June 2013 Newsletter: EIR News: Jim Ruma: Immediate implications of the emerging U.S. defense budget

U.S. defense budgets have been on a downward slope since 2010, and the Pentagon now faces a 10 percent annual reduction over the next 10 years as a result of congressionally mandated cuts to all federal spending, according to Sandra Erwin, editor of National Defense Magazine. Therefore, it is important to note that the bright spot in the defense sector will be in affordable high-tech hardware and software in more connected global economies, says Charles F. Wald, retired Air Force general and head of Deloitte's defense practice. Products that will grow in demand include communication aids, information systems, cyberwar tools and tactical gear for special operations forces.

Needs specific to Michigan include end item products and services for US Army ground combat vehicles and support systems. Business capabilities for technology development, subsystem design and systems integration are needed by TACOM; TARDEC; prime defense contractors such as General Dynamics Land Systems, BAE Systems, AM General and Oshkosh Defense; and these contractors’ next tier suppliers. With the Michigan Defense Center and Executive-in-Residence defense expert, Jim Ruma, on site at the Macomb-OU INCubator, many resources are available to assist you with defense product development and commercialization.

In future Mac-OU INC newsletters, Jim will provide further coaching for successful entry into the defense market. Article topics include identifying an opportunity; engaging the customer; sale of a product or service resulting in contract award; delivery on time, within cost and to the requirements; and continuous improvement leading to future sales.

Jim Ruma is a Macomb OU-INCubator Executive-in-Residence and assists businesses in the defense sector, especially the development of technology, engineering, manufacturing and sustainment. Jim spent over 40 years with General Dynamics Land Systems, where he served as Vice President of Engineering Programs and Project Management. He is a past president and current board member of the National Defense Industrial Association Michigan chapter. Ruma & Associates, LLC is his newest venture from which he provides technical consulting services. For more information, please contact Jim at sparkgap@comcast.net.