leveraged only in part, since3425the National Defense Strategy was published in 2022? If so, how would3426you correct this situation, if confirmed?3427    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of3428Defense, Joint Chiefs, and the Combatant Commanders to review threats3429posed by collusion among Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. I am3430willing to discuss more detail in a classified setting.3431    Question. If confirmed, what would you do if you determine that the3432DOD cannot meet the demands placed on it by the 2022 National Defense3433Strategy?3434    Answer. If confirmed, I will take a disciplined approach to assess3435risk and the Joint Force's posture and capabilities in accordance with3436guidance from the Secretary and the President. I will also work closely3437with allies and partners to advance interoperability and burden-sharing3438to help decrease risk globally and strengthen ability to meet current3439and future defense challenges. If necessary, I would recommend re-3440prioritizing and re-allocating resources to focus on the most critical3441areas by reducing or eliminating less critical programs or initiative3442to free up resources for more pressing needs. I will communicate3443clearly and transparently with you and the Secretary of Defense, via my3444Chairman's Risk Assessment, about the risks, challenges, and3445limitations facing the Joint Force.3446    Question. If confirmed, what revisions or adjustments, if any,3447would you recommend the Secretary of Defense make to the 2022 National3448Defense Strategy as a result of changes in assumptions, policy, or3449other factors?3450    Answer. If confirmed, my recommendations will prioritize Joint3451Force preparation and flexibility for both global opportunities and3452challenges in a dynamic strategic environment. Title 10 directs the3453Chairman to provide advice relating to global military and strategic3454and operational integration. Effective global integration of the Joint3455Force is necessary to support defense objectives in the modern3456strategic environment. I will advise the Secretary of Defense to align3457the National Defense Strategy guidance and priorities to reflect3458strategic global integration and will ensure consistency with the3459President's national policy directives and the NSS. I will also3460advocate investment and use of emerging technologies. Finally, I will3461advance options for the Secretary that will facilitate cross3462coordination and integration with other departments and agencies.3463                      department of defense budget3464    Question. In your view, are the programs and resources required to3465generate the capabilities necessary to implement the 2022 National3466Defense Strategy properly prioritized within the Department of Defense?3467If confirmed, do you believe the Department needs to realign or refocus3468programs and funding, if at all?3469    Answer. The fiscal year 2025 budget request was strategy-driven and3470focused on executing the National Defense Strategy. If confirmed, I3471will work with the Administration to ensure future budgets have the3472right mix of capabilities and capacity to defend against current and3473future threats. If confirmed, I will continue to support the Department3474in aligning resources to current strategy.3475    Question. Do you believe that 3-5 percent real budgetary growth3476through the FYDP is required to implement the 2022 National Defense3477Strategy effectively? Please explain your answer.3478    Answer. The fiscal year 2025 budget request was strategy-driven and3479focused on executing the National Defense Strategy. If confirmed, I3480will work with the Administration to ensure future budgets have the3481right mix of capabilities and capacity to defend against current and3482future threats. If confirmed, I will continue to support the Department3483in aligning resources to current strategy.3484    Question. Looking forward, what types of resource shortfalls are3485likely to hamper the Department's execution of the 2022 National3486Defense Strategy and other national defense priorities in your view?3487How would you address or mitigate these shortfalls, if confirmed?3488    Answer. The fiscal year 2025 budget request adequately resourced3489the Department to execute the 2022 National Defense Strategy. If3490confirmed, I will work with the Administration to ensure future budgets3491have the right mix of capabilities and capacity to defend against3492current and future threats. I will also continue to work with Congress3493and advocate for on-time appropriations so that we may fully capitalize3494on executing the Administration's strategy.3495    Question. Section 222a of title 10, U.S. Code, provides that not3496later than 10 days after the President's submission of the annual3497defense budget to Congress, each Service Chief and Combatant Commander3498must submit to the congressional defense committees a report that3499lists, in order of priority, the unfunded priorities of the armed force3500or combatant command.3501    What are your views of this statutory requirement and the utility3502of unfunded priorities lists?3503    Answer. I recognize the critical importance of this statutory3504requirement in ensuring transparency and strategic alignment of defense3505priorities. These lists serve as essential tools in communicating to3506Congress the areas where additional resources could significantly3507enhance military readiness and capabilities. The Department relies on3508several tools to illuminate joint priorities and develop a budget that3509is aligned to the Department's strategy. While the unfunded priority3510lists are required by law, they are not the only tool to build a3511strategy-informed defense budget.3512    Question. If confirmed, would you commit to supporting the Service3513Chiefs and Combatant Commanders in providing their unfunded priorities3514lists to Congress in a timely manner, beginning with the fiscal year35152026 budget request?3516    Answer. If confirmed, I will be fully committed to supporting the3517Service Chiefs and Combatant Commanders in providing their unfunded3518priorities lists (UPLs) to Congress in a timely manner, beginning with3519the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget request.3520                        joint officer management3521    Question. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff wields3522significant influence over joint officer management--the policies and3523procedures that guide joint officer career development and the3524attainment of joint experience and education. The NDAA for fiscal year35252017 modified the Joint Qualified Officer (JQO) system established by3526the Goldwater-Nichols Act in two significant ways. First, it broadened3527the statutory definition of ``joint matters'' to expand the types of3528positions for which an officer can receive joint duty credit. Further,3529it reduced from 3 years to two the minimum tour length required for3530joint duty credit.3531    What is your assessment of the effectiveness of the fiscal year35322017 modifications to the JQO system?3533    Answer. The two significant modifications have provided the3534Department additional flexibility in the Joint Qualification System.3535The expansion of the ``joint matters'' definition has ensured the3536ability to award joint duty credit to additional officers making3537contributions to the development and achievement of strategic3538objectives. The reduced statutory tour length required (From 36 Months3539to 24 Months) for joint duty credit has provided the Services3540additional flexibility in officer assignment for tightly managed career3541timelines and milestones.3542    Question. In your view, are the requirements associated with3543becoming a JQO, and the link between attaining joint qualification and3544eligibility for promotion to General/Flag (G/FO) officer rank,3545consistent with the operational and professional demands of Service3546line officers?3547    Answer. Yes. Although careers are managed according to Service3548specific milestones and operational demands, the 24-month minimum joint3549tour and associated JPME completion for joint qualification are3550sensible and greatly enhance an officer's perspective and knowledge to3551perform at the GO/FO ranks.3552    Question. In your view, what additional modifications to the JQO3553system are necessary to ensure that military officers are able to3554attain both meaningful joint and Service-specific leadership3555experience, and adequate professional development?3556    Answer. The existing joint officer qualification requirements3557provide a tested and flexible means to ensure officers develop the3558skills necessary for successful service at the operational and3559strategic levels; therefore, no additional modification to the JQO3560system is necessary at this time.3561    Question. What are your ideas for improving the JQO system better3562to meet the needs of Reserve component officers?3563    Answer. Major changes to the JQO system were made in 2007 to3564incorporate Reserve component officers and the Reserve policy was3565adjusted in 2018 to increase joint qualification opportunities for3566Reserve component officers. I do not currently recommend changing the3567JQO system with respect to the Reserve component, but we must continue3568to explore areas that allow Reserve component officers to attend3569training while balancing their civilian job.3570    Question. Should the requirement to be a JQO be eliminated as a3571consideration in selecting officers for promotion and assignment?3572    Answer. No. JQO requirements enhance the ability of General/Flag3573officers to operate effectively in the joint environment at the3574operational and strategic level. Officers who meet the requirements3575provide benefit to both the Services and joint organizations, and3576ultimately the Department as a whole.3577    Question. If confirmed, what modifications would you suggest to3578provide DOD and the Military Services the force management and talent3579management tools necessary to recruit, develop, sustain, and retain a358021st century, joint, All-Volunteer Force?3581    Answer. To maintain the competitive edge and strengthen the3582lethality of the All-Volunteer Force, I will collaborate with OSD and3583the Service Chiefs to enhance force and talent management strategies.3584This involves leveraging advanced technologies like AI for recruitment,3585developing targeted outreach campaigns, revising training programs to3586include leadership and technical skills, and expanding educational3587opportunities. Additionally, I will prioritize initiatives to improve3588the quality of life for service members, incentivize performance, and3589implement flexible policies aligned with executive orders, while3590fostering leadership accountability to effectively recruit, develop,3591sustain, and retain a modern, joint, All-Volunteer Force.3592    Question. Do you believe current DOD and Military Service3593procedures and practices for reviewing the records of officers pending3594the President's nomination for promotion or assignment are sufficient3595to enable fully informed decisions by the Secretaries of the Military3596Departments, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Secretary3597of Defense, and the President?3598    Answer. Yes, the Services evaluate officer qualifications, past3599performance, future potential, and any available adverse or reportable3600information, and each service has a rigorous process in place to ensure3601all decisions are fully informed.3602    Question. In your view, are these procedures and practices fair to3603the individual military officers proceeding through the promotion or3604assignment process?3605    Answer. Yes. I believe these procedures and practices are fair and3606reasonable for the officers involved.3607              joint professional military education (jpme)3608    Question. Based on your assessment of the threats facing the United3609States, now and in the future, what knowledge, skills, and abilities3610will officers need to succeed in great power competition against the3611Nation's adversaries?3612    Answer. The Joint Force's professional military education programs3613must provide an integrated approach to understanding joint warfighting3614and our adversaries within the context of a rapidly changing character3615of war, from accession to senior leader courses for general and flag3616officers and senior enlisted leaders. Future leaders require the3617knowledge and skills to prepare them for service as joint warfighting3618leaders, senior staff positions, and strategists who:3619      Discern the military dimensions of a challenge affecting3620national interests, frame the issue at the policy level, and recommend3621viable military options within the overarching frameworks of globally3622integrated operations, and be able to develop strategies nested with3623U.S. interests.3624      Anticipate and lead rapid adaptation and innovation3625during a dynamic period of acceleration in the rate of change in3626warfare, under the conditions of great power competition and disruptive3627technology;3628      Plan and conduct joint warfighting at the operational to3629strategic levels, as all-domain, globally integrated operations,3630including the ability to integrate allied and partner contributions.3631      Remain agile to develop, execute, and adapt strategy3632through campaigns and operations to achieve policy end states; and3633      Demonstrate critical and creative thinking skills,3634emotional intelligence, and effective written, verbal, and visual3635communications skills to support the development and implementation of3636military strategies and complex operations and communicate to senior3637officials and subordinates.3638    A number of independent reviews have found that the current JPME3639system insufficiently prepares future military leaders to operate in a3640geopolitical environment shaped by multiple nuclear-armed adversaries3641and lacks sufficient rigor and instruction in strategic deterrence3642missions.3643    Question. In your view, what additional steps should be taken to3644increase the proficiency of future senior military leaders in leading3645the joint force during a period of increased strategic competition,3646particularly in the nuclear domain?3647    Answer. In terms of the military's contribution to strategic3648competition, the Joint Force has mature doctrine on the uses and3649applications of military force short of war. All the JPME programs3650leverage this doctrine as part of their curriculum and instruction.3651      The war colleges have existing programs on deterrence, to3652include coursework on coercion theory. As such, strategic deterrence is3653an enduring special area of interest as assessed by Joint Staff J-7 for3654the Chairman.3655      Every year, the Joint Staff J-7 in coordination with3656Marine Corps University sponsors a Faculty Development Seminar for3657instructors from all the DOD's JPME programs. This year's agenda will3658focus on contemporary nuclear operations and the latest thinking3659surrounding strategic deterrence and experts from across the DOD will3660present the instruction.3661      Additionally, the Joint Staff will nominate a special3662area of emphasis on nuclear operations and combat operations in a3663nuclear environment. Every officer enrolled in a JPME program will3664benefit from this expanded instruction.3665    Question. In your view, are there opportunities in JPME to improve3666STEM cognizance and cyber fluency across the joint force to ensure that3667leaders understand and can effectively employ technologies to fight and3668win our Nation's wars?3669    Answer. Understanding and anticipating emerging technologies and3670applications of cyber capabilities are important skills to be taught at3671all levels of professional military education. STEM is the hallmark of3672several military educational institutions including all the Service3673Academies and graduate schools such as Naval Post Graduate School and3674Air Force Institute of Technology. These institutions develop ``deep''3675expertise in cyber and technology, tailored to the needs of the Joint3676Force. STEM aspects are balanced with joint warfighting considerations3677at the staff college and war college levels. Cyber and disruptive3678technology considerations are woven into curriculum and students are3679expected to demonstrate ability to consider these factors in their3680joint planning and operations assessments. In all, the JPME enterprise3681works extensively to develop both ``depth and breadth'' of3682operationally minded warfighters.3683    Question. In your view, is there a role for JPME in developing3684basic product management skills across the joint force to ensure that3685military leaders are proficient in the employment of software and3686automation in warfighting?3687    Answer. Future warfighters and warfighting leaders will inevitably3688confront both the opportunities and limitations associated with3689employing forces supported or enabled by software and automation. As3690operations and campaigns become increasingly complex, product3691management skills can enable and speed critical decisionmaking. I am3692committed to preparing joint warfighters to strategically employ3693software and automation skills and resources across all joint3694endeavors.3695       legal counsel to the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff3696    Question. Section 156 of title 10, U.S. Code, requires the Legal3697Counsel to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to be selected by3698a board of officers convened by the Secretary of Defense. To this day,3699the Chairman's Legal Counsel remains the only joint duty officer3700selected from among qualified officers of the Armed Forces in this3701manner.3702    Do you consider the board selection process required by section 1563703to be an effective and efficient process for selecting an officer to3704serve in this critical joint position?3705    Answer. Yes, I believe the selection process for the position of3706the Legal Counsel to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is an3707effective, efficient, and equitable means to select an officer for this3708position from a pool of talented judge advocate leaders across the3709Services.3710    Question. Would you support expanding application of the process3711employed to select the Legal Counsel to the Chairman of the Joint3712Chiefs of Staff to other joint officer positions? Why or why not?3713    Answer. I do not believe it is necessary to expand the LC selection3714process to other joint billets. The LC selection process pertains to a3715uniquely specific, statutorily authorized JS billet. The current, well-3716established processes used to select general/flag officers to other3717joint staff positions effectively facilitates a pool of candidates3718representing the best officers from each service. The JS process for3719identifying officers gives the Combatant Commander and the Chairman3720flexibility to meet operational demands and emergent requirements. The3721JS can select from across the Services (to include the Coast Guard) and3722the Active, Guard, and Reserve components to identify the individual3723with appropriate skills and experience. Moreover, the current process3724provides commanders and other senior leaders an opportunity to quickly3725review a slate of nominated officers and conduct interviews as3726necessary. The JS can alert the Services to quickly identify eligible3727personnel, select candidates, nominate them, and have them in position3728in as little as 90 days, if necessary.3729                       alliances and partnerships3730    Question. U.S. alliances and partnerships are crucial to U.S.3731success in competition with, deterrence of, and potential conflict3732against long term strategic competitors.3733    What is your view of the strength of our current alliances,3734relationships, and partnerships, and the trust our partners have in the3735willingness of the U.S. to meet its obligations? If confirmed, how3736would you enhance that trust?3737    Answer. If confirmed, I will continue to collaborate with and seek3738ways to incorporate our highly capable and frontline Allies and3739partners in defense planning to maximize our global efforts against3740adversaries. As the President and Secretary have made clear, our allies3741and partners, particularly those in Europe, must increase their3742contributions to collective security and I look forward to carrying3743this message to my Chief of Defense counterparts.3744    Question. If confirmed, what specific actions would you take to3745strengthen existing U.S. alliances and partnerships in each Combatant3746Commander's geographic AOR for long-term strategic competition?3747    Answer. We must continue to project unity and strength while3748strengthening military to military relationships with our Allies and3749partners. If confirmed, I will continue to collaborate with and seek3750ways to incorporate our highly capable and frontline Allies and3751partners in defense planning to maximize our global efforts against3752adversaries. I will continue the regular engagements with Ally and3753partner counterparts to understand their strategic concerns and to3754identify areas for increased global cooperation. Synchronization and3755transparency of our collective military global approaches results in3756greater pressure on our adversaries while also enabling increased3757flexibility to refocus U.S. military resources on U.S. national3758priorities.3759    In NORTHCOM, defense of the Homeland and ensuring operational3760control of the U.S. southern border will be my top priority. I will3761focus on the efforts to modernize NORAD and improve coordination with3762Canada to ensure our efforts are complementary. I will also continue to3763foster the strong mil-to-mil relationship with Mexico to confront3764shared challenges.3765    In INDOPACOM, if confirmed, I will focus on modernizing our3766Alliance with Japan by aligning strategic planning and priorities in a3767more integrated manner and deepening our Alliance with Australia3768through investments in posture and interoperability through the3769critical AUKUS security partnership, as well as expanding ongoing co-3770production and maintenance efforts for critical munitions, essential to3771building resilience into our Defense Industrial Base. The Joint Force3772stands to gain from the deepening strategic interests between the U.S.3773and India, by elevating military cooperation across multiple domains,3774increasing new procurements and co-production arrangements, and3775applying effort to streamline defense trade, technology exchange and3776maintenance, spare supplies and in-country repair and overhaul of U.S.-3777provided defense systems. If confirmed, I will continue to support our3778ongoing efforts to enable Taiwan to maintain a sufficient self-defense3779capability.3780    In SOUTHCOM, I will take specific actions to further strengthen3781defense of the Homeland, including greater focus on PRC military and3782financial investments in the theater, specifically in Panama. I will3783also strengthen existing alliances and partnerships and identify new3784partnerships, as necessary, to further degrade PRC influence in the3785hemisphere.3786    In EUCOM, we must encourage our Allies and partners to increase3787their capability and capacity, and prioritize outcome driven3788relationships. I will continue to work alongside our NATO Allies to3789deter and, if necessary, defend against any threat, and build3790resilience against malign influence and hybrid activities.3791    In CENTCOM, I will prioritize cooperation with our regional3792partners that results in a maximum pressure campaign to deter and3793defend against Iranian aggression. I will buildupon the existing3794regional security constructs to enhance Integrated Air and Missile3795Defense and Maritime Security to best defend U.S. personnel and vital3796interests in the region, support allies and partners, and deter3797adversaries. I will also look for new opportunities for the entire3798Joint Force--including our new State Partnership Program relationships3799with Saudi Arabia and UAE--to contribute to shared regional security3800priorities.3801    In AFRICOM, I will prioritize partner-led, U.S. enabled efforts to3802achieve our shared security interests in degrading terrorist3803organizations, strengthening multilateral coordination, and promoting3804stability with the long-term goal of our partners achieving operational3805independence.3806    In SPACECOM, I will prioritize sustained freedom of action in3807space, optimization of our resources, and enhancing mission assurance.3808We must promote norms of behavior by all space-faring nations in space3809which support U.S. national security, economic, scientific, and3810commercial interests.3811    Question. Industrial and technological integration between alliance3812members and international partners are critical to ensuring3813interoperability and economies of scale when modernizing and3814maintaining combat forces.3815    Based on your experience, do you have any recommendations for how3816DOD can leverage foreign military sales and industrial base integration3817as a tool to improve our own military systems, as well as improve our3818ability to fight by, with and through our allies and partners?3819    Answer. Foreign military sales have the potential to strengthen the3820U.S. Defense Industrial Base by increasing the demand signal for3821manufacturers, which, if properly incentivized, can enable needed3822investments in capacity expansion. Some capacity limitations can be3823offset by co-production initiatives in cases where the business case3824and U.S. national security benefits align. Ultimately, by equipping3825partners with U.S. systems, the U.S. increases interoperability and set3826the stage for more seamless coalition operations.3827                     u.s. africa command (africom)3828    Question. AFRICOM has minimal assigned forces and, as a result, is3829required to compete for the vast majority of its U.S. forces in the3830global force management process.3831    What is your assessment of the availability and predictability of3832forces and associated capabilities to support the AFRICOM Theater3833Campaign Plan, the National Defense Strategy, and other emergency3834requirements?3835    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of3836Defense and the AFRICOM Commander as part of the Global Force3837Management Process. For AFRICOM, their forces include allocated forces3838and CONUS-based regionally aligned forces that rotate into the Area of3839Responsibility (AOR) execute activities in support of the AFRICOM3840Theater Campaign Plan. Current posture allows for the forward staging3841of forces to provide required operational flexibility and timely crisis3842response, as required. Across AORs, I will work with the Department to3843balance competing requirements and resourcing demands in-line with DOD3844priorities.3845    Question. Are there any changes you would implement to the3846allocation or assignment of forces to AFRICOM, if confirmed?3847    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of3848Defense and the Combatant Commanders to review global force posture, to3849include that within the AFRICOM AOR, and make my recommendations.3850    Question. What should be the primary objectives of the DOD3851specifically, and the United States more broadly, in the AFRICOM AOR?3852    Answer. Defending U.S. interests, protecting the Homeland, and3853deterring our adversaries are global requirements for DOD. Africa is an3854important AOR to implement our national security objectives to degrade3855terrorists' capability to strike the Homeland and our personnel and3856facilities abroad; and to counter our adversaries' ability to undermine3857U.S. strategic interests.3858    Question. What is your assessment of the strategic objectives of3859Russia and China in Africa? In what areas, if any, do these oppose U.S.3860and partner objectives?3861    Answer. China and Russia both seek to expand their influence in3862Africa. China primarily focuses on economic investment and3863infrastructure projects via its Belt and Road Initiative, though there3864is nascent military cooperation with some nations. Russia focuses on3865military partnerships, arms sales, and resource extraction. Both powers3866aim to challenge Western influence, though China's approach has3867generally been more systematic and economically focused compared to3868Russia's more opportunistic and security-oriented strategy.3869                     u.s. central command (centcom)3870    Question. In your opinion, what are the key U.S. national security3871interests in the Middle East? Please explain your answer.3872    Answer. Key U.S. national security interests in the Middle east are3873(1) deterring threats to the U.S. Homeland that emanate from the Middle3874East (Iranian Threat Network, potential nuclear weapons, and VEOs), (2)3875supporting our allies and partners in the region (Israel, NATO, etc.),3876(3) counter-proliferation, preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear3877weapon, and (4) ensuring the free flow of goods, trade, and stability3878in the world energy supply.3879    Question. In your opinion, to what extent does achieving U.S.3880national security interests in the Middle East require a continuous3881U.S. military presence, and in your view is the current U.S. force3882presence appropriately sized? Please explain your answer.3883    Answer. The Middle East continues to face challenges emanating from3884terrorism, failed and fragile states, and pressure from Russia, China,3885and Iran. If confirmed, I will continue to assess the U.S. military3886presence in the Middle East against our national strategic interests3887and in light of broader global requirements and make recommendations to3888the Secretary and the President.3889    Question. What opportunities exist for increasing burden-sharing3890with U.S. partners to counter threats emanating from and affecting the3891CENTCOM AOR?3892    Answer. The CENTCOM AOR faces a number of threats across multiple3893domains. The combined military, economic, humanitarian, and3894environmental threats that impact across the globe must be addressed by3895the combined efforts of U.S. and its allies and partners.3896    Our partners in the Middle East are eager to improve security3897cooperation and assume a greater share of the burden defending3898themselves against Iranian aggression and terrorist threats such as the3899Houthis and ISIS.3900    Improving ally and partner capability through training and3901improving the Foreign Military Sales process, as well as building and3902strengthening intelligence sharing and cooperative agreements like the3903RSC (Regional Security Construct) and MEAD (Middle East Air Defense)3904partnership will enable our A&P to assume a greater role in addressing3905regional security issues, while solidifying U.S. influence and our role3906as partner of choice for strategically important allies.3907    Question. What threat does Chinese and Russian involvement in the3908Middle East pose to U.S. operations and interests and to what extent3909does a continuous U.S. presence counter their involvement? In your3910view, what other policy tools might be useful in this regard?3911    Answer. Russia has historically used its military presence in the3912Middle East to threaten the U.S. and our allies from the Mediterranean3913Sea and into Africa. Russian-affiliated forces attacked U.S. troops in3914Syria but were disavowed by Moscow. Russian government and Chinese3915state-owned enterprises have aligned with Iran to proliferate weapons,3916technology, and expertise used by terrorist organizations such as the3917Houthis that attack the U.S. military, Israel and our other allies and3918partners in the region. Chinese IT also introduces risk into the3919defense infrastructure of those Middle Eastern countries that choose to3920procure Chinese tech and equipment. Therefore, it is important for the3921military to work alongside other departments and agencies in the U.S.3922Government to address the diplomatic, economic, and informational3923threat posed by China and Russia as well as the direct military threat.3924Iran3925    Question. What is your understanding of the objectives of the U.S.3926national security interests with respect to Iran? What is the role of3927the U.S. military in this strategy?3928    Answer. U.S. policy and our interest to deny Iran from obtaining a3929nuclear weapon, neutralize Iran's campaign of regional aggression, and3930disrupt the IRGC's destabilizing activities.3931    The Joint Force will retain the ability to deny Iran a nuclear3932weapon; identify and support action against Iranian and Iranian-backed3933threats; and disrupt terrorist threats that endanger the U.S. Homeland3934and U.S. interests. The U.S. military will work with our regional3935Middle East partners to increase their ability to deter and defend3936against Iranian aggression.3937    Question. What is your assessment of the current military threat3938posed by Iran? What is your assessment of the threat posed by Iranian3939proxy groups?3940    Answer.3941    IRAN. Iran possesses thousands of ballistic missiles, cruise3942missiles, and one-way attack UAVs capable of ranging Israeli and U.S.3943interests in the region and, over the past year, demonstrated its3944ability to employ its conventional military capabilities in two large-3945scale attacks directly against Israel. Their consideration of nuclear3946capability is troubling.3947    IRANIAN PROXIES. Iran maintains a network of nonState partners and3948proxies in the Middle East which have targeted U.S. and partner3949interests across the region and in international shipping lanes, and3950they have publicly justified these attacks due to Israeli operations3951against HAMAS and Lebanese Hizballah.3952      HOUTHIS. Since Oct 2023, the Houthis have launched3953missiles and UAVs against Israeli territory, U.S. military ships and3954aircraft, hit multiple commercial vessels in the Red Sea, and seized3955and impounded one commercial vessel.3956      IAMGs. Since 19 Oct 2023, Iranian-aligned groups have3957conducted over 200 attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq, Jordan, and Syria,3958as recently January--demonstrating they maintain at least limited3959operational capabilities in Syria--and they may resume sustained3960attacks with little to no warning, pending Iranian approval.3961      HIZBALLAH. Since Oct 2023, Hizballah has conducted cross-3962border attacks against Israel and combatting Israeli forces in Lebanon3963and has not expressed an intent to target U.S. forces or interests in3964the Middle East.3965      HAMAS. As of early Mar, HAMAS is focused on its long-term3966survival and has not publicly expressed an intent to target U.S. forces3967or interests in the Middle East; however, HAMAS political officials3968have publicly opposed plans for a sustained foreign presence in Gaza,3969suggesting the group likely would seek to target any non-Palestinian3970security force deployed to Gaza after the conflict.3971    Question. In your view, what would be the security implications for3972U.S. and regional security interests should Iran acquire a nuclear3973weapons capability?3974    Answer. Iranian leadership's decision calculus may be affected if3975its national priorities are threatened to include ensuring regime3976survival, maintaining national security from internal and external3977threats, and establishing itself as the regional dominant power in the3978Middle East.3979    Military force alone may not be sufficient to deter Iran, and an3980approach that includes diplomatic engagement and economic incentives3981may be necessary.3982    Question. In your opinion, can Iran be sufficiently deterred3983through military force alone? Please explain your answer.3984    Answer. Iranian leadership's decision calculus may be affected if3985its national priorities are threatened to include ensuring regime3986survival, maintaining national security from internal and external3987threats, and establishing itself as the regional dominant power in the3988Middle East.3989    Military force alone may not be sufficient to deter Iran, and an3990approach that includes diplomatic engagement and economic incentives3991may be necessary.3992Israel3993    Question. In your opinion, what are U.S. national security3994objectives with regards to Israel?3995    Answer. Israel is a model U.S. ally, and the U.S.-Israel alliance3996is of great importance to the United States. Enabling Israel's security3997and ability to defend itself is thus a key U.S. national security3998objective. Achieving durable security for Israel and strengthening3999formal and informal security cooperation between Israel and its Arab4000neighbors will reduce the burden on the Joint Force and enable greater4001focus on threats elsewhere around the globe.4002    Question. In your opinion, what should DOD's role be in supporting4003Israeli efforts to degrade and defeat Hamas?4004    Answer. I defer to the Secretary and the President to set our4005policies toward foreign states, to include Israel. If confirmed, I will4006ensure that our military strategy and operations are aligned with the4007Secretary and the President's priorities and policies.4008Syria and Iraq4009    Question. What is your understanding of current U.S. strategy and4010objectives in Syria? How have those objectives changed, if at all, in4011light of the recent fall of the Assad regime?4012    Answer. The United States is in Syria to ensure the enduring defeat4013of ISIS and to prevent external operations from ISIS and al-Qaeda from4014threatening the U.S. Homeland. The December 2024 fall of the Assad4015regime does not fundamentally alter these U.S. objectives.4016    I will work with the Secretary as this Administration assesses and4017develops United States policy for Syria.4018    Question. From a DOD perspective, what must be done to ensure the4019enduring defeat of ISIS? What non-military efforts are needed for the4020enduring defeat of ISIS?4021    Answer. The Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS must continue to4022cooperate on counterterrorism efforts. U.S. must continue to work4023closely with allies and partners to address shared security concerns4024through a whole-of-government approach to eliminate threats to the4025Homeland.4026    Question. What do you perceive to be the role of the Syrian4027Democratic Forces and Iraqi Security Forces in countering ISIS and al4028Qaeda?4029    Answer. It is my understanding that our partners in the SDF and ISF4030lead the fight against ISIS by shouldering the burden of operations4031with some U.S. assistance. These partners play a critical role in4032enabling our CT objectives while keeping the risk to and investment4033from U.S. forces low and economical. I will seek to work with the4034Secretary and interagency on the future of these relationships as4035regional dynamics continue to change and the Administration reviews its4036policies regarding Syria and Iraq.4037    Question. In your view, should U.S. troop levels in Syria be tied4038to the achievement of certain conditions on the ground? If so, what4039conditions would you factor into your recommendation to the President4040on future troop levels in Syria?4041    Answer. I believe that U.S. troop levels in Syria should accord4042with our national policy and objectives. If confirmed, I will work4043closely with the Secretary of Defense and the Commander USCENTCOM to4044review our strategy and posture in Syria and make my recommendations.4045    Question. In September, the U.S.-Iraq Higher Military Commission4046announced the transition of the global coalition to defeat ISIS to a4047bilateral security relationship with the Government of Iraq. However,4048many of the details of such a transition are still being negotiated4049with the Iraqi Government.4050    In your view, what should the guiding principles for DOD's presence4051in Iraq moving forward? Do you assess that U.S. forces should remain in4052Iraq beyond next September? Why or why not?4053    Answer. Iraq has become a key partner for the U.S. in the region.4054The U.S. Mission in Iraq is committed to a lasting strategic4055partnership with the Government of Iraq and its people. The U.S.4056Government, along with the U.S. Mission to Iraq, actively collaborates4057with Iraqi partners to support a stable, prosperous, democratic, and4058unified Iraq. Our security relationship is an advisory, enabling, and4059assisting role.4060    If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of Defense and4061the Commander USCENTCOM to review our strategy and posture in Iraq and4062make my recommendations.4063South Asia4064    Question. In your opinion, what are U.S. national security4065objectives in Afghanistan, and what is your understanding of the4066current strategy to achieve them?4067    Answer. The most immediate U.S. interest in Afghanistan is to4068ensure the country is not a breeding ground for terrorist attacks4069against the United States, our overseas interests, and our allies and4070partners. This includes ensuring weapons provided to the former Afghan4071government do not fall into the hands of terrorists planning attacks on4072the United States. The U.S. works with partners in the region to4073achieve this objective. Over the long term, a more stable and self-4074sufficient Afghanistan would facilitate security and possibly open4075alternative trade routes from Central Asia.4076    Question. In your view, is the United States properly postured to4077counter ISIS-Khorasan and al Qaeda and related groups in Afghanistan?4078Please explain your answer.4079    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of4080Defense and the Combatant Commanders to review global force posture and4081capabilities, to include that within the CENTCOM AOR, and make my4082recommendations.4083    Question. If confirmed, what changes, if any, would you recommend4084to U.S. relations with Pakistan?4085    Answer. Pakistan's location bordering China, India, Iran, and4086Afghanistan, and its status as a nuclear power make an ongoing4087strategic relationship important. I would aim to preserve the military-4088to-military relationship between the United States and Pakistan in4089areas of mutual interest such as counterterrorism. A constructive4090defense relationship facilitates regional stability and enhances4091counterterrorism efforts.4092                     u.s. european command (eucom)4093    Question. Do you believe the deterrent posture in Europe is4094sufficient to deter further Russian aggression in Europe?4095    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of4096Defense, Joint Chiefs, and the Combatant Commanders to review our force4097posture, to include that in the USEUCOM AOR, and make my4098recommendations.4099    Question. In your assessment, are there capability and/or capacity4100shortfalls in current U.S. posture that affect the U.S. ability to4101carry out the EUCOM Theater Campaign Plan?4102    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of4103Defense, Joint Chiefs, and the Combatant Commanders to review our4104capabilities, capacity, and force posture, to include that in the4105USEUCOM AOR, and make my recommendations.4106    Question. In your assessment, does the United States have4107sufficient air and missile defense capability and capacity to defend4108critical infrastructure in EUCOM? If not, what are the areas of highest4109risk?4110    Answer. I have not been able to conduct an assessment of the United4111States air and missile defense capabilities and capacities to defend4112EUCOM critical infrastructure. However, If confirmed, I will work4113closely with the Joint Chiefs, and all of the Combatant Commanders to4114review our capabilities, capacity, and force posture across all4115theaters, to include EUCOM, in order to make fully informed4116recommendations to the Secretary of Defense. Additionally, the4117department will continue to work closely with Allies and Partners to4118ensure that we have an efficient and effective air and missile defense4119force posture across the theater.4120    Question. If confirmed, what specific changes would you make to4121U.S. capabilities or force posture in Europe to execute the Interim4122National Defense Strategic Guidance more effectively?4123    Answer. Europe continues to face challenges emanating from4124conventional to transnational threats in its immediate vicinity and4125beyond. If confirmed, I will continue to assess the U.S. military4126presence in Europe against our national strategic interests and in4127light of broader global requirements and make recommendations to the4128Secretary and the President.4129European Deterrence Initiative (EDI)4130    Question. Since establishment of the EDI in 2014, the NDAA has4131authorized billions of dollars each year for EDI investments to support4132stability and security, and to deter Russian aggression.4133    In your view, has EDI improved U.S. and allied capability and4134capacity to deter Russian aggression in the European theater?4135    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of4136Defense, Joint Chiefs, and the Combatant Commanders to review our4137capabilities, capacity, and force posture, to include the EDI, and make4138my recommendations.4139    Question. Do you believe continued, robust dedicated funding for4140programs under EDI's five lines of effort is required to support4141implementation of the National Defense Strategy in Europe?4142    Answer. If confirmed, I will need to assess the future requirements4143in Europe, with the Service Chiefs, to make recommendations regarding4144future EDI funding.4145NATO Alliance4146    Question. In your view, how important to U.S. strategic interests4147is the U.S. commitment to its obligations under the North Atlantic4148Treaty, especially Article 5?4149    Answer. The North Atlantic Treaty is very important to U.S.4150strategic interests. Any use of armed force to fulfill our commitments4151under Article 5 would need to be carried out pursuant to the4152President's powers under Article II of the U.S. Constitution, the War4153Powers Act, and subsequent congressional authorizations for use of4154military force or a formal declaration of war.4155    Question. What do you view as the essential strategic objectives of4156the NATO Alliance and what do you perceive to be the greatest4157challenges in meeting those objectives?4158    Answer. At the 2024 Washington Summit, the Alliance reaffirmed its4159purpose and principles found in NATO's Strategic Concept, and its three4160core tasks of Collective Defense, Cooperative Security, and Crisis4161Management. I'm aligned with these objectives and in my view, the4162greatest challenge the Alliance faces is its ability to adapt and4163develop, politically and militarily, to meet the challenges of an4164unpredictable and competitive world.4165    Question. NATO has long held the position that, ``as long as4166nuclear weapons exist, NATO will remain a nuclear alliance.'' In your4167view, do you believe this principle requires the United States to4168continue to deploy nuclear weapons in NATO countries?4169    Answer. As long as NATO remains a nuclear alliance, it is important4170for the U.S. to maintain nuclear weapons forward deployed in NATO4171countries. These forward-based weapons contribute to U.S. extended4172deterrence, complicate adversary decision calculus, and reassure our4173NATO Allies.4174    The United States nuclear commitment to NATO remains a core element4175of our deterrence policy and strategy. As the backbone of deterrence4176since its founding, NATO nuclear policy seeks to preserve peace,4177prevent coercion and deter aggression.4178    Question. Do you believe that NATO should expand