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Pentagon

Austin ‘Concerned’ Pentagon Doesn’t Have Permanent Acquisition Chief In Place

By Matthew Beinart

Wednesday, July 21st, 2021

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Austin ‘Concerned’ Pentagon Doesn’t Have Permanent Acquisition Chief In Place

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin holds a press briefing at the Pentagon on Feb. 19, 2021.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Wednesday he’s “concerned” the department does not have a permanent acquisition chief in place, adding he’s working with the White House on identifying a candidate to lead the office. Austin’s remarks arrive after Michael Brown, director of the Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), withdrew his nomination to be the next under secretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment (A&S). Additionally, media reports have confirmed that Stacy Cummings, who is serving in acting capacity, is planning…

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