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August 19, 2024 •AMPP
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) is responsible for maintaining some of the most advanced and expensive military assets in the world. However, one of the most significant and often underestimated threats to these assets is corrosion. From naval vessels to aircraft, and ground vehicles to infrastructure, corrosion poses a persistent and costly challenge. The harsh environments in which military equipment operates—particularly the marine environments faced by the U.S. Navy—exacerbate this issue, making corrosion control a critical priority for ensuring operational readiness and safety.
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Did You Know?The U.S. Navy faces particularly high corrosion costs due to harsh marine environments, often surpassing the expenses of most high-priced ships and weapons systems. |
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Did You Know?U.S. Department of Defense reported a staggering $20.6 billion cost impact due to corrosion in fiscal year 2016. This highlights the significant financial burden on military maintenance budgets. |
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Did You Know?The Department of Defense Corrosion Policy and Oversight (CPO) office received a substantial funding increase to $5.185 million for FY24, up from the initially expected $3.185 million. This $2 million boost, achieve through AMPP’s advocacy efforts, strengthens the CPO’s mission to reduce corrosion lifecycle costs, increase asset availability, and improve safety across the DoD. The CPO office serves as a crucial platform for stakeholders communication, uniting diverse experts to combat corrosion threats effectively in military and civilian sectors. |
Corrosion is not just a maintenance concern for the Department of Defense; it is a strategic issue that impacts the effectiveness and safety of military operations. The substantial financial burden it imposes, coupled with the risk it poses to military readiness, underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to combat this "silent destroyer." Through increased funding and continued advocacy, the Department of Defense is making strides in addressing this challenge, ensuring that the U.S. military remains capable and ready to face the demands of national security.