the nuclear4179sharing role to additional alliance members?4180    Answer. Nuclear sharing arrangements can refer both to U.S. nuclear4181weapons hosted on the territory of NATO Allies and to Allied provision4182of Dual-Capable Aircraft (DCA) that could carry U.S. nuclear weapons as4183part of a NATO nuclear mission. While these facets of nuclear sharing4184are related, one does not require the other. From a military4185perspective, expanding NATO allies' participation in the nuclear4186deterrence mission in some capacity would enhance flexibility,4187survivability, and military capability. If confirmed, I will work with4188USEUCOM and SACEUR to evaluate the cost/benefit of such a decision.4189    Question. What do you see as the benefits, or negative4190consequences, of NATO countries individually pursuing their own nuclear4191weapons?4192    Answer. Nuclear proliferation, even among Allies, significantly4193limits U.S. ability to manage escalation risk. It could trigger further4194acceleration of adversary efforts to modernize and expand their nuclear4195arsenals. Additionally, it would irreparably erode the Treaty on the4196Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and could encourage4197proliferation around the world.4198    Question. The dual-hatted position of the Commander of EUCOM as4199NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) allows U.S. and Allied4200forces to be highly integrated in Europe. Similar dual-hat4201responsibilities have been integrated to other senior U.S. Commanders,4202including Commander of U.S. Air Forces Europe and Africa as Commander4203NATO Allied Air Command (AIRCOM) and Commander U.S. Army Europe and4204Africa as Commander NATO Allied Land Command4205    What is your assessment of the benefits of these dual-hatted4206structures to allied cohesion and integration?4207    Answer. U.S. leadership within the Alliance is critical to Alliance4208cohesion and integration. As the most capable and largest NATO member,4209the U.S. is the only member that has the stature to lead the Alliance4210in a cohesive and unified manner. The dual-hatted positions throughout4211the NATO command structure ensure close integration of U.S. thought and4212operational intent and maintain unity of effort and focus across the4213Alliance. The dual-hatted arrangement, in which SACEUR is an American4214combatant commander, is particularly important for the fulfillment of4215the United States' nuclear deterrence commitment to NATO.4216Russia4217    Question. In your view, is Russia a threat to the United States and4218its allies?4219    Answer. Russia very likely remains deterred from an overt military4220attack against the U.S. or NATO; however, Moscow retains the ability4221and willingness to conduct asymmetric activity below what it assesses4222to be the threshold of military conflict. The conflict in Ukraine very4223likely has strained its conventional military forces, increasing4224Russia's dependence on its nuclear arsenal as a means of deterrence to4225protect itself from perceived external military threats.4226    Question. In your view, which EUCOM and NATO activities most deter4227Russia and mitigate the Russian threat to NATO Allies and partners?4228    Answer. Russia very likely is deterred by the U.S. and NATO's4229nuclear arsenal and the threat of direct military confrontation with4230the U.S. and NATO. Russia's threat perceptions almost certainly are4231driven by a belief that the U.S. and broader West seek the strategic4232defeat of the Russian State. As such, Moscow views any actions by the4233U.S. and broader West, especially those in the vicinity of Moscow's4234perceived sphere of influence, as intended to undermine Russian4235interests. However, Moscow calibrates its responses to these perceived4236undermining activities to demonstrate resolve without prompting an4237escalatory response from the U.S. and/or the broader West.4238    Question. What aspects of U.S. and NATO force posture do you assess4239as having the most significant deterrent effect on Russia?4240    Answer. Russia very likely is deterred by the U.S. and NATO's4241nuclear arsenal and the threat of direct military confrontation with4242the U.S. and NATO. Russia's threat perceptions almost certainly are4243driven by a belief that the U.S. and broader West seek the strategic4244defeat of the Russian State. As such, Moscow views any actions by the4245U.S. and broader West, especially those in the vicinity of Moscow's4246perceived sphere of influence, as intended to undermine Russian4247interests. However, Moscow calibrates its responses to these perceived4248undermining activities to demonstrate resolve without prompting an4249escalatory response from the U.S. and/or the broader West.4250    Question. In your view, what should DOD do to counter Russian4251malign influence in Europe?4252    Answer. We must encourage our Allies and partners to increase their4253capability and capacity, and prioritize outcome driven relationships. I4254will continue to work alongside our NATO Allies to deter and, if4255necessary, defend against any threat, and build resilience against4256malign influence and hybrid activities.4257Ukraine4258    Question. In February 2022, Russia launched a full-scale,4259unprovoked, and illegal invasion on Ukraine.4260    How do you assess the trajectory of the conflict and the role that4261the Department of Defense should play?4262    Answer. Russian President Putin remains committed to pursuing his4263objectives in Ukraine to include securing territorial gains and forcing4264Ukrainian neutrality. Moscow likely views the conflict is in its favor4265and will continue to prosecute the war in 2025 despite high casualties4266from continued operations. Russia's approved 2025 budget contains4267higher levels of defense spending compared to 2024 and is the highest4268it has been since the cold war. Defense spending is projected to be4269double that of social spending, which suggests Moscow is committed to4270sustaining its war efforts. The conflict in 2025 likely will continue4271to be a war of attrition, with both sides suffering heavy losses of4272personnel and materiel. Russian forces gained nearly 4,000 square4273kilometers in 2024, seven times more than in 2023, with the majority of4274those advances occurring in eastern Donetsk.4275    Following the 18 February meeting between U.S. and Russian4276officials in Riyadh, the Kremlin publicly reiterated willingness to4277work with Washington on a negotiated settlement and expressed interest4278in continued high-level dialog with the United States. Russia later4279reiterated Moscow will not accept a cease-fire without a long-term4280settlement that addresses Russia's core security concerns.4281    Question. Do you believe it is important for the United States to4282continue providing security assistance to Ukraine, including after the4283conclusion of the war, as a means to help Ukraine deter and defeat4284Russian aggression?4285    Answer. From a military standpoint, Ukraine has the right to self-4286defense, and from that standpoint our security assistance helps Ukraine4287to defend itself. Our assistance improves Ukraine's position at the4288negotiating table and deters Russia from further aggression. The United4289States is only a part of the network of states supporting Ukraine's4290defense, and we should focus on what unique capabilities only the U.S.4291can provide, while Europe increases its share of support. After the4292conclusion of the war, we should continue to assist Ukraine with its4293future force development and long-term stability.4294    Question. What do you see as the role of U.S. security assistance4295in building the capabilities and capacity of Ukraine to meet its4296military requirements to defend its sovereignty and territorial4297integrity in the short, medium, and long-term?4298    Answer. The U.S. and our Allies are studying Ukraine's immediate4299wartime needs to defend the front line, as well as how to build its4300future force and defense industry to develop organic capabilities for4301long-term self-defense. In this way, we are helping Ukraine become more4302self-sufficient. Other aspects of short, and long-term force4303development include advising missions and training.4304                 u.s. indo-pacific command (indopacom)4305    Question. U.S. force posture in the Indo-Pacific region remains4306heavily concentrated in Japan and South Korea.4307    Is the current U.S. force posture in the Indo-Pacific region4308sufficient to support the Trump Administration's Interim National4309Defense Strategic Guidance? How would you propose to restructure U.S.4310security posture in the Indo-Pacific to counter Chinese aggression, if4311confirmed? Please explain your answer.4312    Answer. An increasingly aggressive China poses both short and long-4313term challenges. If confirmed, I will assess the U.S. military presence4314in the Indo-Pacific against our national strategic interests and make4315recommendations to the SecDef and POTUS.4316    Question. In your view, what would be the impact of significant4317reductions to our force posture in Japan or South Korea on the security4318situation in the Indo-Pacific region?4319    Answer. North Korea's long-range missile and nuclear programs4320represent an immediate security challenge. If confirmed, I will assess4321the U.S. military presence in Japan and South Korea and make4322recommendations to the SecDef and POTUS.4323    Question. In your assessment, what are the priority investments DOD4324could make to implement the National Defense Strategy and improve the4325military balance in the Indo-Pacific?4326    Answer. The Department works closely with INDOPACOM and allies and4327partners in the region to ensure the Department is making investments4328that advance National Defense Strategy priorities, close Combatant4329Commanders priority gaps, and improve integrated deterrence.4330Participating in regional multi-national exercises and sustaining4331forward forces assists with improving the military balance in the4332region. If confirmed, I look forward to working with the Services and4333Congress to advance investments that improve lethality within INDOPACOM4334to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.4335    Question. Do you believe that continued, dedicated funding for the4336Pacific Deterrence Initiative is required to support implementation of4337the National Defense Strategy in the Indo-Pacific? Please explain your4338answer.4339    Answer. The programs, investments, and activities included in the4340Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI) are critical for providing a4341credible combat deterrent and maintaining the free and open order in4342the Western Pacific. PDI is a subset of the Department's budget4343request, not a separate fund. If confirmed, I will work with the4344INDOPACOM and the Services to ensure we continue to fund the most4345important programs to strengthen deterrence.4346    Question. In your view, what is the role of ground forces in the4347Indo-Pacific during competition, crisis, and conflict?4348    Answer. The role of ground forces in the Indo-Pacific region is4349complex and multifaceted, evolving across the spectrum of competition,4350crisis, and conflict. Right now, they serve as a deterrent and offer4351opportunities to expand training and partnerships with allies. In times4352of crisis, they can offer a rapid response option as well as a way of4353protecting U.S. interests in the region (U.S. citizens, infrastructure,4354etc). During conflict, they can provide options for force projection,4355area denial/control, and stabilization/reconstruction. In any case, the4356China threat is dynamic and United States ground forces must continue4357to adapt and modernize to maintain a competitive edge.4358    Question. Congress mandated the establishment of the Joint Force4359Headquarters at INDOPACOM. What is your view of INDOPACOM's progress in4360establishing the Joint Force Headquarters? What are the requirements4361for the Joint Force Headquarters at INDOPACOM to fully execute its4362function?4363    Answer. The ability to respond effectively to crises in the region,4364using the Joint Force with all its combined capabilities, is paramount.4365Admiral Paparo has stated that, in a Joint Operations Area (JOA) within4366the Theater of War, the U.S. Pacific Fleet would serve as the Joint4367Task Force (JTF), a capability for which they were certified in 2023.4368The existing structure, which leverages the proven capabilities of4369service components and their ability to function as JTFs, provides the4370necessary flexibility and responsiveness to address a wide range of4371potential crises within the INDOPACOM AOR. It should be able to fully4372execute its purpose in its current form.4373    Question. Can you describe the strategic and operational importance4374of Guam to executing INDOPACOM's plans and operations in the region?4375Can you describe the State of military infrastructure and facilities on4376Guam in the wake of Typhoon Mawar? Do you agree that it is critical for4377Guam to be reconstructed in a resilient manner so that the U.S.4378military can utilize Guam as a power projection platform in the Indo-4379Pacific?4380    Answer. Guam's strategic location and military capabilities make it4381a key hub indispensable hub for United States power projection in the4382Indo-Pacific. However, Typhoon Mawar, which struck Guam in May 2023,4383caused significant damage to military infrastructure and facilities on4384the island. This highlighted the vulnerability of the island's critical4385infrastructure to natural disasters, which underscores the need to4386invest in order to ensure its ability to withstand future threats, both4387natural and man-made. A resilient Guam helps ensure the United States4388can effectively deter aggression, respond to crises, and protect its4389interests in the region.4390    Question. Do you support the efforts by the United States and Japan4391to establish a modernized command-and-control structure, to include an4392improved U.S. Forces Japan? Do you agree that the Department of Defense4393should move as fast as possible to establish a new command-and-control4394structure with Japan, considering its strategic importance as a capable4395ally in the Indo-Pacific?4396    Answer. Yes, modernizing the United States-Japan command-and-4397control structure will help maintain a credible deterrent and ensure4398the alliance's effectiveness in a rapidly changing security4399environment.4400China4401    Question. The 2022 National Defense Strategy describes the People's4402Republic of China (PRC) as ``the most comprehensive and serious4403challenge to U.S. national security'' and states ``The PRC seeks to4404undermine U.S. alliances and security partnership in the Indo-Pacific4405region, and leverage its growing capabilities, including its economic4406influence and the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) growing strength and4407military footprint, to coerce its neighbors and threaten their4408interest.''4409    How would you characterize the current U.S. relationship with4410China?4411    Answer. The President has made it clear we must be clear-eyed about4412China's intentions and actions. Many of the Chinese Communist Party's4413values and interests are at odds with those of the United States.4414However, I defer to the Secretaries of Defense and State to4415characterize our current relationship.4416    Question. What is your assessment of the current State of U.S.-4417China military-to-military relations? What do you believe should be the4418objectives of U.S.-China military-to-military dialog? What are the4419limitations on this kind of dialog?4420    Answer. Engagements with the PLA may offer opportunities for the4421U.S. to influence China's military behavior and encourage adherence to4422norms and standards, but we should be realistic about what we can4423achieve. A properly postured and equipped Joint Force does more to4424influence China's behavior than engagement. If the President and the4425Secretary believe I can move U.S. objectives forward by engaging with4426my PLA counterpart, I will.4427    Question. What do you believe are the objectives of China's steady4428increase in defense spending and its overall military modernization4429program? In what technology areas are you most concerned about the4430erosion of U.S. advantages?4431    Answer. The PLA remains focused on developing its capabilities4432across all warfare domains to become a joint force capable of the full4433range of land, air, and maritime as well as nuclear, space,4434counterspace, EW, and cyberspace operations. The PLA remains focused on4435developing capabilities to provide options for China to dissuade,4436deter, or, if ordered, defeat third-party intervention in the Indo-4437Pacific region. China's stated defense policy remains oriented toward4438advancing its sovereignty, security, and development interests while4439emphasizing a greater global role for itself. Beijing has demonstrated4440an increasing willingness to use military coercion and inducements to4441achieve these aims. The PLA's rapid developments in missile, aircraft,4442and unmanned aerial systems have greatly advanced in the past 20 years.4443    Question. In your view what are the implications of China's nuclear4444buildup on the credibility of deterrence and extended deterrence in4445Asia?4446    Answer. China's nuclear buildup presents a challenge to U.S.4447deterrence capabilities and extended deterrence commitments to allies4448in the Indo-Pacific. To preserve stability in the region and deter4449potential aggression from China, the U.S. must continue to fully invest4450in a modernized nuclear force. This will ensure credibility for our4451deterrent and extended deterrence commitments in the future.4452Taiwan4453    Question. How do you assess the current military balance across the4454Taiwan Strait? What do you believe should be the priorities for U.S.4455military assistance to Taiwan? Do you think Taiwan is making4456appropriate investments in its defensive capabilities and if not, what4457changes would you recommend?4458    Answer. There is a very stark imbalance in capabilities across the4459Taiwan Strait. As indicated in DOD's annual China Military Power Report4460(CMPR), China continues to modernize its military capabilities and4461invest in advanced weapons systems. These include aircraft carriers,4462anti-ship missiles, submarines, ballistic missiles, and cyber4463capabilities. The PLA is capable of projecting power through operations4464and exercises near Taiwan and throughout the region. Taiwan's military,4465although growing, is much smaller in comparison and lacks many similar4466capabilities.4467    If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of Defense and4468the Commander USINDOPACOM to review the capabilities and requirements4469of Taiwan and make my recommendations.4470    Question. Some have argued that the United States should explicitly4471State that we would respond militarily to any Chinese use of force4472against Taiwan as a means to deter such actions. In your view, what4473would be the benefits and risks of such a policy change?4474    Answer. My focus is implementing the President's current policy,4475which opposes any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side4476and to enable Taiwan to maintain a sufficient self-defense capability.4477Respectfully, I will provide my military advice on significant policy4478changes when the President and Secretary invite me to do so.4479The Korean Peninsula4480    Question. What is your assessment of the threat posed by North4481Korea to regional and global stability?4482    Answer. The DPRK nuclear, missile, and cyber capabilities continue4483to threaten the United States and its allies on a global scale.4484Pyongyang has tested multiple missile systems capable of striking U.S.4485forces in the ROK and Japan, as well as Guam, Alaska, Hawaii, and4486CONUS. Additionally, the DPRK conducts persistent cyber activities,4487such as cryptocurrency theft and adaptive cybercrime TTPs to generate4488funds and obtain technical information in support of the regime's4489military and WMD programs. Pyongyang's comprehensive strategic4490partnership with Moscow very likely will enable it to further improve4491its military capabilities, increasing the threat to regional stability4492and U.S. interests.4493    Question. In your view, are there additional steps that DOD should4494take to improve U.S. and allied defenses against North Korea's nuclear4495and missile capabilities?4496    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of4497Defense and the USNORTHCOM, USSTRATCOM, USSPACECOM, USINDOPACOM, and4498Combined Forces Command-Korea Commanders to review and enhance the4499status of our missile defense capabilities against the DPRK and make my4500recommendations in line with President Trump's Golden Dome for America.4501    Question. What will you do to ensure that trilateral military4502cooperation between the U.S., Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK)4503accelerates?4504    Answer. I support the Trilateral Security Cooperation Framework4505and, if confirmed, will continue to advocate for using the Trilateral4506Security Cooperation Framework as a blueprint for military cooperation4507in exercises like FREEDOM EDGE and operationally through efforts such4508as our trilateral missile data warning sharing mechanism.4509    Question. Do you believe that the ROK has met the requirements for4510the conditions-based operational control transition plan allowing it to4511assume wartime control of its military? If not, what does the ROK still4512need to do to achieve OPCON transition?4513    Answer. The United States and ROK currently have a conditions-based4514operational control transition plan (COTP) in place. The COTP requires4515the ROK to meet the conditions associated with their stand-alone4516capability and that the security environment is conducive for the ROK4517to assume the lead of a U.S.-ROK combined command prior to transition.4518The ROK continues to increase and improve capabilities by acquiring4519equipment and experience through multi-domain and trilateral exercises.4520If confirmed, I will review the conditions outlined within the existing4521plan before making my recommendation.4522    Question. What are your views on the use of landmines to deter4523conflict on the Korean Peninsula? Do you support continuing efforts by4524DOD to modernize related terrain shaping capabilities?4525    Answer. Landmines have been used on the Korean peninsula since the4526Korean War and there are still millions of landmines deployed along the4527demilitarized zone to deter North Korean aggression. If confirmed, I4528will review the deployment of landmines on the Korean peninsula.4529                    u.s. northern command (northcom)4530Defense Support to Civil Authorities4531    Question. Civil authorities may request DOD support for domestic4532disasters and certain counter-drug operations as well as in managing4533the consequences of a terrorist event employing a weapon of mass4534destruction.4535    In your view, are the procedures by which Federal, State, and Local4536agencies request DOD support efficient, effective, and timely?4537    Answer. Yes, the procedures by which Federal, State, and Local4538agencies request DOD support have been honed over decades and are4539effective in ensuring that DOD is able to provide a rapid and flexible4540response for potential or actual emergencies or disasters within the4541United States, territories, possessions, and protectorates, upon4542receiving a validated request for assistance formally asking DOD to4543provide assistance to a local, State, tribal, or other Federal agency.4544    Question. What factors should be considered in determining whether4545DOD will provide support to a civil authority?4546    Answer. If confirmed, I would ensure that DOD remains a reliable4547and responsive partner to civil authorities while adhering to legal and4548operational principles. By continuously refining procedures, enhancing4549interagency training, and leveraging lessons learned from past4550emergencies, we can strengthen our collective ability to respond4551effectively to crises and safeguard the American people.4552    Question. Do you believe it is in the best interests of DOD to4553provide support to civil authorities on a reimbursable basis?4554    Answer. Yes, providing DOD resources, when appropriately requested4555and validated, in response to emergencies, law enforcement support, and4556other domestic activities when non-DoD capabilities are overwhelmed or4557unavailable is appropriate.4558Transnational Criminal Organizations4559    Question. Transnational criminal organizations are engaged in a4560wide variety of illicit activities, including money laundering, human4561trafficking illicit financial flows, illegal trade in natural resources4562and wildlife, and trade in illegal drugs, precursors and weapons. These4563activities reach not only the entirety of the Western Hemisphere, but4564increasingly throughout the world.4565    In your assessment, how has the threat to the United States from4566transnational criminal organizations evolved?4567    Answer. Transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) almost4568certainly will continue to prioritize their profits and will engage in4569activities that may threaten the United States such as drug or human4570trafficking in pursuit of illicit business interests. Over the past two4571decades, TCOs have adapted to increased government regulation and4572enforcement efforts by diversifying their revenue streams, updating4573drug manufacturing processes, and changing trafficking TTP. Most4574fentanyl is trafficked through U.S. ports of entry, judging from CBP4575seizure information. TCO adaptability likely will challenge Latin4576American governments' capacities to effectively counter criminal4577violence for at least the next year.4578    TCOs likely seek to avoid excessive violence in the United States4579or against U.S. citizens that may attract additional law enforcement4580scrutiny. However, TCO-driven criminal violence in Latin America--4581particularly Mexico--raises the risk of spillover violence in the4582United States or toward U.S. personnel operating near the U.S. southern4583border. TCOs degrade Latin American State capacity through their4584engagement in corruption and some organizations' ability to overwhelm4585security forces in limited engagements. Weakened Latin American states4586almost certainly are less able to contain violence. In Mexico, the4587military generally maintains the capabilities to counter TCO attacks4588but lacks the capacity to sustain a long-term campaign to decisively4589defeat criminal groups.4590                    u.s. southern command (southcom)4591    Question. If confirmed, what recommendations would you make to the4592President to deter Russian, Cuban, and Chinese influence in the4593SOUTHCOM AOR?4594    Answer. The Chinese and Russian governments use economic pressure4595and disinformation campaigns to influence the governments in Latin4596America and the Caribbean in their favor. Their actions often counter4597U.S. interests and destabilize democratic partner nations. The U.S.4598should work to remain the partner of choice by maintaining strong4599regional presence and investing in programs that will build partner4600capacity to deter Chinese, Russian, and Cuban influence.4601    Question. Do you believe these influences threaten hemispheric4602security and prosperity?4603    Answer. China and Russia use varying tools to influence the Western4604Hemisphere according to their interests. While in the short-term4605Chinese activities might translate into positive economic outcomes,4606long-term, we have seen that many of these projects undercut local4607competition or impede on partner nation's sovereignty. Russia's actions4608support authoritarian regimes who undermine the security and prosperity4609of the United States and other peace seeking nations.4610Detainee Treatment and Guantanamo Bay Naval Station4611    Question. Do you support the standards for detainee treatment4612specified in Army Field Manual 2-22.3, Human Intelligence Collector4613Operations, issued in September 2006 and DOD Directive 2310.01E,4614Department of Defense Detainee Program, dated August 19, 2014, and4615required by Section 1045 of the NDAA for fiscal year 2016?4616    Answer. Yes.4617Counternarcotics Activities4618    Question. DOD serves as lead agency for the detection and4619monitoring of aerial and maritime foreign shipments of drugs flowing4620toward the United States. On an annual basis, DOD expends nearly $14621billion to build the counternarcotics capacity of U.S. Federal, State,4622and local law enforcement agencies and certain foreign governments.4623    What changes, if any, should be made to DOD's counternarcotics4624strategy and supporting activities?4625    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of4626Defense and the Combatant Commanders to review our approach to4627counternarcotics.4628    Question. In your view, what should be DOD's role in countering the4629flow of narcotics to nations other than the United States?4630    Answer. The Joint Force should continue to assess how it can best4631leverage intelligence assets and partnership capacity building to4632support these partners' efforts to disrupt and degrade drug-trafficking4633organizations at the source. If confirmed, I can better assess the4634DOD's role in countering the global flow of narcotics.4635    Question. How, if at all, should U.S. security assistance be scoped4636to address factors at the root of counternarcotics trafficking, in your4637opinion?4638    Answer. The Joint Force should continue to assess how it can best4639leverage intelligence assets and partnership capacity building to4640support these partners' efforts to disrupt and degrade drug-trafficking4641organizations at the source. If confirmed, I can better assess the4642DOD's role in countering the global flow of narcotics.4643Venezuela4644    Question. What is your assessment of the current situation in4645Venezuela and to what degree is the illegitimate Maduro regime4646dependent on support from external actors like Russia, Cuba, and China?4647    Answer. Disputed President Nicolas Maduro continues to hold on to4648power with support from the Venezuelan military and key partners4649Russia, China, and Iran very likely mitigating the impact of4650international sanctions through limited economic and defense support.4651    Historically, Russia was Venezuela's largest defense supplier,4652although military supply has declined in recent years. China provides4653economic cooperation, but mirrors Russia with declining defense4654support. Ties with Iran have weakened under President Maduro, but4655current security cooperation includes aircraft maintenance, chemical4656plant construction, and UAV sales. Cuba and Venezuela have shared a4657robust security, political, and economic relationship for nearly two4658decades.4659    Question. How would you assess Venezuelan relations with China,4660Cuba, Iran, and Russia vis-`-vis the national interests of the United4661States?4662    Answer. The rationale for Venezuelan relations with China, Cuba,4663Iran, and Russia is the desire to prosper under U.S. sanctions through4664mutual trade and support. A current goal of the Maduro regime is to4665gain formal admittance into the international economic bloc, Brazil,4666Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS). Caracas uses its oil4667reserves as its main barging tool, primarily with Beijing to whom they4668export the majority of their crude oil. The U.S. is Venezuela's4669preferred oil customer, and Caracas' dependance on foreign support4670correlates with U.S. sanctions. Russia and Venezuela are increasing4671economic trade and investment in the face of sanctions by the U.S. and4672other western countries. Venezuela has also signed various agreements4673with Iran in energy, science, oil, defense, culture, economy, and food4674sectors.4675           u.s. space force and u.s. space command (spacecom)4676    Question. The United States is increasingly dependent on space,4677both economically and militarily. Our great power competitors are4678making concerted efforts to leap ahead of U.S. technology and impact4679U.S. freedom of action in the space warfighting domain. The Space4680Force, within the Department of the Air Force, and a unified Space4681Command, deal with the contested domain of space, upon which the4682terrestrial forces of the United States and peer competitors are highly4683reliant for support.4684    In your view, does the current National Defense Strategy accurately4685assess the strategic environment as it pertains to the domain of space?4686If confirmed, what changes would you make to the National Defense4687Strategy regarding the space domain?4688    Answer. If confirmed, I will review the specifics of the 20254689Interim National Defense Strategic Guidance (INDSG) as it applies to4690Space. Our competitors continue to view space as a key competitive4691environment and future National Defense Strategy documents should4692reflect this strategic reality.4693    Question. In your view, what will ``great power competition'' look4694like in space and to what extent do you view China's and Russia's4695activities related to the space domain as a threat or challenge to U.S.4696national security interests?4697    Answer. Both China and Russia have developed and fielded4698counterspace capabilities designed to hold U.S. Government and4699commercial satellites at risk and undermine U.S. advantages. We must4700accelerate the transition to a more resilient space architecture,4701strengthen our ability to deter, counter, and defeat threats in, from,4702though, and to space, and protect our Joint Force from adversary4703hostile uses of space. If confirmed, I will support the development of4704innovative concepts and cutting-edge space-based capabilities to4705maintain deterrence and preserve U.S. freedom of action in the space4706domain.4707    Question. Are there other nation-states or actors operating in4708space that you perceive as a risk to the United States, or as cause for4709concern? Please explain your answer.4710    Answer. Yes. This past year, it was revealed that Russia is working4711on a nuclear space-based antisatellite (ASAT) capability, which would4712violate the 1967 Outer Space Treaty and indiscriminately threaten the4713vast majority of satellites operated by countries and companies around4714the world, leading to worldwide commercial disruptions. China is4715testing counterspace capabilities, including satellites capable of4716rendezvous and proximity operations and use of electronic jamming and4717cyber operations against ground networks; China's aggressive cyber4718targeting of U.S. infrastructure, including satellite networks, may4719deny critical U.S. capabilities in the event of a conflict in the Indo-4720Pacific. In 2024, Iran placed six space payloads into orbit and4721continues to develop its space launch capabilities; knowledge gained4722from orbital launches is applicable to development of an ICBM that4723could directly threaten the U.S. Homeland, if Iran chose to pursue such4724a capability. The commercial sector and other nations are rapidly4725expanding activities in space, leading to the risk of increasing4726orbital congestion.4727    Question. How would you assess current DOD readiness to implement4728the 2022 National Defense Strategy and U.S. strategic objectives as4729they relate to the domain of space?4730    Answer. The United States' space superiority is being challenged4731because our adversaries, notably China and Russia, continue to rapidly4732develop counterspace systems to hold our space-based assets and4733capabilities at risk. China specifically is launching advanced threats4734at breakneck speeds which can target multiple capabilities across all4735orbital regimes. Additionally, Iran and North Korea are strengthening4736their own space programs with the assistance of China and Russia, which4737is increasing the threat environment. The United States needs to4738continue to prioritize the robustness and defense of our Space4739architecture across ground, link, and space segments to promote4740resilience, restore deterrence, and ensure that space-based4741capabilities are ready for the joint warfighter 24/7.4742    Question. What do you perceive as the most significant threats to4743our national security space satellites and commercial space systems4744owned by U.S. companies?4745    Answer. This past year, it was revealed that Russia is working on a4746nuclear space-based antisatellite (ASAT) capability, which would4747violate the 1967 Outer Space Treaty and indiscriminately threaten the4748vast majority of satellites operated by countries and companies around4749the world, leading to worldwide commercial disruptions. China is4750testing counterspace capabilities, including satellites capable of4751rendezvous and proximity operations and use of electronic jamming and4752cyber operations against ground networks; China's aggressive cyber4753targeting of U.S. infrastructure, including satellite networks, might4754help it deny the U.S. with critical capabilities in the event of a4755conflict in the Indo-Pacific. In 2024, Iran placed six space payloads4756into orbit and continues to develop its space launch capabilities;4757knowledge gained from orbital launches is applicable to development of4758an ICBM that could directly threaten the U.S. Homeland, if Iran chose4759to pursue such a capability. The commercial sector and other nations4760are rapidly expanding activities in space, leading to the risk of4761increasing orbital congestion.4762    Question. Do you support the development of offensive space systems4763to counter threats in the space warfighting domain?4764    Answer. Yes, I support the development of space systems that can be4765used offensively to protect the United State' and our allies' space4766systems and to restore deterrence. Space capabilities are only4767defensive, or offensive based on how they are employed. Space is4768integral to everyday life and a crucial component underpinning global4769security and the global economy. Competitors continue to grow their4770counterspace capabilities. To protect our national security interests,4771we should continue to scale a breadth of options across all domains to4772deter aggression, and if deterrence fails, to prevail in conflict.4773    Question. Do you support the development of defensive space systems4774to counter threats in the space warfighting domain?4775    Answer. Space capabilities are only defensive, or offensive based4776on how they are employed. Space is integral to everyday life and a4777crucial component underpinning global security and the global economy.4778Competitors continue to grow their counterspace and space capabilities.4779We need to take actions to protect all our assets, to include those in4780space. There are both active and passive measures we can take to deter4781an attack on our space systems. By placing capabilities in different4782orbits, in different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, or on ally4783or commercial satellites, we can complicate our enemy's decisionmaking.4784Active on-orbit defensive capabilities are something we should consider4785and implement if it needed.4786    Question. If confirmed, how would you ensure that commercial4787technology is appropriately incorporated into SPACECOM mission4788execution at acceptable risk levels?4789    Answer. If confirmed, a priority will be understanding the4790USSPACECOM and U.S. Space Force's methods of addressing capability gaps4791and leveraging commercial technologies to fulfil emerging requirements.4792I will seek ways to support the space industrial base and accelerate4793the acquisitions process. I intend to improve USSPACECOM's ability to4794rapidly field emerging technology to assist the joint force in being4795the strongest and most lethal force in the world.4796            cybersecurity and u.s. cyber command (cybercom)4797    Question. In September 2023, DOD released its 2023 Cyber Strategy.4798The strategy charges DOD to persistently engage malicious cyber actors4799and other malign threats to U.S. interests in cyberspace.4800    What role do you envision for DOD and the Cyber Mission Force in4801defending the Nation from an attack in cyberspace? In what ways is this4802role distinct from those of the Homeland security and law enforcement4803communities?4804    Answer. The Department's role in defending the Nation from an4805attack in cyberspace continues to evolve. DOD partners with the4806Department of Homeland Security and other Federal, State and local law4807enforcement agencies in protecting against and responding to cyber-4808attacks against the Nation and its critical infrastructure. The Cyber4809Mission Force is primarily charged with defending forward, conducting4810defensive cyber operations abroad, while DHS and law enforcement work4811directly with organizations at home.4812    The Joint Force is uniquely suited to integrating actions in4813multiple domains in defense of the DOD Information Network (DODIN) to4814compete now and prepare for escalation. Since cyber knows no borders,4815we must partner with our interagency partners and law enforcement to4816address the entire spectrum of cyberspace challenges.4817    While agencies like DHS and the FBI focus on civilian4818infrastructure and criminal investigations, the DOD and CMF's priority4819is defending against cyber threats with strategic or military4820implications. This includes global power projection, nuclear command4821and control, and support to DHS's CISA when responding to threats to4822the Defense Industrial Base. Effective national cybersecurity demands4823close collaboration between DOD and other entities. As an example, in4824January 2025, the DOD and DHS signed an Annex to the 2017 DOD-DHS4825Memorandum of Agreement on Cybersecurity and Cyberspace Operations. The4826Annex establishes a framework for the Coast Guard Cyber Command to4827present United States Coast Guard cyber forces to the CMF under4828USCYBERCOM, which will further bolster CMF readiness and capabilities.4829It also provides a process for USCYBERCOM to present forces to the4830Coast Guard.4831    Question. How will ``defend forward'' and ``persistent engagement''4832concepts deter and disrupt Russia and China in cyberspace?4833    Answer. The DOD uses ``defend forward'' to disrupt malicious cyber4834activity at its source and ``persistent engagement'' to intercept and4835halt cyber threats, degrade the capabilities and networks of4836adversaries, and continuously strengthen the cybersecurity of DOD4837networks and missions. This occurs both geographically (beyond DOD4838networks and into the networks of our Allies and partners) and4839temporally (ahead of potential adversary exploitation) to enable4840resilience in both domestic and foreign partner networks. For example,4841U.S. CYBERCOM hunt forward missions in the SOUTHCOM area of4842responsibility have discovered CCP malware on multiple foreign partner4843networks.4844    Question. If confirmed, what role should DOD and the Cyber Mission4845Force have in combating foreign influence operations, especially those4846conducted via social media?4847    Answer. If confirmed, I will examine the role the Cyber Mission4848Force plays alongside our interagency partners to combat foreign4849influence on our shores. While our domestic authority is rightly4850limited, our foreign intelligence enterprise helps ascertain sources4851and objectives of foreign influence operations and can contribute to4852designing persistent approaches to counter these operations at their4853source.4854    Question. What role should DOD and the Cyber Mission Force have in4855anticipating, preventing, or responding to attacks on U.S. commercial4856entities?4857    Answer. The DOD will partner with DHS, DOJ, and other entities to4858help defend U.S. key interests--especially where those entities4859underpin military operations. Cooperatively streamlining industry4860information sharing and seamlessly cooperating with interagency4861partners will enable us to predict, present, or, when necessary, speed4862the response of the most appropriate government agency.4863    Question. Do you believe that the National Security Agency and U.S.4864Cyber Command should be dual-hatted? What are the ``pros'' and ``cons''4865of this arrangement, in your view? Please explain your answer.4866    Answer. Yes, I believe that the Commander, USCYBERCOM and Director,4867NSA should be filled by the same person. The 2022 ``Joint Study on the4868Dual-Hat'' recommended the dual-hat arrangement not only be maintained4869but strengthened. I continue to agree with the findings of that study.4870The Dual-Hat arrangement provides the ability to look across both4871organizations and has empowered both USCYBERCOM and NSA to fulfill4872their missions better than each could do alone. It promotes agility and4873enables intelligence to be operationalized rapidly. It also facilitates4874relationships with key foreign allies and partners in part because the4875corresponding foreign organizations with signals intelligence (SIGINT)4876and cyber operations missions are fully integrated, operating under a4877Dual-Hat leadership structure. The span of control, does however, place4878a burden on one leader.4879    Question. If confirmed, what specific measures would you take to4880improve cybersecurity culture across the DOD workforce? How would you4881empower and hold key leaders accountable for improvements in DOD4882cybersecurity?4883    Answer. If confirmed, I am committed to taking action to foster a4884culture of cybersecurity and cyber awareness across the various levels4885of professional military and civilian education. Every member of the4886Joint Force, to include General Officer and Senior Executive Service4887leadership, must understand their role in cybersecurity and protecting4888DOD networks.4889    Question. In your opinion, what characteristics of a cyberattack4890would constitute an ``act of war''? Do you consider the recent breaches4891in telecommunications infrastructure involving Salt Typhoon to be an4892``act of war'' or an espionage operation that falls within de facto4893norms? In your view, does the nature and scope of this intrusion4894operation merit a strong and tangible response? Please explain your4895answer.4896    Answer. A holistic and interagency response is vital to any4897provocation, including in the cyber domain. The following should be4898considered when examining the aspects of a cyberattack: Scale and4899Impact; Intention to Cause Physical Harm or Damage; Targeting of4900civilian populations; State Actor Involvement; and Military Objectives.4901If confirmed, I will review the classified details and provide my4902recommendations to the President and Secretary of Defense.4903    Question. What do you conclude from cyber-attacks carried out by4904Volt Typhoon and Salt Typhoon about the State of our cyber defenses?4905    Answer. To the extent that cyber actors affiliated with the CCP can4906compromise U.S. networks, it is certainly a national security concern4907and suggest that the U.S. needs to invest in hardening its critical IT4908infrastructure. This should be a combination of private and public4909investment, and such investment should stand alongside public and4910private partnerships to identify and defend portions of infrastructure4911that the DOD deems critical to our national interest.4912    Question. Based on your experience, what do you see as areas where4913the structure and training of the Cyber Mission Force should evolve to4914meet emerging cyber threats?4915    Answer. The CMF structure is largely unchanged since its inception4916over a decade ago. The commander of United States Cyber Command needs4917to have the latitude to structure and restructure the force to address4918rapidly evolving challenges, and to develop and promulgate training4919that will maximize the competence and capability of cyber operators4920both inside and outside the CMF. The Department is working rapidly4921toward those ends with the CYBERCOM 2.0 initiative, which emphasizes4922managing cyber talent and use of emerging technology like Artificial4923Intelligence. The CMF will benefit greatly from better access to, and4924assistance from, top technical talent at civilian technology companies,4925while continuing to leverage Reserve component expertise.4926    Question. In your view, are there elements missing from our current4927approach for offensive and defensive cyber operations that you would4928recommend we pursue?4929    Answer. If confirmed, I will review CYBERCOM 2.0 to ensure we are4930on an upward trajectory and will continue pursuing mastery at scale to4931counter maneuvering adversaries and a rapidly changing threat4932landscape.4933    Question. How would you characterize our deterrent posture when it4934comes to cyber effects?4935    Answer. Through partnerships, information sharing, and persistent4936engagement, we may impose enough costs on our adversaries forcing them4937to relook their strategic calculus in creating cyber effects against4938key U.S. interests. To deter our adversaries from using cyber effects4939against the U.S., a whole of government approach is needed,4940incorporating all elements of national power.4941                 u.s. transportation command (transcom)4942    Question. In your view, what is the role of TRANSCOM in supporting4943implementation of the 2022 National Defense Strategy?4944    Answer. The priorities outlined in the National Defense Strategy,4945whether defending the Homeland, deterring attacks on the United States4946and partners, or deterring aggression do not happen without USTRANSCOM4947providing strategic flexibility through globally integrated operations.4948The TRANSCOM infrastructure is an area of American exclusivity. No4949other nation in the world can do the things we do on a daily basis.4950    USTRANSCOM ensures rapid response anywhere in the world by4951conducting globally integrated mobility operations, leading the Unified4952Command Plan (UCP)-directed Joint Deployment and Distribution4953Enterprise, and providing the capabilities to project and sustain the4954Joint Force in support of National Objectives. Additionally,4955USTRANSCOM's role as the Single Manager for Global Bulk Fuel Management4956and Delivery drives synchronization across the Joint Petroleum4957Enterprise (JPE) for posture, planning, execution, and capabilities in4958support of combatant command requirements and national security4959objectives.4960    With respect to the 2025 Interim National Defense Strategic4961Guidance, as the leader of the Joint Deployment and Distribution4962Enterprise, USTRANSCOM projects, maneuvers, and sustains military power4963at a time and place of choice. This gives the President and Secretary4964of Defense options that are lethal, resilient, sustainable, survivable,4965agile, and ready to defeat any adversary. This enterprise is critical4966to the re-alignment of Joint Force priorities and essential to4967deterring adversaries across the globe.4968    Question. What is your understanding of how TRANSCOM balances both4969organic and privately owned sealift equities to support the National4970Defense Strategy?4971    Answer. USTRANSCOM follows direction contained in the National4972Security Directive on Sealift (NSD 28) which states, ``The U.S.