Policy Update: Senate Armed Services Committee holds Confirmation Hearing for Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD R&E)

On March 27, the Senate Armed Service Committee (SASC) held a confirmation hearing for Emil Michael, President Trump’s nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD R&E). The hearing focused primarily on increasing the rate of defense innovation to maintain U.S. leadership in national security capabilities. If confirmed, Michael would be charged with fostering innovation, ensuring technological advancements, building collaboration with industry and academia, and overseeing the research, development, and engineering that supports U.S. defense capabilities. 

SASC has not yet released information on when they will vote on the Michael’s nomination. More information on Michael’s hearing can be found in the Lewis-Burke report.