Creates New Defense Position for Allies

This bill modifies the organization and responsibilities of the Assistant Secretaries of Defense (ASDs). Current law provides for 19 ASDs, with some of these positions established in statute and others specified by the Department of Defense (DOD). First, the bill establishes in statute an ASD for International Industrial Base Development and Engagement, whose main duty is to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base through cooperation with security partners and allies, including Taiwan. Next, the bill establishes in statute an ASD for Strategy, Plans, Capabilities, and Homeland Defense. The principal duty of such ASD is to advise the Secretary of Defense and others on national security issues and defense strategy, policy and planning oversight of various issues, and advancing and representing priority issues. This position replaces the DOD-specified ASD for Strategy, Plans, and Capabilities. The bill eliminates the DOD-specified ASD for Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs. Finally, the bill expands the responsibilities of the DOD-specified ASD for International Security Affairs to include Western Hemisphere affairs.