-owned4973commercial ocean carrier industry, to the extent it is capable, will be4974relied upon to provide sealift in peace, crisis, and war. This4975capability will be augmented during crisis and war by reserve fleets4976comprised of ships with national defense features that are not4977available in sufficient numbers or types in the active U.S.-owned4978commercial industry.'' For commercial sealift, USTRANSCOM relies on the4979authorities of the Department of Transportation (DoT) to expand civil4980transportation through voluntary programs under the Defense Production4981Act.4982    Two Emergency Preparedness Programs, the Voluntary Intermodal4983Sealift Agreement (VISA) and the Voluntary Tanker Agreement (VTA)4984provide DOD a coordinated, seamless transition from peacetime to4985wartime by providing assured access to U.S. commercial dry cargo and4986bulk fuel cargo sealift capacity. Within VISA, the Maritime Security4987Program (MSP) and within VTA, the Tanker Security Program (TSP) provide4988fleets of active, commercially viable, militarily useful, privately4989owned vessels to meet national defense and other security requirements4990and maintain a United States presence in international commercial4991shipping.4992    For organic sealift, USTRANSCOM relies on the Maritime4993Administration's (MARAD) Ready Reserve Force (RRF), a subset of the4994National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF). The RRF consists of 52 vessels,4995including forty-six (46) Roll-on/Roll-off (RO/RO) vessels which provide4996DOD the ability to surge a sizable land force from the continental4997United States to any point of need. The RRF also contains four (4)4998Auxiliary Crane Ships which provide in-stream and austere delivery4999capabilities and two (2) USMC Aviation Maintenance ships.5000                u.s. special operations command (socom)5001    Question. In your view, what is the appropriate role of U.S.5002Special Operations Forces in supporting the implementation of the Joint5003Warfighting Concept, the Joint Concept for Competing, and the National5004Defense Strategy?5005    Answer. Special Operations Forces support the national security5006objectives of preserving strategic focus; preventing great power5007conflict; and preparing the environment for the Joint Force to prevail5008in conflict if deterrence fails. Special Operations Forces are the5009premier global counterterrorism forces charged with defending the5010Homeland. Special Operations Forces also play a critical role in global5011crisis response and securing the safety of American citizens abroad5012when in extremis situations occur.5013    Question. Beginning in fiscal year 2017, successive NDAAs have5014empowered the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and5015Low Intensity Conflict (ASD(SOLIC)) to serve as a ``service secretary-5016like'' civilian official for special operations forces. Among other5017reforms, the law defines the administrative chain of command for SOCOM5018as running through the ASD(SOLIC) to the Secretary of Defense for5019issues impacting the readiness and organization of special operations5020forces.5021    What is your understanding of the Department's progress in5022implementing the ``service secretary-like'' responsibilities of the5023ASD(SOLIC)?5024    Answer. The Department has been making excellent progress in5025implementing the service secretary-like responsibilities of ASD(SO/LIC)5026for issues impacting the readiness and organization of special5027operations forces, resources, equipment, and civilian personnel. The5028ASD(SO/LIC) fills a critical role in coordinating with Congress and in5029advocating on behalf of the Special Operations enterprise in areas5030related to budget, training, and modernization.5031    Question. If confirmed, would you commit to fully implementing5032these reforms?5033    Answer. Yes.5034Irregular Warfare5035    Question. Section 1091 of the National Defense Authorization Act5036for Fiscal Year 2024 expresses the Sense of the Congress that the5037Secretary of Defense has the authority to conduct irregular warfare5038operations, including clandestine irregular warfare operations, to5039defend the United States, allies of the United States, and interests of5040the United States, when such operations have been appropriately5041authorized.5042    What is your understanding of the inherent authority of the5043Secretary of Defense to conduct irregular warfare operations?5044    Answer. Irregular warfare is a critical tool for the Department to5045campaign across the spectrum of conflict, enhance interoperability and5046access, and disrupt competitor warfighting advantages while enhancing5047our own. As the Department pivots to face the difficult realities of5048today's strategic environment, it must elevate and expand its use of5049irregular warfare approaches and tools.5050    Specifically, with regard to the Secretary of Defense's inherent5051authority to conduct irregular warfare, there are some very important5052tools at the Department's disposal, such as USC 10 127d, 127e and 127f.5053However, given the complexity of the current operating environment, if5054confirmed, I will work to ensure the Departments Irregular Warfare5055authorities and supporting processes allow the scope, speed and agility5056required.5057    Question. What is your understanding of the role of irregular5058warfare in supporting Department of Defense strategy and operations?5059    Answer. Irregular Warfare is a form of warfare where State and non-5060State actors campaign to assure or coerce states or other groups5061through indirect, non-attributable or asymmetric activities.5062    Irregular warfare offers a range of military activities that allow5063the U.S. to compete with adversaries below the threshold of armed5064conflict to maximize American influence abroad, illuminate malign5065activity, deter adversaries from actions most detrimental to our5066national security and disruptive to the international order, and shape5067the environment in ways necessary to prevail in conflict, should5068deterrence fail.5069    Question. Is the Department of Defense appropriately organized and5070resourced to effectively operate in the irregular warfare domain? What5071changes, if any, would you recommend?5072    Answer. Absent an institutionalized approach to irregular warfare,5073the DOD will remain underprepared for the enduring requirements of5074irregular war, and not postured to employ irregular warfare5075capabilities proactively to compete, deter, and win across the spectrum5076of competition and conflict. The Joint Force continues to5077institutionalize irregular warfare as a core competency. However,5078irregular warfare campaigning against State adversaries requires a5079whole of government approach and the DOD has room to improve5080interagency planning, coordination, and synchronization in the5081irregular warfare space against peer and near peer adversaries. There5082are solid lessons to be learned from how the Department worked with the5083interagency in the counterterrorism space during the Global War on5084Terror.5085Authorities5086    Question. Section 127e of title 10, U.S. Code, authorizes U.S.5087special operations forces to provide support (including training,5088funding, and equipment) to regular forces, irregular forces, and5089individuals supporting or facilitating military operations for the5090purpose of combatting terrorism. Section 127d of title 10, U.S. Code,5091authorizes U.S. special operations forces to provide similar support to5092forces or individuals supporting or facilitating irregular warfare5093operations.5094    What is your assessment of the national security utility of each of5095these authorities in the current strategic environment?5096    Answer. Those authorities allow the Department to conduct5097counterterrorism or irregular warfare activities by, with, and through5098foreign forces, irregular forces, groups, or individuals since they5099often have access and placement to adversary operating areas that U.S.5100forces lack. DOD expends funds to support partner forces as they in5101turn lend their support to achieving the objectives of the United5102States' military. By expending relatively small amounts of funding,5103combined with advice and assistance from U.S. military forces, the5104Department use these local forces to protect the U.S. Homeland and5105Americans abroad by maintaining continuous pressure on strategic5106competitors and terrorists.5107    Question. If confirmed, what criteria would you apply to the5108evaluation of proposals for the use of each of these authorities, with5109a view to mitigating the risks associated with the conduct of5110counterterrorism and irregular warfare activities below the level of5111traditional armed conflict?5112    Answer. If confirmed, I would confirm partners are trustworthy and5113reliable, using SOCOMs proven screening and vetting standards and5114processes. Choosing the right partners is the best way to ensure5115compliance with Law of Armed Conflict principles, proper expenditure of5116funds, and accountability of defense articles.5117                   u.s. strategic command (stratcom)5118Nuclear Policy5119    Question. United States nuclear forces are the bedrock of our5120Nation's defense, underpin our most critical alliances, and have5121deterred nuclear aggression and great power conflict for more than 705122years. Unfortunately, long deferred investments have left us with5123systems nearing the end of their useful lives. These capabilities must5124be updated to maintain a viable nuclear deterrent.5125    Do you agree with Secretary Hegseth and past Secretaries of Defense5126that nuclear deterrence is DOD's highest priority mission and that5127modernizing our Nation's nuclear forces is a critical national security5128priority?5129    Answer. Yes. The U.S. nuclear triad, consisting of land-based5130intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), nuclear-capable bombers,5131and ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), remains the backbone of the5132Nation's strategic deterrent. It should remain DOD's top priority5133mission to ensure we retain a modern, capable, and effective nuclear5134deterrent.5135    Question. What is your understanding of how Russia, China, and5136North Korea have expanded and/or modernized their nuclear force5137capabilities? In your view, do these capabilities pose an increasing5138threat to the United States and its allies?5139    Answer. Over the next decade, China likely will continue to rapidly5140modernize, diversify, and expand its nuclear forces. The PLA seeks a5141larger and more diverse nuclear force, comprised of systems ranging5142from low-yield precision strike missiles to ICBMs with multi-megaton5143yields to provide it options at every rung of the escalation ladder.5144DOD estimates China has surpassed 600 operational nuclear warheads in5145its stockpile as of 2024.5146    Russia is nearing the completion of the current round of5147modernization of its strategic nuclear forces, and has successfully5148introduced new ICBMs, ballistic missile submarines, and long-range5149ALCMs. Russia is adding new military capabilities to its large5150stockpile of nonstrategic nuclear weapons (NSNWs), including those5151employable by ships, aircraft, and ground forces. Russia holds the5152largest foreign nuclear stockpile in the world and maintains5153approximately 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads on ICBMs, SLBMs, and5154long-range heavy bombers. Moscow also retains roughly 2,000 NSNW to5155include ASMs, SRBMs, gravity bombs, torpedoes, anti-ship, anti-5156submarine, and anti-aircraft missiles.5157    Under Kim Jong-un, the DPRK has improved its ability to hold the5158U.S. and its allies at risk with its missile and nuclear capabilities.5159In 2021, KJU announced a 5-year defense development plan, which5160included improving its ballistic missile capabilities and developing5161new nuclear warheads. Pyongyang has also vowed to ``exponentially5162increase'' Pyongyang's nuclear weapons stockpile. The DPRK has made5163notable progress on missile-related goals, such as testing claimed5164solid-propellant ICBM and hypersonic systems and unveiling a new5165``tactical'' nuclear warhead. During some of its missile testing, the5166DPRK has also claimed to simulate tactical nuclear exercises.5167Pyongyang's cooperation with Moscow may also provide opportunities for5168the DPRK to advance its missile capabilities, as the DPRK has provided5169ballistic missiles to Russia that have been employed against Ukraine--5170the first time these DPRK systems have been used in combat.5171    Question. Do you believe our current deterrence policy and force5172structure effectively accounts for two near peer nuclear competitors?5173If not, do you believe the U.S. will require additional capabilities, a5174numerically larger force than exists today, or a combination of both?5175    Answer. I am aware of the findings of the recent bipartisan5176Strategic Posture Commission that our nuclear forces are necessary, but5177not sufficient. The threat continues to grow while our weapons have5178remained largely static for decades. While I have confidence in the5179lethality of the Joint Force, it is incumbent on the Department to5180understand options, which includes potential for new capabilities and/5181or a larger force. If confirmed, I will assess the current deterrence5182policy and force posture and work with the professionals across the5183Department to ensure we can adequately deter two nuclear peers in the5184future.5185    Question. What is your understanding of the role of nuclear weapons5186and the importance of nuclear deterrence to U.S. national security and5187the defense of allies?5188    Answer. Our nuclear forces undergird all our defense priorities,5189and it remains indispensable to our national security. In a dynamic5190security environment, a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent5191underpins our broader U.S. defense strategy and the extended deterrence5192commitments we have made to allies and partners.5193    Question. What are your views on deterrence now that the United5194States is facing the prospect of simultaneously deterring two nuclear-5195armed peer competitors in Russia and China?5196    Answer. We are facing increasing nuclear competition with Russia5197and the pace and scope of China's nuclear expansion will present new5198strategic dilemmas requiring increased focus on the DOD's ability to5199modernize our strategic deterrence capability. This starts with5200maintaining credible and effective U.S. nuclear forces as the bedrock5201of our deterrence against potential aggression from both Russia and5202China. Not only must the United States aggressively modernize its5203nuclear capability, but we must pursue initiatives like the President's5204Golden Dome Executive Order to render any act of aggression against the5205Unites States Homeland ineffective.5206    Question. What is your understanding of how Russia and China have5207expanded and modernized their nuclear force capabilities?5208    Answer. Over the next decade, China is likely to continue to5209rapidly modernize, diversify, and expand its nuclear forces. The PLA5210seeks a larger and more diverse nuclear force, comprised of systems5211ranging from low-yield precision strike missiles to ICBMs with multi-5212megaton yields to provide it options at every rung of the escalation5213ladder. DOD estimates China has surpassed 600 operational nuclear5214warheads in its stockpile as of 2024.5215    Russia is nearing the completion of the current round of5216modernization of its strategic nuclear forces, and has successfully5217introduced new ICBMs, ballistic missile submarines, and long-range5218ALCMs. Russia is adding new military capabilities to its large5219stockpile of nonstrategic nuclear weapons (NSNWs), including those5220employable by ships, aircraft, and ground forces. Russia holds the5221largest foreign nuclear stockpile in the world and maintains5222approximately 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads on ICBMs, SLBMs, and5223long-range heavy bombers. Moscow also retains roughly 2,000 NSNW to5224include ASMs, SRBMs, gravity bombs, torpedoes, anti-ship, anti-5225submarine, and anti-aircraft missiles.5226    Question. In your view, do these capabilities pose an increasing5227threat to the United States and its allies?5228    Answer. China probably is developing advanced nuclear delivery5229systems, in part due to long-term concerns about U.S. missile defense5230capabilities. The PLA's expanding nuclear force will enable it to5231target more U.S. cities, military facilities, and leadership sites than5232ever before in a potential a nuclear conflict. Additionally, the5233PLAAF's H-6N bomber, when armed with a nuclear-capable ALBM, likely can5234conduct nuclear precision strikes against targets in the Indo-Pacific5235theater.5236    Moscow will continue to emphasize nuclear weapons in its national5237strategy, while building new delivery systems and modernizing its5238nuclear stockpile, primarily by replacing Soviet-legacy non-strategic5239nuclear weapons with new weapons and new capabilities. The escalation5240of conflict with Ukraine and Russia's suspension of the New START5241Treaty represents two key areas of continuing risk.5242    Question. Do you believe Russia has or is willing to employ nuclear5243coercion as a means of advancing its military and foreign policy goals?5244    Answer. I have no reason to doubt Moscow has employed nuclear5245coercion including nuclear exercises, senior leader statements on5246Russia's nuclear capabilities and use calculus, and participation in5247strategic arms control agreements to respond to perceived Western5248aggression and deter future Western activity Moscow assesses is counter5249to Russian interests. For example, since 2022, Russia has updated its5250public nuclear doctrine to expand nuclear use cases, deployed some non-5251strategic nuclear weapons (NSNW) to Belarus, de-ratified the5252Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, and conducted its first-ever NSNW5253exercise with Belarusian forces. During the same time, Moscow5254repeatedly warned the West about crossing Russian ``red lines'', for5255example by providing advanced weapons to Ukraine, and emphasized Russia5256retained the right and capability to use nuclear forces to defend5257against a Western attack.5258    Question. Do you agree with DOD's assessment that China intends to5259double or triple the size of its nuclear arsenal over the next decade?5260    Answer. DoD estimates China has surpassed 600 operational nuclear5261warheads in its stockpile as of 2024 and will have over 1,0005262operational nuclear warheads by 2030, much of which will be deployed at5263higher readiness levels. I expect China to continue growing its force5264through 2035 in line with its goal of ensuring PLA modernization is5265``basically complete'' that year, an important milestone on the road to5266Xi's goal of a ``world class'' military by 2049.5267    Question. Do you believe that as China completes its build out of a5268triad of delivery platforms it will adhere to the full meaning of ``no5269first use''?5270    Answer. The PRC has long maintained a ``no first use'' policy.5271However, that it has we have repeatedly called on China to explain how5272its NFU nuclear doctrine is consistent with its non-transparent but5273well-documented, rapid nuclear arsenal buildup. China has refused to5274seriously engage on these questions bilaterally, through the P5, or in5275multilateral disarmament fora. Absent answers to these concrete5276questions, we must conclude that China's rhetorical, unverifiable NFU5277policy is not credible.5278    Question. Do you believe U.S. extended nuclear deterrence5279assurances are effective in reassuring allies that they do not need to5280pursue their own nuclear arsenals to ensure their national security?5281    Answer. I recognize our allies' concerns about adversary nuclear5282threats and attempts to weaken our alliances for their own strategic5283advantages. I believe we should make every effort to reinforce our5284extended deterrence commitments, and that these commitments enhance the5285safety and security of the American people. Furthermore, our extended5286deterrence contributes to nuclear nonproliferation.5287    Question. Do you believe that the risk of nuclear proliferation5288will increase if U.S. allies lose confidence in our extended nuclear5289deterrence assurances?5290    Answer. It is imperative that we maintain allied confidence in our5291nuclear umbrella both to assure our allies and to dissuade adversaries5292from attempting to coerce our partners around the globe.5293    Question. What is your understanding of the State of U.S. nuclear5294forces, its global nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3)5295architecture, and the supporting weapons sustainment and production5296capabilities within the National Nuclear Security Administration?5297    Answer. Although our nuclear forces and existing NC3 architecture5298are safe, secure, and effective today, we have greatly exceeded their5299intended design life, and they are showing their age. Deferred5300modernization has removed margin and there is no longer room for delay.5301This is further challenged by atrophy in both the DOD industrial base5302for nuclear delivery platforms and National Nuclear Security5303Administration production capabilities and infrastructure.5304    Question. Do you agree that modernizing each leg of the nuclear5305triad and the Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear weapons complex is a5306critical national security priority?5307    Answer. Yes. The three legs of the triad each serve an important5308and distinct purpose and offer unique but mutually reinforcing5309attributes. All three legs are needed to preserve deterrence in the5310face of growing adversarial threats.5311    Question. Do you believe the current program of record is5312sufficient to support the full modernization of the nuclear triad,5313including delivery systems, warheads, and infrastructure?5314    Answer. The current United States nuclear force was designed in a5315different security environment. I understand the Strategic Posture5316Commission concluded that the current program of record is necessary5317but not sufficient. If confirmed, I intend to consult with key5318Department stakeholders to assess the risks, implications, and benefits5319of pursuing additional capabilities to address any modernization5320insufficiency and ensure our nuclear deterrence remains credible and5321effective.5322    Question. Senior Service leaders and several Combatant Commanders5323have stated that they support the continued development of a nuclear-5324armed sea-launched cruise missile as a means of addressing Russia's5325advantages in theater-range nuclear weapons, managing escalation in a5326potential conflict with China, and enhancing assurance to U.S. allies.5327Do you agree with these views?5328    Answer. Yes. A nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile (SLCM-N)5329is one capability that will help address regional deterrence challenges5330in the face of China and Russia's rapid theater nuclear force5331modernization, while assuring allies and partners. Additionally, I5332believe it is important to work within the Joint Staff and Interagency5333to assess other supplemental theater nuclear options as suggested by5334the 2023 Strategic Posture Commission.5335    Question. What are your ideas for working across the Joint Force to5336mitigate the risk that all three legs of the nuclear triad will ``age5337out'' simultaneously at the end of the 2020's?5338    Answer. The Department must implement a risk-management strategy to5339identify, prioritize, and recommend actions across the portfolio of5340nuclear programs. This is essential for maintaining the overall health5341of the nuclear deterrent as the DOD sustains current capabilities and5342transition to modernized systems.5343    Question. Successive Nuclear Posture Reviews have concluded that5344the adoption of a nuclear ``No First Use'' (NFU) or Sole policy by the5345United States is not advisable.5346    Do you believe a NFU policy would be appropriate for the United5347States, and what do you believe would be the implications of such a5348policy on the credibility of U.S. extended deterrence commitments to5349our allies?5350    Answer. I do not support a nuclear ``No First Use'' or ``Sole5351Purpose'' policy for the United States. I believe such a policy would5352result in an unacceptable level of risk.5353    Question. The NNSA is responsible for maintaining the Nation's5354nuclear weapons stockpile and meeting military requirements for nuclear5355weapons, which are established through the interagency NWC. NNSA's5356principal challenge over the next 20 years is to rebuild the cold war-5357era U.S. nuclear weapons infrastructure into a responsive and resilient5358enterprise.5359    Do you support the recapitalization of the NNSA's capabilities to5360design, manufacture, and sustain an effective nuclear weapons5361stockpile?5362    Answer. Yes. Recapitalization is necessary to ensure delivery of5363the program of record and sustain an effective force into the future.5364    Question. Do you support continued collaboration with the United5365Kingdom in the maintenance of its independent nuclear deterrent?5366    Answer. Yes. Our collaboration with the UK is mutually beneficial5367and serves U.S. nuclear interests.5368    Question. In your view, does the Stockpile Stewardship Program5369provide the tools necessary to ensure the safety and reliability of the5370nuclear weapons stockpile without testing? If not, what tools are5371needed?5372    Answer. Yes, the rigorous Stockpile Stewardship Program has5373developed the computational and experimental tools needed to certify5374the current stockpile without the need for full-scale nuclear weapons5375testing. Continued support for the National Laboratories is crucial for5376the viability of the Stockpile Stewardship mission.5377    Question. Do you perceive utility in the work of the Council on5378Oversight of the National Leadership Command, Control, and5379Communications System? Please explain your answer.5380    Answer. Yes, there is utility in the work of the Council and its5381various governance forums. The establishment of the Council ensures5382oversight of a diverse and complicated system of systems. The utility5383lies in unifying efforts across the Department for sustaining and5384modernizing NC3, senior leader communications, nuclear command and5385control, and continuity of government communications.5386Arms Control5387    Question. What are your views of the New START Treaty, taking into5388account Russia's recent actions to suspend participation in the Treaty?5389    Answer. I understand that Russia remains in violation of its5390obligations under the New START Treaty as a result of its suspension.5391As a result, both sides have ceased implementation of the New START5392Treaty's verification mechanisms, and the United States is unable to5393confirm that Russia is abiding by all the Treaty's limits.5394    Question. What do you see as the major challenges for negotiating5395future treaties with Russia and China, and would you support U.S.5396participation in such a negotiation?5397    Answer. I support diplomacy that contributes to national security,5398particularly any efforts toward an agreement capturing the full scope5399of Russia and China's nuclear capabilities. Most importantly, our5400national security depends on verifiable agreements.5401    Question. What are your views on the asymmetry in the number of5402non-strategic weapons between Russia and the United States and should5403they be accounted for in any follow-on treaty?5404    Answer. I am concerned by Russia's approximately 2,000 non-5405strategic nuclear weapons that are not numerically constrained by any5406arms control treaty. Future arms control engagements with Moscow, if5407they are initiated, should take these forces into careful and serious5408account.5409    Question. What are your views of missile defense and nuclear arms5410control with either Russia or China?5411    Answer. The increasing capabilities of peer and near-peer nuclear5412states demonstrates the importance of the President's Golden Dome5413initiative. As important and if not more so, the United States will5414continue to rely on strategic deterrence--underwritten by a safe,5415secure, and effective nuclear arsenal--to address and deter large5416intercontinental range, nuclear capable missile threats to the Homeland5417from Russia and China.5418    Question. In your assessment, how would delaying or canceling5419current nuclear modernization plans and programs affect our arms5420control negotiation leverage with near-peer and peer competitors?5421    Answer. Delaying or canceling current nuclear modernization plans5422and programs on a unilateral basis would reduce our strategic5423deterrence and arms control leverage with Russia and China.5424    Question. What do you see as the major challenges for any nuclear5425risk reduction or arms control negotiations with China?5426    Answer. China continues to deny its nuclear buildup and reject5427calls for even modest nuclear risk reduction measures. China needs to5428be more transparent about its nuclear forces. Any agreement with China5429must first enhance U.S. national security and second be verifiable.5430Missile Defense5431    Question. The United States enjoys a measure of protection against5432ballistic missile threats from rogue nations like North Korea and Iran,5433but the threat from Russian and Chinese ballistic, cruise, and5434hypersonic missiles against U.S. forces, allies, and the U.S. Homeland5435continues to grow. However, in an executive order, the President has5436directed the development of a comprehensive national missile defense5437architecture to counter all types of missile threats.5438    What are your views on the relationship between missile defense and5439nuclear deterrence?5440    Answer. U.S. nuclear weapons undergird all defense priorities:5441deterring nuclear and non-nuclear strategic attack, assuring our allies5442and partners, and enabling achievement of Presidential objectives if5443deterrence fails. We rely on a whole-of-government effort to defeat5444missile technology of all adversaries while raising the threshold of5445escalation by maintaining a credible kinetic defense. A comprehensive5446missile defeat and the U.S. nuclear arsenal are complementary and5447mutually reinforcing, they are essential for deterring an attack5448against the U.S. or our Allies and partners.5449    Question. If confirmed as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,5450what would be your priorities for U.S. missile defense capabilities for5451the Homeland?5452    Answer. If confirmed, my priorities would be aligned with those set5453by the President's Golden Dome Executive Order. My priority is to5454ensure the deployment of a next-generation missile shield to provide5455for the common defense of our citizens and the Nation. Protecting the5456Homeland from an adversary ICBM attack, the Ground-Based Midcourse-5457Defense system contributes directly to the U.S. deterrent strategies5458for rouge State ICBM threats to the Homeland and would defend against5459an ICBM attack. My second priority is to deter--and defend our citizens5460and critical infrastructure against--any foreign aerial attack on the5461Homeland leveraging modern and future missile defense technology5462combined with a robust proliferated space-based architecture that5463provides early warning and missile tracking.5464    Question. Do you believe the U.S. ground-based interceptor fleet is5465appropriately sized to address potential ICBM threats from North Korea5466or other rogue nations?5467    Answer. I understand the current fleet of Ground-based Interceptors5468(GBIs) is adequate against the existing North Korean threat, and our5469planned upgrade to the Next Generation Interceptor and modest increase5470to the number of interceptors in the fleet is currently sufficient to5471defeat a limited attack. If confirmed, I will support continuing annual5472reviews to assess any required changes to U.S. Homeland missile defense5473systems.5474    Question. In your view, do you believe missile defense policy5475should be limited to countering only rogue nations, such as North Korea5476and Iran?5477    Answer. I support the Administration's Golden Dome Executive Order5478which states that the United States will develop missile defenses5479against aerial attacks against the Homeland by peer, near-peer, and5480rogue adversaries.5481    Question. If so, what role do you believe integrated air and5482missile defenses should play in defending limited areas and defeating5483smaller scale cruise or hypersonic glide missile attacks by larger5484threats, such as Russia and China?5485    Answer. Integrated air and missile defense of the Homeland is vital5486to our resiliency at home and to our ability to project power abroad.5487The Joint Staff, Office of the Secretary of Defense, and NORTHCOM have5488been working on a comprehensive plan to strengthen our Homeland defense5489against air and missile threats in the continental United States,5490Hawaii, Alaska, and Guam. If confirmed, I will support development of5491active and passive defenses against regional hypersonic missile threats5492and pursue a persistent and resilient sensor network to track all5493hypersonic threats, improve attribution, and enable engagement.5494    Question. Do you support the Next Generation Interceptor?5495    Answer. I support improving the capability and reliability of the5496Ground-based Midcourse Defense system, which currently includes5497development of the Next Generation Interceptor to augment and5498potentially replace the existing Ground-Based Interceptors.5499    Question. Do you support the Next Generation Interceptor eventually5500replacing the existing 44 ground based interceptors?5501    Answer. I support improving the capability and reliability of the5502Ground-based Midcourse Defense system, which currently includes5503development of the Next Generation Interceptor to augment and5504potentially replace the existing Ground-Based Interceptors.5505    Question. What are your views on the advisability of building a5506second Homeland missile defense site on the eastern coast of the United5507States?5508    Answer. If confirmed, I commit to evaluating this requirement and5509providing my recommendations to the SecDef and POTUS.5510    Question. What is your understanding of U.S. capabilities for5511defending against maneuvering hypersonic glide vehicles?5512    Answer. Maneuvering missiles, such as hypersonic glide vehicles5513(HGV), present a challenge to existing defensive systems because they5514can travel on unpredictable flight paths at low altitudes making them5515difficult to track using standard terrestrial radar systems. If5516confirmed, I will continue to seek out kinetic and non-kinetic5517solutions to defeat hypersonic threats that create cost imposition for5518adversaries.5519    Question. The Missile Defense Agency has previously indicated that5520the Glide Phase Interceptor program for hypersonic defense would not5521reach initial operational capability until after 2035. Do you believe5522this timeline is sufficient to meet current and anticipated hypersonic5523threats?5524    Answer. No. If confirmed, I will evaluate this timeline and provide5525my recommendations to the SecDef and POTUS.5526    Question. Do you support a space-based sensor layer for improved5527tracking and targeting of advanced threats such as hypersonic missiles?5528    Answer. Yes. Space-based sensor layer investments continue to5529improve our ability to monitor launch sites and detect launches from5530locations almost anywhere on the globe. Coupled with new technologies5531for data processing at the edge of the network, AI/ML, and mesh5532communications capabilities, space-based sensors provide unique insight5533required to identify and respond within the short timelines necessary5534to defeat advanced threats such as hypersonic missiles.5535    Question. What are your views on the efficacy of boost-phase5536intercept and space-based intercept or directed energy programs?5537    Answer. I assess that the efficacy of boost-phase intercept, space-5538based intercept and directed energy programs is still an open question.5539While these concepts have great potential, if confirmed, I will explore5540how best resolve the challenges associated with developing and fielding5541these capabilities and provide my recommendations to the SecDef and5542POTUS.5543    Question. In your opinion, has DOD developed and implemented5544operational concepts, plans, and policies appropriate to the governance5545and utilization of such programs? What would you do to address this5546issue, if confirmed?5547    Answer. If confirmed, I will remain involved in operational5548discussions with senior Department leadership to ensure a thorough5549examination of these operational concepts, plans and policies, and5550their governance processes.5551    Question. The United States is currently developing a missile5552defense architecture to better support the protection of U.S. citizens5553and forces on Guam, however this effort has been plagued by uneven5554funding and an unclear management structure for aligning the various5555lines of effort. What is your understanding of the status of this5556effort, and its operational importance to the U.S. in the Western5557Pacific?5558    Answer. Guam is both an unequivocal part of the U.S. Homeland as5559well as a vital regional operational hub. The protection of this U.S.5560territory is critical to the U.S. National Defense Strategy. I am aware5561that the Department is focused on increasing its missile defense5562capabilities on the island as part of efforts to strengthen deterrence5563in the Indo-Pacific. If confirmed, I will continue to advocate for5564unity of effort and progress on the Guam Defense System.5565Electronic Warfare and Spectrum Operations5566    Question. Has DOD adequately integrated electronic warfare into its5567joint concepts and operational plans?5568    Answer. If confirmed, I will review the Department's integration of5569electronic warfare into joint concepts and operational plans.5570    Question. What major issues attend the United States' conduct of5571joint electronic warfare operations, especially at the relevant5572combatant commands?5573    Answer. The United States is facing a variety of challenges when5574considering joint EW operations, which begin with access to the5575spectrum itself. Additionally, the Department must balance investment5576in exquisite capabilities with investment in systems that are5577inexpensive and can be produced at scale. Other factors include5578leveraging artificial intelligence, deepening the Joint Force's5579knowledge through training and education on Electromagnetic Spectrum5580Operations, and working across the whole-of-government to evolve laws5581and regulations on the use of the EMSO internally and externally to the5582United States. DOD spectrum access is critical for EMSO to protect the5583Homeland and the military's ability to conduct its missions. Combatant5584commands need spectrum to increase lethality, restore deterrence, win5585wars, and achieve Presidential priorities, such as Golden Dome for5586America and Border Security.5587    Question. Do you support a Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum5588Operations Center at U.S. Strategic Command?5589    Answer. Capability to maintain advantage in the electromagnetic5590spectrum across the entire Joint Force will be necessary to win future5591wars. The Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Center (JEMSOC) at5592USSTRATCOM has filled a key gap in Joint Force capabilities by5593preparing the U.S. military for the complexities of the electromagnetic5594spectrum. The JEMSOC facilitates realistic joint training, equipping5595warfighters with the skills and knowledge to dominate this increasingly5596contested domain by centralizing expertise and resources. This5597centralized approach ensures consistent implementation of national EMS5598strategy and fosters a force ready to achieve electromagnetic5599superiority.5600    Question. Does the DOD adequately conduct joint Tier One exercises5601utilizing adversary level electronic warfare?5602    Answer. The Joint Force faces significant challenges in conducting5603effective Tier One exercises that accurately portray adversary5604electronic warfare capabilities. Current model and simulation5605capabilities used in these exercises are inadequate, relying on human5606modelers to subjectively assess and apply the effects of friendly and5607enemy electronic warfare on units in the simulation. The Joint Force's5608ability to operate effectively in the electromagnetic spectrum is5609crucial to deterring and winning future engagements, and it is5610essential that Tier One joint exercises prioritize this task. A recent5611study by the Office of the Secretary of Defense found the Department of5612Defense lacks access to adequate live, virtual, constructive or5613synthetic advanced threat systems and environments that can be easily5614integrated into existing training programs. This shortfall poses a5615significant risk to Joint Force readiness and its ability to operate in5616future engagements, highlighting the need for improved modeling and5617simulation capabilities and increased attention to training on5618electronic warfare.5619    Question. What is your opinion of training ranges for electronic5620warfare?5621    Answer. The current State of training ranges for electromagnetic5622warfare is inadequate. Despite some investments, these ranges have not5623kept pace with current technology or the threat environments in which5624we expect to fight. These ranges often fail to provide the necessary5625fidelity, capacity, and complexity required to prepare forces for5626modern electromagnetic warfare threats.5627    Question. Do you believe our systems are adequately protected from5628adversary electronic attack?5629    Answer. No. Against the most advanced adversaries, the Joint Force5630would likely face challenges protecting itself from electromagnetic5631attack. Two factors contribute to these challenges: 1) Over the past5632few decades, the Joint Force has lost some muscle memory defending5633against electromagnetic attack by conducting operations within a5634permissive electromagnetic spectrum. 