WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today commended Secretary Hegseth for his forward-looking speech on acquisition reform, which highlights key steps to modernize the procurement process and strengthen America’s defense industrial base.

Secretary Hegseth’s remarks recognized Senator Wicker’s leading role in advancing reform through the FORGED Act, a bipartisan measure streamlining defense contracting and fostering innovation. The secretary also endorsed Wicker’s priorities: a “commercial first” procurement approach to leverage private-sector solutions; expanding the industrial base with new defense technology companies; and empowering acquisition personnel through portfolio management for more efficient capability delivery.

“Secretary Hegseth’s recognition of the FORGED Act and commitment to these reforms mark a pivotal moment for our national security,” said Senator Wicker. “By prioritizing commercial innovation and empowering our acquisition professionals, we are building a more agile defense enterprise. These reforms will be a game changer for U.S. defense, ensuring our military has the advanced equipment needed to deter adversaries like China and Russia. We look forward to implementing these priorities in the next National Defense Authorization Act.”