Speed vs. Budget: The Navy’s Fight Against Budget Uncertainty

Presented by Carahsoft

Original broadcast date February 18, 2025

Vice Admiral John Skillman, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources (N8), highlights the disruptive impact of budget uncertainty on naval operations, citing continuing resolutions (CRs) as a major obstacle. With billions of dollars misaligned in procurement accounts, new programs stalled, and pay raises needing to be funded from existing budgets, CRs create inefficiencies that hinder the Navy’s ability to maintain readiness and modernize. Despite these challenges, the urgency of preparing for potential Chinese aggression by 2027 is driving efforts to eliminate waste and enhance operational efficiency. Skillman emphasizes the importance of alignment across Navy leadership, transparency with fleet commanders, and empowering personnel to voice innovative solutions to overcome bureaucratic hurdles.

Key Takeaways:

1. Continuing resolutions disrupt procurement, personnel funding, and modernization efforts, delaying essential projects and pay raises.
   
   
2. The Navy is working against a firm deadline to deter Chinese aggression, necessitating faster decision-making and improved efficiency.
   
   
3. Leadership is focused on removing bureaucratic obstacles, fostering alignment across the Navy, and encouraging innovation at all levels despite funding limitations.