DOD Dissolves Think Tank Over Inefficiency and Trump-Russia Ties
The DOD has closed its Office of Net Acquisition due to inefficiencies and GOP criticisms related to its involvement in the Trump-Russia probe. Staff will be reassigned as the DOD restructures the office. The closure is expected to save over $20 million annually, though concerns remain about impacts on future military strategy.
The Department of Defense (DOD) has officially dissolved its Office of Net Acquisition, a think-tank-like division within the Pentagon, following criticism from Republican lawmakers who believe it played a role in the Trump-Russia investigation. Sean Parnell, the Pentagon chief spokesperson, announced that civilian staff would be reassigned to essential roles as the DOD restructures the office to align with strategic priorities.
The Office of Net Acquisition was intended to provide long-term strategic analysis for the DOD but has been accused by Republicans of pursuing projects outside its designated mission. Senator Chuck Grassley from Iowa expressed approval of the closure, stating it would save taxpayers over $20 million annually and described the office as “wasteful and ineffective.”
Historically, the office focused on strategies for potential military conflict with China, notably promoting the AirSea Battle strategy to incapacitate the People’s Liberation Army before a naval engagement. Grassley has consistently criticized the office’s contracting approaches, highlighting issues with the quality and relevance of research produced.
Whistleblower Adam Lovinger raised concerns about the office’s output, referring to some contractor studies as unoriginal and lacking rigor. He noted that one study appeared to be copied from a World Bank report. Additionally, Lovinger expressed exasperation over contracts awarded to Stefan Halper, who was involved in the Trump campaign surveillance.
An inspector general’s report critiqued Halper for inadequately documenting his research tied to four studies worth $1 million, which examined international relations involving the U.S., Russia, China, and India. It was found that Halper failed to substantiate his travel claims related to these studies, raising ethical concerns.
Halper’s connections have been scrutinized, especially as he was listed as a consultant for an ONA project involving a Russian intelligence operative mentioned in the controversial Trump dossier. This has led to allegations of improper taxpayer money usage while establishing contacts with Trump campaign affiliates. Grassley accused ONA of obstructing inquiries regarding Halper and his interactions connected to the Trump-Russia investigation.
In contrast, Senator Jack Reed, a leading Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, characterized the closure as shortsighted and warned it could adversely affect the U.S.’s preparation for upcoming conflicts.
The dissolution of the Office of Net Acquisition signifies an effort by the Department of Defense to address inefficiencies and criticism regarding its role in the Trump-Russia probe. While GOP officials celebrate the move for its potential cost savings and a reduction in perceived waste, some Democrats warn of the implications this might have on future military readiness and strategic planning. The investigations surrounding Stefan Halper and the office’s contracting practices raise serious questions about accountability and oversight within government spending.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
