Pentagon says procurement restrictions could pose security risk

The Pentagon Friday voiced its opposition to the "Buy American" components of the House Defense authorization legislation, saying the restrictions could pose national security threats, according to the Associated Press.

The provisions, introduced by Republican Rep. Duncan Hunter of California, call for the required percentage of American-made defense purchases to be raised from 50 percent to 65 percent. Hunter argued that the current system is too reliant on overseas purchases, which could lead to security problems for products produced in countries opposed to U.S. policy.

The Pentagon said that not fostering international relationships could pose security problems. On Thursday, the Information Technology Association of America (ITAA) slammed the provisions. "Our military deserves to have the highest quality tools to fight wars and terrorism," said ITAA President Harris Miller. The organization is circulating a white paper on Capitol Hill, detailing potential IT procurement pitfalls should the provision pass.