Issue Position: Defense & National Security

Issue Position

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I take seriously my responsibility to protect and defend our nation, as well as supporting our men and women in uniform. From the sailors at Submarine Base New London, to citizen soldiers training at National Guard facilities across the region, eastern Connecticut plays a critical part in the defense of our nation.

Congressman Courtney's Work on Key Defense and National Security Issues:

Submarine Procurement. For years, a stagnant procurement rate of one submarine a year left the Navy with fewer subs than it needed, and forced hundreds of layoffs at Electric Boat in Groton. In my first two years in Congress, I secured $667 million in authorization and funding to start building two subs a year in 2011 -- a year ahead of the Navy's plan -- and stabilize the workforce in Groton. In addition, I worked to secure funding to begin the development of the new strategic deterrent submarine, called an SSBN, to replace and modernize the current fleet.

Investing in the Future of SUBASE New London. Past attempts to close Submarine Base New London have made clear the urgent need to invest in the base, upgrade its infrastructure and ensure it has the resources it needs to accomplish its mission. Since coming to Congress, I have secured nearly $80 million in critical improvements to the base, including a new pier, an upgraded indoor firing range and a waterfront operations center. As a member of the Readiness Subcommittee which oversees military installations, I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress and local stakeholders to invest in the future of SUBASE New London.

Defending the Connecticut National Guard. Connecticut's citizen soldiers play an important role in defending our state and nation, and I have been a strong advocate for them in Congress. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have led the fight in the House to keep the Joint Cargo Aircraft (JCA) program on track -- which is critical to the future of the Connecticut Air National Guard's "Flying Yankees." In addition, I helped secure critical funding for key Connecticut National Guard facilities in and around eastern Connecticut, including critical expansion of the engine shop at the Bradley Air National Guard Base. I have also introduced legislation, the National Guard Technician Recruitment and Retention Act to ensure that the over 300 military technicians of Groton's 1109th AVCRAD receive the same benefits and pay as their fellow National Guardsmen.

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