Right to repair: Why the US military can't fix much of its own equipment
6 days ago
- #defense-contracting
- #right-to-repair
- #military-logistics
- U.S. military cannot repair equipment due to manufacturer restrictions in contracts, causing delays and costs.
- Defense industry consolidation reduces competition, limiting Pentagon bargaining power over technical data needed for repairs.
- Examples: F-35 maintainers lack data for simple fixes; Navy spends millions on contractor repairs for Littoral Combat Ship.
- Pentagon study disputes claims that right-to-repair threatens innovation, noting generous R&D reimbursements encourage contractor investment.
- Bipartisan right-to-repair legislation failed in Congress last year, with industry influence cited as a barrier.