IPC Hosts Workshop on the Future of the Defense Electronics Industry
October 25, 2018 | IPCEstimated reading time: 1 minute
On Friday, October 19, more than 40 industry executives participated in a day-long discussion on the defense electronics industrial base in Bannockburn, Illinois.
IPC—in partnership with WHMA and ECIA—organized the event to support the ongoing effort by the Department of Defense (DoD) to assess the U.S. defense electronics industrial base. Pursuant to Section 845 of the FY19 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), DoD is required to provide this assessment to Congress by January 31, 2019. IPC was the primary champion for this provision during congressional consideration, and the provision is reflective of the comprehensive evaluation of the defense electronics supply chain that IPC has long called for.
The October 19 discussion focused on five segments of the industry that are sometimes overlooked by policymakers, namely PCB, EMS, cable/wire harness, connectors, and passive components.
The event kicked off with Dr. Robert Irie, who oversees electronics for the DoD’s Industrial Policy Office, offering remarks on the recent White House report on the overall defense industrial base and the important and complementary purpose of the defense electronics assessment now underway.
IPC Director of Research Sharon Starr delivered the results and analysis of an IPC/WHMA/ECIA survey, which underscored many issues facing the industry, including shortages in skilled workers and suppliers.
Participants then divided into their industry segments for focused discussions on a range of issues that DoD is required to assess. In the afternoon, participants came back together to report on their perspectives and conclusions.
Dr. Irie and officials from the Executive Agent for PCBs at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane were on hand to listen and ask questions.
If you are interested in this initiative, it is not too late to offer your perspectives. IPC will soon release a report on the workshop, affording IPC members one last opportunity to provide their input.
Suggested Items
Tariff Uncertainty Weighs on Display Demand, Pricing, and the Supply of AMOLED Materials,
04/09/2025 | TrendForceTrendForce reports that the U.S. began implementing reciprocal tariffs on April 9th, based largely on trade deficits. Consequently, Asia—particularly Southeast Asia, a key hub for the consumer electronics supply chain—has been significantly impacted.
Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Exploring Ventec's Innovations
04/09/2025 | Real Time with...IPC APEX EXPOMark Goodwin highlights Ventec's global distribution network and recent expansions in service and equipment offerings. He emphasizes the company's expertise in coating technology for thermal management, specialized materials, and its agility in creating customized solutions for customers.
Incap US Invests in Advanced SMT Technology
04/09/2025 | IncapIncap Electronics US invested approximately USD 2 million (EUR 1.82 million) in advanced SMT (surface-mount technology) production equipment to expand its production capacity.
Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Navigating Economic Headwinds in the Electronics Industry
04/08/2025 | Real Time with...IPC APEX EXPOShawn DuBravac, IPC Chief Economist, highlights the industry's resilience amid economic challenges, noting ongoing investment despite uncertainty and rising interest rates. Consumer behavior shows caution, with slowing spending and weakening confidence. A global economic overview reveals strengths in the U.S., challenges in China, and struggles in Europe. The discussion emphasizes the negative impact of tariffs and the importance of resilient supply chains.
Zhen Ding Releases March 2025 Monthly Revenue Report
04/07/2025 | Zhen Ding TechnologyZhen Ding Technology Holding Limited, a global leading PCB manufacturer, today reported March 2025 revenue of NT$14,408 million, up 29.88% YoY and up 18.06% MoM, marking a record high for the same period in the company’s history.