The Army’s depots and arsenals are challenged to modernize for the future while also maintaining continuity, a senior official told Congress. 

Testifying Oct. 28 before the House Armed Services Committee’s subcommittee on readiness, Karen Saunders, senior official performing the duties of the assistant Army secretary for acquisition, logistics and technology, said efforts are underway to improve through modernization and new human capital planning.  

Saunders said the aging condition of facilities warrants attention and money, with a 15-year investment plan expected to begin in 2024. The Army has more than 32,000 people working at these facilities. 

There is some skepticism in Congress because money intended for depot and arsenal improvements often gets diverted into other projects. Rep. John Garamendi of California, the subcommittee chairman, said he’d like to see something more than a once-per-generation improvement in maintenance facilities, preferring a regular, significant effort. 

Saunders acknowledged the concern, noting this is a priority so facilities are operating at 21st century standards. The Army also has options for short-term surges, if required, she said. This would involve both workers and material. 

Garamendi said Congress is equally to blame for not adequately providing long-term funding for the maintenance facilities. This was the third hearing in the 2022 budget cycle to look at depot, arsenal and shipyard modernization.