2) Over the same period,5635operations within this spectrum have changed significantly while the5636most advanced adversaries have done their best to rapidly evolve. If5637confirmed, I am committed to ensuring that DOD continues to invest in5638training and additional capabilities in the electromagnetic spectrum.5639    Question. Does DOD have adequate simulation capability to5640experiment with and test joint electronic warfare concepts, in your5641view?5642    Answer. No. The DOD's simulation capabilities for electromagnetic5643warfare are insufficient. Although facilities like the Air Force5644Electronic Warfare Evaluation Simulator (AFEWES) and the Joint5645Simulation Environment (JSE) exist, they are not fully integrated with5646other systems and lack sufficient capacity to fully develop new joint5647electromagnetic warfare concepts. These gaps hamper the Joint Force's5648ability to experiment with and refine concepts in this area, leaving us5649vulnerable to emerging threats.5650    Question. Spectrum is a vital asset in the conduct of electronic5651warfare--what is your opinion on the DOD use of the S band for spectrum5652operations and potential impacts on its loss--please be specific in5653citing examples.5654    Answer. The S band (2-4 GHz) is a critical frequency range for5655various DOD systems, including radar, electromagnetic warfare (EW)5656systems. The DOD's use of the S band for spectrum operations is5657essential for maintaining operational advantage, and its loss or5658disruption could have significant impacts on military effectiveness5659affecting the defense of the Homeland from strategic and missile5660attack.5661    For example, the loss of S band spectrum could impact the5662performance of the Navy's Aegis Combat System, which relies on S band5663radar to detect and engage airborne targets. Similarly, the loss of S5664band spectrum could disrupt the operation of the Army's Patriot air5665defense system, which uses S band radar to detect and track incoming5666missiles. Furthermore, the loss of S band spectrum could also impact5667the DOD's ability to conduct electronic warfare operations, as many EW5668systems, such as the Navy's SLQ-32 and the Air Force's ALQ-211, rely on5669S band spectrum to detect and disrupt enemy radar and communication5670systems.5671                security cooperation and arms transfers5672    Question. If confirmed, what steps would you recommend, if any, to5673ensure that the Department of Defense is taking a strategic approach to5674its security cooperation with allies and partners?5675    Answer. Capable partners offer one of the strongest strategic5676offsets the U.S. can employ. Security cooperation--whether arms sales,5677training, or other forms of capacity building--enhance the partner's5678ability to handle security challenges before they reach the threshold5679of threating U.S. vital interests. But a partner's ability is only part5680of the calculus; their willingness to handle those challenges is5681equally, if not more, important. Because of this, security cooperation5682initiatives must focus on partners with shared interests that can5683feasibly translate U.S. security cooperation activities into legitimate5684capabilities. If confirmed, I will ensure that security cooperation5685activities remain tightly tethered to U.S. national interests and focus5686on partners who meet those criteria. If confirmed and I re-enter active5687service, I intend to look at increased use of the National Guard State5688Partnership Program (SPP).5689    Question. What is your understanding of DOD's role in the foreign5690military sales and arms transfer process? In your view, what are the5691greatest challenges for DOD in fulfilling this role in a timely and5692effective manner?5693    Answer. For Foreign Military Sales, the role of the Department of5694Defense (DoD) is to effectively execute programs in coordination with5695other government agencies while promoting stronger international5696defense relationships and greater military interoperability. The most5697significant challenges are timely deliveries to allies and partners.5698Both capacity limitations in the Defense Industrial Base as well as the5699bureaucratic processes and policies that govern FMS contribute to that5700timeliness. I understand, in 2024, the DOD implemented a Continuous5701Process Improvement Board for the FMS process. If confirmed as5702Chairman, I will work aggressively with the Department to improve5703processes and reduce administrative burdens to improve the timeliness5704of FMS implementation, along with relentless advocacy to strengthen the5705Defense Industrial Base to more rapidly respond to customer needs--both5706domestically and the Nation's partners.5707    Question. Is DOD appropriately organized, trained, and resourced to5708execute security cooperation and foreign military sales effectively? If5709not, and if confirmed, what changes to defense security assistance5710organizations, training, and processes would you recommend?5711    Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with the Secretary of5712Defense to review security cooperation organizations, training, and5713processes and make my recommendations.5714                          contested logistics5715    Question. Who do you believe acts as the lead for contested5716logistics in how both efficiencies are created and executed to support5717the National Defense Strategy?5718    Answer. Currently, the Joint Staff works with the Combatant5719Commanders to define requirements and identify the risks associated5720with a contested logistics environment. Additionally, the Joint Staff5721works with the Services through the Joint Logistics Board to align5722their investments in infrastructure, force design, and posture to5723prepare the Joint Logistics Enterprise to deploy and sustain joint5724warfighters in a contested environment.5725    Question. Do you believe the Department of Defense needs to5726identify a single service or entity to act as the global contested5727logistics manager?5728    Answer. The Joint Staff works with the Services to align their5729investments in infrastructure, force design, and posture, and supports5730the Combatant Commanders as they engage with allies and partners. If5731confirmed, I will continue to assess any changes in how global5732logistics is managed. If changes are required, I will advise the5733President, SecDef, and Congress on any authorities that may require5734change.5735    Question. What is your current assessment for how the Department of5736Defense views contested logistics when it comes to both war games and5737operational planning?5738    Answer. The Joint Warfighting Concept and supporting concepts have5739focused the Department's attention on the contested logistics problem5740set. Logistics was once considered an enabling function. However, it5741has always been one of the six warfighting functions . . . and now it5742is clearly a pacing function. All analytic and experimentation efforts5743must be logistics-informed, since the ability to sustain the force5744underwrites everything else.5745               cooperative threat reduction (ctr) program5746    Question. The CTR Program, which has focused historically on5747accounting for, securing, and eliminating cold war era weapons of mass5748destruction and materials in the states of the former Soviet Union, has5749expanded its focus to other countries. In addition, the CTR Program is5750widening its focus to biological weapons and capabilities, including5751biological surveillance and early warning, and encouraging the5752development of capabilities to reduce proliferation threats as well as5753working with host nations to secure stockpiles of dangerous pathogens5754at their high containment laboratories.5755    What are your views on the efficacy of the CTR Program?5756    Answer. Over the years, the CTR Program has detected, secured, and5757eliminated Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) at their source, before5758they can threaten the Homeland or the Joint Force. In line with the5759Secretary's priorities, the CTR Program protects Joint Force readiness5760and lethality by providing indicators and warnings of chemical,5761biological, and nuclear threats. It remains a vital tool in layered5762defense against WMD threats.5763    Notwithstanding the use and proliferation of chemical weapons5764documented recently in Libya and Syria, about 60 percent of CTR5765resources are allocated to biological programs.5766    Question. Do you believe this shift in focus to biological programs5767accurately reflects the current threat?5768    Answer. Yes. The Department's Biodefense Posture Review documented5769that biological threats to the Joint Force have increased. The use of5770biological weapons by State or nonState actors presents a significant5771challenge to national security. Emerging technologies could further5772enable potential adversaries to use biological weapons in new and novel5773ways. Eliminating biological threats is a key mission for the CTR5774program.5775    Biological threats could affect the readiness and lethality of the5776Joint Force and the security of the Homeland. Increasingly, adversaries5777seek to develop and use biological weapons that would evade existing5778capabilities for detection, attribution, or treatment. Eliminating5779these threats will continue to be an important mission for the CTR5780Program, but I support reviewing current prioritization to ensure the5781program addresses the most urgent WMD threats.5782    Question. If confirmed, specifically what would you recommend to5783ensure the CTR program is capable of meeting its mission to roll back5784the threat of weapons of mass destruction?5785    Answer. If confirmed, I would advocate for a thorough review and5786cost-benefit analysis of the CTR Program to ensure activities fully5787support its congressionally authorized countering WMD mission and5788contribute to a lethal and effective fighting force.5789                            dod auditability5790    Question. The Department of Defense has invested significant effort5791and dollars in preparing its financial information for annual audit5792reviews. However, the 2024 DOD-wide financial audit again resulted in a5793disclaimer of opinion.5794    If confirmed, what specific actions would you take or direct to5795improve DOD auditability?5796    Answer. If confirmed, I will demonstrate a consistent and informed5797commitment to achieving an unmodified audit opinion by setting the5798``tone from the top'' by highlighting the importance of financial5799accountability and transparency within the Department. Setting5800expectations, holding senior leadership accountable, visibly messaging5801the importance of financial management and audit process adherence5802sends a clear message throughout the Department. I can emphasize5803financial integrity and accountability to encourage a culture where5804those values are prioritized across the Joint Force.5805    Question. If confirmed, what steps would you take to instill5806responsibility for audit progress among command leadership, and not5807just default to a financial management community?5808    Answer. Maintaining transparency, accountability, and operational5809efficiency is key to improving auditability. These are cornerstones to5810successful military operations, and auditability of the Department's5811accounts is a military mission. If confirmed, I will work with the5812Department to ensure that auditability is integrated in the overall5813command structure of the constituent services, establishing clear roles5814and responsibilities related to financial management, ensuring the5815emphasis on auditability is pervasive from the most senior roles and5816commands to the most junior.5817                  science, technology, and innovation5818    Question. U.S. superiority in key areas of innovation is decreasing5819or has disappeared, while our competitors are engaging in aggressive5820military modernization and advanced weaponry development. DOD has5821identified 14 critical technology areas in which investment to develop5822next generation operational capabilities is imperative. These areas5823include: hypersonics; future generation wireless technology; advanced5824materials; integrated network systems-of-systems; directed energy;5825integrated sensing and cyber; space technology; quantum science;5826trusted artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy; microelectronics;5827renewable energy generation and storage; advanced computing and5828software; human-machine interfaces; and biotechnology. Much of the5829innovation in these technologies that could prove suitable for national5830defense purposes is occurring outside of the traditional defense5831industry.5832    What do you see as the most significant challenges (e.g.,5833technical, organizational, or cultural) to DOD's development of these5834key technologies, or gaining access to such technologies from the5835commercial marketplace?5836    Answer. DOD must aggressively take steps to illustrate how these5837innovative technologies are conceptually employed. Through this5838analysis process, the Joint Staff and military departments can define5839future requirements. This will provide industry clear DOD demand5840signals.5841    The United States commercial marketplace is teaming with innovative5842solutions for defending the United States. The most significant5843challenge is getting these innovative solutions into the Force. The5844Department must work to exploit these solutions via rapid prototyping5845programs, defense innovation organizations, and congressionally granted5846authorities.5847    The Department must grow the capacity of the Defense Industrial5848Base (DIB) and expand the defense ecosystem through investments that5849promote resilient supply chains, workforce readiness, closer5850collaboration with commercial industry, flexible acquisition, and5851mutual support with Allies and partners. The Joint Force should re-5852evaluate its interactions with industry and fight for access to the5853commercial space, leveraging organizations like the Defense Innovation5854Unit. The Department can collaborate with the DIB to adopt a whole of5855nation approach to delivering capability and maximize economy of scale.5856The DIB will grow and evolve if it receives the proper demand signals5857from the Joint Force. The Department can do a better job at that.5858    The 14 critical technology areas cover a wide range of disciplines5859with inherent developmental challenges. A significant common challenge5860that affects all critical technology areas are the force development5861implications for the warfighters that will employ them. We must ensure5862that the organizations and people of the DOD are trained and ready to5863use capabilities in these 14 critical technology areas to their maximum5864potential and deliver peace through strength.5865    Question. How well do you think DOD investments in these5866technologies are appropriately focused, integrated, and synchronized5867across all Military Departments and Agencies?5868    Answer. There continues to be room for improvement in this area. If5869confirmed, I'll work with Secretary Hegseth and his team as the5870Department continues to evaluate these technologies and other aspects5871of the defense budget in order to provide the Joint Force with the5872tools they need to defend the Nation.5873    Question. In addition to the technologies identified in the 20225874National Defense Strategy, are there other technology areas in which5875you believe DOD must invest to ensure that the United States maintains5876its technological superiority in the long-term?5877    Answer. The 2022 National Defense Strategy provides a suitable list5878of critical technology areas, but I believe the DOD must also invest in5879advanced manufacturing technology. Investments in advanced5880manufacturing will have impacts across the listed 14 critical5881technology areas and enable the United States to produce complex5882components and systems more quickly and cost effectively. If confirmed,5883I'll work with Secretary Hegseth to refine the development and5884acquisition of these technologies in order to enable rapid employment5885to meet the needs of the Joint Warfighter to fulfill the5886Administration's strategy.5887    Question. What efforts is DOD making to identify new technologies5888developed commercially by the private sector and apply them to national5889security and warfighter purposes?5890    Answer. The Joint Staff has been heavily engaged in DOD Innovation5891programs such as Replicator, the Rapid Defense Experimentation Reserve5892(RDER), Warfighting Lab Incentive Fund (WLIF), etc . . . that focus on5893identifying commercial technologies and expediting them into the hands5894of the Warfighter.5895    Recently, the Joint Staff has revamped capability portfolio5896management, creating a new approach to drive strategic alignment across5897requirements, acquisition, and R&D. The Joint Staff has partnered with5898the offices of the undersecretaries for Acquisitions and Sustainment,5899and Research and Engineering to create a holistic portfolio view of5900capability development. This effort allows warfighters producing5901capability requirements to be fully informed of new technologies and5902commercially developed products that may fill requirements and5903capability gaps identified by the Joint Force.5904    Question. One of the main objectives of the defense research5905enterprise is to develop advanced technologies that will be of benefit5906to the warfighter. In this regard, it is critical that technologies5907quickly transition from the development phase into testing and5908evaluation and ultimately into a program of record for the deployment5909of capability to the warfighter.5910    What are the challenges you perceive to effectively transitioning5911technologies from research programs into programs of record or deployed5912capabilities?5913    Answer. Effectively transitioning technologies from research5914programs into programs of record or deployed capabilities is5915challenging because of the time it takes to mature a technology into a5916viable prototype for experimentation and concepts of operation5917development. Over time, changing priorities within the DOD can shift5918focus away from early investments, losing sight of work done to date.5919    Funding to support the implementation of promising capabilities is5920not protected in budgets. Budgetary constraints and the impacts of5921Continuing Resolutions (CR) add challenges for transitioning programs.5922Some technologies may not mature in time to be integrated into5923programs, while others may mature more rapidly than the existing budget5924cycle can accommodate. DOD also must quickly become a better buyer. The5925DOD is frankly a poor buyer and must devote energy to this effort.5926    Question. How can the operational experience of the warfighter5927better be integrated into the research and development process? Are5928there appropriate places to interject warfighters in the interaction5929between the DOD research and engineering community and the private5930sector?5931    Answer. Frequent vector checks with potential end-users are5932essential to ensuring that technology innovation meets warfighter5933needs. Additionally, creating opportunities for the research and5934development community to present potential solutions and exchange ideas5935with warfighters about innovative employment options enriches both5936communities. Using the Joint Warfighting Concept to inform the5937selection and prioritization of R&D projects facilitates stronger5938alignment with warfighting needs from the onset. Engagements to5939introduce concept frameworks to the broader research and engineering5940community, to include industry, academia, labs, defense innovation5941entities, allies, and partners, has the potential to influence their5942respective internal investment strategies to help accelerate5943development of needed capabilities. Frequent vector checks with5944potential end-users to reinforce alignment to warfighting needs is5945essential if it is not distracting or oversaturating the units at the5946tactical edge. Additionally, creating opportunities for the R&D5947community to present potential solutions and exchange ideas with5948warfighters about innovative employment options enriches both5949communities.5950    Question. If confirmed as Chairman, what specific steps would you5951take to ensure that the warfighter is benefiting more quickly and5952directly from research being performed across the defense research5953enterprise?5954    Answer. A lot of work has been done but the DOD must stop confusing5955work with results. The U.S. faces a rapidly evolving security5956environment; therefore, it is imperative that the DOD speed the5957transition of advanced technologies to benefit the warfighters more5958swiftly and effectively. If confirmed, I will prioritize efforts to5959ensure that defense research translates into operational capabilities5960for the forces to meet warfighter needs.5961    I will enhance focus on programs that involve warfighters in the5962research process to ensure their operational experience informs5963decisionmaking and technology development. This approach helps keep5964solutions grounded in the real-world challenges faced by troops and5965fosters a culture of collaboration among warfighters and technologists.5966    I will ensure full support for efforts to close capability gaps in5967joint warfighting concepts and share data across the DOD, such as the5968recent Joint Experimentation Forum (JEF). Events like these gather5969personnel from combatant commands, military services, federally funded5970research centers, industry partners, and university-affiliated research5971centers for collaborative discussions to share valuable insights that5972will inform experimentation guidance across the defense enterprise.5973Continued engagement with key innovators such as the Defense Advanced5974Research Projects Agency (DARPA) will be the key to success.5975    By actively engaging warfighters in the research process,5976leveraging collaborative forums, and fostering relationships with key5977defense agencies, I am committed to breaking down barriers and5978facilitating open dialog among stakeholders. This approach will enable5979the timely transition of critical capabilities into the hands of the5980Joint Force, ensuring that the military remains at the forefront of5981innovation and prepared to outpace evolving threats.5982    Question. If confirmed, what would you do to increase the5983interaction between DOD labs and the private sector, and between DOD5984labs and the rest of the DOD innovation enterprise to include the5985Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering,5986the Strategic Capabilities Office, the Defense Innovation Unit, and the5987Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency?5988    Answer. There is a lot of good work going on, but I do have some5989concerns that innovation entities are actually colliding with each5990other in the incubation process. The DOD must have a greater level of5991collaboration between entities in order to maximize the return on the5992USG's invested capital. If confirmed, I would continue to build on the5993integration of the DOD labs with OSD R&E, SCO, DIU, and DARPA through5994Innovation programs like Replicator, WLIF, and RDER. The Department5995also has the opportunity to increase integration through Joint5996Experimentation events.5997    Question. In the past, for example in the Manhattan Project and the5998Space Race, the United States made great use of foreign technical5999talent to achieve national goals. Today, there is growing concern that6000China is making great progress in recruiting technical talent that has6001been trained at United States universities. The Chinese are also6002investing significant resources to provide funding and facilities to6003technical experts in critical fields to attract them to work in China.6004    In your view, what steps should the Department take to ensure that6005the foreign technical talent that we educate and support remains in6006here in the United States and commits to working on our high-priority6007national missions to maintain our technological superiority?6008    Answer. I have not been read into the specifics on this topic, but6009if confirmed, I look forward to learning how the Department can secure6010the appropriate technical talent required to empower the joint6011warfighter. Ultimately, attracting and retaining the right talent in6012any organization hinges on the ability to establish and maintain a6013positive work environment that encourages innovation and values the6014talent of its people. If confirmed and I re-enter the military I am6015keen to get up to speed on this matter. We must have a better way to6016inspire and retain STEM talent here in the United States.6017    Question. How could we leverage our defense labs and DOD research6018funding programs to overmatch Chinese efforts by providing resources6019and facilities to attract technical talent to stay and work in the6020United States?6021    Answer. The United States offers many advantages over China for6022talented researchers and engineers to work and provide for national6023security. Technological prowess, state-of-the-art facilities, and6024American way of life can all be used to draw top talent from around the6025world and away from China. Embedding young scientists and engineers in6026defense-oriented labs early and often to incentivize a unique form of6027service, ways they can harness their skill set to advance national6028interests. Defense labs and DOD research funding programs can be used6029to invest in facilities and maintain technological prowess where we6030lead the world, regain where we have slipped, and pioneer new fields.6031                           joint acquisition6032    Question. What are your views regarding the effectiveness of joint6033acquisition programs, especially in delivering integrated and6034interoperable solutions for the Department and which programs would you6035consider to be candidates for joint development and acquisition?6036    Answer. Joint acquisition programs have been effective at6037delivering integrated and interoperable solutions for the Department.6038One example is the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle program, which has been6039balancing performance and cost to provide the Joint Force with a6040tactical vehicle fleet that is more lethal and sustainable. The Golden6041Dome for America will require a level of coordination across the6042Services that makes it a natural candidate for joint acquisition.6043Additionally, the Future Vertical Lift family of systems is a good6044candidate for joint development. It implements a Modular Open Systems6045Approach that improves affordability, enhances capability, and reduces6046supply chain risk across the Services.6047    Question. What are your views on joint, enabling or cross-cutting6048capabilities that may not be treated as acquisition programs, such as6049JADC2? Do you have sufficient authority to advocate or direct the6050services to ensure there are no seams in planning or execution of such6051efforts?6052    Answer. In the current global security environment, the United6053States military faces agile adversaries who increasingly seek to6054undermine the Nation's strategic and operational strengths by impeding,6055and where possible, denying command and control (C2) capabilities. The6056ability of the U.S. military to regain and maintain information and6057decision advantage through non acquisition programs, considered in the6058CJADC2 continuous modernization efforts, must remain a top priority for6059the Department. The capabilities developed by Services, Agencies, and6060partners across the DOTMLPF-P spectrum are programs of record by6061exception, not by rule. CJCS has full authority to advocate for6062Combatant Command and Services' capabilities and, if confirmed, I will6063use the granted authorities and assess whether additional authorities6064are required to assist the Combatant Commands and Services with6065planning to foster joint capability and manage Joint Force development.6066If confirmed, I will continue to partner with OUSD (A&S) [Acquisition],6067OUSD (R&E), and CAPE/Comptroller [PPBE] to strengthen planning and6068execution to enable integrated, end-to-end mission capability.6069    Question. If confirmed, what role would you assign to yourself in6070ensuring that joint acquisition priorities are given full and fair6071consideration in Military Service budget processes?6072    Answer. If confirmed, part of my responsibility through the Vice6073Chairman is the Joint Requirements Oversight Council which represents6074the voice of the joint force and the joint warfighter. If confirmed, I6075will give my best military advice to the Secretary of Defense on all6076matters, including the budget. The Chairman's Program Recommendation6077(CPR) provides the Chairman with a formal mechanism to communicate6078statutory military advice on programs and budget issues, to include6079joint acquisition priorities.6080    Question. Do you believe that the combatant command's role in the6081acquisition process is sufficient to ensure that they can get needed6082capabilities fielded to them in a timelier manner? If not, are there6083other tools or authorities needed?6084    Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure the Defense Acquisition System6085(DAS) continues to seek and consider input from the Combatant6086Commanders through the JROC process. This ensures that the voices of6087the Combatant Commanders are globally integrated and carefully6088considered holistically. I understand the importance of maintaining and6089continuing to evolve the Department's Adaptive Acquisition Framework6090(AAF) comprised of several acquisition pathways, each tailored for the6091unique characteristics and risk profile of the capability being6092acquired. If confirmed, I will seek opportunities for increased6093Combatant Command involvement in the AAF, particularly in the6094development of software, where operator input to the developer can6095create more useful capability in a shorter timeline.6096              joint requirements oversight council (jroc)6097    Question. The JROC is vested with the responsibility to assess6098joint military capabilities; establish and approve joint performance6099requirements that ensure interoperability between military6100capabilities; and identify new joint military capabilities based on6101advances in technology and concepts of operation.6102    How would you assess the effectiveness of the JROC in establishing6103joint requirements for submission to the DOD acquisition process?6104    Answer. Within the Joint Force, no other entity is more responsible6105for Joint Force Design and balancing the current needs of the Joint6106Force with the future needs of the Joint Force than the JROC. The JROC6107provides a critical forum for the Service Vice Chiefs to assess joint6108military capabilities, identify, approve, and prioritize capabilities6109to ensure the Joint Force can implement the National Defense Strategy.6110One of the JROC's key strengths is its ability to provide a high-level,6111strategic perspective on capability development, ensuring that major6112acquisition programs align with Joint Warfighting Concepts and multi-6113domain operational needs. It has also improved cross-Service6114coordination, particularly through initiatives like Capability6115Portfolio Management Reviews, which help identify capability gaps,6116solutions, redundancies and promote integration. Authorities of the6117JROC have changed over time. While the JROC is effective, it could be6118improved by ensuring that its authorities match its responsibilities.6119    Question. If confirmed, how would you ensure that the JROC focuses6120on joint performance requirements without overprescribing key6121performance parameters and key system attributes that overly constricts6122system design space?6123    Answer. The JROC should be in the business of providing top-down,6124strategic-level direction to the Services to promote Joint Force design6125instead of micro-managing Service acquisition decisions. The JROC6126currently delegates key performance parameters and system attributes to6127the Services unless they are deemed Joint Performance Requirements,6128meaning they are critical to ensure interoperability or integration of6129the Joint Force.6130    Through recent changes such as expanding the use of the Middle Tier6131of Acquisitions (MTA) pathway, even more authority is being delegated6132to the Services. While use of rapid acquisitions pathways such as MTA6133are designed to improve speed and efficiency, that must be balanced6134with strong joint oversight to prevent fragmentation of the future6135force. The JROC's ability to assess and enforce joint performance6136requirements remains critical in ensuring that the warfighters receive6137interoperable, integrated, and effective capabilities for future6138conflicts.6139    Question. What is your view on the Capability Management Portfolio6140Review process for the JROC to issue requirements from the top-down?6141    Answer. Recently, the Joint Staff revamped capability portfolio6142management, creating a new approach to drive strategic alignment across6143requirements, acquisition, and R&D. I believe this approach has been6144successful at holistically evaluating gaps from a portfolio perspective6145as well as promoting top-down, concept-driven, future-facing6146requirements.6147    Additionally, the Joint Staff has partnered with the offices of the6148undersecretaries for Acquisitions and Sustainment, and Research and6149Engineering to create a holistic portfolio view of capability6150development. This effort allows warfighters producing capability6151requirements to be fully informed of new technologies and commercially6152developed products that may fill requirements and capability gaps6153identified in support of the Joint Force.6154   the joint capabilities integration and development systems (jcids)6155    Question. Section 811 of the National Defense Authorization Act for6156Fiscal Year 2024 required the Joint Staff to review and propose a6157clean-sheet approach to the JCIDS process focused on streamlining6158approvals, integration of commercial technologies, and taking advantage6159of iterative development processes.6160    Is the JCIDS process effective in providing the information the6161JROC requires to anticipate both the current and the future needs of6162the joint force?6163    Answer. The intent of JCIDS is to ensure jointness,6164interoperability, joint warfighter voice, and strategic alignment and6165prioritization of future capability development. While JCIDS has been6166effective in reducing redundancy and improving coordination across the6167services, it needs reform in order to keep pace with rapidly emerging6168threats and technological advancements. As part of Fiscal Year 20246169Section 811 Report to Congress, the Joint Staff is currently developing6170evolutionary and revolutionary reforms to the joint requirements6171process, including a clean-sheet rewrite of JCIDS, in order to deliver6172the right capability to the warfighter at speed and at capacity.6173    Question. How effective has JCIDS been in delivering capabilities6174that meet the evolving needs of the joint force, particularly in the6175face of rapidly advancing threats?6176    Answer. The JCIDS process was developed to ensure due diligence and6177accountability for the development of large, legacy platforms that cost6178billions of dollars of taxpayer money. Today, given rapid technological6179change and the rapid modernization of the Nation's adversaries, this6180system no longer fully meets the Department's needs. The Department has6181made a number of changes, through the Middle Tier of Acquisition and6182Software Acquisition Pathway, to respond to the evolving needs of the6183Joint Force amidst a rapidly changing technology environment.6184    However, an overreliance on rapid acquisition increases the risk of6185service-centric solutions that may not align with broader joint6186operational concepts. Additionally, without appropriate joint6187oversight, programs leveraging the rapid acquisition pathways may move6188quickly at the expense of joint integration and interoperability.6189Furthermore, increased use of these pathways increases the risk of6190overall inefficiency as Services may be unaware of the similar efforts6191by their sister Services and unnecessarily duplicate their efforts. If6192confirmed, I will continue to work with the Joint Chiefs and JROC to6193ensure that Service controlled initiatives are not stove-piped or6194unnecessarily redundant and that all strive to present joint integrated6195solutions.6196    Question. What do you see as the most significant gaps in the6197current JCIDS process that prevent it from ensuring interoperability6198and channeling investments toward warfighters' priorities?6199    The 2021 General Accountability Report ``Weapon Systems6200Requirements'' found that staffing documents through JCIDS took an6201average of 800 days compared to a notional timeline of 103 days.6202    Answer. While the JROC and JCIDS processes provide a structured6203framework for identifying opportunities for multi-Service6204collaboration, there is still room for improvement in fully leveraging6205joint synergies and aligning related acquisition programs. The JROC has6206made progress in fostering cross-Service coordination, particularly6207through initiatives like Joint Warfighting Concept and Capability6208Portfolio Management Reviews. JCIDS has been effective in reducing6209redundancy and improving coordination across the services, but it must6210continue to evolve to keep pace with rapidly emerging threats and6211technological advancements.6212    However, the JROC lacks directive acquisition and budget authority,6213which prevents it from filling the high-priority gaps identified by the6214Combatant Commands. Additionally, the JCIDS process and documentation6215is antiquated and cumbersome, which is why the Joint Staff is working6216to streamline it to ensure outcomes over process. Last, continued6217modernization of KMDS, the joint requirements data base, is critical to6218ensure real-time visibility of joint and Service requirements. DOD must6219smartly go faster and pick up the pace.6220    Question. In your view, what is the appropriate role of Combatant6221Commanders in the JCIDS process?6222    Answer. Combatant Commanders play a critical role in the JCIDS6223process, as they are uniquely positioned to articulate both near-term6224operational needs and long-term capability gaps based on real-world6225threats and evolving mission requirements. Their direct input ensures6226that joint requirements are not just service-driven but are aligned6227with the operational realities of multi-domain conflict and regional6228security challenges. The Combatant Commanders submit their Integrated6229Priority Lists (IPLs) annually, which are prioritized by the JROC and6230submitted to Congress, and the Urgent Acquisition pathway allows for6231the Combatant Commander to raise issues for acceleration. If confirmed,6232I will ensure the JROC continues to seek and consider input from the6233Combatant Commanders.6234    Question. If confirmed, how would you improve the effectiveness of6235the process in identifying both the near-term and long-term needs of6236the Combatant Commander?6237    Answer. The needs of the Combatant Commanders are currently6238addressed through the Capability Gap Assessment process, where the JROC6239evaluates and prioritizes CCMD IPLs, as well as executes the Joint and6240Emergent Operational Need (JUON/JEON) processes, whereby urgent CCMD6241requirements are rapidly triaged and sent to OSD(A&S) for immediate6242funding, if validated. While the CGA/IPL process is successful at6243identifying gaps, these gaps often remain unfilled because of the6244JROC's limited acquisition and budget authorities. In contrast, a6245validated JUON/JEON can result in funding direction from OSD(A&S),6246however, this approach still requires hard to come by Service offsets.6247A funding set aside for JUONs/JEONs may be able to address this6248problem.6249    Question. Do you have any recommendations for changes to the6250structure, authority, or processes of the JROC or the JCIDS?6251    Answer. The Joint Staff is currently developing recommendations to6252the structure, authorities, and process of the JROC and JCIDS. The6253recommendations will be included in the response to Section 811 tasking6254and will align with the following principles:6255      Accelerate the right capability to the warfighter at6256capacity6257      Empower the Joint warfighter voice while balancing speed6258and operational risk6259      Reduce bureaucracy while ensuring Joint interoperability6260and integration6261      Optimize alignment and agility between requirements,6262acquisition, and budgeting6263      Ensure authorities match responsibilities across DOD,6264Congress, and DIB6265                          test and evaluation6266    Question. Test and evaluation is critical to ensuring that the6267systems warfighters rely on in combat are proven to work effectively,6268reliably, and safely.6269    How do you assess the current separation of developmental testing6270(DT) and operational testing (OT) in terms of its impact on delivering6271combat-ready systems to the joint force? Does maintaining these silos6272delay the identification of critical issues that affect warfighter6273effectiveness?6274    Answer. The Department of Defense must better integrate6275developmental testing and operational testing. As Chairman, if6276confirmed, I will work closely with the Office of Secretary of Defense,6277the Services, and other Defense organizations to ensure the Department6278balances the need for robust testing to verify that capabilities6279provided to the warfighter operate as intended with the need to move6280faster in fielding new technologies. Throughout, if confirmed, I will6281be an advocate for developing, operating, and testing in a joint manner6282to the maximum extent possible.6283    Question. How effective do you find the DOD's reliance on discrete,6284milestone-driven test events--such as Initial Operational Test &6285Evaluation--in meeting the rapid pace of modern threats and6286technological change? Are these singular evaluations keeping pace with6287warfighter needs?6288    Answer. In my experience, there is not a one-size-fits-all approach6289to developmental and operational testing across the wide spectrum of6290military capabilities the Joint Force develops and operates.6291Operational Test and Evaluation is not a Joint Staff function. Across6292the board, though, we must go faster. We must allow greater iteration6293and more rapid cycles of feedback as we experiment with and test6294emerging capabilities. As Chairman, if confirmed, I will work closely6295with the Office of Secretary of Defense, the Services, and other6296Defense organizations to inform testing practices with input from the6297warfighter, focusing on balancing the need for robust testing to ensure6298that the capabilities provided to the warfighter operate as intended6299with the need to move faster in fielding new technologies.6300    Question. Do you think the current operational test and evaluation6301system also provides for the flexibility to assess commercial6302technologies that might be acquired or fields by DOD through means or6303processes that are not traditional acquisition programs of record?6304    Answer. No. From my experience with private sector investment, I6305know that acquisition processes and procedures slow the adoption of6306commercial technologies by the Department of Defense at many steps in6307the process. If confirmed, as Chairman, I will be an advocate for6308moving faster and increasing flexibility in processes, so path-breaking6309capabilities are delivered to the warfighter more quickly. At the same6310time, effective operational test and evaluation must be fundamental6311aspects of any faster capability development effort, as it is essential6312that any capabilities delivered to the warfighter perform as intended.6313    Question. Are you satisfied with DOD's test and evaluation6314capabilities, including the test and evaluation workforce and6315infrastructure of the Military Services? In which areas, if any, do you6316feel the Department should be developing new test and evaluation6317capabilities?6318    Answer. No. The Department's current mix of development test and6319operational test range infrastructure is unsatisfactory for today's6320modern threat environment. One area in which the Joint Force should6321enhance the ability to test, and train is in the Electromagnetic6322Operational Environment. Investment in joint live virtual constructive6323training is essential. The Joint Staff is also currently working to6324write a report to Congress on the feasibility and advisability of6325establishing a regional joint multi-domain non-kinetic training and6326experimentation environment. The development of a regionally aligned6327multi-domain non-kinetic training, testing, and experimentation6328environment is critical to provide the Joint Force and the United6329States' Allies and partners an immersive and realistic operational6330environment to train across all domains against emerging technologies6331and peer threats. This environment needs to replicate a contested,6332congested, and constrained Electromagnetic Operational Environment with6333an accurate threat representation to facilitate quality training and6334testing at scale to support throughput and readiness of the Nation's6335warfighters.6336                             dod readiness6337    Question. How would you assess the current readiness of the DOD6338components--across the domains of materiel and equipment, personnel,6339and training--to execute the 2022 National Defense Strategy and6340Combatant Commanders' associated plans?6341    Answer. Based on my own experience, as well as public reporting on6342the status of the Joint Force, I am confident that the Joint Force--6343including materiel, equipment, training, and personnel--is ready to6344meet its current challenges. This includes protecting the Homeland,6345meeting alliance commitments, and maintaining advantage over any6346potential adversary. If confirmed, I commit to continued assessment and6347providing my recommendations to the SecDef and POTUS.6348    Question. What is your assessment of the risk the Combatant6349Commands and the Combat Support Agencies have accepted in regard to6350their readiness to execute the operational plans associated with the63512022 National Defense Strategy?6352    Answer. Based on my own experience, as well as public reporting on6353the status of the Joint Force, I recognize that operational tempo over6354the last two-plus decades has had impacts. If confirmed, I commit to6355assessing the extent of that risk and providing my recommendations to6356the SecDef and POTUS. I also look forward to working alongside6357Congress, specifically on the acquisition of new platforms,6358strengthening of the Defense Industrial Base, and taking care of6359personnel, to ensure the Joint Forces is ready to meet global6360operational requirements. Additionally, with sustained, predictable,6361adequate, and timely funding from Congress and the Secretary-directed6362reprioritization, we can improve readiness, build the future force that6363maintains the competitive advantage, and decrease risk.6364    Question. If confirmed, specifically what actions would you6365recommend to restore full spectrum readiness in all DOD components--6366across the domains of materiel and equipment, personnel, and training--6367and on what timelines?6368    Answer. If confirmed, I will evaluate and discuss readiness with6369Service Chiefs and Combatant Commands and make recommendations to the6370SecDef and POTUS. We also must be clear eyed and explicit about what6371things we cannot do.6372                operational energy and energy resilience6373    Question. The Department defines operational energy as the energy6374required for training, moving, and sustaining military forces and6375weapons platforms for military operations, including the energy used by6376tactical power systems, generators, and weapons platforms. On the6377battlefield of the future, warfighters will need exponentially more6378energy with rapid recharge and resupply over longer operating6379distances. The quality of electricity will matter too--the DOD's6380vehicles, sensors, robots, cyber forces, directed energy weapons, and6381artificial intelligence will be controlled by systems sensitive to6382fluctuations in voltage or frequency.6383    If confirmed, are there actions you can take to harness innovations6384in operational energy and link them with emerging joint operational6385concepts?6386    Answer. The need for large volumes of Operational Energy remains6387one of the Department's greatest logistical burdens and largest6388vulnerabilities, especially in a contested environment. If confirmed, I6389will work with the Military Departments to prioritize energy demand6390reduction and the adoption of technologies that reduce logistics6391requirements in contested or austere environments. Through the6392implementation of the Joint Warfighting Concept, the Joint Staff is6393seeking innovative capabilities to address key