Tightening Military Budgets: What Is the Future for Mounted Vertical Maneuver?

The United States national debt is mounting quickly, and if not addressed, could lead to a decline in Americas superpower status. In order to minimize the long-term negative effects, every aspect of the national budget should be analyzed for savings. Public concern on the debt crisis is driving lawmakers to re-evaluate national priorities. The political atmosphere is creating debate on the direction of military spending. Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates has announced that he expects the Department of Defense to show restraint and has informed the armed services to plan for smaller increases than seen in past annual budgets. The fiscally constrained environment will compel the Pentagon to make difficult choices in weapons programs. Reduced funding will challenge the military to balance preparedness today while still preparing for the mission requirements of the future. Affordability will exert more influence over potential new capabilities like the United States Armys Mounted Vertical Maneuver concept. Such a costly investment will require unequivocal evidence of value. Scarce resources will drive the military to find revolutionary ways to use existing means to meet the operational needs of tomorrow.