U.S. Department of War orders defense procurement overhaul to cut contractor costs, widen competition and speed weapons production

The U.S. Department of War ordered a broad procurement-policy overhaul intended to reduce contractor costs, increase competition and shorten weapon-production timelines. The directive targets acquisition practices associated with cost growth and schedule delays while seeking greater participation by non-traditional suppliers and more flexible contracting approaches. It is a policy instruction rather than a specific programme award, and its effect will depend on implementation by acquisition organizations and military services. Individual contracts, quantities and schedules will still require programme-level decisions, appropriations and competition under the revised framework.