Defense Department Invokes Production Act to Expand Industry Coordination

The measure allows the department to request specific output levels and timelines from companies that produce defense-related goods.

Officials said the step is intended to improve communication between the department and industry on capacity and delivery schedules. Michael Cadenazzi, the assistant secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, stated that the authority serves as a channel to exchange information and align production plans.

The department has not released a list of specific companies or product categories covered by the current invocation.

Background on the Authority The Defense Production Act grants the executive branch powers to direct private industry to meet national security needs during designated periods. Previous administrations have used the statute to address shortages of medical supplies, semiconductors, and other critical materials.

Department statements did not specify the duration of the current activation or the scale of production targets involved.

Further guidance on implementation is expected in coming weeks, according to department materials. No immediate changes to existing contracts or delivery schedules have been announced.