War Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced the launch of the BOND program, a major initiative designed to embed private-sector executives directly into the Department of War’s acquisition and production systems in an effort to accelerate weapons manufacturing and reduce bureaucratic delays.

The program brings more than 100 former CEOs, COOs, and CIOs from leading American companies into advisory and operational roles alongside military procurement teams. Officials say the goal is to streamline research, engineering, contracting, and supply-chain processes that have long slowed the delivery of critical defense systems.

Deputy War Secretary Pete Hegseth is leading the effort, which has already engaged over 100 experts in its first two months and is targeting a total of 250 participants. A dedicated conference is scheduled this month to coordinate priorities and integrate industry best practices into defense workflows.

The initiative is part of the broader “Arsenal of Freedom” strategy aimed at restoring U.S. industrial capacity to meet modern security demands. A central driver is the urgent need to replenish stockpiles of key systems, including THAAD missile interceptors that were reduced by roughly a quarter during Israel’s June 2025 war with Iran.

Officials argue that embedding experienced private-sector leaders will help eliminate redundant approval layers, modernize production timelines, and rebuild domestic supply chains that have struggled to keep pace with global threats. Supporters say the model mirrors wartime industrial mobilization frameworks that previously enabled rapid scaling of U.S. defense output.

The program has drawn praise from defense reform advocates who view it as a practical way to inject operational efficiency into a complex procurement structure. However, some analysts caution that congressional budget constraints and appropriations delays could limit how quickly the reforms translate into increased production.

Despite those concerns, the War Department is moving forward with recruitment through the BOND initiative’s outreach channel and expanding participation from major technology and manufacturing firms. Leaders say the effort is intended to ensure that U.S. forces and allied partners receive critical capabilities faster in an increasingly contested global environment.