operational problems.6394Operational energy innovations contribute to offsetting those problems6395and are being examined in wargames, tested in field experiments, and6396integrated into joint exercises.6397    Question. In what specific areas, if any, do you believe DOD needs6398to improve the incorporation of energy considerations in strategic6399planning processes?6400    Answer. In my view, DOD can improve the incorporation of energy6401considerations in the following specific areas:6402      Continue to assess Combatant Command posture and6403readiness annually through the Chairman's Risk Assessment. These6404reviews can highlight where energy considerations may be overlooked6405within the strategic planning process.6406      Ensure that Joint concepts and operational plans are6407fully informed of risks associated with contested logistics and threats6408to the assured delivery of energy.6409      Align force development and design efforts with6410appropriate risks to energy supportability and required posture.6411    If confirmed, I will work with the Joint Staff to include6412requirements for joint force energy supportability and demand reduction6413in recurring strategic guidance.6414    Question. How can DOD acquisition systems better address6415requirements related to a military platform's use of energy?6416    Answer. The Joint Staff conducts an energy analysis for all JROC6417requirements and energy is one of the four mandatory KPPs. If6418confirmed, I will expect to focus the analysis of a systems energy6419consumption in terms of how it contributes to the warfighting6420capability by adding to lethality and/or reducing the logistics support6421needed.6422    Question. If confirmed, are there actions you can take to6423prioritize energy resilience and mission assurance for DOD, including6424acquiring and deploying sustainable and renewable energy assets to6425support mission critical functions, and address known vulnerabilities?6426    Answer. Energy resilience is part of every assessment performed on6427existing critical infrastructure. If confirmed, I will ensure that6428identification, vulnerability assessment, and risk mitigation of6429mission critical assets remain a Joint Staff priority.6430      defense department and intelligence community collaboration6431    Question. Since September 11, 2001, collaboration--both analytical6432and operational--between DOD and the Intelligence Community has grown6433increasingly close. On one hand, seamless collaboration is vital to an6434effective and rapid response to non-traditional threats and bringing6435together the strengths of the full spectrum of defense and intelligence6436capabilities can generate more effective solutions to complex problems.6437On the other hand, without effective management and oversight, such6438collaboration risks blurring distinct agency missions, authorities, and6439funding, as well as creating redundant lines of effort.6440    In your view, are there aspects of the current relationship between6441the Department and the Intelligence Community that should be re-6442examined or modified?6443    Answer. Risk Management, Prioritization, and Warning. Intelligence6444analysis (likelihood) remains a key part of informing risk analysis,6445while intelligence gaps/shortfalls are increasingly a driver of the6446risk assessment process. As the Intelligence Community (IC) refines its6447risk processes, efforts to improve DOD and IC integration on risk6448assessment and mitigation should be enhanced. Recommendation: DIE and6449IC seniors re-examine strategic processes associated with risk and6450processes that set overall IC-DIE priorities.6451    Capability Development and Programming Recommendation. NIPF and DOD6452priorities bring with them separate funding streams (National6453Intelligence Program (NIP) under title 50 and Military Intelligence6454Program (MIP) under Title 10). These competing priorities can limit the6455DIE's ability to appropriately posture for emerging Joint Force6456concerns and significantly slow the Joint Force's response time to the6457changed environment. Recommendation: The Joint Capability Integration6458and Development System (JCIDS) or a successor process should re-examine6459and consider adopting streamlined procedures for capability6460requirements principally developed by Defense Intelligence Enterprise6461(DIE) elements with Combat Support Agency status and/or6462responsibilities. Codify the Joint Intelligence Program Recommendation6463(JIPR), issued for the first time on a pilot basis in fiscal year 2024,6464and spanning both DOD-and IC-resourced intelligence capabilities, as6465part of my Joint Strategic Planning System to cement gains for6466warfighter intelligence support.6467    Crisis Response. On the topic of DOD and IC synchronization across6468the competition-conflict continuum, DOD and IC employ distinct6469processes that may challenge efforts to synchronization when responding6470to contingencies and crises. Recommendation: Creation of a DOD-IC6471Crisis Response framework will enable development of agile, coherent6472models to test and evaluate Joint Concepts and improve Joint Force6473readiness. Currently, DOD and IC lessons learned elements are examining6474potential improvements to their pre-crisis coordination.6475    We cannot afford to miss any opportunities to integrate the title647610 and title 50 community. We must integrate early and always with each6477other. This was a foundational core tenet of mine while serving at CIA6478and if confirmed, will be as the Chairman6479   intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (isr) capabilities6480    Question. Demand for ISR of every kind has grown exponentially in6481recent years, largely due to the enhanced situational awareness and6482targeting capabilities they afford commanders. Almost all of the6483geographic Combatant Commands have validated ISR requirements that are6484not being met.6485    What is your assessment of DOD's current disposition of ISR assets6486across the Combatant Commands?6487    Answer. If confirmed, I will review ISR asset allocation to6488Combatant Commands to ensure it is aligned with National Defense6489Strategy priorities and provide my recommendations to the SecDef and6490POTUS.6491    Question. What do you perceive as the most concerning shortfalls in6492both the capability and availability of ISR assets?6493    Answer. Demand for ISR has and will likely always outpace supply.6494Evolving adversary capabilities are driving a deliberate move toward6495higher capacity modernized ISR systems. To keep pace, if confirmed, I6496will advocate for developing tools to take advantage of space-based ISR6497and publicly available information.6498    Question. What is your assessment of current service efforts to6499develop increased capabilities, as well as the processing,6500exploitation, and dissemination capabilities and capacity to support6501increased collection?6502    Answer. If confirmed, I will assess the recently completed Space-6503Derived Exploitation Capability Portfolio Management Review and6504encourage the Services, NGA, and NRO to invest in artificial6505intelligence/machine learning solutions which are at various stages of6506technical maturity and confidence levels.6507    Question. How does increased demand square with Services' plans to6508divest many of the platforms providing ISR to the Combatant Commanders?6509    Answer. If confirmed, I will review the Service's capabilities6510against the Combatant Commands requirements and provide my6511recommendations to the SecDef and POTUS.6512                 sexual assault prevention and response6513    Question. Despite significant efforts by the Military Services to6514enhance their response to sexual assaults, including measures to care6515for victims and hold assailants accountable, the prevalence of sexual6516assault and unwanted sexual conduct, primarily for female6517servicemembers aged 17 to 24, remains high.6518    Given your experience as a military officer, do you believe the6519policies, programs, and resources, including the DOD Restricted6520(Confidential) Reporting Policy, that DOD and the Military Services6521have put in place to prevent and respond to sexual misconduct, and to6522protect service members who report sexual misconduct from retaliation,6523are working? If not, what else must be done?6524    Answer. Congress and the Department have collaborated on many6525helpful actions to counter sexual assault in the military. Indications6526are that these are starting to have an impact: prevalence of sexual6527assault and sexual harassment decreased in 2023 in the Armed Forces for6528the first time in several years. However, more must be done to sustain6529these changes. If confirmed, I will continue to vigorously support6530policies and programs implemented to prevent sexual assault, improve6531support to victims, and hold offenders appropriately accountable. I6532will stress that Joint Force readiness hinges on the preparedness of6533the warfighters, which is most effectively achieved within cohesive6534units led by empowered chains of command. It is imperative to foster6535healthy command climates and prevent harmful behaviors. To this end I6536support applying the resources provided to us for this purpose, which6537include the prevention and response workforces and regular assessments6538of military unit health worldwide. I anticipate leading the other6539Service Chiefs in continued focus on this issue, and support having a6540high-level official dedicated to sexual assault prevention and response6541in the military. [Note: Such an official already exists: The Director6542of the DOD Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office is an SES, a6543position already required by Fiscal Year 2011 National Defense6544Authorization Act Section 1611 and Fiscal Year 2012 National Defense6545Authorization Act Section 583.] Sexual assault and sexual harassment6546destroy unit cohesion, degrade readiness, and deter both men and women6547from serving. There is no place for these crimes in the United States6548Armed Forces.6549               active and reserve component end strength6550    Question. In the face of historic recruiting challenges, active6551force end strength continues to shrink across all military services6552except the Space Force.6553    What aggregate Active end strength do you believe is necessary to6554meet the demands placed on the Military Services by the 2022 National6555Defense Strategy and associated operational plans?6556    Answer. The requested end strength in the Administration's budget6557submission aligns with manpower needs across the services, and the6558evolution of the force planning construct within the 2022 National6559Defense Strategy. This budget aims to balance readiness and6560modernization challenges today, tomorrow, and into the future with6561necessary resources. If confirmed, as the Administration provides any6562updates to strategic guidance, I will be prepared to assist the6563Secretary of Defense in evaluating appropriate end strength to meet the6564national security priorities.6565    Question. In your view, do the Reserve components serve as an6566operational reserve, a strategic reserve, or both? In light of your6567answer, should the Reserve components be supported by improved6568equipment, increased training, and higher levels of overall resourcing6569for readiness going forward?6570    Answer. The Reserve component plays a vital role in the total6571force, serving as both an operational and strategic reserve. To6572effectively execute their key responsibilities, they deserve access to6573the best equipment and training, with the same standards of the Active6574component. This ensures that the Reserve component is fully prepared6575and equipped to support national defense objectives.6576                     role of the reserve component6577    Question. Historically, the Reserve components have been used as a6578strategic reserve in the event of significant armed conflict involving6579the United States. Post-9/11, reserve forces have been used more6580extensively to support both contingency operations and ongoing military6581requirements in a garrison environment. Today, in addition to being an6582operational reserve, members of the Reserve component are used6583continuously as a part-time workforce for the Department of Defense to6584perform its ongoing training and readiness requirements.6585    In your view, should the Reserve components serve as a part-time6586workforce, an operational reserve, a strategic reserve, or some6587combination of those?6588    Answer. The Reserve component serves a vital and multifaceted role6589within the Total Force, offering strategic depth and operational6590flexibility. It is not simply a part-time workforce, an operational6591reserve, or a strategic reserve, but rather a powerful combination of6592all three. Reserve units provide essential warfighting capabilities and6593expertise, strategically aligned with mission requirements. The Reserve6594component provides scalable readiness to ensure the DOD can respond6595effectively to both ongoing operations and large-scale crises. Finally,6596and perhaps most importantly, reservists provide the strategic depth6597and endurance as part of the Total Force necessary to sustain6598operations in a prolonged conflict if deterrence fails. They are, in6599essence, a force multiplier, ensuring the military remains ready and6600capable of meeting any challenge to national security. Finally, to echo6601the Secretary's previous comments, as the Department continues to adapt6602its Total Force to meet the demands of the dynamic strategic6603environment, the Joint Staff continues to carefully consider and6604balance the multitude of roles the Reserve component plays in support6605of the National Defense Strategy.''6606    Question. Do the Reserve components require increased levels of6607full-time support and oversight by the Active component, including6608improved equipment, increased training, adequate compensation and6609reimbursement, effective career management, balanced Professional6610Military Education requirements, and higher levels of overall6611resourcing for readiness going forward?6612    Answer. The Department continuously assesses the readiness of the6613Reserve components, to include levels of full-time support, resourcing,6614training, and equipment modernization, to ensure seamless Total Force6615integration. The DOD also ensures all Reserve component units that6616deploy in support of global operations have achieved required readiness6617levels prior to deployment. Regarding Reserve component compensation6618and reimbursement, the Department has been engaged in a long-term6619effort to develop duty status reform recommendations for Congress to6620streamline these issues. Finally, the Services continuously manage6621reserve members' careers and ensure Reserve component members are also6622afforded every opportunity to complete Professional Military Education,6623attend required schools, and complete formal education requirements to6624achieve advancement.6625    Question. In your view, what reforms, if any, should be made in6626order to facilitate easier transitions for members of all components6627between active and reserve status?6628    Answer. The Department has been engaged in a long-term effort to6629develop duty status reform recommendations for Congress to streamline6630these issues. The need for RC duty status reform (DSR) cannot be6631overstated and is long overdue. Today's complex system is overly6632burdensome and results in pay/benefits inequities. Working6633collaboratively across the Department and the whole of government, DOD6634has developed an RC duty status reform proposal that is a fundamental6635redesign of the current system--it streamlines and consolidates the6636current system and addresses many of its long-standing problems. An6637integrated, cohesive legislative proposal designed to comprehensively6638address the long-standing problems with the current duty status system6639will ensure that we take care of people and actively take steps to6640rebuild the military. In addition, ongoing efforts to reform current6641Separation History and Physical Examination Status policy should6642continue, with the intent of maximizing the retention of personnel6643leaving Active component service who wish to continue service in the6644Reserve component. Finally, continued modernization of Service pay and6645personnel systems is essential to ensuring timely and efficient6646transitions of personnel between active and reserve status.6647             military quality of life and family readiness6648    Question. The Committee remains concerned about the sustainment of6649key quality of life programs for military families, such as family6650advocacy and parenting skills programs; childcare; spouse education and6651employment support; health care; and morale, welfare and recreation6652(MWR) services such as Commissary and Military Exchange stores.6653    If confirmed, what quality of life and MWR programs would you6654consider a priority?6655    Answer. The Department of Defense has a sacred obligation to take6656care of service members and their families. Quality of Life is6657fundamental to recruiting and retaining the all-volunteer force today6658and in the future.6659    If confirmed, I will collaborate with the Service Chiefs to6660strengthen quality of life programs that support service members and6661their families. I will also review existing programs to identify and6662prioritize those most critical to military communities and overall6663force readiness.6664    I will continue to encourage the advancement of MWR programs and6665community partnerships that both promote well-being while also adapting6666to the current demands of servicemembers. These programs include6667outdoor recreation, sports and fitness, and child development and youth6668programs.6669    Question. What factors would you consider in assessing which MWR6670programs are ineffective or outmoded and thus potentially suitable for6671elimination or reduction in scope?6672    Answer. The maintenance and the development of effective quality of6673life programs is a priority for Service members and their families. If6674confirmed, I would work with the Service Chiefs and look primarily at6675usage metrics, benefit, cost, and Service member and family feedback.6676These programs are critical recruiting and retention tools and must be6677adequately resourced to ensure a resilient force.6678    Question. The military services continue to operate at an6679historically high OPTEMPO, which senior civilian and military leaders6680in the Department of Defense have deemed unsustainable.6681    What recommendations do you have to adjust OPTEMPO in the Armed6682Forces to ensure that servicemembers and their families are healthy,6683fit, adequately rested, and have a sustainable lifestyle so that they6684are prepared for our next major conflict?6685    Answer. We continuously monitor and assess the global deployment of6686forces to ensure they are committed in line with National Defense and6687National Military Strategies. In addition, the Secretary has6688established Deployment-to-Dwell and Mobilization-to-Dwell standards,6689that are monitored by the Services, to ensure service-members are not6690overutilized. Through these measures, the aim is to ensure the All-6691Volunteer Force is optimized for global commitments while ensuring the6692needs of service-members and their families.6693                     military health system reform6694    Question. Section 702 of the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense6695Authorization Act, as modified by Sections 711 and 712 of the Fiscal6696Year 2019 National Defense Authorization Act, transferred the6697administration and management of military hospitals and clinics from6698the Military Departments to the Defense Health Agency (DHA), a Combat6699Support Agency. Additionally, Section 732 of the Fiscal Year 20196700National Defense Authorization Act required the development of joint6701force medical capabilities that meet the operation planning6702requirements of the combatant commands.6703    In your view, in the aggregate, how many military medical providers6704and what medical capabilities, are required to support the Combatant6705Commanders' operational plans associated with the 2022 National Defense6706Strategy?6707    Answer. The National Defense Strategy contains globally integrated6708medical requirements of rapidly aggregating medical capabilities during6709conflict, moving casualties in a contested environment, and expanding6710military trauma centers in the Homeland to care for casualties. The6711medical force of roughly 180,000 will be close to fully employed to6712execute and sustain operational plans for a large-scale overseas6713conflict. The medical force does require additional surge medical6714capacity within medical centers of the Department, as well as6715leveraging partnerships with Veterans Health Administration and6716National Disaster Medical System to execute Homeland contingency plan6717requirements. As DOD designs a future medical force, the Military6718Health System needs to prioritize efforts to meet these globally6719integrated requirements and enable air, land, and sea platforms to6720deploy agile medical capabilities worldwide. If confirmed, I will work6721across DOD and with Congress on these efforts.6722    Question. In your view, do military medical providers across the6723Military Departments possess today the critical wartime medical6724competencies required to save the lives of service members injured in6725combat or contingency operations?6726    Answer. Yes. I believe the joint medical force possesses the6727competencies necessary to save lives in a kinetic environment, as6728evidenced by their performance in overseas contingency operations over6729the last 20 years. As DOD continues to lose personnel with combat6730casualty care experience, it is imperative that DOD invests in the6731workforce to generate critical wartime medical professionals in6732military medical centers and hospitals. The Department must also6733leverage partnerships with Veterans Health Administration, Health &6734Human Services, and National Disaster Medical System, and in private6735sector partnerships to treat complex care patients in peacetime and6736sustain the competency and capacity to recover combat casualties in6737wartime. Additionally, DOD must embed medical capabilities far forward6738to increase survivability in a contested, degraded, and contaminated6739wartime environment of the future.6740    Question. In your view, are the Services adequately supporting DHA6741by assigning to MTFs the appropriate number of military medical6742providers in the specialties needed at the MTFs?6743    Answer. The Department is working to invest in the healthcare6744workforce that includes the Services' military medical providers and6745Defense Health Agency civilian medical providers to improve primary and6746specialty care access in MTFs. The DOD continues to assess the adequacy6747of military medical providers in the MTFs and their overall readiness.6748Additional military and civilian workforce in the MTFs improve access6749to care for 9.6 million beneficiaries, improves readiness and maximizes6750education programs for medical professionals, and mitigates the rising6751costs to provide care in the civilian network. If confirmed, I will6752work across DOD and with Congress on these efforts.6753                           suicide prevention6754    Question. If confirmed, specifically what would you do to ensure6755that sufficient suicide prevention and mental health resources are6756available to deployed servicemembers, as well as to servicemembers and6757their families at home station?6758    Answer. I recognize that physically and mentally fit servicemembers6759are a critical component of Total Force readiness. If confirmed, I6760would strongly recommend prioritizing mental health resources for all6761servicemembers and their families by enhancing the access to mental6762health professionals by advocating for the expansion of telehealth6763services and embedded mental health professionals at the unit level. I6764would work closely with policymakers in the Office of the Secretary of6765Defense to ensure that adequate resources are made available for6766evidence-based suicide prevention programs and regularly monitor all6767programs for effectiveness to ensure and enhance Service member6768readiness. Additionally, I will promote leadership involvement in6769recognizing warning signs and strengthening family support initiatives6770that promote resilience and open discussion around mental health. My6771commitment is to ensure every servicemember and their family has access6772to the mental health resources they need.6773                             mental health6774    Question. DOD has made great strides in reducing the stigma6775associated with help-seeking behaviors, but many servicemembers,6776especially senior leaders, remain concerned that their military careers6777will be adversely affected should their chains of command become aware6778that they are seeking mental or behavioral health care. At the same6779time, the military chain of command has a legitimate need to be aware6780of physical and mental health conditions that may affect the readiness6781of the service members under their command.6782    In your view, does DOD effectively bridge the gap between a service6783member's desire for confidentiality and the chain of command's6784legitimate need to know about matters that may affect individual6785service member and the unit readiness?6786    Answer. Yes, I believe DOD has made significant changes to bridge6787the gap between Service Members' desires and the chain of command's6788legitimate need to know. The DOD continues to assess how it can help6789those who struggle with complex issues, while still ensuring the6790readiness and lethality of the force. Mental health is an element of6791total health, and the DOD needs to optimize every aspect of the6792Warfighter and their families. I fully support Service Members and6793their families seeking mental health care.6794                        congressional oversight6795    Question. In order to exercise legislative and oversight6796responsibilities, it is important that this committee, its6797subcommittees, and other appropriate committees of Congress receive6798timely testimony, briefings, reports, records--including documents and6799electronic communications, and other information from the executive6800branch.6801    Do you agree, without qualification, if confirmed, and on request,6802to appear and testify before this committee, its subcommittees, and6803other appropriate committees of Congress? Please answer yes or no.6804    Answer. Yes.6805    Question. Do you agree, without qualification, if confirmed, to6806provide this committee, its subcommittees, other appropriate committees6807of Congress, and their respective staffs such witnesses and briefers,6808briefings, reports, records--including documents and electronic6809communications, and other information, as may be requested of you, and6810to do so in a timely manner? Please answer yes or no.6811    Answer. Yes,6812    Question. Do you agree, without qualification, if confirmed, to6813consult with this committee, its subcommittees, other appropriate6814committees of Congress, and their respective staffs, regarding your6815basis for any delay or denial in providing testimony, briefings,6816reports, records--including documents and electronic communications,6817and other information requested of you? Please answer yes or no.6818    Answer. Yes.6819    Question. Do you agree, without qualification, if confirmed, to6820keep this committee, its subcommittees, other appropriate committees of6821Congress, and their respective staffs apprised of new information that6822materially impacts the accuracy of testimony, briefings, reports,6823records--including documents and electronic communications, and other6824information you or your organization previously provided? Please answer6825yes or no.6826    Answer. Yes.6827    Question. Do you agree, without qualification, if confirmed, and on6828request, to provide this committee and its subcommittees with records6829and other information within their oversight jurisdiction, even absent6830a formal Committee request? Please answer yes or no.6831    Answer. Yes.6832    Question. Do you agree, without qualification, if confirmed, to6833respond timely to letters to, and/or inquiries and other requests of6834you or your organization from individual Senators who are members of6835this committee? Please answer yes or no.6836    Answer. Yes.6837    Question. Do you agree, without qualification, if confirmed, to6838ensure that you and other members of your organization protect from6839retaliation any military member, Federal employee, or contractor6840employee who testifies before, or communicates with this committee, its6841subcommittees, and any other appropriate committee of Congress? Please6842answer yes or no.6843    Answer. Yes.6844                                 ______68456846    [Questions for the record with answers supplied follow:]68476848                           Senator Tom Cotton6849                         u.s. nuclear deterrent6850    1. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, on February 25, 2025,6851Chairman Wicker and I wrote a classified letter to Secretary of Defense6852Peter Hegseth and Secretary of Energy Chris Wright on matters relating6853to U.S. nuclear deterrence and modernization. Will you commit to6854reviewing this letter, the attached documents, and receiving a briefing6855on the subject from the Joint Staff, J-5 upon confirmation?6856    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes. If confirmed, I will look forward to6857this briefing.6858                               terrorism6859    2. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, you have extensive6860experience in the Middle East, particularly when dealing with6861terrorists like Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). In the cases of6862military force, how would you advise we use the military to contain6863Iran's proxy terrorist groups like Hamas, Houthis, and Hezbollah?6864    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will conduct a thorough6865review of our operations and plans in the Middle East in the context of6866the policy guidance provided by the President and the Secretary of6867Defense. I will then provide my military advice on how to best employ6868the United States Military to achieve United States national policy6869goals, as appropriate.6870                       u.s. indo-pacific command6871    3. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, any potential conflict6872in U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) will need large amounts of6873high-end munitions. How will you instill a sense of urgency at the6874Pentagon, as well as our private sector, so they make the investments6875necessary to rebuild America's defense industrial base?6876    Lieutenant General Caine. As I stated in testimony, we must be6877clear in our sense of urgency. The Joint Staff has established a Joint6878Munitions Working Group (JMWG) from organizations across DOD to6879specifically address this problem. Acknowledging we have munitions6880shortages relative to our requirements and barriers within the Defense6881Industrial Base (DIB) to respond to the urgent demand for more critical6882munitions in a combat scenario, the JMWG is focused on finding near-6883term solutions to rapidly increase magazine depth for the high priority6884munitions most relevant to warfighting success in INDOPACOM. To that6885end, we have identified a set of INDOPACOM-focused priority munitions6886both in development and in production. The JWMG will recommend6887investments to diminish or eliminate the bottlenecks preventing the DIB6888from delivering these decisive munitions on time and at scale. I and6889the Joint Staff will work with OSD and the Services to impart that6890sense of warfighting urgency and to increase the agility of the DIB to6891reload our combat forces in the event of conflict.68926893    4. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, I am concerned that we6894are not taking active steps in INDOPACOM to preposition material and6895take advantage of ``left of conflict'' capabilities. Are you aware of6896any legislative roadblocks prohibiting the pre-positioning of deterrent6897capabilities today?6898    Lieutenant General Caine. At present I am not aware of any6899legislative roadblocks preventing the pre-positioning of deterrent6900capabilities in INDOPACOM today. While the Department of Defense (DoD)6901is required to maintain pre-positioning programs, resource constraints6902remain a challenge. Increased funding and prioritization for pre-6903positioned war reserve materiel would help accelerate efforts, enabling6904more effective deterrence and support for operational readiness69056906    5. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to6907advising the President, National Security Council, and Secretary of6908Defense on the full extent of existing authorities like the Defense6909Sensitive Support program to best posture the United States and our6910allies for success against Communist China?6911    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.69126913    6. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to6914releasing a memo within your first 30 days as a Chairman requiring that6915INDOPACOM come back with all possible operational requirements that may6916require title 50 or unique authority support?6917    Lieutenant General Caine. Consistent with my testimony, I believe6918an early integrated approach is foundational to maintain the strong6919working relationships that currently exist. We cannot afford to miss6920any opportunities to integrate the Title 10 and Title 50 community. If6921confirmed, I will continue to work to ensure relevant frameworks for6922military forces to support activities of other U.S. Government6923departments and agencies are appropriately leveraged to pursue U.S.6924interests, to include at INDOPACOM.69256926    7. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to6927expanding the Defense Sensitive Support staff if required based on6928those findings?6929    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will ensure our staffs6930are appropriately organized and staffed to meet current and future6931requirements. Consistent with my confirmation testimony, I look forward6932to continuing work within the Department and with colleagues in other6933U.S. Government departments and agencies to adjust existing6934arrangements as the need arises.6935                               readiness6936    8. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, our Air Force's fleet-6937wide mission capable rate has dropped in 62 percent. Out of more than69385,000 planes, which is already the smallest fleet in the service's6939history, 1,900 are unavailable for tasking at any given time. What do6940we need to improve the readiness of the Air Force?6941    Lieutenant General Caine. Based on my experiences, there are many6942variables such as aircraft use and inventory, plan requirements,6943modernization efforts, divestment, and supply chain/maintenance issues6944that impact readiness. If confirmed, I look forward to working6945alongside Congress and the Department of the Air Force to appropriately6946resource the Air Force and improve is capability and capacity.69476948    9. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, what investments6949should we be making to help you maintain or increase the Air Force's6950readiness?6951    Lieutenant General Caine. We should balance an acute need to6952modernize capabilities of our aircraft to ensure they remain effective6953against evolving threats, while at the same time adequately funding6954weapons system sustainment and modernization. If confirmed, I pledge6955continued collaboration with the Air Force and Congress to analyze and6956develop courses of action to best pursue our national security6957objectives.69586959    10. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, what other readiness6960concerns do you have or the Department of Defense?6961    Lieutenant General Caine. I have not been briefed on specific6962readiness challenges to the Department, but based on my experience,6963readiness challenges exist across many elements that span materiel,6964personnel, and training. Specifically, depleted munition inventories6965due to operational tempo and the transfer of munitions to allies,6966recruiting challenges, unrealized interoperability and shared6967operational concepts, and a challenged defense industrial base, to6968include modernized facilities like shipyards.6969                   counter-unmanned aircraft systems6970    11. Senator Cotton. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you advise6971the Department of Defense to organize, train and equip for the counter-6972unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) mission?6973    Lieutenant General Caine. Defending against the rapidly evolving6974UAS threat set presents both a capacity and capability challenge. If6975confirmed, I will review how the Department organizes, trains, and6976equips the counter-unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) mission to ensure6977our warfighters can meet this rapidly evolving threat.6978                               __________6979              Questions Submitted by Senator Dan Sullivan6980                                 alaska6981    12. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, in a 20186982interview, then Secretary of the Navy, Richard Spencer, said that the6983Navy ``need[s] to have on-sea presence [in the Arctic] now that we have6984a blue water Arctic more times than not.'' He additionally pushed the6985Navy to look at ``warm[ing] up Adak again,'' not only for additional6986training but also for naval sea and air facilities as well as bulk fuel6987capability. When Chinese and Russian naval vessels and air assets enter6988the Alaska Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and Air Defense Identification6989Zone (ADIZ), aircraft and ships must often travel long distances, which6990stretch sustainment and make it more difficult to keep a constant6991presence in the region where our adversaries are located. Will you6992commit to reviewing our Arctic posture and specifically pushing for a6993naval base and bulk fuel facilities at Adak Island to increase presence6994in the Arctic?6995    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes. The United States is an Arctic6996nation and the strategic importance of the Arctic to America's enduring6997security and prosperity is clear. If confirmed, I commit to review our6998Arctic posture (forces, footprint, and agreements) and to provide the6999Secretary of Defense, National Security Council (NSC), and President7000best military advice regarding the Arctic and our presence there.70017002    13. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, Alaska is the only7003U.S. State in the Arctic region. What advantages do you see in having7004multiple ports in the Aleutians and Western Alaska that can refuel U.S.7005Navy ships?7006    Lieutenant General Caine. Multiple refueling ports in Western7007Alaska and the Aleutians would enhance U.S. Navy operational reach,7008reduce reliance on distant resupply points, and improve response7009capabilities in potential conflicts. Collaboration with commercial7010entities could strengthen logistics through warm port support7011contracts, dual-use facilities, and effective crisis-transition7012authorities. It also increases our strategic survivability.70137014    14. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, in Alaska, we have7015seen joint Russian-Chinese air and naval exercises off our shores,7016incursions into our ADIZ and EEZ, and a Chinese spy balloon floating7017over our communities. In your opinion, what capabilities must advance7018to improve all-domain awareness in Alaska to respond to and be a7019persistent presence in the Arctic, while Russia and China have7020developed capabilities to hold our Homeland at risk?7021    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I would continue efforts7022underway in the department aligned with the Golden Dome for America7023Executive Order. This effort is assessing the necessary capabilities to7024improve all-domain awareness across the country, to include Alaska, and7025provide a persistent presence in the needed regions. We must bolster7026our overall detection posture.70277028    15. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, Alaska's importance7029as a strategic place is not only due to its location but because it7030forms the ``Three Pillars of Military Might'': 1) it acts as the7031cornerstone of missile defense by housing the majority of the Nation's7032ground based nuclear interceptors and many of the Nation's advanced7033radars; 2) by providing a strategic platform for expeditionary forces7034including the 11th Airborne Division (Arctic); and 3) being a hub for7035Air Combat Power where the largest concentration of fifth generation7036fighters in the world is located. Will you commit to visiting Alaska to7037understand the unique capabilities our State brings to deterrence?7038    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, I will.70397040    16. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, Eielson Air Force7041Base (AFB) which in addition to being home to F-35 squadrons, F-167042interceptors, and KC-135s along with hosting many nations each year for7043Red Flag events, still needs many more ``warm'' facilities to house KC-7044135 airframes. It can only really fit two right now. Additionally,7045other infrastructure is very outdated, and facilities are not keeping7046pace with Wainwright Army base. Will you work with me to acquire the7047infrastructure necessary to hold the tankers?7048    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, my staff and I will work to7049ensure that the Joint Force has the right infrastructure in place to7050support our campaigning and contingency requirements. We will7051continually work to balance our infrastructure needs to ensure that we7052are making best use of congressional dollars. I look forward to working7053with you on the issues at Eielson Air Force Base, in particular.70547055    17. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, my State holds the7056highest concentration of combat-coded fifth generation aircraft7057anywhere else in the country (over 100). Any conflict in the Indo-7058Pacific region will undoubtedly call upon Alaskan warfighters and our7059military assets.7060    Lieutenant General Caine. For the last decade I've pressed every7061Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Secretary of the Air Force, and Chief of7062Staff of the Air Force on the need for more aerial refueling assets in7063Alaska to support the increasing training requirements and intercept7064missions.7065    Last year, I wrote a letter to the previous Secretary of the Air7066Force, Frank Kendall, pressing him to fulfill the Air Force's7067commitments on this issue and Kendall replied with a signed memorandum7068finally codifying the movement of 4x KC-135s to Eielson AFB in so7069called ``active association''. This MUST NOT be delayed any longer.70707071    18. Senator Sullivan. Can I get your commitment that, if confirmed,7072you will see the completion of that KC-135 basing through to the end?7073    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I commit to working with7074the SECAF and CSAF toward resolving this issue.70757076    19. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, can I also get your7077commitment to work expedite the delivery time and increase the7078readiness rates of the KC-46?7079    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, you have my commitment to working7080with the SECAF, CSAF, and vendor on expediting the delivery time and7081increasing the readiness rates of the KC-46.70827083    20. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, in our discussion7084in my office we spoke about the need for additional hangar and7085infrastructure capability at Deadhorse (near Prudhoe Bay) to help7086extend the Air Force's reach in the Arctic. The U.S. Northern Command7087(NORTHCOM) Commander, General Gregory Guillot, as well as the U.S.7088Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) Commander, General Kevin Schneider have both7089expressed interest in this location. Will you work with me, if7090confirmed, to get the military construction approved to support7091operations out of Deadhorse?7092    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, my staff and I will work to7093ensure that the Joint Force has the right infrastructure in place to7094support our campaigning and contingency requirements. We will7095continually work to balance our infrastructure needs to ensure that we7096are making best use of congressional dollars. I look forward to working7097with you issues at Deadhorse, in particular.70987099    21. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, the 18th Fighter7100Interceptor Squadron (FIS) at Eielson AFB is responsible for7101interception of Russian and Chinese strategic bombers and fighters that7102cross into the Alaskan ADIZ. Oftentimes however the 18th FIS is short7103of either pilots or mechanics to accomplish their mission. They always7104do accomplish the mission, but often at great extra cost in manpower7105and time (especially as intercepts have increased in the last year).7106Will you commit to looking at the task organization and real-life7107manning of this unit and its sustainers and ensure that they are manned7108100 percent to finish their mission?7109    Lieutenant General Caine. Personnel staffing at individual7110installations is a Service specific requirement, if confirmed, I will7111commit to working with your office and the Chief of Staff of the Air7112Force to thoroughly review task organization and manning requirements7113of the 18th Fighter Interceptor Squadron (FIS) at Eielson AFB.71147115    22. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, as you are aware7116I've been fighting to get the KC-135 Active Association complete at7117Eielson AFB for nearly a decade and your predecessor signed off on it.7118I appreciate your commitment during your hearing to see this through to7119completion. I've ran into a number of issues with the Air Force Site7120Activation Task Force (SATF) which has visited Eielson nearly six times7121to conduct housing surveys. It appears they are using housing data from71222023 to make decisions regarding the amount of available housing at7123Eielson. Will you commit to work with me to ensure that SATF is using7124the most current housing data to inform its decisions about housing at7125Eielson and to relook the Air Force's housing requirements as soon as7126possible to ensure we are meeting mission need at the base?7127    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I commit to working with7128the SecAf and CSAF to resolve this issue.71297130    23. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, as part of7131President Trump's Golden Dome program, there will almost certainly be a7132need to ensure that our advanced early warning radar systems like the7133E-7 are capable of detecting incoming aircraft and missile threats both7134at home and, if necessary, forward deployed. We have had a number of7135issues in Alaska with E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS)7136readiness rates due to aging airframes and parts. Will you commit to7137reviewing the E-7 program to make sure we are properly resourcing it7138and work with me to ensure that we have that capability on hand when7139required in Alaska?7140    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, I can commit to reviewing the E-77141program with the Air Force and the Joint Chiefs to advise the7142Department on resourcing the right mix of sensors that best supports7143the Joint Force in defending the Homeland.71447145    24. