DCMA, partner nations strengthen international cooperation

DCMA, partner nations strengthen international cooperation

By Elizabeth Szoke DCMA Public Affairs

The Defense Contract Management Agency's International Command and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, also known as FMV, recently hosted the annual Host Nation Engagement, formerly known as the Host Nation Conference, here.

Quality assurance and contracting representatives from defense organizations around the world gathered to celebrate the long-standing acquisition and contract administration agreements between the United States and its partners.

"Forums like this are not just opportunities to share best practices or shape shared standards," said Sonya Ebright, DCMA's acting director. "They are opportunities to strengthen professional ties and solve emerging problems before they become operational gaps."

More than 100 defense representatives from over 20 countries and seven international agencies participated, including Switzerland, which joined the gathering for the first time. Attendees discussed ways to continue building and sustaining partnerships to counter threats and deter aggression.

"We live in a globalized world; we procure from almost all of our allies, and they procure from us," said Oskar von Schreeb, FMV project manager. "So, it is important that we can support and assist each other now that everyone is acquiring more materiel."

Conference attendees also discussed the growth of artificial intelligence within the defense industrial base, expedited procurement and sustainment efforts, continued global collaboration, and a Federal Acquisition Regulation overhaul.

Allan Wiedel, DCMA International's deputy commander, thanked the group for their participation and reminded everyone to seek unity and opportunity. "Focus on what brings us together, what our purpose is and how we can help each other," Wiedel said. "You're not alone in this endeavor and have an opportunity to leverage the relationships you have within this group. Increasing collaboration and standardizing where we can, will result in improved efficiencies and effectiveness, and in this chaotic environment, we must keep focused to not only maintain status quo, but to also strive to become more efficient and effective."