Rethinking the U.S. Industrial Base Policy in the Era of Great Power Competition
In-person, Members-only
Thursday, February 6, 2025| 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM ET
The rules and strategies that guide the development and maintenance of a country’s industries that support its defense capabilities, like manufacturing weapons and equipment, are known as industrial base policy. A strong industrial base ensures a nation can effectively equip its military. However, renewed competition with China, and Russia complicates Washington’s efforts by creating pressure for each country to outpace the others in military strength and resources. As global challenges grow, a nation’s industrial base becomes essential for both national security and technological advancement, ensuring weapons systems stay operational. What is the strategic importance of the industrial base and its role in national defense? How will industrial base policies shape the future of global competitiveness and security? How is the U.S. industrial policy adapting to emerging threats and opportunities in a rapidly changing global landscape?
Join us on Thursday, February 6 from 6:00 to 7:15 PM for a conversation with Colonel Wilfred Rivera, U.S. Marine Corps, Visiting Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, who brings extensive expertise in military operations and industrial base policy. The discussion will be moderated by Lieutenant Colonel Ben Flosi, U.S. Army, Commanding Officer of the 3-415 BCT, and a member of Network 20/20.
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SPEAKER:
Colonel Wilfred Rivera
Colonel Wilfred Rivera, U.S. Marine Corps, is a visiting fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, and a highly esteemed leader with extensive expertise in military operations and international strategy. His career has seen him excel in commanding roles at every level, including significant positions at Marine Depot Maintenance Command and Combat Logistics Battalion 15. Rivera has participated in peacekeeping operations in Africa; orchestrated security partnerships across Asia, the Levant, and Europe; and supported combat and disaster-response efforts in the Middle East.
His work has involved navigating intricate strategic and policy challenges both globally and domestically. His support for various prominent operations has been instrumental, with notable affiliations including the United Nations, European Union, NATO, and the United States European Command. Rivera’s logistical and operational experience is vast, encompassing travel to ninety countries and living abroad in strategic locations such as Rome; Okinawa and Iwakuni, Japan; and Stuttgart, Germany.
His deployments have included service with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, peacekeeping operations in Liberia, and combat operations in Iraq. This extensive international exposure has endowed Rivera with a nuanced understanding of global security issues, as well as the ability to effectively manage and execute complex operational tasks in diverse and challenging environments. His career reflects a deep dedication to advancing global stability and security, marked by a remarkable blend of hands-on experience and strategic insight. Rivera’s service has been honored with the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, and induction into the Puerto Rico Distinguished Veteran’s Hall of Fame. His education includes studies at Texas A&M University, Troy State University, Georgetown University, and Harvard Business School.
THIS SESSION IS FREE FOR NETWORK 20/20’s MEMBERS
NOT YET A NETWORK 20/20 MEMBER?
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Image credit: Photo by Jp Valery on Unsplash
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