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US defense secretary Pete Hegseth threw down a blunt challenge to the industry, urging prime contractors to accelerate weapons development and invest their own money or "fade away." In a reform speech at the National War College, he unveiled a "deal team" within the Wartime Production Unit, promised to slash contracting rules, and said the Pentagon will take more acquisition risk so no bid is ruled noncompliant. He invited newcomers to compete with Lockheed Martin, RTX, Northrop Grumman, Boeing and General Dynamics, and vowed faster foreign military sales. Analysts welcomed the push but warned the overhaul will take time.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.