Defense News reports that “US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel on Wednesday is expected to challenge the defense industry to innovate by developing new technologies, operational concepts and procurement methods, according to defense officials.”  

“Hagel — in a speech at the Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance conference in Newport, Rhode Island — will also discuss new Pentagon acquisition reform initiatives, according to draft of his speech.”  

“In what is his first major defense industry-focused speech since becoming defense secretary, Hagel is expected say he believes US technological superiority is not guaranteed and that the Pentagon and industry must both make investments to preserve an edge. Hagel is stopping in Rhode Island before heading to Wales for a widely anticipated NATO summit, which begins Thursday.”