REDSTONE ARESENAL, Ala. -- The U.S. Army Materiel Command hosted Maj. Gen. Jacob Barak, Israeli Defense Force Technology and Logistics Branch leader, for an update on AMC's global alignment and role in supporting the Army and Israeli Defense Force.
During an overview of the command, Niels Biamon, senior executive in AMC's current operations division, described AMC as a global enterprise with a mission of providing materiel readiness to the joint warfighter from centers of excellence across the country. Along with briefings, Barak also met with AMC leadership and toured the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile, Research, Development and Engineering Command's Prototype Integration Facility.
"This is a very big organization with an impressive mission," Barak said.
Israeli and U.S. Army leaders discussed AMC's entire capabilities portfolio from the Army Prepositioned Stock to research and development.
Lt. Gen. Patricia McQuistion, deputy commanding general, explained how AMC strives to maintain a constant state of readiness with Army Prepositioned Stock and how it is instrumental in supporting combatant commanders.
When asked by the Israeli Logistics Branch leader if the budget constraints by Congress have impacted this readiness, McQuistion -- without hesitation responded yes. Several Army leaders have publicly stated the need for additional funds in support of current contingency operations.
The logistics leaders also discussed foreign military sales.
AMC's foreign military sales with Israel have a program value of $4.2 billion. In fiscal year 2014 alone, sales were approximately $630 million for items such as ammunition, missiles and trucks.
Barak expressed appreciation for the support AMC has provided his country over the years with respect to foreign military sales.
Social Sharing