The US Senate Armed Services Committee has recommended exploring the use of blockchain technology to bolster the country’s national security efforts. They have instructed the Department of Defense (DoD) to evaluate this emerging technology and its potential applications in the defense sector.
Implicit Call for Blockchain Development by US Senate Military Committee
The US Military Senate Committee has approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the fiscal year 2025. Within this legislation, there is provision for next year’s military funding and construction in the Department of Defense.
The NDAA includes a specific mention of blockchain technology’s assessment for securing supply chains and other national security purposes.
The committee recognizes the significant benefits of blockchain, such as improving data integrity and preventing data manipulation and corruption in certain areas by adversaries.
Additionally, the US Senate Military Committee emphasizes the importance of data-centric security, transparency, accountability, and secure supply chains in bolstering national defense and economic competitiveness.
The NDAA recommends that the US align with other countries in investing in blockchain research and technology to maintain leadership in this vital field.
Need for Clear Regulations to Lead Globally and Encourage Adoption
The committee has instructed the Department of Defense to explore blockchain’s application to meet national security objectives and create secure and transparent supply chain data.
According to the NDAA, the Secretary of Defense must provide a report to the committee by April 1, 2025, assessing how blockchain can enhance supply chain management within the DoD.
This report outlines various aspects to be covered, including the benefits and risks of implementing blockchain in supply chain tracking and management.
Furthermore, it necessitates an analysis of the current state of blockchain adoption in national security within the DOD and defense industrial base, along with the resources required for these endeavors.
The plan must include pilot programs or research efforts to explore blockchain’s utility in defense and an examination of how China and Russia leverage blockchain technology.
Finally, the report should propose ways to promote blockchain development within the DOD and suggest regulatory actions to support supply chain transparency and auditability.
This Senate directive underscores the necessity of clear regulations to nurture the country’s industry. Many policymakers advocate for a more favorable regulatory environment in the US to stimulate the growth of the crypto sector successfully.
As the impending elections approach, various efforts have been made to garner bipartisan support for the industry. Key US Congress members and industry leaders have raised concerns about the regulatory hurdles faced by crypto businesses in the US.