Aukus Reform for Military Optimization and Review Act

Floor Speech

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Ms. DEAN of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4233, the ARMOR Act, legislation that I was proud to work on with Representative Kim and Representative Zinke.

AUKUS was a historic initiative launched under the Biden administration. It is an example of the collective strengths of the United States, Australia, and the U.K. It exemplifies our commitment to working as allies, as partners, to positively contribute to defense security around the world, including leveraging our shared capabilities to shape a free and open Indo-Pacific and to counter the rising threat that China poses.

I recently returned from a bipartisan, bicameral codel to Australia and the Indo-Pacific, and all were eager to build on the AUKUS framework.

This legislation will strengthen the AUKUS collaboration and joint operability. It clarifies that re-exports and retransfers within the geographic territory of the United States, the U.K., and Australia are permitted under the previously exempted defense trade provisions.

Importantly, it also preserves Congress' oversight authority and continues to ensure the protection of the most sensitive technologies that underpin our security.

I am grateful to have worked with Representative Kim on this bipartisan effort to support our allies and bolster our shared defense.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, as well.

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