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, 6 years ago, the7146Marine Corps was poised to alter its Indo-Pacific force laydown to7147account for the inherent risk of access, basing, and overflight (ABO)7148denial and limited training opportunities on Marine Corps bases across7149the Indo-Pacific. The 37th Commandant of the Marine Corps, General7150Robert Neller, sent several teams to Alaska to assess infrastructure7151and training opportunities to support a Unit Deployment Program (UDP)7152to preposition assets the Marine Corps would need to surge forward in7153the event of conflict with the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Alaska's7154benefits were as obvious then as they are now: Alaska provides year-7155round training for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) in nearly7156every clime and place found on the globe; Alaska's cold weather7157training opportunities are cheaper than other overseas options and7158permit significantly larger forces to train simultaneously; perhaps7159most importantly, Alaska is in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command7160(INDOPACOM) area of responsibility (AOR). Do you agree in your7161professional military opinion that it is vital for the Marine Corps to7162regularly practice in Arctic conditions here in the United States in a7163place that our adversaries regularly train in?7164    Lieutenant General Caine. The Marine Corps, as well as all the7165Services, must be able to operate in any climate or region to defend7166our national interests. In line with the DOD Arctic Strategy, the Joint7167Force must be trained, ready, and equipped to mitigate the risks7168associated with potential contingencies in the Arctic.7169                       defense acquisition reform7170    25. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, last year, Congress7171received the report of the Commission on Planning, Programming,7172Budgeting and Execution (PPBE) Reform--a comprehensive report that7173outlined issues with the Department of Defense's defense acquisition7174system. I plan to lead efforts to cut bureaucracy and speed up7175innovation in the Pentagon and defense technology sector and I believe7176the recommendations in this report are a crucial step in doing so. Many7177of the reforms in that report do not need congressional legislation to7178execute but rather can be enacted by the Department of Defense. Will7179you commit to review the findings of that report and direct a Pentagon7180working group to begin implementation of the reform measures it7181outlined?7182    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will review the report7183and work with the Department to implement the findings that will help7184achieve our strategic objectives and improve the effectiveness and7185efficiency of the resource allocation process.71867187    26. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, I am working with7188the Pentagon and through legislation to lead efforts that help7189innovative defense startups avoid the ``Valley of Death'' which results7190in long-procurement timelines and shuttered defense firms. Will you7191commit to work with me to fix this issue and to get feedback from non-7192traditional defense technology leaders and scholars to reform the7193Pentagon's processes?7194    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.71957196    27. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, what issues did you7197run into as a defense entrepreneur related to this issue?7198    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, the issues varied from the7199initial process of bidding for contracts, to the competition phase, to7200moving requirements, and then the burden of once selected,7201operationally providing the goods or services we were hired to provide.7202The FAR is extensive, and I acknowledge it was built for a reason, but7203if we want to go faster, we need to smartly remove bureaucracy, not add7204it in. I am not saying we need to make mistakes but rather look for7205ways to optimize efficiency and effectiveness. There are likely some7206elements of the FAR that may not be ideally suited for small7207businesses.72087209    28. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to7210reviewing the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)7211as outlined in the PPBE Reform Commission report and provide Congress7212with updates as to the regulations that need to be removed or amended7213to speed up acquisition?7214    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, I will review the Defense Federal7215Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) as outlined in the PPBE7216Reform Commission report and work with the Department to provide7217Congress updates.72187219    29. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, in my view, one of7220the most important findings of the PPBE commission report involved7221reviewing defense technology portfolios and budget line items to align7222them with capabilities and provide agile budgeting flexibility by7223consolidating budget line items. The Vice Chiefs of each service all7224testified in a recent Readiness Subcommittee hearing that they agreed7225with the need for budget flexibility. Do you agree that this idea will7226give the Pentagon more agility to identify and execute important7227programs at scale that are needed by the warfighter?7228    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, I agree. Aligning defense portfolios7229and budget line items to enhance budget flexibility is a critical step7230toward ensuring our warfighters have the resources they need when they7231need them. I support the PPBE Commission's recommendations to7232consolidate budget line items. This increased flexibility will allow7233the Joint Force to respond faster to emerging threats and technological7234advancements, increasing our alignment to strategic direction while7235speeding delivery of critical capabilities to the Joint warfighter.72367237    30. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, one of the most7238successful programs in the Pentagon the last several years has been the7239Space Development Agency (SDA), which has significantly reduced the7240time it takes to get satellite sensor systems into orbit cheaply and at7241scale. However, I am growing concerned that this program is going to be7242pulled into the slower Pentagon Joint Capabilities Integration and7243Development System (JCIDS), and potentially lose its technological7244edge. Will you commit to reviewing this program and helping Congress7245protect its current organizational configuration to enable scalable7246satellite launches?7247    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, the space domain continues to7248become a more critical warfighting domain. I'm not familiar with all of7249the particulars and unable to commit until such time that I can do so.7250If confirmed I will look into this matter.72517252    31. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, the Replicator7253Initiative seems to be trending positively overall with certain7254exquisite capabilities already acquired. The goal is to scale these7255capabilities this year. If the Replicator Initiative is successful,7256there will likely be several lessons learned from it about the7257procurement process. How do you plan to incorporate lessons learned7258from Replicator into the rest of the DOD procurement process?7259    Lieutenant General Caine. The Joint Staff has been partnered with7260DIU, the Military Departments, and OSD since the inception of7261Replicator. DIU recently released Replicator lessons learned to the7262Deputy's Innovation Steering Group (DISG). If confirmed, I intend for7263the Joint Staff to review these lessons and incorporate any lessons7264that can positively influence Department procurement processes.72657266    32. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, the F-47 program7267was awarded recently to Boeing. While I have no doubt that Boeing was7268chosen because it had the best aircraft prototype, I'd like to know how7269you plan to hold contractors (including Boeing) accountable for any7270failures or delays in this program given its recent history with the7271KC-46 which is ongoing?7272    Lieutenant General Caine. With all new acquisitions there is risk.7273It is important to have open, clear communication of that risk with the7274contractor for the effective use of our limited resources. I will work7275with the Department to find the tools to support, and if needed7276motivate, contractors to meet cost, schedule, and performance goals to7277deliver this dominant capability to the Joint Force. I will also7278strongly partner with OUSD (A&S), OUSD (R&E), DSD, and others to ensure7279the fully aligned messaging of expectations to the contractor.72807281    33. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, what do you think7282we learned from these previous programs that we should do differently7283with the F-47?7284    Lieutenant General Caine. There is tremendous interplay between7285technological maturity and program performance. I will work with the7286Department to ensure valuable lessons learned are being applied to7287acquisition programs providing capabilities to the Joint Force. Some of7288the things we've learned include the importance of focusing on a7289limited set of key capabilities to reduce requirements creep, robust7290intellectual property management, and using Modular Open System7291Architecture (MOSA) to prevent vendor lock.7292      critical mineral, national environmental policy act, energy7293    34. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, during his term,7294President Biden passed 70 executive orders that restricted Alaska's7295ability to extract its own natural resources despite an acute need for7296them on both commercial and national security grounds. These executive7297orders have slowed down or completely hindered resource extraction and7298critical infrastructure projects important not just to the State but to7299the Nation as a whole. On the first day of his presidency, January 20,73002025, President Trump signed an executive order entitled Unleashing7301Alaska's Extraordinary Resource Potential. The order in part reads as7302follows:7303    ``Section 3 Specific Agency Actions7304    a. The heads of all executive departments and agencies, including7305but not limited to the Secretary of the Interior; the Secretary of7306Commerce, acting through the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and7307Atmosphere; and the Secretary of the Army acting through the Assistant7308Secretary of the Army for Public Works, shall exercise all lawful7309authority and discretion available to them and take all necessary steps7310to:7311    (i) rescind, revoke, revise, amend, defer, or grant exemptions from7312any and all regulations, orders, guidance documents, policies, and any7313other similar agency actions that are inconsistent with the policy set7314forth in section 2 of this order, including but not limited to agency7315actions promulgated, issued, or adopted between January 20, 2021, and7316January 20, 2025; and7317    (ii) prioritize the development of Alaska's LNG potential,7318including the permitting of all necessary pipeline and export7319infrastructure related to the Alaska LNG Project, giving due7320consideration to the economic and national security benefits associated7321with such development . . .7322    Section 3(d) in addition to the actions outlined in subsection (a)7323of this section, the Secretary of the Army, acting through the7324Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, shall render all7325assistance requested by the Governor of Alaska to facilitate the7326clearing and maintenance of transportation infrastructure, consistent7327with applicable law. All such requests for assistance shall be7328transmitted to the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of the Interior, and7329Assistant to the President for Economic Policy for approval prior to7330initiation.7331    Section 3(e) the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works,7332under the direction of the Secretary of the Army, shall immediately7333review, revise, or rescind any agency action that may in any way7334hinder, slow or otherwise delay any critical project in the State of7335Alaska.''7336    Will you commit fully to the intent of the President's executive7337order referenced above where the Department of the Army and the U.S7338Army Corps of Engineers will play a vital role?7339    Lieutenant General Caine. Consistent with my role and authorities7340as CJCS, I commit to providing the President with my advice on all7341Executive Orders concerning the employment of the Joint Force.73427343    35. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, one of the results7344of President Biden's energy policies and the ``lock up'' of my State7345through his executive orders is an energy emergency affecting our7346national security that is unfolding on some Alaska bases. I spoke to7347Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth recently about this issue and7348explained to him that there has been a number of instances where7349commanders of bases like Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in7350Anchorage had to tell servicemembers and their families to turn-down7351their heat, unplug personal property, and turn-off certain critical7352systems that sustain the base. This was done to preserve electricity7353and avoid brownouts in the region. Would U.S. national security be7354enhanced if there was a reliable source of clean-burning Alaskan7355natural gas available to supply the energy needs of these bases?7356    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, reliable energy sources are7357critical to national security.73587359    36. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to7360working with the State of Alaska and me to secure a reliable source of7361energy for Alaska military bases? (LA/CAG/Nominee)7362    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.7363                        golden dome for america7364    37. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, Billy Mitchell, the7365Father of the U.S. Air Force once said, ``I believe . . . whoever7366controls Alaska controls the world. I think it is the most strategic7367place in the world. No other State but Alaska is strategically located7368to provide such a high level of Homeland Defense.'' At Fort Greely, the736949th Missile Defense Battalion provides our Nation's first line of7370defense, tasked to defend against the threat of an intercontinental7371ballistic missile attack, command of 40 of the Nation's 44 ballistic7372missile interceptors, and reception of data from the nearby Long Range7373Discrimination Radar (LRDR). Fort Greely will soon house the new Next7374Generation Interceptor (NGI) missiles, but the program for this system7375has stalled due to high-cost overruns and manufacturing delays. The NGI7376will be an essential part of our national ballistic missile system.7377Will you commit to reviewing the NGI program, if confirmed, and keep7378Congress informed of what resources are required to field the missile7379on time?7380    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.73817382    38. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, Alaska is strategic7383not only for its geographic location but also because of its7384concentration of over 100 fifth generation fighters (the highest7385concentration in the world) as well as it being home to the 11th7386Airborne Division, the Nation's preeminent Arctic combat unit. If a war7387occurred in the INDOPACOM AOR, forces in Alaska would almost certainly7388be part of that fight and therefore would also be potentially targeted7389in their home bases. Do you believe that President Trump's ``Golden7390Dome for America'' should include Alaska as a critical site to be7391defended from missile attack given the facts stated above?7392    Lieutenant General Caine. I understand that Golden Dome of America7393is a strategic priority for the administration and that there are7394ongoing efforts to determine the way forward with respect to how we are7395going to defend all of the Homeland from these threats, all within the7396guidance of the administration. If confirmed, I commit to reviewing the7397current status of this work and associated analysis used to determine7398the geographic coverage of Golden Dome.73997400    39. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, as we discussed in7401my office, Alaska is the cornerstone of America's missile defense. My7402colleague Senator Cramer and I introduced the IRON DOME Act to7403complement President Trump's executive order and we will release a new7404GOLDEN DOME Act soon to build on DOD and industry's continued7405development of this system and we will continue to work on it7406throughout the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) process.7407    Lieutenant General Caine. I asked the Vice Chief of Space7408Operations at Space Force, General Michael Guetlein, in my Readiness7409Subcommittee hearing on Joint Force Posture how we should think about7410integrate such a complex system as Golden Dome. His response was7411excellent.7412    He said this undertaking is comparable in his mind only to The7413Manhattan Project. He said it's not because of technological complexity7414however, ``it is complex because of the number of organizations and the7415number of agencies that need to be involved.''7416    He went on to say: ``Organizational behavior and culture are going7417to be our biggest challenges,'' and that we must have ``one entity in7418charge that has the full support of the Nation, from the President,7419from the Hill, and from the American people.''7420    He then said we must empower that person or entity to be resourced7421and make decisions across organizational boundaries and that we must7422reinvigorate our industrial base--to include bringing in new,7423innovative entrants to create Golden Dome.7424    Do you agree with General Guetlein?7425    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes. Given the heavy emphasis on the7426space domain and other critical organizations involved in delivering7427Golden Dome, it is imperative that we identify an entity to serve as7428the Department lead to synchronize the efforts of the Department across7429the full scope of capabilities.74307431    40. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you plan to7432get after these problems of organizational behavior, culture, and7433resourcing involved in Golden Dome?7434    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work closely with7435the Secretary of Defense, the Combatant Commanders, Services and other7436stakeholders to identify areas where we can streamline decisionmaking,7437increase efficiency and speed delivery of capability.7438    I will prioritize cultural change where required, by promoting and7439encouraging a culture of experimentation and calculated risk-taking,7440recognizing and rewarding innovative thinking and problem-solving.7441    I will address resourcing by working with the Services and OSD to7442prioritize our investments and allocate resources more effectively. I7443will review the operational requirements for Golden Dome to ensure that7444our resources are aligned with our strategic priorities.7445    Overall, addressing the problems of organizational behavior,7446culture, and resourcing within Golden Dome will require a sustained7447effort and commitment to change. I am committed to setting an7448environment that ensures the DOD is postured to deploy and maintain a7449next-generation missile defense shield.7450                                 budget7451    41. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, since World War II,7452U.S. defense spending has only dropped below 3 percent of gross7453domestic product (GDP) 4 times. Right now, we are barely spending over7454that threshold and the services are paying the heavy price for it in7455readiness. Senator Wicker's ``Peace Through Strength'' Act seeks to7456increase defense spending from 3 percent to 5 percent over time. Do you7457commit to advocate for the resources that we need to strengthen our7458services and ultimate save servicemembers' lives in the event of a7459conflict?7460    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.7461             small business administration 8(a) contractor7462    42. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, I recently toured7463an Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) contracting operation and7464saw firsthand the value 8(a) brings to the Federal customer in terms of7465cost and efficiency while delivering mission-critical solutions that7466increase our national security and warfighter readiness. When the rate7467for big government contractors is double 8(a) shops and about 45 days7468for 8(a) contractors versus 3 months for big government contractors,7469and 8(a) shops give the intellectual property (IP) to the government7470unlike big government contractors--would you agree as a former defense7471entrepreneur that the SBA 8(a) program one of the most efficient and7472effective ways to deliver results to the Federal Government?7473    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator.74747475    43. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, 8(a) contractors7476provide tremendous value to the Department of Defense. In addition to7477the rapid contracting capabilities and reduced costs compared to large7478original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and other services providers,74798(a) organizations transfer the IP to the government. They do not7480encumber it with legal restrictions like the big government7481contractors. Clearly, SBA 8(a) programs are one of the most efficient7482ways to deliver immediate and enduring results to the Federal7483Government. Wouldn't you agree with me?7484    Lieutenant General Caine. I do, Senator.74857486    44. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, rapid response7487capabilities are essential to enable our warfighter to win on the7488battlefield. At the same time, our defense contractors must rapidly7489respond to the needs of our military to make the U.S. Military more7490lethal. Flexible and efficient contracting through the SBA 8(a) program7491is one trusted way to do this. Please explain how you will ensure that7492proven, dependable, and cost-effective 8(a) programs remain in place7493and supported by the Department of Defense.7494    Lieutenant General Caine. Maintaining a robust field of defense7495contractors and contract vehicles that can rapidly respond to7496warfighter requirements is necessary to provide a lethal Joint Force. I7497will work with the Department's acquisition authorities to deliver new7498capabilities and advanced technologies to our Joint Force through7499flexible and efficient contracting.7500               shipbuilding and amphibious ship readiness7501    45. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, we are in an7502emergency situation when it comes to amphibious ship readiness for the7503Marine Corps. A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report7504stated that roughly 50 percent of the amphibious fleet was in ``poor7505material condition'' including 5 out of 9 LHA/LHD [landing helicopter7506assault/landing helicopter dock] carriers and 90 percent of LSD (Dock7507Landing Ships). Those numbers are both shocking and unacceptable.7508    Lieutenant General Caine. Last year, the Marine Corps did not7509deploy a full complement of ships for the entirety of the 15th7510Amphibious Ready Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit's (ARG/MEU) deployment7511because the USS Boxer broke down not long after leaving port. This is7512supposed to be America's 9-1-1 force. I have a feeling if this were a7513Carrier Strike Group this wouldn't be happening and that's why I need7514your help.7515    Will you commit to solving any disagreements between the Navy and7516the Marine Corps about amphibious ship repair and maintenance and7517ensure we are able to deploy at least three ARG/MEUs at any one time as7518per the Commandant's guidance to the Corps?7519    If confirmed, I commit to working with the Secretary, the CNO, and7520the CMC toward this benchmark.75217522    46. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, if you need7523Congress's help when it comes to resourcing amphibious ship readiness,7524will you commit to reporting back to us as soon as possible with a7525realistic account of what it would take to fix this issue?7526    Lieutenant General Caine. I will, Senator.75277528    47. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, President Trump has7529expressed a vision where we work with our allies to make use of their7530existing shipbuilding capacity, leverage lessons learned from their7531shipyards and encourage their investment in our own maritime industrial7532base. What is the role that you see our allies playing in expanding our7533navy shipbuilding infrastructure and growing the Navy?7534    Lieutenant General Caine. We must look at all options to increase7535our capabilities, including increasing our fleet. If confirmed, I look7536forward to working with the Department of the Navy on this critical7537matter.75387539    48. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, I am very concerned7540about both our ship and submarine readiness. I know the Navy has7541established an 80 percent surge readiness goal, but we are nowhere near7542there today. President Xi is deathly afraid of our submarines. What do7543you think needs to be done to get subs in and out of maintenance on7544time and what will you do to simultaneously increase sub maintenance7545capacity?7546    Lieutenant General Caine. The capability and capacity of our7547submarine industrial base is critical. I would defer to the Department7548of the Navy for specifics on this matter, but if confirmed, I am7549committed to focusing on this important topic.75507551    49. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, recognizing that7552attack submarines are one of our biggest advantages compared to the7553People's Republic of China (PRC) do you agree that our inability to7554produce at least two submarines per year (and deliver them on time)7555increases risk in the Indo-Pacific during this decade?7556    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes. The inability to produce the7557requisite number of submarines increases risk. We must focus on the7558submarine industrial base and motivate the contractors to recruit and7559retain their workforce. If confirmed, I look forward to working with7560SECNAV and CNO on this matter.75617562    50. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, our inability to7563produce at least two submarines per year obviously creates doubt in7564Australia that we can deliver 3-5 Virginia-class submarines as part of7565the optimal pathway for Pillar I. What will you tell your Australian7566counterparts to assure them of our commitment to increasing Virginia7567production and executing the optimal pathway?7568    Lieutenant General Caine. The Secretary of Defense has confirmed7569the U.S. commitment to AUKUS. If confirmed I will continue to work to7570boost the capacity and output of the Navy's four public shipyards,7571which are crucial for building, repairing, and modernizing Virginia-7572class submarines.7573                       marine corps force design7574    51. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, Marine Corps Force7575Design and its ``divest to invest'' initiatives are a bold idea to7576create an agile and lethal force that can maneuver effectively in a7577maritime environment. However, many Marine Corps advocates--myself7578included--are concerned that Force Design may be hollowing out certain7579critical combat capabilities that will detract from the Marine Corps'7580mission as the Nation's premiere ``9-1-1'' rapid response force.7581Militaries around the world have long understood ``combined arms'' to7582mean employing a combination of infantry, tanks, cannon artillery,7583engineers, and close support aircraft in a coordinated manner. Those7584same military today are endeavoring to add these systems to their7585inventories and we see their utility on battlefields in Ukraine. Yet,7586the Marine Corps has divested all the Marine Corps' tanks, two-thirds7587of its cannon artillery, nearly all its engineering equipment to breach7588enemy minefields and obstacles, all its engineering equipment that7589enables clearing and proofing of minefields, all its bridging, and7590nearly a third of its close support rotary and fixed wing aircraft. How7591is it possible for the Corps to have ``the most proficient combined7592arms teams on the globe'' without these needed weapons and items of7593equipment?7594    Lieutenant General Caine. The capabilities of the Marine Corps to7595serve as a rapid reaction force are critical. If confirmed, I commit to7596working with the Commandant of the Marine Corps on ensuring that Marine7597Corps Force Design is in line with globally integrated requirements.75987599    52. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, part of Force7600Design rests on the assumption that the Marine Corps will be able to7601fill gaps in its combat power (i.e. borrowing tanks, bridging assets,7602etc.) from other services including the Navy and Army if the need7603arises. While the services do train together, there are concerns that7604training for specialized equipment between the services as well as7605inventory constraints in a major conflict will hinder the Marine Corps'7606ability to operate effectively. Given the assumptions of Force Design7607regarding equipment support, will you commit to reviewing integration7608between the Marine Corps and other services in support of operations7609plan (OPLAN) execution to include the readiness of the joint force to7610support Force Design?7611    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes Senator. If confirmed I will serve as7612the Global Integrator and thus must understand these critical elements7613and the associated risks with each branch and sequel.76147615    53. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, the Marine Corps is7616making a lot of assumptions in my opinion about Navy and Army support7617for Force Design to be successful. If confirmed, how do you intend to7618work with General Eric Smith and Admiral James Kilby in order to ensure7619alignment across the Navy and Marine Corps?7620    Lieutenant General Caine. The Navy Marine Corps Team, especially in7621the form of the ARG/MEU is a national asset. I am committed to working7622with the Marine Corps and Navy and all Services to advise the Secretary7623on how to develop a total force designed and aligned to meet the7624national defense strategy.76257626    54. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to7627reviewing the need for a formal agreement or memorandum of7628understanding between the services for equipment sharing and training7629in support of Force Design's assumptions and OPLAN execution?7630    Lieutenant General Caine. If need be, yes Senator.76317632    55. Senator Sullivan. Lieutenant General Caine, the Marine Corps'7633ability to conduct shore-to-shore operations in a contested maritime7634environment relies on its ability to field sufficient numbers of7635medium-sized ocean-going craft that can execute movement and landing7636operations at the operational and tactical level. The Landing Ship7637Medium (LSM) program is supposed to create a new ship that will achieve7638those operational requirements. The LSM program however has hit a major7639snag as the projected costs and time needed to construct these ships is7640much higher than anticipated requiring the Navy and Marine Corps to7641look for alternative solutions. These ships are vital to any7642contingency in the South China Sea or elsewhere. Will you commit to7643review the LSM program with the Secretary of the Navy, Chief of Naval7644Operations, and Commandant of the Marine Corps and place influence on7645the need for speed in this program both within the services and in your7646communications with Congress?7647    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I commit to working with7648the Department of the Navy to ensure that capabilities are in line with7649globally integrated requirements.7650                               __________7651                Questions Submitted by Senator Jack Reed7652                    inspector general investigation7653    56. Senator Reed. Lieutenant General Caine, Chairman Wicker and I7654sent a letter to the Acting Department of Defense Inspector General7655asking for an inquiry into the group chat on the commercially available7656communications application called Signal, which included members of the7657National Security Council.7658    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, in your capacity as the7659Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will you ensure that no one7660under your preview will interfere with the independence of the7661Inspector General's investigation?7662    I will, Senator.76637664    57. Senator Reed. Lieutenant General Caine, if it comes to your7665attention that there is interference in the investigation, will you act7666accordingly?7667    Lieutenant General Caine. I will, Senator.7668                               __________7669             Questions Submitted by Senator Jeanne Shaheen7670                       women, peace and security7671    58. Senator Shaheen. Lieutenant General Caine, could you describe7672the strategic advantage that authorities under the Women, Peace and7673Security Act at the Department of Defense give the United States over7674China?7675    Lieutenant General Caine. By addressing destabilizing conditions7676that China ignores and by improving interoperability, DOD WPS7677authorities have strengthened critical United States military-to-7678military relationships in the Indo Pacific region, by increasing our7679understanding and value to the addressed cohorts, all of which provides7680the United States advantage over China.7681                               __________7682             Questions Submitted by Senator Mazie K. Hirono7683             u.s. indo-pacific command unfunded priorities7684    59. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, successive7685administrations have identified China as the pacing threat and the7686Indo-Pacific as the priority theater. However, INDOPACOM provided7687Congress this year with $11 billion dollars in unfunded priorities,7688which includes missile defense systems, electronic warfare, munitions,7689and posture initiatives. Do you agree there is misalignment between7690DOD's strategy and spending priorities?7691    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will examine the unfunded7692priorities from the Combatant Commands and pay close attention to where7693our strategy requirements have created significant gaps between the7694resources currently allocated to fund them.76957696    60. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what are the most7697significant operational and strategic risks to U.S. deterrence and7698warfighting credibility if INDOPACOM's funding gaps are not addressed?7699    Lieutenant General Caine. Our priorities in the INDOPACIFIC focus7700on an integrated Joint Force and deterring China. Investment in these7701capabilities would go to ensure United States Forces are postured in7702the right locations, with the right capabilities to deter in7703competition and win in the event of crisis or conflict. If confirmed, I7704will review the operational challenges with the USINDOPACOM commander7705and be available to further address funding gaps in detail in a7706classified setting.77077708    61. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, would you be willing7709to consider significant changes to how the DOD develops and validates7710capability requirements (JCIDS process) because of how lengthy,7711inflexible, and bureaucratic it has become?7712    Lieutenant General Caine. The Joint Staff is fully supportive and7713actively involved in modernizing the joint requirements process.7714Through our efforts in response to the FY24 NDAA Sec 811 and the7715proposed FORGED Act, we are developing evolutionary and revolutionary7716reforms to the JCIDS and JROC processes. This includes a7717congressionally directed clean-sheet rewrite of JCIDS in order to7718deliver the right capability to the warfighter at speed and at7719capacity. However, through these reform efforts, we must not sacrifice7720the CJCS's and JROC's ability to ensure a globally integrated and7721interoperable joint force that is responsive to the warfighter and7722aligned to the Department's strategy. Additionally, wholistic reform is7723needed, including the acquisition system and budget processes, to7724ensure significantly improve our capability development and delivery.7725We must also continue to retain the global view.77267727    62. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, given the pacing7728challenge posed by China, do you think the INDOPACOM Commander should7729have more of a say in the budgeting and joint resourcing process to7730ensure we are addressing the combatant commands' operational needs?7731    Lieutenant General Caine. The Joint Staff will continue to work7732closely with INDOPACOM as the priority theater, to ensure their7733priorities are appropriately represented in the Program and Budget7734Review process.7735        border security/department of homeland security mission7736    63. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, while this7737Administration has repeatedly stated that the Indo-Pacific is the7738priority theater, Secretary Hegseth has authorized DOD to fund wasteful7739Department of Homeland Security (DHS) missions at the border on a non-7740reimbursable basis. These growing costs threaten our readiness in the7741Indo-Pacific. What impact does non-reimbursable spending on the border7742mission have on DOD's ability to deter China's increasingly aggressive7743actions in the Indo-Pacific?7744    Lieutenant General Caine. I am unfamiliar with the costs or funding7745source associated with this mission. If confirmed, I commit to7746reviewing the impacts of this spending with regard to our other7747critical mission sets.77487749    64. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, do you think it makes7750any sense for DOD to spend $2.5 million dollars--on one flight--to7751deport 100 undocumented immigrants to India?7752    Lieutenant General Caine. I am unfamiliar with the costs expended7753on these flights. Being good stewards of the taxpayer's money is7754critical, and if confirmed, I commit to acting in a fiscally7755responsible manner.77567757    65. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, the Defense7758Department has spent $376 million in the 2 months on immigration7759activities related to securing the border and spent about $40 million7760of that moving fewer than 400 migrants designated for deportation7761through lockups at Guantanamo Bay. The majority of this is on a non-7762reimbursable basis for the DHS mission. Is spending almost $10 million7763per person a strategic and responsible use of DOD and taxpayer dollars?7764    Lieutenant General Caine. I am unfamiliar with the costs expended7765on these flights. Being good stewards of the taxpayer's money is7766critical, and if confirmed, I commit to acting in a fiscally7767responsible manner.77687769    66. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, furthermore, does7770this type of conflict prepare the joint force for great power conflict?7771    Lieutenant General Caine. The United States must be able to both7772defend our Homeland and deter and, if necessary, prevail in a great7773power conflict. If confirmed, as Chairman, I will work to advance the7774Joint Force's readiness for both missions.77757776    67. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, you highlighted7777securing the Homeland as a top priority. What specific role do you see7778for the military in assisting with border security, and how do you7779balance that with global operational commitments?7780    Lieutenant General Caine. The POTUS and SecDef have made clear the7781protection of our sovereign territory is a key role of the Defense7782Department. Based on public reporting, the Department has moved out7783swiftly on border security, to include surging troops, reinforcing and7784repairing barriers, and supporting illegal alien removal operations7785through the operational leadership of Commander, U.S. Northern Command.7786If confirmed, I will review the specifies of our military tasks at the7787border and ensure my advice to the SecDef includes an assessment on the7788impact to our other global missions.77897790    68. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, do you believe the7791DOD's involvement in border security is a misallocation of resources?7792Why or why not?7793    Lieutenant General Caine. I understand the Department is responding7794to a specific Requested for Assistance (RFA) from the Department of7795Homeland Security (DHS) at the southern border. If confirmed, I will7796review Department involvement and resource allocations and provide my7797recommendations to the SecDef.77987799    69. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, has there been any7800assessment of how this non-reimbursable spending affects military7801readiness?7802    Lieutenant General Caine. Based on my experience, the Department7803manages impacts on readiness regardless of mission set through detailed7804and coordinated unit selection, and mission assignment processes. If7805confirmed, I will review the impacts for non-reimbursable spending on7806readiness.78077808    70. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, would you recommend7809changes to the policy of using military assets for immigration7810enforcement?7811    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will continually work7812with the Services and Combatant Commands to assess the risk and cost of7813ongoing operations and advise the SecDef and POTUS on any recommended7814policy changes.78157816    71. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what alternative7817solutions do you propose to address border security concerns without7818impacting DOD operations?7819    Lieutenant General Caine. Based on my experience, over time I would7820expect that the application of advanced technologies and sensor7821networks could reduce the need for DOD to support and supplement DHS7822with manpower at the border.7823                       missile defense of hawaii7824    72. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, missile defense is an7825urgent priority as near-peer adversaries develop advanced long-range7826weapons. Hawaii, as the strategic center of the Indo-Pacific and home7827to command and control for INDOPACOM, is particularly vulnerable to7828these emerging threats. Do you agree that defending Hawaii against7829advanced missile threats--including hypersonics--should be a top7830priority for the Department?7831    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, defending all our Homeland is the7832top priority for the department.78337834    73. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to7835ensuring that any future missile defense strategy and posture provides7836adequate protection to Hawaii from all types of missile threats?7837    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will review our missile7838defense strategy and posture to ensure it adequately considers defense7839of our entire Homeland.78407841    74. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what advancements in7842missile defense technology should the DOD prioritize to counter7843hypersonic threats?7844    Lieutenant General Caine. As our adversaries' hypersonic systems7845become more advanced and more lethal, a multitude of DOD technological7846investments are required. I will defer specific technology advancements7847to the Offices of the Under Secretaries of Research and Engineering and7848Acquisition and Sustainment, however, countering the hypersonic threat7849requires leveraging the full suite of DOD capability. We must address7850the threat in all phases of flight, including left of launch, with all7851means available, beyond traditional kinetic hit-to-kill interceptors.78527853    75. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how does Hawaii's7854vulnerability compare to other key strategic locations in the Indo-7855Pacific?7856    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work with my team to7857assess any vulnerabilities not only with Hawaii, but other key7858strategic locations across the Indo-Pacific.78597860    76. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what specific7861infrastructure failures in Hawaii have been most detrimental to7862readiness, and how would you address them?7863    Lieutenant General Caine. Infrastructure failures at Red Hill and7864the Pearl Harbor port and shipyard have undermined readiness. I support7865the current plan to address Red Hill and back the Navy's Shipyard7866Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP)--a initiative to upgrade dry7867docks, facilities, and equipment by streamlining workflows and boosting7868efficiency.78697870    77. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, should DOD prioritize7871cyber defenses for critical infrastructure in the Indo-Pacific7872alongside physical missile defense?7873    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, based on my experience, I expect7874adversaries will persistently target our critical infrastructure to7875disrupt the movement of United States Forces and resources at the7876outset of any conflict. To counter this, I would recommend continued7877close collaboration with the DHS, other Federal agencies, and industry7878partners. This includes investing in enhanced sensors, defense systems,7879redundancy, and resilience measures. We should also consider studying7880additional options to protect our Nation's critical infrastructure and7881key resources.7882         infrastructure failures in hawaii and the indo-pacific7883    78. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, the Indo-Pacific7884region has a massive need for infrastructure investment. Hawaii has7885faced multiple high-profile DOD failures, including watermain breaks7886and electrical issues. This affects readiness and our strategic posture7887in the region. How will you prioritize infrastructure recapitalization7888versus acquisition of new platforms when finalizing DOD's budget?7889    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work with the7890Department to leverage the Program and Budget Review process to7891prioritize Service investments in the infrastructure required to7892support our current and future weapon systems, platforms, and posture.78937894    79. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, will you hold the7895services accountable for ensuring that facilities critical to INDOPACOM7896are maintained and modernized?7897    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes. I am committed to working with all7898Services and combatant commands to advise the Secretary on how to7899maintain and modernize critical facilities to meet the national defense7900strategy.7901                          allies and partners7902    80. