Evolving Solutions for Government Requirements

Mr. Marty Hauser moderated a panel on Evolving Solutions for Government Requirements, featuring Mr. Michael Gass, Mr. William Shernit, and Ms. Jill Smith. The panel discussed how commercial business complements U.S. government business. There is a need to look at ways to bring government and industry capabilities together on new partnerships that assume equal risk and equal opportunities. Establishing a robust partnership will require clear policy on the role of commercial systems in DoD, cooperative planning, and a reliable funding process and contract methods. There is clear government demand for commercial space hardware and services, and this demand is likely to continue its growth. Industry needs to be flexible in adapting to the market and also to government's needs. There are many opportunities for industry-government partnerships, but a clear policy and structure is needed to achieve success for both parties.