This is a great FDD review of Trump’s defense sales executive order. The changes make sense and sound good so far; there is foresight as it takes into consideration US relations with beleaguered allies who greatly rely on US military aid, and especially worst case scenarios for war in the future.
See: Trump’s Defense Sales Executive Order is an Important First Step: https://www.fdd.org/analysis/analysis-analysis/2025/04/11/trumps-defense-sales-executive-order-is-an-important-first-step/
Also see: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/royce-de-melo-39172813_trumps-defense-sales-executive-order-is-activity-7316599856481947648-CYAc?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAALG3h0BmCuAbEV3iAYJNZHCQ1bHqD_qO9k
Here are a couple of passing thoughts:
RE: ◙ ‘Lastly, the order directs the Secretaries of State and Defense to review and update the FMS-Only List, which is a list of systems only available for purchase through the Foreign Military Sales process. The FMS process, in which the Pentagon negotiates with companies on behalf of foreign partners, often moves slower than Direct Commercial Sales (DCS), in which foreign governments negotiate directly with U.S. companies. Expanding the number of items available through DCS could speed up delivery of some capabilities to partners. It is worth noting that some systems should still be available only through FMS.’
‣‣ In fact, although a foreign defense ministry/department can purchase defence items for free by going through FMS and using its credit line, many have figured out that it is actually quicker to deal directly with the US manufacturer or source/provider than going through FMS. My understanding is that despite the items being free through FMS for the end user, the price direct from the maker is usually cheaper than what is quoted through FMS.
RE: ◙ ‘As the Trump administration continues working to bolster foreign defense sales, it should consider taking additional steps such as working with allies and partners to co-produce systems, implementing a time-bound State Department review process for arms sales, constructing an annual report on weapons delivery queues and timelines, and expanding the use of Presidential Drawdown Authority for Taiwan.’
‣‣The big problem right now is that there are shortages in a variety of weapon systems, and the leeway to receive delivery of items from manufacturers, not only from the US but worldwide, is long. The US and NATO allies need to be more self-sufficient.
— RdM
#US #FMS #militaryaid #defence #executiveorder #streamlining #war #allies