The U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss the Department of Defense's (DOD) responsibilities concerning the Foreign Military Sales system and international armaments cooperation. A significant focus of the meeting was the military's operational readiness and the implications of current contracting practices on service members' ability to maintain their equipment.

The discussion began with an acknowledgment of the innovative strategies employed by Ukrainian forces in their defense against Russian aggression, particularly their effective use of drones. This led to a critical examination of the U.S. military's limitations, specifically the restrictions placed on soldiers regarding the repair of their own weapons. Experts highlighted that while the DOD invests billions in military equipment, contractors often impose barriers that prevent service members from performing necessary repairs, even in urgent situations.

Dr. Saul Manning, an expert in military capacity building, emphasized the importance of allowing service members to repair their own weapons for operational readiness. He noted that the current policy often results in delays for critical parts, which can jeopardize missions. A notable example shared during the meeting illustrated how the Army discovered that 3D printing could provide essential parts quickly and at a fraction of the cost compared to contractor prices.

In response to these challenges, the Army has initiated a transformation initiative that includes a "right to repair" clause in new contracts and is reviewing existing contracts to incorporate similar provisions. This move was praised by committee members, particularly Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll, for its potential to enhance military innovation and reduce costs.

The committee also discussed the broader implications of the right to repair policy for U.S. allies. It was suggested that enabling allied forces to repair U.S.-made weapons could strengthen their operational capabilities and foster better collaboration with U.S. troops. However, concerns were raised about the competitiveness of U.S. contractors in the global market, particularly when allies seek more sustainable and cost-effective options.

The meeting concluded with a call for all military services and the DOD to prioritize operational effectiveness, ensuring that service members are not hindered by inefficient contracting practices. The committee expressed a commitment to addressing these issues to enhance the military's readiness and effectiveness on the battlefield.