“For innovation to become positive change it must meet the demands of the operational environment and practical application by the end user,” said U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Chad Harness during the recent Association of the United States Army (AUSA) annual meeting.
The AUSA hosts the largest land power exposition in North America. In October 2025, it took place during the nation’s longest government shutdown. This context added urgency to discussions about military readiness and funding.
Amid the shutdown, the Army faced significant procurement changes. It canceled both the M10 Booker light tank and the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV). These decisions reflect a broader restructuring of the Acquisition Corps, which aims for agility in decision-making and stronger collaboration with commercial partners.
AUSA contributed $1 million to ensure service members could attend the annual meeting despite financial constraints caused by the shutdown. President Donald Trump issued National Security Presidential Memorandum NSPM-8 to direct available funds for military pay during this period.
The Department of Defense utilized $8 billion from Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) funding to cover military pay for one pay period, ensuring personnel remained compensated during uncertain times.
In addition to addressing immediate concerns, the U.S. Army announced plans to create Portfolio Acquisition Executives (PAEs). This initiative is designed to centralize decision authority in acquisition processes and streamline operations. The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act will further direct acquisition reforms and Foreign Military Sales (FMS).
The Army’s shift toward a more agile system is crucial for addressing procurement shortfalls that have plagued its operations. Yet, as Italian army Command Sgt. Maj. Michele Romano noted, “The most expertly thought-out plan is only as good as the execution by the forces involved.” This highlights the ongoing need for effective implementation of new strategies.
In conjunction with these discussions, the Senior Enlisted Leader Forum (SELF) took place alongside the African Land Forces Summit in Rome, Italy. This year’s theme emphasized innovation and underscored the critical role of non-commissioned officer leadership in mission success—an essential element as military strategies evolve.