Washington, DC – Congressman Todd Akin (R-MO), Ranking Republican Member of the House Armed Services subcommittee on Seapower, released the following statement after a committee hearing on the impact of the economic crises on national defense.

"Today we heard expert testimony on the possible impact of the current economic downturn on national defense.

"As a ranking member of a House Armed Services subcommittee, I am very concerned that the administration is considering significant spending cuts for national defense.

"Programs that provide our men and women in uniform with much needed equipment and modern technology to increase survivability and mission success are always a sound investment. Eliminating these programs not only adversely impacts our national defense, but will have a detrimental impact on employment and our nation’s manufacturing sector.

"It seems contradictory that the President is emphasizing math and science education, while his Administration is considering the cancellation of programs like the airborne laser program that employ scientists and engineers.

"It also seems contradictory that the Administration is considering the cancellation of programs that are keeping manufacturing lines open and employing thousands of hardworking Americans and helping to maintain our manufacturing base."