The omnibus defense acquisition reform bill (see above) proposed by Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) includes a provision to greatly curtail the use of multiyear procurement arrangements by the military services. McCain says, “Buying weapons under a multiyear contract restricts Congress’ ability to exercise appropriate oversight.” He wants to limit the use of such contracts to “only the best performing and most stable programs.” The Air Force, right now, has a multiyear contract on the F-22A and may be working on one for an additional buy of C-17s under authority granted by Congress last year. McCain has a strong ally in this quest, because Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman, Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.) opposed the F-22 MYP in the face of broad Senatorial support.
Navy Adm. Samuel J. Paparo Jr. assumed leadership of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, succeeding Navy Adm. John Aquilino at a change of command ceremony, urging action amid China's “increasing intrusive and expansionist claims,” on May 3