BERGMAN OPENING STATEMENT AT HEARING ON THE DEFENSE INTELLIGENCE ENTERPRISE

Apr 12, 2024

Press Release

Washington, D.C.- U.S. Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI), Chairman of the Intelligence and Special Operations Subcommittee, delivered the following opening remarks at a hearing on the U.S. defense intelligence enterprise's posture and to examine current capabilities and efforts to counter the People's Republic of China.

Rep. Bergman's remarks as prepared for delivery:

Today we will hear from our witnesses on the Defense Intelligence Enterprise's Posture and Capabilities in Strategic Competition and in Synchronizing Intelligence Efforts to Counter the People's Republic of China.

The Department's efforts are focused on China as the priority of the National Defense Strategy, but once again, as we hold this hearing, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has been raging for more than two years; North Korea continues to test nuclear missiles; on October 7, Hamas conducted a surprise attack on Israel leading to a prolonged violent conflict that Iran has leveraged, using its proxies to attack U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria while supporting the Houthi attacks on international shipping; and threats from terrorist organizations are still persistent across the globe.

The Defense Intelligence Enterprise has a challenging task to support the Department's efforts in strategic competition, counter China, and support the remaining Geographic Combatant Commanders to counter increased threats in their areas of operations, as well as their persistent counterterrorism efforts. This is by no means an easy task. I am interested in understanding each of your roles in synchronizing these efforts and ensuring your organizations have the capabilities needed, are resourced appropriately, and what capability gaps exist.