Investing in the Future: How Congress Is Strengthening National Defense Through Corrosion Oversight

      December 23, 2024 •AMPP

      Department of Defense• Advocacy• Corrosion Prevention• National Defense Authorization Act• material protection• defense infrastructure• corrosion policy• national security

      At first glance, the word “corrosion” might conjure images of rusted metal or peeling paint. But for those in the defense industry, corrosion is much more than an inconvenience—it’s a silent threat to our nation’s security and the longevity of critical defense assets.

      This year, a significant step has been taken to combat this challenge. As Congress moves closer to passing the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the spotlight shines brightly on a critical funding increase for the Department of Defense’s Office of Corrosion Policy and Oversight (CPO). This isn’t just a budget adjustment; it’s a game-changer.

      A Milestone in Corrosion Prevention

      In a bipartisan effort, lawmakers have authorized $7.1 million for the DoD’s CPO—an impressive $4.5 million increase from earlier proposals. This funding boost reflects a growing recognition of the essential role corrosion prevention plays in safeguarding defense infrastructure.

      “For Congress to prioritize this funding is a testament to the importance of corrosion prevention in maintaining the safety, readiness, and longevity of defense assets,” said Kern Williams, AMPP’s Manager of Government Relations. “This is about more than infrastructure; it’s about national security.”

      A Longstanding Partnership 

      For over two decades, the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) has collaborated closely with the DoD’s CPO to address the pervasive impacts of corrosion across the defense lifecycle. From aging equipment to operational challenges in extreme environments, corrosion undermines efficiency, increases costs, and compromises safety.

      But this partnership has yielded meaningful results. Through innovative materials protection strategies and a shared commitment to excellence, AMPP and the CPO have significantly reduced lifecycle costs, improved equipment availability, and extended the longevity of vital defense systems.

      Why This Matters Now

      The timing couldn’t be more critical. As the DoD faces mounting challenges from aging infrastructure to evolving threats, the increased funding ensures the CPO has the resources to meet these demands head-on. It also opens doors for AMPP members involved in the defense supply chain, creating opportunities to contribute to this vital mission.

      The NDAA itself is a monumental document—spanning more than 1,800 pages and addressing a wide range of defense priorities. But within its dense provisions, this funding increase stands out as a powerful statement: corrosion prevention is no longer a back-burner issue; it’s front and center in the fight for national security.

      What's Next?

      While this year’s NDAA is a victory, AMPP is already looking to the future. Efforts are underway to advocate for further alignment between the DoD and the materials performance industry in the FY26 NDAA. By staying engaged and proactive, AMPP’s Government Relations team ensures that the voices of industry experts continue to shape policies that protect our nation’s assets.

      The Bigger Picture

      At its core, this funding increase is about more than budgets and legislation—it’s about safeguarding the tools and infrastructure that defend our country. It’s about making sure that the men and women serving in our military have the resources they need to succeed. And it’s about working together—lawmakers, industry leaders, and experts—to create a stronger, safer future.

      To learn more about AMPP’s advocacy efforts and the materials protection industry, visit the AMPP Government Relations page.

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