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, the Department of7903Defense must work closely alongside our allies and partners to meet the7904pacing challenge posed by China. The Joint Staff plays a key role in7905driving collaboration and integration of these efforts. How will you7906support and expand collaboration with allies and partners in the Indo-7907Pacific?7908    Lieutenant General Caine. I will work closely with the Secretary of7909Defense and the Commander USINDOPACOM to review our engagement strategy7910in the South China and East China Seas. Everything we do in the South7911and East China Seas requires close coordination with allies and7912partners. If confirmed, I will continue to pursue opportunities to7913operate and exercise with them in the region.7914            classified information and operational security7915    81. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, have you ever7916witnessed or been aware of others mishandling classified information7917within DOD and how was it addressed?7918    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, as the Director of the Special7919Access Program Central Office I was aware of the fact that deviations7920had occurred from time to time. Those matters were handled by the7921relevant service and not by me or my office.79227923    82. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what specific7924safeguards would you implement to prevent leaks of Special Access7925Program (SAP) information?7926    Lieutenant General Caine. Special Access Programs (SAPs) are highly7927classified programs that require special access controls to protect7928sensitive information. To prevent leaks, the following safeguards are7929typically implemented:7930    1.  Need-to-Know Principle: Access to SAP information is strictly7931limited to individuals who have a legitimate need to know the7932information to perform their official duties. This principle ensures7933that only authorized personnel with a valid reason have access to7934sensitive information.7935    2.  Security Clearances: Personnel with access to SAP information7936must hold a high-level security clearance, which involves a thorough7937background investigation and screening process. This ensures that only7938trustworthy individuals with a proven track record of handling7939sensitive information are granted access.7940    3.  Compartmentalization: SAP information is often7941compartmentalized, meaning that it is divided into smaller, isolated7942segments, and access is restricted to specific compartments. This7943limits the amount of information an individual can access, reducing the7944risk of unauthorized disclosure.7945    4.  Access Controls: Physical and electronic access controls, such7946as biometric authentication, secure doors, and encryption, are used to7947protect SAP information. These controls ensure that only authorized7948personnel can access sensitive areas or systems.7949    5.  Encryption: SAP information is often encrypted to protect it7950from unauthorized access. Encryption algorithms and techniques, such as7951Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), are used to safeguard sensitive7952data both in transit and at rest.7953    6.  Secure Communication Channels: SAP information is transmitted7954through secure communication channels, such as Secure Sockets Layer/7955Transport Layer Security (SSL/TLS) or Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail7956Extensions (S/MIME), to prevent interception or eavesdropping.7957    Please note that these safeguards are general in nature and may not7958be exhaustive or specific to a particular SAP. The actual security7959controls in place may vary depending on the program's specific7960requirements and the organization's security policies.79617962    83. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, can you confirm7963whether you have ever used personal or encrypted messaging applications7964for official communications?7965    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, in my last job we occasionally7966used encrypted message apps for routine scheduling or logistical7967matters.79687969    84. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you balance7970operational security concerns with the need for rapid communication in7971crisis situations?7972    Lieutenant General Caine. Protecting operational security is a7973responsibility I take seriously. Rapid communication at the onset of a7974crisis should occur through networks appropriate for the information7975being discussed to prevent compromising military operations.7976         u.s. indo-pacific command funding and strategic risks7977    85. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what specific7978programs within INDOPACOM's unfunded priorities list do you believe are7979most urgent?7980    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will continue to assess7981the capabilities from Unfunded Priority Lists from all Combatant7982Commands. With INDOPACOM specifically, I believe that Guam Defense7983System, Space enabling capabilities, Joint Fires Network, and long-7984range fires require Department level attention.79857986    86. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how should Congress7987prioritize funding between missile defense, electronic warfare, and7988posture initiatives?7989    Lieutenant General Caine. Funding prioritization should be based on7990the strategic needs of the Joint Force to meet the National Defense7991Strategy. Focusing on expanding the inventories of current and future7992munitions, increasing electronic warfare capabilities in the space7993domain, and fielding the necessary forces are critical to protect the7994Homeland.79957996    87. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, wat are the long-term7997consequences if these funding gaps persist beyond this fiscal year?7998    Lieutenant General Caine. Long-term persistent funding gaps in7999INDOPACOM will impact the Joint Force's ability to defend U.S.8000territories and interests in the Pacific, hinder the development of8001kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities and slow the advancement of ISR8002and C2 systems.80038004    88. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, are there any8005inefficiencies within the DOD budget that could be reallocated to meet8006INDOPACOM's needs?8007    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will support the8008Department's efforts to analyze the budget for wasteful and low impact8009programs with the intent to reallocate resourcing to meet the8010Department's strategic goals.8011                    loyalty and constitutional duty8012    89. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you respond8013if given an order that falls in a legal gray area but is politically8014charged?8015    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I will consult with relevant8016counsel, and I will not follow an unlawful order. I am bound by my oath8017to follow all lawful orders.80188019    90. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, can you provide an8020example from your career where you had to push back against unlawful or8021unethical directives?8022    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, I have not been issued an8023unlawful or unethical directive during my previous tours in the8024service.80258026    91. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what steps would you8027take to reinforce the apolitical nature of the Joint Chiefs of Staff?8028    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, if confirmed, I commit to8029speaking truth to power, regardless of politics and upholding the8030standards of conduct contained in my Commission, my Oath of Office and8031the Constitution.8032                allies and partners in the indo-pacific8033    92. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you enhance8034military-to-military cooperation with key allies like Japan and8035Australia?8036    Lieutenant General Caine. For Japan, if confirmed, I would support8037the current actions, as recently reported in the news following the8038Secretary of Defense's trip. These include pursuing concrete steps to8039deepen defense cooperation with Japan across a range of areas, such as8040enhancing bilateral training and exercises, strengthening Alliance8041force posture and presence and promoting defense equipment and8042technology cooperation.8043    For Australia I would continue to support engagements, exercises8044and interoperability, examine United States force posture initiatives,8045and support broader United States initiatives such as AUKUS and defense8046industrial collaboration.80478048    93. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what role do you see8049emerging partners (e.g., India, the Philippines) playing in countering8050Chinese aggression?8051    Lieutenant General Caine. I agree with the President and Secretary8052of Defense's statements concerning the importance of allies and8053partners playing a leading role in providing for their own defense. If8054confirmed, I would examine how the military can best support United8055States policy, to include increasing interoperability, expanding joint8056and combined operations, and making targeted activities and investments8057that provide measurable returns on investment in their defense8058capabilities.80598060    94. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you8061navigate tensions between allies who have differing threat perceptions8062of China?8063    Lieutenant General Caine. While our allies may have differing8064threat perceptions of China, they share our vision of a free and open8065Indo-Pacific. If confirmed, I will support the Secretary to advance8066this shared understanding among our allies while taking into account8067any differences in perspectives.80688069    95. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how can the DOD8070improve joint military exercises to enhance interoperability with8071regional partners?8072    Lieutenant General Caine. Currently, Combatant Commands regularly8073exercise and train with their regional allies and partners. One area8074where the DOD has improved and can continue to improve joint military8075exercise interoperability is by leveraging our annual Large Scale8076Global Exercise (LSGE), a series of multiple Field Training Exercises8077that occur within a 90-day window. As part of ELITE CONSTELLATION, a8078multi-year Joint Force global integration readiness campaign, LSGE8079consists of large-scale training and exercises that validate joint and8080combined interoperability; improve joint force readiness; and provide a8081venue for future force design, testing, and evaluation. LSGE8082demonstrates United States, Allied and Partner military capacity and8083capability to deter great power adversaries. The Joint Force will8084conduct the FY25 LSGE in the USINDOPACOM AOR with multiple, global8085linkages to other Combatant Command exercises and multiple, integrated8086joint/combined major force elements.8087    Additionally, DOD, through the Combatant Commands, can use 10 USC8088Section 321 ``Training with friendly foreign countries: payment of8089training and exercise expenses'' to enhance interoperability of United8090States Forces with allies and partners. Section 321 authorizes8091Combatant Commands to pay incremental expenses of participating8092developing nations when training in exercises alongside United States8093Forces. These exercises enhance interoperability with allies and8094partners by increasing the scale and frequency of partner engagements,8095benefiting the United States and improving allied burden sharing over8096the long term.80978098    96. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you view the8099current United States force posture of 28,500 servicemembers in South8100Korea?8101    Lieutenant General Caine. An increasingly aggressive China poses8102both short and long-term challenges, along with North Korea's long-8103range missile and nuclear programs represent an immediate security8104challenge. If confirmed, I will assess the United States Military8105presence in the Indo-Pacific against our national strategic interests8106and make recommendations to the SecDef and the President.81078108    97. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, are you open to8109removing troops from South Korea?8110    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work closely with8111USINDOPACOM, United States Forces Korea, South Korea, and other8112regional allies to review the United States force posture in South8113Korea and provide my recommendations.81148115    98. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, if so, how many?8116    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work closely with8117USINDOPACOM, United States Forces Korea, South Korea, and other8118regional allies to review the United States force posture in South8119Korea and provide my recommendations.8120             overall department of defense strategic vision8121    99. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, what do you see as8122the greatest challenge facing the United States Military over the next8123decade?8124    Lieutenant General Caine. I believe the greatest challenge facing8125the United States Military over the next decade is China's rapid8126modernization and expansion of its military capabilities.81278128    100. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you8129balance traditional military deterrence with emerging domains like8130cyber and space warfare?8131    Lieutenant General Caine. Balancing traditional military deterrence8132with emerging domains like cyber and space requires integrating both8133established and modern capabilities. Traditional deterrence focuses on8134strength and military readiness, while space and cyber are about8135resilience and competition. These domains are crucial to our security,8136as they support military and economic infrastructure. Protecting space8137and cyber capabilities is vital for maintaining credible deterrence. If8138confirmed, I will actively work to normalize operations in these8139emerging domains alongside traditional operations, prioritizing8140warfighting and protecting the Joint Force.81418142    101. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, in your view, what8143is the most significant misalignment between U.S. defense strategy and8144budgetary allocations?8145    Lieutenant General Caine. Implementing the National Defense8146Strategy requires rigorous prioritization to resource the critical8147capabilities necessary to achieve the Nation's strategic objectives.8148    Congressional support through timely and sustained appropriations8149and budget flexibility is crucial for aligning resources with the8150Department's defense strategy.8151                      modernization and innovation8152    102. Senator Hirono. Lieutenant General Caine, you mentioned your8153experience in the venture capital world as a unique asset for8154modernizing business systems and revitalizing the Defense Industrial8155Base. How would you leverage that experience to accelerate innovation,8156particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), cyber warfare, and8157emerging technologies?8158    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, we need to establish a process8159to allow our IT and business systems to onboard critical emerging8160technologies and the authorities to operate at a much faster pace. We8161will occasionally fail, but that is a part of quick and thoughtful8162innovation.81638164    103. Lieutenant General Caine, if confirmed, how will you support8165initiatives like Replicator, which is focused on accelerating the8166delivery of critical joint capabilities to the warfighter at speed and8167scale?8168    Lieutenant General Caine. The Joint Staff is supportive of8169initiatives like Replicator and has specifically supported Replicator8170since its inception through joint experimentation, joint requirements,8171and congressional engagement. I intend for the Joint Staff to continue8172to provide this support to accelerate the delivery of critical joint8173capabilities to the warfighter.81748175    104. Lieutenant General Caine, what do you see as the Joint Staff's8176role in rapidly delivering innovative and commercial capabilities to8177the warfighter?8178    Lieutenant General Caine. The Joint Staff ensures capabilities are8179founded on Joint Requirements, to ensure warfighters receive solutions8180that fill Joint Warfighting needs. The Joint Staff also conducts joint8181experimentation to provide capabilities that are optimized for the8182Joint fight. Both of these functions also facilitate the Joint8183Emergent/Urgent Operational Needs (JEON/JUON) processes, which are8184designed to rapidly deliver capabilities to the warfighter in response8185to Combatant Command operational needs. The Joint Staff and the8186Chairman, as the Global Integrator, represent the voice of the Joint8187Warfighter in the reform conversation.8188                         joint force readiness8189    105. Lieutenant General Caine, given the increasing threats from8190peer competitors and the challenges posed by a protracted conflict, how8191would you ensure that the Joint Force maintains a high level of8192readiness while balancing resource constraints?8193    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will carefully weigh my8194advice and recommendations against the priorities of the Nation Defense8195Strategy (NDS) and recommend prudent use of the Joint Force in order to8196preserve readiness for our highest priority threats.8197                             china strategy8198    106. Lieutenant General Caine, you noted that China poses a growing8199threat in the Indo-Pacific. What military strategies do you believe8200will be most effective in deterring China's aggression while avoiding8201escalation into open conflict?8202    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will undertake a thorough8203review of the Chinese threat in the Indo-Pacific and develop my8204recommendations for appropriate military strategies.8205                     combatant command coordination8206    107. Lieutenant General Caine, you have strong relationships with8207combatant commanders. How would you ensure effective coordination8208between commands while avoiding bureaucratic inefficiencies or8209conflicts over jurisdiction?8210    Lieutenant General Caine. In my 34 years of military service, I8211have led warfighters in a variety of roles across the Joint Force and8212Interagency. I have built a global perspective on the challenges8213America faces in achieving effective deterrence against our8214adversaries. Each of these experiences has prepared me for the humbling8215responsibility of serving as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and8216as the global integrator. If confirmed, I will continue to work with8217Combatant Commanders and Service Chiefs to ensure effective8218coordination.8219                  personnel and recruiting challenges8220    108. Lieutenant General Caine, recruiting and retention remain8221critical challenges for the Armed Forces. What new approaches would you8222consider to strengthen recruitment, particularly among younger8223generations with shifting career expectations?8224    Lieutenant General Caine. Recruiting the next generation of8225servicemembers is a national imperative. If confirmed, I will work8226closely with the Services to ensure our approach reflects the realities8227of today's competitive labor market. The Joint Force depends on the8228talent, drive, and dedication found in America's sons and daughters to8229meet the challenges of the 21st century. I will support efforts across8230the Department to strengthen recruiting and ensure our force remains8231ready, capable, and representative of the Nation we serve.8232                military advice and policy disagreements8233    109. Lieutenant General Caine, you emphasized providing apolitical8234military advice. Can you share an example from your career where your8235advice differed from civilian leadership's priorities, and how you8236handled that situation?8237    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, in my last role as the Associate8238Director for Military Affairs at CIA I would often present a range of8239options for Director Burns and Deputy Director Cohen to consider. If8240asked to provide my recommendation I would do so. Once a decision was8241made by my civilian leaders my job became the implementation of that8242decision. If confirmed I will continue with this tradition and the8243associated standard of conduct.8244                       warrior ethos and culture8245    110. Lieutenant General Caine, you emphasized the importance of a8246strong warrior ethos and clear standards. How do you balance8247maintaining high military standards with evolving societal expectations8248regarding diversity, inclusion, and personnel policies?8249    Lieutenant General Caine. We don't have much of a military without8250the incredible 2.8 million members of the Joint Force that selflessly8251joined the service to do something more important than themselves. If8252confirmed, I think it's an opportunity for me to be another voice of8253encouragement for those young men and women who have the capability and8254meet the standards to come into the service and do something that they8255will forever hold so high in their history. The chance to serve this8256Nation is a special privilege for those of us that have come into the8257cloth of our Nation and served, and I hope that I'll be able to8258encourage others to do so.8259                      lessons from past conflicts8260    111. Lieutenant General Caine, given your experience in combat and8261strategic roles, what key lessons from past conflicts--such as Iraq,8262Afghanistan, or Ukraine--do you believe should shape United States8263Military planning moving forward?8264    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, warfighting at scale is quickly8265progressing. We are now facing kinetic exchanges with significantly8266more rounds per hour than we have ever seen before. Mass and8267simultaneity are real threats, and we must evolve our warfighting8268approach to meet the mass challenges we will face. Autonomy and AI are8269all a part of this. Actions in space and cyber are now the norm and we8270must evolve our holistic warfighting approach in an ever more joint,8271coalition, and interoperable way to win on the battlefields of the8272future.8273                    allied and partner coordination8274    112. Lieutenant General Caine, with the emphasis on working with8275allies and partners to deter adversaries, what steps would you take to8276strengthen military interoperability and joint planning with key allies8277such as NATO [North Atlantic Treaty Organization], Japan, and8278Australia?8279    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will undertake a thorough8280review of the military situation in Europe and the Indo-Pacific and,8281informed by the President and the Secretary's guidance, develop my8282recommendations for specific steps we should take to strengthen8283military interoperability and joint planning with key allies.8284              independence of uniformed military attorneys8285    113. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you ensure that uniformed8286military attorneys are shielded from external pressures that could8287compromise their legal advice?8288    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, IAW 10 USC 156, there is a8289Legal Counsel selected by a board of officers who is an independent8290legal advisor to me. The statute specifically states that ``[n]o8291officer or employee of the Department of Defense may interfere with the8292ability of the Legal Counsel to give independent legal advice to the8293Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and to the Joint Chiefs of8294Staff.'' I will work closely with my LC and his team as I prepare my8295military advice for the Secretary of Defense and the President.82968297    114. Lieutenant General Caine, can you provide an example from your8298career where you upheld the independence of military attorneys in a8299challenging situation?8300    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, there were several examples8301during the assignment at the Joint Special Operations Command where a8302legal counsel's opinion shaped the outcome of a particular tactical8303operation. This was a routine event, and I greatly respect and8304appreciate the counsel that I have had.8305                      strategic guidance documents8306    115. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you ensure seamless8307integration and coordination between the National Security Strategy,8308National Defense Strategy, and National Military Strategy?8309    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will first work with the8310Secretary of Defense to have clear processes and governance in place8311for the Joint Force to implement United States strategies. I will8312ensure the Joint Force leaders have a shared understanding of the8313President and SecDef's priorities and guidance across their missions8314and responsibilities, including from the NSS, NDS, and NMS. To maintain8315integration throughout strategy implementation, I will review the8316existing processes for the Joint Force to implement the strategies and8317cyclically assess progress and risk.83188319    116. Lieutenant General Caine, what mechanisms would you implement8320to improve compliance with strategic guidance documents across DOD8321components?8322    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will review existing8323processes for reporting and assessing progress against strategic8324guidance and make recommendations to the Secretary of Defense if I8325determine changes are necessary. I will work with Joint Force leaders8326to maintain shared understanding of strategic guidance and risks to8327executing the National Defense Strategy and National Military Strategy.8328I will make necessary changes to Joint Staff processes to ensure we8329maintain a global perspective and can provide military options to the8330Secretary of Defense and President, aligned to their strategic8331guidance.83328333    117. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you address potential8334conflicts or misalignment between the President's National Security8335Strategy and the Secretary of Defense's National Defense Strategy?8336    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will advise and provide8337recommendations to the Secretary of Defense and President on any8338potential conflicts or misalignment between the National Security8339Strategy and National Defense Strategy.83408341    118. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you measure the8342effectiveness of the Chairman's Risk Assessment in shaping defense8343policy?8344    Lieutenant General Caine. Identifying risk to our strategic8345guidance helps us determine what resources and authorities to pursue to8346achieve the policies of the department and the administration. If8347confirmed, I will seek to maximize effectiveness of the Chairman's Risk8348Assessment by aligning the risk assessed with other strategic documents8349created by the Joint Staff that inform the budget and Defense Planning8350Guidance. Effectiveness is in part measured by whether the risks and8351gaps identified are addressed in the DPG and the President's budget. As8352such, based on my military assessments, we will partner with the Office8353of the Secretary of Defense for DOD's budget submissions and8354legislative proposals.8355    If confirmed, I look forward to briefing my risk assessment to8356Congress in 2026 to inform the congressional budgeting process.8357                         use of military force8358    119. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you balance military8359effectiveness with legal and ethical considerations when recommending8360rules of engagement?8361    Lieutenant General Caine. The President, as Commander-in-Chief,8362determines when to use military force. The Joint Chiefs of Staff are8363advisors to the President and the Secretary of Defense and should8364actively advise on the policies for the use of military force and the8365rules of engagement. If confirmed, my recommendations to the President8366and Secretary of Defense on the use of military force will be8367consistent with U.S. domestic and international law. Additionally, I8368would consider the probability of success, cost in terms of casualties,8369and strategic risk.83708371    120. Lieutenant General Caine, what role do you see emerging8372technologies (e.g., AI, autonomous systems) playing in shaping future8373rules of engagement?8374    Lieutenant General Caine. Emerging technologies offer the potential8375to revolutionize warfare and delivering those capabilities in a timely8376manner will continue to posture the Joint force for success on the8377modern battlefield. If confirmed, I would serve as one of the tri-8378chairs with OSD on the DODD 3000.09 Senior Review Board (SRB), which8379reviews autonomous capabilities with a focus on minimizing the8380probability and consequences of failures in autonomous and semi-8381autonomous weapon systems.83828383    121. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you ensure that U.S.8384Forces are properly trained and equipped to operate under evolving8385rules of engagement?8386    Lieutenant General Caine. The CJCS must ensure the military's ROE8387are regularly reviewed and updated in response to changing geopolitical8388environments, threats, and legal considerations. This review involves8389working closely with senior defense officials, legal advisors, and8390policymakers to ensure ROE are adapted as needed. These updates should8391be disseminated throughout the military leadership chain ensuring8392alignment with the broader strategic objectives and national defense8393priorities. The CJCS should ensure training programs for all8394servicemembers are continuously updated to include ROE considerations.8395These updates involve incorporating ROE into combat and mission8396planning, simulation exercises, and real-world operations. The training8397should cover not just the ``how'' of engaging targets, but also the8398``why,'' emphasizing the strategic, ethical, and legal imperatives8399behind the rules.8400                        collective self-defense8401    122. Lieutenant General Caine, what specific criteria would you use8402to determine which allied forces qualify for U.S. collective self-8403defense support?8404    Lieutenant General Caine. When collective self-defense rules of8405engagement are authorized, United States Forces may defend foreign8406forces against any attack or threat of imminent attack. If confirmed, I8407will consider the legal basis of the request, necessity and8408proportionality, alignment with U.S. interests, and operational8409circumstances of the request. If confirmed, I will review these factors8410before I make any recommendations to the Secretary of Defense and8411President.84128413    123. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you see collective self-8414defense fitting into broader U.S. deterrence strategies?8415    Lieutenant General Caine. Collective self-defense is a cornerstone8416of broader U.S. deterrence strategies. It demonstrates a commitment to8417protecting allies, which strengthens partnerships and deters8418adversaries from attacking weaker States. Additionally, it shows the8419U.S. is willing to act decisively in defense of its allies, bolstering8420our credibility and thereby increasing deterrence. Additionally, it8421fosters a sense of shared responsibility and burden-sharing among8422allies, encouraging them to invest in their own defense and deterrence8423strategies. If confirmed, I will consider what our partners are doing8424to deter shared threats before making a recommendation to the Secretary8425of Defense and President.8426                          title 50 authorities8427    124. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you assess the current8428effectiveness of title 50 authorities in enabling interagency8429cooperation in military operations?8430    Lieutenant General Caine. Based on my experience, the current title843150 authorities are highly effective in enabling interagency cooperation8432in military operations. Title 50 actions have a proven track record of8433success in providing the needed intelligence support to make our8434military operations more effective. If confirmed I will continue to8435collaborate and leverage the interagency to pursue U.S. interests8436globally.84378438    125. Lieutenant General Caine, under what circumstances would you8439advocate for changes or modifications to title 50 authorities?8440    Lieutenant General Caine. If changes or modifications are required8441to support maximizing the effectiveness of military operations in8442support of U.S. interests, I will advocate on the issue.8443          civilian casualties and civilian harm and mitigation8444    126. Lieutenant General Caine, what steps would you take to improve8445data-sharing policies to facilitate timely investigations of civilian8446casualties?8447    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I would seek to improve8448data-sharing by supporting efforts that balance efficiency with8449security and accountability.84508451    127. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you ensure that findings8452from civilian casualty investigations are effectively used to refine8453operational practices and reduce future risks?8454    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I would support ensuring8455effective utilization of civilian casualty investigation findings by8456pursuing a systematic approach that integrates analysis,8457implementation, and continuous monitoring.84588459    128. Lieutenant General Caine, the Joint Staff plays a crucial role8460in implementing the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR) Action8461Plan (CHMR-AP), including incorporating CHMR into joint doctrine,8462planning, and operations and ensuring that efforts to mitigate civilian8463harm are considered in all phases of military operations. If confirmed,8464how will you continue to advance and resource these efforts?8465    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will comply with8466statutory requirements and carry out the guidance set forth in DOD8467policy on CHMR.84688469    129. Lieutenant General Caine, how will you implement civilian harm8470and mitigation response efforts in security cooperation initiatives and8471programs with allies and partners?8472    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will comply with8473statutory requirements and carry out the guidance set forth in DOD8474policy on CHMR. I will examine and provide my military advice on8475incorporating civilian harm risk assessment and mitigation methods into8476DOD security cooperation efforts.8477               joint force operations and experimentation8478    130. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you foresee joint force8479experimentation contributing to overcoming anti-access and area denial8480(A2/AD) threats?8481    Lieutenant General Caine. Addressing the challenge posed by anti-8482access and area denial (A2/AD) capabilities is a critical priority for8483the Joint Force. Joint force experimentation plays a vital role in8484understanding and mitigating these threats. I would assess that a8485focused experimentation campaign, centered on threat-based concepts of8486employment, is essential to identifying and refining the capabilities8487needed to maintain our warfighter advantage.8488    Specifically, experimentation allows us to evaluate emerging8489technologies and innovative approaches to overcome A2/AD systems, and8490to articulate critical capability requirements for future development.8491This is important as competitors continue to advance their systems to8492defeat ours and we must constantly experiment and adapt to stay ahead.8493From experimentation with technology to experimenting with new8494operating approaches, the Joint Force can only be ready if we8495constantly adapt to the changing character of war.84968497    131. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you ensure that lessons8498from joint experimentation are effectively translated into operational8499capabilities?8500    Lieutenant General Caine. The Joint Staff has established a process8501to translate the Joint Warfighting Concept into needed capabilities.8502This includes identifying key requirements, prioritizing those needing8503acceleration, and coordinating with the Services through Joint8504Capability Integration and Development System (JCIDS) and the Joint8505Requirements Oversight Council (JROC) to assign development leads.8506Recognizing the need for speed, the Joint Staff is continuously8507reviewing these processes to identify capabilities that should be8508accelerated. We are also increasing end-user involvement in8509experimentation to better align capabilities with operational needs and8510facilitate smoother transitions.8511    Translating experimental lessons into operational capabilities8512remains challenging. A collaborative approach with OSD, Combatant8513Commands, and the Services is essential. We focus on identifying8514materiel and non-materiel solutions through rigorous experimentation8515and field demonstrations, informing investment recommendations. We will8516continue supporting Joint Staff-led collaboration venues and8517prioritizing coordination with stakeholders to ensure effective8518implementation and Joint Force integration of new capabilities.85198520    132. Lieutenant General Caine, what role should private sector8521innovation play in joint experimentation efforts?8522    Lieutenant General Caine. Private sector innovation is crucial for8523DOD joint experimentation. It accelerates technology integration,8524reduces development time, and fosters dual-use applications.8525Collaboration enables rapid prototyping, testing, and burden-sharing.8526Aligning private sector investment with DOD needs and incorporating8527warfighter feedback ensures technologies meet operational requirements.8528Frequent communication and iterative development are key to successful8529partnerships.8530           joint force headquarters and contingency planning8531    133. Lieutenant General Caine, given the short warning times for8532potential conflicts, do you believe the current model for standing up8533Joint Force Headquarters is sufficient?8534    Lieutenant General Caine. Proactively establishing subordinate8535Joint Force headquarters before a crisis erupts could indeed enhance8536operational readiness, planning, and preparedness. However, this must8537be assessed on a case-by-case basis. A thorough analysis is crucial to8538determine when the benefits of early establishment outweigh the8539potential costs.85408541    134. Lieutenant General Caine, how would you assess the tradeoffs8542between maintaining a standing Joint Force Headquarters versus8543activating them in a time of crisis?8544    Lieutenant General Caine. Existing structures leverages the proven8545capabilities of service components and their ability to function as8546JTFs, provides flexibility and responsiveness to address a wide range8547of potential crises but they take time to transition to full JTFs.8548Meanwhile, standby JTFs are ready but comes with costs such as manpower8549allocation, staff workload, and financial implications.85508551    135. Lieutenant General Caine, what metrics would you use to8552determine the effectiveness of a Joint Force Headquarters in executing8553contingency plans?8554    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will evaluate the8555Department's lessons learned and best practices from recent operations8556and exercises to establish metrics and measures of effectiveness to8557guide future use of Joint Force Headquarters during contingencies.8558                               __________8559            Questions Submitted by Senator Elizabeth Warren8560                                 ethics8561    136. Lieutenant General Caine, if you are confirmed, will you8562commit to not engaging in any lobbying activities (including8563unregistered ``shadow'' or ``behind-the-scenes'' lobbying under the8564guise of consulting or advising on DOD-related matters) at DOD or any8565of its components for 4 years after leaving DOD?8566    Lieutenant General Caine. Senator, if confirmed I will continue to8567comply with DOD Ethics regulations and guidance. As I did in my first8568retirement, I have no intent to lobby. I am focused on the job at8569hand--if confirmed.85708571    137. Lieutenant General Caine, during your nomination process, did8572anyone on the Trump campaign, transition team, or other closely related8573entity approach you about your loyalty to President Trump?8574    Lieutenant General Caine. No.85758576    138. Lieutenant General Caine, if you were approached about your8577loyalty to President Trump, did you sign a loyalty pledge or other8578similar oath? If so, please provide a copy of the text of that pledge8579or oath.8580    Lieutenant General Caine. I was not approached about my loyalty to8581the President. My loyalty remains in the oath I have upheld for 348582years, the oath to support and defend the Constitution. I was never8583asked a single loyalty question during my interview process.85848585    139. Lieutenant General Caine, if you were approached about your8586loyalty to President Trump, did you make any verbal representations of8587loyalty? If so, please describe this representation.8588    Lieutenant General Caine. I was not approached about my loyalty to8589the President. My loyalty remains in the oath I have upheld for 348590years, the oath to support and defend the Constitution. I was never8591asked a single loyalty question during my interview process.85928593    140. Lieutenant General Caine, in November 2024, the New York Times8594and other news outlets reported that Boris Epshteyn, a top adviser to8595President Trump, allegedly requested payment from prospective political8596appointees to promote their candidacies for top positions within the8597administration. Did you discuss the possibility of joining the8598administration with Mr. Epshteyn at any time?8599    Lieutenant General Caine. I don't know who Boris Epshteyn is nor8600have I met anyone by that name.86018602    141. Lieutenant General Caine, if you did discuss the possibility8603of joining the administration with Mr. Epshteyn, did Mr. Epshteyn seek8604payment from you for promoting your candidacy for a position within the8605administration?8606    Lieutenant General Caine. I don't know who Boris Epshteyn is nor8607have I met anyone by that name.86088609    142. Lieutenant General Caine, at any time, did lawyers for8610President Trump or members of President Trump's team approach you8611regarding Mr. Epshteyn and the allegations cited above? If so, please8612explain the information that they provided you, including copies of8613documents, what was discussed during any calls, and any other8614information pertaining to this interaction.8615    Lieutenant General Caine. I don't know who Boris Epshteyn is nor8616have I met anyone by that name.86178618    143. Lieutenant General Caine, if you own any defense contractor8619stock, will you divest it to avoid even the appearance of a conflict of8620interest?8621    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed and pursuant to ethics8622guidance issued to me by the Department, I will instruct my financial8623advisor to comply with any/all legal guidance from ethics counsel on8624any defense related holdings.86258626    144. Lieutenant General Caine, what do you consider the role of the8627press in a democracy?8628    Lieutenant General Caine. The press plays an essential role in8629informing the American public. In a democracy, access to timely and8630accurate information builds trust and understanding between the8631military and the citizens we serve. If confirmed, I will support8632efforts to ensure the Joint Staff communicates clearly and credibly,8633while staying aligned with civilian leadership and respecting the8634responsibilities of the services and combatant commands.86358636    145. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit not to retaliate,8637including by denying access to DOD officials or facilities, against8638news outlets or individual journalists who publish articles that are8639critical of you, your office, DOD, or the Trump administration?8640    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.86418642    146. Lieutenant General Caine, have you ever been accused of8643sexually harassing, assaulting, or creating a hostile work environment8644for another individual in a personal or professional capacity? Provide8645a list of all instances in which you have been accused of sexually8646harassing, assaulting, or creating a hostile work environment for an8647individual and the behavior of which you were accused.8648    Lieutenant General Caine. No.86498650    147. Lieutenant General Caine, have you requested, or has anyone8651requested on your behalf, that any other person or third party sign a8652nondisclosure, confidentiality, non-disparagement, or similar agreement8653regarding your conduct in a personal or professional capacity?8654    Lieutenant General Caine. No.86558656    148. Lieutenant General Caine, will you voluntarily release any8657individual from any such agreements before a committee vote on your8658nomination?8659    Lieutenant General Caine. I have no such agreements in place with8660anyone.86618662    149. Lieutenant General Caine, have you ever paid or promised to8663pay, or has anyone paid or promised to pay on your behalf, an8664individual as part of any non-disclosure, confidentiality, non-8665disparagement, or similar agreement?8666    Lieutenant General Caine. I have not.86678668    150. Lieutenant General Caine, if the answer to question above was8669yes, how much was promised, how much was paid, and what were the8670circumstances?8671    Lieutenant General Caine. None of the applicable answers were8672``Yes''86738674    151. