The American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association (ASSA) hosted a roundtable discussion between 29 representatives from member companies and Rear Admiral Richard Berkey, Deputy Chief of Staff, Fleet Maintenance U.S. Fleet Forces Command.
Member companies raised concerns related to timely issues such as FY13 and FY14 budgets, foreign competition, batch procurement, fleet size outlook, loss of critical skilled resources, liquated damages, Multi-Ship Multi-Option (MSMO) outlook, counterfeit components, solicitation backlog, Navy investments in research and development, and frequency of quality audits.
RADM Berkey emphasized the importance of a strong industrial base that must be flexible and adaptable to a changing environment. There was insightful dialogue on both sides and follow-on actions items were established for both the Navy and industry. RADM Berkey closed the meeting by challenging ASSA to take three-five of these issues and strongly champion them to completion.
This members-only meeting was collocated (but unaffiliated) with the American Society of Naval Engineer’s Mega Rust Conference at the Newport News Marriott City Center, in Newport News, Va. ASSA’s next regional meeting is scheduled for August 28 in San Diego, Calif.
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