Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit Focuses on Strengthening National Defense
In an exclusive interview with Breitbart News, Senator Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania) discussed the Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit, emphasizing its goal to bolster President Donald Trump’s approach to peace through military strength.
McCormick pointed out that Pennsylvania has historically been a critical hub for the nation’s defense industry. “This is where the Army, Marines, and Navy were all founded,” he remarked. He further elaborated that the state has been a leader in military innovation and is poised for future changes, noting there are currently about 190,000 workers in its defense sector.
“We’ve got high-caliber munitions, advanced combat vehicles, the Philadelphia Shipyard, robotics, AI, and drones,” he added, alluding to the resources that support Trump’s policy of “peace through force.”
The summit is expected to draw around 1,300 participants, including 600 executives and representatives from 500 companies, according to McCormick.
“We’ve brought together major defense contractors, significant investors, the president, Cabinet members, and leaders from the construction industry. It’s an ideal group to further this important agenda,” he continued, referring to Trump’s push for increased investment in defense.
McCormick emphasized that Trump is focused on advanced manufacturing and shipbuilding, as well as submarine production. He believes that America should reclaim its status as a leader in defense manufacturing, supported by skilled craftsmen. “We have welders, pipefitters, and steamfitters making sure America remains strong,” he noted, pointing out the substantial investments Pennsylvania has seen under Trump’s administration.
“Defense spending has risen by about 30 percent. My aim is to speed up the process of revitalizing our defense capabilities. Honestly, the system is dysfunctional—the procurement process is slow,” he explained, mentioning the dominance of large defense contractors and the need for new startups to spur competition and innovation.
“We believe that Pennsylvania, through this summit, can lead the way forward,” McCormick concluded.
