“The threats to our nation and our interests are real and growing. The strategic environment has changed; gone are the days of operating from a maritime sanctuary against competitors who cannot threaten us.“ 

These words from the CNO stress the urgency and importance of maintaining the world’s premier naval force to deter aggression.  This message is captured by the I/ITSEC 2024’s theme: “Assuring Deterrence Through Integrated Training and Readiness – The Need is Now!”

Deterrence is not merely in raw capability, we must demonstrate the skill and the will to win the fight.  Making sure that both lethality and readiness are maintained as part of our core training goals is critical to this ability.  We must do this while maintaining a responsible plan for funding and acquiring these capabilities.

In this special event, VADM Pitts will discuss our Navy's requirements within key acquisition, research and technology and mission readiness domains that the I/ITSEC community can work together to address and to ensure that we remain postured to deter aggression and win the fight if necessary.