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to recuse yourself8675from all particular matters involving your former clients and employers8676for at least 4 years?8677    Lieutenant General Caine. I will comply with any/all legal guidance8678provided to me by the DOD Office of Ethics and if appropriate pursuant8679to that guidance recuse myself. At this time, I do not believe that I8680have any particular matters or concerns that would fit this situation.86818682    152. Lieutenant General Caine, were you at any time, or are you8683currently, contacted by or under investigation or review by any8684inspector general personnel for any reason?8685    Lieutenant General Caine. No.8686                          domestic deployment8687    153. Lieutenant General Caine, if confirmed will you make sure the8688public knows as much as practicable why and under what authorities the8689Guard is being deployed domestically?8690    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work closely with8691the Chief of the National Guard Bureau and other senior leaders to8692ensure there is clarity, both inside and outside the Department,8693regarding the role, authority, and purpose behind National Guard8694deployments. While those deployment decisions are made by civilian8695leaders or Governors, the Joint Staff plays an important role in8696ensuring consistent and accurate communication. I will support efforts8697to inform the public, to the extent practicable, when significant8698changes occur in how or why the Guard is being used domestically,8699always in coordination with the appropriate authorities.87008701    154. Lieutenant General Caine, if confirmed will you make sure the8702public knows as much as practicable when there are significant changes8703in why and under what authorities the Guard is being deployed8704domestically?8705    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work closely with8706the Chief of the National Guard Bureau and other senior leaders to8707ensure there is clarity, both inside and outside the Department,8708regarding the role, authority, and purpose behind National Guard8709deployments. While those deployment decisions are made by civilian8710leaders or Governors, the Joint Staff plays an important role in8711ensuring consistent and accurate communication. I will support efforts8712to inform the public, to the extent practicable, when significant8713changes occur in how or why the Guard is being used domestically,8714always in coordination with the appropriate authorities.87158716    155. Lieutenant General Caine, do you support the Department of8717Homeland Security submitting requests for assistance at the southwest8718border from the Department of Defense and the National Guard at least8719180 days in advance?8720    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I commit to providing as8721much notice as possible servicemembers, particularly for members of the8722National Guard who must make plans with employers and others before8723deploying anywhere.87248725    156. Lieutenant General Caine, what benefits could advance notice8726from the Department of Homeland Security provide for readiness and8727national security?8728    Lieutenant General Caine. Early notification of requirements8729enables the Joint Force to strategically plan for deployments,8730improving readiness by synchronizing training and modernization8731schedules with operational needs.87328733    157. Lieutenant General Caine, Department of Defense Directive87343025.18 ``Defense Support of Civil Authorities'' and Department of8735Defense Instruction 3025.21 ``Defense Support of Civilian Law8736Enforcement Agencies,'' and Joint Publication 3-28 ``Defense Support to8737Civil Authorities'' provide doctrine for planning, conducting, and8738assess defense support of civil authorities. If confirmed, will you8739evaluate whether those policy documents provide sufficient clarity,8740including on emergency authorities, and provide your assessment to this8741committee?8742    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.87438744    158. Lieutenant General Caine, Department of Defense Directive87453025.18 ``Defense Support of Civil Authorities'' and Department of8746Defense Instruction 3025.21 ``Defense Support of Civilian Law8747Enforcement Agencies,'' and Joint Publication 3-28 ``Defense Support to8748Civil Authorities'' provide doctrine for planning, conducting, and8749assess defense support of civil authorities. If confirmed, will you8750evaluate whether those policy documents provide procedures to inform8751the public about the authorities, mission, and duration for domestic8752deployments and provide your assessment to this committee?8753    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.87548755    159. Lieutenant General Caine, what is your understanding of the8756training provided to the National Guard for Federal standing rules for8757the use of force on domestic military deployments?8758    Lieutenant General Caine. National Guard personnel receive training8759from their service post mobilization on training requirements provided8760by the Combatant Command. After the service ensures the training is8761completed, they validate these units to support their assigned mission.8762Additionally, our National Guard forces conduct a handover with the8763unit currently conducting the mission to both mitigate risk and ensure8764they are prepared for execution. As a part of this process, units8765receive training on the Federal standing rules for the use of force8766(SRUF).87678768    160. Lieutenant General Caine, is there any distinction in the8769standing rules of force for the National Guard during domestic military8770deployments when in ``title 10'' status versus when operating under8771State or ``title 32'' status?8772    Lieutenant General Caine. While our National Guard forces always8773have the inherent right to self-defense, there is a distinction in the8774standing rules for the use of force for the National Guard during8775domestic military operations when in Title 10 status versus when8776operating under State or Title 32 status. While in a Title 10 status,8777National Guard members will not participate in domestic law enforcement8778activities, unless they are actively covered by an exception to the8779Posse Comitatus Act.8780                congressional oversight and transparency8781    161. Lieutenant General Caine, what is your understanding of the8782role of the Department of Defense Inspector General and service8783Inspectors General?8784    Lieutenant General Caine. The Department of Defense Inspector8785General (DoD IG) and Service Inspectors General play a crucial role in8786maintaining accountability and integrity within the DOD by conducting8787audits, investigations, and evaluations to prevent and detect fraud,8788waste, and abuse, while promoting economy, efficiency, and8789effectiveness.87908791    162. Lieutenant General Caine, will you ensure your staff complies8792with any Inspector General deadlines established for requested8793communications, providing witnesses, providing documents, and that8794those witnesses will be protected from reprisal for their testimony?8795    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.87968797    163. Lieutenant General Caine, if you are not able to comply with8798any Inspector General requests and deadlines, will you notify the8799Republican and Democratic members of the committee regarding the basis8800for any good faith delay or denial?8801    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.8802    164. Lieutenant General Caine, if you are confirmed, will you8803commit to refusing to follow illegal orders from any individual,8804including the President?8805    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.88068807    165. Lieutenant General Caine, what actions would you take if you8808were given an illegal order from any individual, including the8809President?8810    Lieutenant General Caine. I do not expect to be given an illegal8811order. For all orders given to me from the President and the Secretary8812of Defense, I will work closely with my staff, including my independent8813legal counsel, to best advise the President and Secretary of Defense on8814the way forward in response to those orders.88158816    166. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to testify or8817provide a deposition if you are called upon by Congress to testify or8818provide a deposition voluntarily?8819    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.88208821    167. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to testify or8822provide a deposition to Congress if you are issued a subpoena to8823testify or provide a deposition?8824    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.88258826    168. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to providing8827information or documents to Congress voluntarily if you are requested8828to do so?8829    Lieutenant General Caine. In accordance with all applicable laws8830and regulations, I will provide information or documents voluntarily to8831Congress if requested to do so.88328833    169. Lieutenant General Caine, will you provide information or8834documents to Congress if you are issued a subpoena?8835    Lieutenant General Caine. In accordance with all applicable laws8836and regulations, I will provide information or documents to Congress if8837issued a subpoena.88388839    170. Lieutenant General Caine, will you commit to following current8840DOD precedent for responding to information requests, briefings, and8841other inquiries from Congress, including the Senate and House Armed8842Services Committees and their minority members?8843    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.88448845    171. Lieutenant General Caine, if confirmed, will you commit to8846posting your official calendar monthly?8847    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I commit to conducting a8848security review to ensure OPSEC before I publicly release any8849information.88508851    172. Lieutenant General Caine, do you think the DOD has an over-8852classification problem?8853    Lieutenant General Caine. While there is always room for8854improvement in our classification processes and procedures, the Joint8855Force regularly writes for release and utilizes classification markings8856at the lowest classification levels to ensure dissemination to the8857widest audience in a timely manner.88588859    173. Lieutenant General Caine, if confirmed, do you think DOD8860should pursue strategic technology to support automated8861declassification?8862    Lieutenant General Caine. From the Joint Force perspective, while8863Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds extraordinary potential to support8864declassification requirements, we must ensure we adhere to existing8865legal, cybersecurity, information, operational security, and8866classification policies and authorities. Generative AI models can8867provide an initial review of documents to highlight availability for8868declassification and any potential areas of concern if the information8869is declassified. However, AI models do not check for truth in outputs8870and can potentially carry forward inaccuracies inherent in the data8871inputs; therefore, these technologies should be used to augment, rather8872than replace a human at this time.8873                              project 20258874    174. Lieutenant General Caine, have you discussed Project 2025 with8875any officials associated with the Trump campaign, the Trump transition8876team, or other members of the Trump administration? If so, please8877explain what you discussed, when you discussed it, and with whom you8878discussed it.8879    Lieutenant General Caine. No.88808881    175. Lieutenant General Caine, have you discussed Project 2025 with8882any officials associated with the Heritage Foundation? If so, please8883explain what you discussed, when you discussed it, and with whom you8884discussed it.8885    Lieutenant General Caine. I have not.8886                            nuclear weapons8887    176. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you think increasing our8888nuclear weapons spending will impact our adversaries' interest in doing8889the same?8890    Lieutenant General Caine. While Russian and Chinese nuclear8891decisionmaking is driven by multiple factors, a marked increase in8892United States nuclear weapons spending would likely be perceived by8893Russia and China as a potential threat to strategic stability,8894prompting them to bolster their own nuclear capabilities. Russia views8895its nuclear capabilities as mostly in parity with the United States and8896would view a significant increase in spending as a threat to that8897parity. China is already expanding its forces to ensure the capability8898to survive a first strike and respond with the threat of unacceptable8899damage--increased United States spending may spur further modernization8900efforts to meet their nuclear objectives. However, United States8901spending is unlikely to significantly influence North Korea and Iran's8902nuclear ambitions as they are driven by their own strategic goals.89038904    177. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you think our adversaries8905would interpret the United States resuming live fire nuclear weapons8906testing?8907    Lieutenant General Caine. Our adversaries would likely interpret8908the United States resuming live fire nuclear weapons testing as8909threatening, provocative, and destabilizing and a possible8910justification to do the same. Russia and China could consider similar8911tests in response, while North Korea and Iran would see it as a8912justification for their own nuclear actions and preparations. All four8913countries would likely use the situation to criticize the United States8914and justify their own defensive measures.89158916    178. Lieutenant General Caine, which conventional weapons should be8917cut to pay for nuclear modernization or missile defense systems?8918    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will lead an analysis to8919find more deployable capital, through which we can do in three ways:8920find efficiencies through cost savings, reprogram internally, or8921increase our topline.8922                           foreign influence8923    179. Lieutenant General Caine, have you received any payment from a8924foreign government or entity controlled by a foreign government within8925the past 5 years?8926    Lieutenant General Caine. No.89278928    180. Lieutenant General Caine, have you communicated with any8929foreign government or entity controlled by a foreign government within8930the past 5 years?8931    Lieutenant General Caine. No.89328933    181. Lieutenant General Caine, please disclose any communications8934or payments you have had with representatives of any foreign government8935or entity controlled by a foreign government within the past 5 years8936and describe the nature of the communication.8937    Lieutenant General Caine. I remain personal friends with a group of8938Senior Leaders from our Allies and Partners that I met during my time8939in uniform. Many of these senior leaders remain in the military of8940their governments. None of these agreements have a financial component8941to them and all are based on pre-existing USG MIL-MIL relationships. If8942confirmed and I reenter the military I will disclose them as part of my8943security re-entry as I always have.8944                     sexual assault and harassment8945    182. Lieutenant General Caine, the most recent DOD statistics found8946that about 29,000 Active Duty troops--which accounts for 6.8 percent of8947female servicemembers and 1.3 percent of male servicemembers--8948experienced unwanted sexual contact in 2023. A Brown University study8949estimates that the actual rates are two to four times higher. How do8950you plan to address and reduce sexual assault and sexual harassment in8951the military?8952    Lieutenant General Caine. One incident of sexual assault or sexual8953harassment in the U.S. Armed Forces is too many. I understand that8954prevalence of sexual assault and sexual harassment decreased in 2023 in8955the Armed Forces for the first time in several years. More must be done8956to sustain these changes. If confirmed, I will continue to vigorously8957support policies and programs to reduce the occurrence of sexual8958assault, improve support to victims, and hold offenders appropriately8959accountable.89608961    183. Lieutenant General Caine, how should DOD support and protect8962your department servicemembers, civilians, grantees, and contractors8963who come forward with reports of sexual assault and sexual harassment?8964    Lieutenant General Caine. Congress has granted us robust8965authorities to ensure that we can assist sexual assault and sexual8966harassment victims, hold offenders appropriately accountable, and8967prevent these crimes. Joint Force readiness hinges on the preparedness8968of our warfighters, which is most effectively achieved within cohesive8969units led by empowered chains of command. It is imperative to foster8970healthy command climates and prevent harmful behaviors. To this end I8971support applying the resources provided to us for this purpose, which8972include our prevention and response workforces and our regular8973assessments of military unit health worldwide. I am committed to8974ensuring our people receive support and resources that are trauma-8975informed, responsive to need, and recovery-oriented.8976               retaliation and protecting whistleblowers8977    184. Lieutenant General Caine, do you believe that servicemembers,8978civilians, grantees, and contractors should be protected from any form8979of retaliation for coming forward about an illegal order, sexual8980assault or harassment, negligence, misconduct, or any other concern8981that they wish to raise?8982    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.89838984    185. Lieutenant General Caine, have you ever retaliated against any8985individual for coming forward about an illegal order, sexual assault or8986harassment, negligence, misconduct, or any other concern that they wish8987to raise?8988    Lieutenant General Caine. No.89898990    186. Lieutenant General Caine, if you are confirmed, will you8991commit to protecting whistleblowers? If so, please specify how you will8992do so.8993    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.8994                             civilian harm8995    187. Lieutenant General Caine, do you agree that one difference8996between the United States and its potential adversaries is the greater8997value that the U.S. Government puts on protecting human life and8998liberty at home and abroad?8999    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes90009001    188. Lieutenant General Caine, what is your understanding of title900210 U.S.C. 184, which established the Civilian Protection Center of9003Excellence?9004    Lieutenant General Caine. Title 10 U.S.C. 184 establishes the9005Civilian Protection Center of Excellence (CP CoE) as a specialized9006military organization that serves as the Department of Defense's9007primary institution for advancing civilian protection capabilities. The9008center operates as a hub and facilitator of Department-wide analysis,9009learning, and strategic approaches to civilian harm mitigation and9010response during military operations.90119012    189. Lieutenant General Caine, the United States Military has spent9013many years working to improve its ability to prevent and mitigate9014civilian harm without sacrificing lethality--including through the9015development of the DOD Instruction on Civilian Harm under the first9016Trump administration, which I commend. These efforts received9017bipartisan support from Congress and grew out of a recognition from the9018United States Military itself that, after over 2 decades of U.S. wars,9019warfighters needed better tools and trustworthy systems to prevent9020civilian harm, uphold U.S. values, and prevent the moral injury and9021psychological trauma that too often comes with deadly mistakes. If9022confirmed, will you commit to continued leadership on civilian harm9023issues?9024    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.90259026    190. Lieutenant General Caine, if you are confirmed, what do you9027understand to be your role and responsibilities regarding civilian harm9028mitigation and response?9029    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I understand my role and9030responsibilities as outlined in statutory requirements and DOD policy9031is to prioritize and integrate capability requirements to support the9032Joint Force's ability to mitigate and respond to civilian harm by9033ensuring CHMR learning and training objectives are incorporated into9034joint education, training, strategies, plans, exercises, and9035operations.90369037    191. Lieutenant General Caine, what do you understand to be the9038importance of mitigating civilian harm in military operations?9039    Lieutenant General Caine. Mitigating civilian harm in military9040operations results in more efficient and effective mission-set that9041retains the freedom of the joint force to maneuver in host nations,9042establishing trust and security of the local population, and the9043protection of the joint force.90449045    192. Lieutenant General Caine, what value can advisors with9046expertise in civilian harm mitigation and response provide to9047commanders?9048    Lieutenant General Caine. Civilian harm mitigation and response9049advisors provide commanders with crucial data on the civilian9050environment, tailored mitigation advice, and enhanced understanding of9051the impact of operations on civilians, preserving the commander's vital9052decision space.90539054    193. Lieutenant General Caine, if you are confirmed, will you9055commit to supporting and protecting the Civilian Protection Center of9056Excellence?9057    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I am committed to carrying9058out all statutory requirements of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of9059Staff, and the roles and responsibilities placed upon me and my staff9060by the Secretary of Defense.90619062    194. Lieutenant General Caine, how will you prevent and mitigate9063civilian harm?9064    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will provide the9065President and Secretary of Defense with expert military advice and9066implement guidance to mitigate civilian harm, in accordance with DOD9067policy and the Chairman's responsibilities.90689069    195. Lieutenant General Caine, if you are confirmed, will you9070commit to supporting and implementing the Civilian Harm Mitigation9071Response and Action Plan (CHMR-AP)?9072    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I am committed to carrying9073out all statutory requirements of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of9074Staff, and the roles and responsibilities placed upon me and my staff9075by the Secretary of Defense.90769077    196. Lieutenant General Caine, do you believe that our troops are9078at higher risk for retribution as the number of civilian deaths from9079United States Military operations or U.S.-led military operations9080increases?9081    Lieutenant General Caine. Terrorist groups like al Qaeda and ISIS9082will continue to exploit galvanizing events, such as the Israel-HAMAS9083conflict, which they link to the United States, and the 2023 Quran9084burnings in Sweden and the Netherlands, to inspire supporters9085worldwide. The United States has been consistent in policy to mitigate9086unintended or incidental damage or injury to civilian or noncombatant9087persons or property or the environment and we have policies to assist9088commanders in weighing risks against military necessity and in9089evaluating proportionality within the framework of the joint planning9090process.9091                            right-to-repair9092    197. Lieutenant General Caine, do you believe giving the DOD access9093to the technical data rights needed to repair its own equipment could9094advance the DOD's readiness?9095    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, giving servicemembers access to all9096the training, technical data, and tooling necessary to repair and9097sustain our weapon systems would make a positive impact on overall9098readiness of the Joint Force.90999100    198. Lieutenant General Caine, do you believe giving the DOD access9101to the technical data rights needed to repair its own equipment could9102help reduce the DOD's repair and sustainment costs?9103    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes, granting servicemembers access to9104technical data rights for repairing its own equipment could9105significantly reduce repair and sustainment costs. By enabling the DOD9106to perform repairs in-house, it would decrease reliance on external9107contractors, lower service fees, and allow for more efficient9108maintenance practices, ultimately leading to long-term cost savings.91099110    199. Lieutenant General Caine, how should DOD ensure servicemembers9111who are stationed abroad can repair equipment in a timely and cost-9112effective manner, especially in a contested logistics environment?9113    Lieutenant General Caine. To ensure servicemembers stationed abroad9114can repair equipment in a timely and cost-effective manner, especially9115in a contested logistics environment, the DOD should focus on pre-9116positioning critical repair parts and tools closest to the point of9117need, establishing local repair capabilities with trained personnel,9118and utilizing additive/advanced manufacturing for on-demand parts9119production. Additionally, enhancing partnerships with local industries9120and leveraging remote diagnostic technologies can reduce reliance on9121long supply chains and external support, improving operational9122readiness and minimizing delays in maintenance. We must also employ9123advanced manufacturing to expedite repairs at the forward edge.9124                        research and development9125    200. Lieutenant General Caine, does DOD benefit from partnering9126with colleges, universities, nonprofits, and federally funded research9127and development centers?9128    Lieutenant General Caine. The Department does benefit from9129collaborating with these entities. Research is the foundation of Joint9130Force design and development and underpins concept development,9131experimentation, and the fielding of the critical technologies and9132techniques that will deter or win in a future conflict. Colleges,9133universities, nonprofits, and federally funded research and development9134centers offer scope, scale, and collective expertise, all of which help9135advance. From the tactical to the strategic level, partnering with9136these centers is critical to the DOD's ability to bring the right9137technology to bear in order to deter and if needed, defeat a peer9138adversary.9139    Further, the U.S. faces a rapidly evolving security environment,9140making a swift and effective transition to advanced technology a DOD9141imperative. However, warfighters should be involved in the research9142process to ensure their operational experience informs decisionmaking9143and technology development. Events such as the FFRDC Summit in9144particular have broadened networks for warfighters (end-users),9145enabling a more rapid pull of relevant capabilities into operational9146environments from DOE and FFRDC Labs.9147         protecting classified information and federal records9148    201. Lieutenant General Caine, what is your understanding of the9149need to protect operational security, or OPSEC?9150    Lieutenant General Caine. Operational Security (OPSEC) is a9151critical aspect of protecting sensitive information and preventing9152adversaries from gaining an advantage.91539154    202. Lieutenant General Caine, what are the national security risks9155of improperly disclosing classified information?9156    Lieutenant General Caine. The national security risks of improperly9157disclosing classified information are significant. Depending on the9158classification of the information disclosed, and the unintended9159recipient, the consequences could include the compromise of operations,9160intelligence gathering, or international relationships.91619162    203. Lieutenant General Caine, is it your opinion that information9163about imminent military targets is generally sensitive information that9164needs to be protected?9165    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.91669167    204. Lieutenant General Caine, what would you do if you learned an9168official had improperly disclosed classified information?9169    Lieutenant General Caine. In any situation of concern, I would9170immediately report it to my security officer and determine the best9171away ahead to minimize any potential risk to national security.91729173    205. Lieutenant General Caine, what is your understanding of9174Government officials' duties under the Federal Records Act?9175    Lieutenant General Caine. The Federal Records Act requires9176government officials to ensure the creation, preservation, and proper9177management of Federal records.91789179    206. Lieutenant General Caine, should classified information be9180shared on unclassified commercial systems?9181    Lieutenant General Caine. No, classified information should not be9182shared on unclassified commercial systems.91839184    207. Lieutenant General Caine, is it damaging to servicemembers'9185confidence in DOD if the pilots flying a mission find out that the9186official who ordered them to perform that mission shared sensitive9187information that could have made it more likely that the mission would9188fail or they would be killed?9189    Lieutenant General Caine. The information domain is always a threat9190to our forces and we must always preserve the element of surprise.91919192    208. Lieutenant General Caine, if you had information about the9193status of specific targets, weapons being used, and timing for imminent9194U.S. strikes against an adversary, under what circumstances would you9195feel comfortable receiving or sharing that information on an9196unclassified commercial application like Signal?9197    Lieutenant General Caine. We should always preserve the element of9198surprise and that should translate across every information domain and9199format and never put our war fighters in any harm's way.9200                            medical capacity9201    209. Lieutenant General Caine, in your judgment, is the United9202States Military's medical system prepared to support large-scale combat9203operations?9204    Lieutenant General Caine. One single capability is best understood9205in the context of the entire joint force requirement. I understand9206there is likely opportunity to improve the preparedness of the United9207States Military medical system to support military response to future9208challenges. If confirmed, I will look at medical readiness in the9209context of warfighting capabilities that the joint force projects and9210support efforts to assure we are ready to respond if necessary.92119212    210. Lieutenant General Caine, if the United States Military's9213medical system is not prepared to support large-scale combat9214operations, what steps should DOD take to be adequately prepared?9215    Lieutenant General Caine. As I learn more about the challenges9216facing the military health system, I will, if confirmed, formulate9217recommendations to minimize risk to the joint force.9218          effect of border operations on readiness and morale9219    211. Lieutenant General Caine, if confirmed, will you provide to9220the committee within 60 days a list of any training exercises that have9221been delayed or canceled due to the recent deployments to the southern9222border or Guantanamo? Please provide the date and type of any affected9223training exercises and explain which units were impacted.9224    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.92259226    212. Lieutenant General Caine, is DOD separating units when sending9227personnel to the border or Guantanamo? If so, please explain the9228rationale for doing so, given evidence of how doing so from 2018-20209229harmed units' readiness.9230    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will review the9231deployment of personnel to the border or Guantanamo and review the92322018-2020 readiness findings to ensure we are instituting lessons9233learned and reducing impacts on readiness.92349235    213. Lieutenant General Caine, the GAO previously found that ``DOD9236has not defined what it considers to be a manageable impact on9237readiness.'' How should DOD determine when an anticipated impact on9238readiness is ``manageable''?9239    Lieutenant General Caine. Impacts on readiness are usually9240determined by analyzing risk to mission and risk to force statements9241provided by the potentially affected Combatant Commands and the9242Military Departments. If confirmed, I will weigh the magnitude and9243nature of these risks relative to their probability as I provide my9244recommendations to the SecDef.92459246    214. Lieutenant General Caine, how should DOD monitor the impact of9247the border deployment on troops' morale?9248    Lieutenant General Caine. The immediate frontline supervisors,9249Senior Enlisted Leaders, and Commanders have a direct responsibility9250for their soldiers, sailors, airman, marines, guardians, and sentinels9251on morale of all military members. If confirmed it is my obligation to9252provide clear mission intent and ensure that our members have9253everything, they need to complete their mission.92549255    215. Lieutenant General Caine, will DOD commit to inform the Senate9256Armed Services Committee if it sees patterns of suicide, substance9257abuse, and other warning signs that the border operations are degrading9258servicemembers' mental health?9259    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes.92609261    216. Lieutenant General Caine, how should DOD assess whether its9262southern border and Guantanamo operations are militarily effective?9263    Lieutenant General Caine. The DOD is responding to a request for9264Assistance from the Department of Homeland Security. Since DHS is the9265lead Federal agency, DOD should work with DHS to assess the9266effectiveness of these operations based on DHS desired objectives and9267effects.92689269    217. Lieutenant General Caine, what should DOD's role be at the9270Migrant Operations Center (MOC) and Guantanamo's Camp 6?9271    Lieutenant General Caine. My understanding is that DOD is9272responding to an RFA from DHS and operating pursuant to a signed MOU9273between DOD and DHS. If confirmed, I will review DOD's role at the MOC9274and Camp 6 and provide any recommendations to the SecDef.92759276    218. Lieutenant General Caine, there are reports that DOD personnel9277are guarding migrants at Camp 6. Is this an appropriate use of9278servicemembers' time and DOD resources?9279    Lieutenant General Caine. My understanding is that DHS/ICE maintain9280legal and physical custody of the illegal aliens at Guantanamo Bay with9281DOD support. If confirmed, and I find that DOD personnel are guarding9282migrants I will report this to Congress.9283              conduct and conditions of border operations9284    219. Lieutenant General Caine, what are the rules of engagement9285that govern each unit deployed to the border?9286    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will review the current9287Rules for the Use of Force and provide any recommended changes to the9288SecDef and POTUS.92899290    220. Lieutenant General Caine, are servicemembers authorized to use9291force at the border?9292    Lieutenant General Caine. Unit commanders always retain the9293inherent right and obligation to exercise unit self-defense and receive9294training to make sound, legally grounded decisions in situations where9295the use of force may be necessary.92969297    221. Lieutenant General Caine, in 2020, the DOD Inspector General9298found that some troops did not receive Standing Rules for the Use of9299Force (SRUF) training. Should troops receive this training?9300    Lieutenant General Caine. Yes. Every servicemember must receive9301comprehensive and recurring Standing Rules for the Use of Force (SRUF)9302training.93039304    222. Lieutenant General Caine, should servicemembers under DOD's9305command be authorized to use force against unarmed civilians at the9306border?9307    Lieutenant General Caine. The use of force, especially deadly9308force, against unarmed civilians is prohibited unless it is necessary9309to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm to oneself or another9310person. While DOD personnel are trained in techniques to de-escalate9311hostile situations, United States servicemembers always retain the9312right of self-defense.93139314    223. Lieutenant General Caine, under what circumstances, if any,9315should servicemembers under DOD's command be authorized to make arrests9316at the border?9317    Lieutenant General Caine. Servicemembers in a title 10 status are9318not authorized to make arrests at the border as this is a law9319enforcement function.93209321    224. Lieutenant General Caine, how should DOD handle encounters9322with citizens at the border?9323    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will review the current9324guidance and if appropriate make any recommended changes to the SecDef9325and POTUS. I also defer to DHS for questions concerning DHS operations.93269327    225. Lieutenant General Caine, what should DOD's plan be for9328migrants held at Guantanamo whose home country will not accept their9329repatriation?9330    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will review the current9331guidance and if appropriate make any recommended changes to the SecDef9332and POTUS. I also defer to DHS for questions concerning DHS operations.93339334    226. Lieutenant General Caine, what should be DOD's plan for9335evacuating the MOC during extreme weather events?9336    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work with SOUTHCOM9337to understand their current evacuation plans for facilities at Naval9338Station Guantanamo Bay (NSGB).93399340    227. Lieutenant General Caine, what government entities, if any,9341should conduct onsite inspections of Guantanamo's MOC and Camp 6?9342    Lieutenant General Caine. Historically, the U.N. International9343Organization for Migration (IOM) and the International Committee of the9344Red Cross (ICRC) has had access to pertinent operations at Naval9345Station Guantanamo Bay. If confirmed, I will work with SOUTHCOM assess9346their current plan for inspections.93479348    228. Lieutenant General Caine, how should DOD handle requests for9349access to the MOC or Camp 6 from legal service providers, humanitarian9350organizations, the press, or other members of the public?9351    Lieutenant General Caine. If confirmed, I will work with SOUTHCOM9352to better understand the process for access to Naval Station Guantanamo9353Bay. I defer questions on specific requests to DHS / ICE as the lead9354Federal agency.93559356    229. Lieutenant General Caine, how should DOD's facilitate9357migrants' access to counsel?9358    Lieutenant General Caine. DOD is operating in support of the U.S.9359Department of Homeland Security. DHS maintains custody and control of9360the migrants. DOD should facilitate migrants' access to counsel in9361accordance with the interdepartmental MOU between DHS and DOD and all9362U.S. laws and international obligations.93639364    230. Lieutenant General Caine, what standards of care should DOD9365personnel be bound to provide at Guantanamo?9366    Lieutenant General Caine. DOD is operating in support of the U.S.9367Department of Homeland Security. DHS maintains custody and control of9368the migrants. DOD should be bound to the Standards of Care addendum to9369the interdepartmental MOU between DHS and DOD and all U.S. laws and9370international obligations.93719372    231. Lieutenant General Caine, what emergency and non-emergency9373medical services should be provided to migrants at Guantanamo?9374    Lieutenant General Caine. DOD is operating in support of the U.S.9375Department of Homeland Security. DHS maintains custody and control of9376the migrants. DOD should provide medical services in accordance with9377the interdepartmental MOU between DHS and DOD and all U.S. laws and9378international obligations.9379                       recruitment and retention9380    232. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you plan to improve the9381military's recruitment efforts?9382    Lieutenant General Caine. The Department's ability to attract,9383recruit, and assess a highly qualified force is a national imperative.9384If confirmed, I will work directly with the Services to drive9385connection with the American communities, demonstrate value in military9386service and build trust through quality interactions with today's9387youth. Our ability to recruit and retain high quality individuals is9388critical to sustaining a long-term strategic advantage over pacing9389threats and dynamic security environment.93909391    233. Lieutenant General Caine, how do you plan to ensure that9392Americans of diverse backgrounds feel welcome to join the military?9393    Lieutenant General Caine. The strength of the Joint Force comes9394from the character, competence, and commitment of those who serve,9395across all backgrounds. If confirmed, I will support efforts that9396ensure every qualified American sees military service as a place where9397they can belong, contribute, and lead. Upholding clear standards,9398reinforcing the warrior ethos, sense of unity, and fostering a culture9399of professionalism and respect are essential to attracting and9400retaining the talent we need to meet today's security challenges.94019402    234. Lieutenant General Caine, in response to President Trump and9403Secretary Hegseth's efforts to eliminate diversity, equity, and9404inclusion (DEI), the military has canceled recruiting efforts with9405long-standing partners. The Army abandoned its long-standing9406partnership with the Black Engineer of the Year Awards, and the Navy,9407Air Force, and Space Force also pulled out of the event. The Army also9408ended a long-standing partnership with Ashley Hall, an all-girls prep9409school located in South Carolina and which existed during the first9410Trump administration. Why are partnerships with organizations like9411these important for our ability to recruit individuals to the military?9412    Lieutenant General Caine. Partnerships like these help us connect9413with high-performing individuals who might not otherwise consider9414military service. If confirmed, I will support recruiting efforts that9415are grounded in the military's core values, uphold high standards, and9416reflect the diversity of our Nation. The Joint Force must draw from the9417full range of America's talent to remain competitive. When we engage9418with trusted institutions, whether schools, professional organizations,9419or community groups, we send a message that military service is open to9420all who are qualified and willing to serve.94219422    235. Lieutenant General Caine, why is it important to have a9423military whose diversity reflects the U.S. population?9424    Lieutenant General Caine. In the current operational environment,9425it is important that the military focus on increasing lethality with9426high but fair standards to ensure opportunities for the best Americans9427to serve.94289429    236. Lieutenant General Caine, the Army achieved its recruiting9430goals in 2024 for the first time in several years ``primarily due to an9431increase in female recruits.'' Almost 10,000 women signed up for active9432duty in 2024, ``an 18 percent jump from the previous year, while male9433recruitment increased by just 8 percent.'' Why is it important to9434recruit women to the military?9435    Lieutenant General Caine. Current policy allows for members to9436serve in all roles. We set and maintain high standards throughout the9437Services and members that meet those standards are given the9438opportunity to serve.94399440    237. Lieutenant General Caine, why is it important for women to9441have access to combat roles, including for potential long-term9442promotions, and how does this tie into being able to effectively9443recruit and retain women in the military?9444    Lieutenant General Caine. Current policy allows for women to serve9445in all roles. We must set and maintain high standards; Any member who9446meets the standard is afforded the opportunity to serve in combat9447roles. We must promote Servicemembers based on demonstrated performance9448and potential to serve with increased levels of responsibility.94499450    238. Lieutenant General Caine, why is the quality of military9451housing important for the retention of servicemembers?9452    Lieutenant General Caine. It is fundamental to Quality of Service9453(Gate Commission on the All-Volunteer Force) policy. FRSM Cap and the9454BCA have had impacts over the last decade. The quality of military9455housing is important for retention because it directly impacts the9456well-being and satisfaction of servicemembers. Safe, comfortable, and9457affordable housing improves moral, reduces stress, and allows9458servicemembers to focus on warfighting duties.94599460    239. Lieutenant General Caine, why is quality access to healthcare9461for servicemembers and their families important for the retention of9462servicemembers?9463    Lieutenant General Caine. Access to quality healthcare is a9464fundamental requirement for maintaining and retaining a strong and9465ready fighting force. Ensuring quality access to healthcare is an9466investment in our Servicemembers, signaling the DOD values the service9467and commitment of Servicemembers and their families.94689469    240. Lieutenant General Caine, while the Army has improved its9470recruitment efforts, recent data has shown that ``[n]early one-quarter9471of soldiers recruited since 2022 have failed to complete their initial9472contracts.'' How do you plan to address challenges with retention9473across the military?9474    Lieutenant General Caine. Retention rates throughout the military9475are trending toward a positive increase. If confirmed I will work9476closely with each of the Services to ensure that we are retaining the9477most qualified members that want to continue military service, within9478the needs of each of the Services.9479                               __________9480              Questions Submitted by Senator Eric Schmitt9481                        great power competition9482    241. ``I guess with the last remaining seconds I have, I'll just9483sort of . . . Your view of this great power competition with China,9484what are some things that we need to get better at? What are some9485things that we need to do to prepare as we shift and pivot to Asia?9486What's the most important thing one, the one thing?''9487    Lieutenant General Caine. [Lt Gen Caine responded, ``Taking9488advantage of the time that we have, as I mentioned earlier in my9489testimony, making sure that we're moving with the speed, precision,9490sense of urgency to get the kit that we need. The challenges range from9491contested logistics to long-range fires to command and control. So,9492it's a much deeper conversation, Senator.]9493    [Chairman Wicker continued, ``Will you supplement that on the9494record then, General? Because it was a very intricate question that was9495sprung on you with 10 seconds to go.'']9496    We need to move with speed, precision, and a sense of urgency to9497get the capabilities necessary to address challenges that range from9498contested logistics to long-range fires to command and control. If9499confirmed, I will conduct a thorough review of the military situation9500and then provide the President and the Secretary of Defense my best9501military advice on the actions and investments.9502                                 ______95039504    [The nomination reference of Lieutenant General John D.9505Caine, USAF (retired) follows:]9506[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]9507                                 ______95089509    [The biographical sketch of Lieutenant General John D.9510Caine, USAF (retired), which was transmitted to the Committee9511at the time the nomination was referred, follows:]9512[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]95139514                                 ______95159516    [The Committee on Armed Services requires certain senior9517military officers nominated by the President to positions9518requiring the advice and consent of the Senate to complete a9519form that details the biographical, financial, and other9520information of the nominee. The form executed by Lieutenant9521General John D. Caine, USAF (retired) in connection with his9522nomination follows:]95239524    [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]95259526                                 ______95279528    [The nominee responded to Parts B-F of the Committee9529questionnaire. The text of the questionnaire is set forth in9530the Appendix to this volume. The nominee's answers to Parts B-F9531are contained in the Committee's executive files.]95329533                                  ______95349535    [The nomination of Lieutenant General John D. Caine, USAF9536(retired) was reported to the Senate by Chairman Wicker on9537April 8, 2025, with the recommendation that the nomination be9538confirmed. The nomination was confirmed by the Senate on April953911, 2025.]95409541                                 [all]