Insights & Data
Defense Manufacturing Issue Briefs
Issue Briefs are designed to inform local and state government officials, workforce professionals, and manufactuers about important issues that impact their local economy and workforce training.
Issue #1: The Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network
Congress has directed the Department of Defense to create a partnership between the government and commercial manufacturers that can transition to defense production quickly in the event of a national emergency. This partnership, called the Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network, represents a new channel for defense investments to impact local and regional economies. Learn how to position your community to benefit from it.
Issue #2: Cybersecurity Requirements for Defense Manufacturers
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program requires every company in the defense supply chain to meet verified cybersecurity standards before it can win or renew a Department of Defense contract. Phase 2 enforcement begins in late 2026, and manufacturers that are not certified will be locked out of defense work. Read the brief to learn more about CMMC, what it means for your manufacturers and how to connect them to assistance.
Issue #3: The “Prioritizing the Warfighter” Executive Order
A new executive order called “Prioritizing the Warfighter in Defense Contracting” establishes a 3-step process around identifying “underperforming” current defense contractors. This brief highlights what this process means for defense contractors in your region, and what you should know as a local official.