Aerospace Industries Association
Aerospace and Defense: The Strength to Lift America

AIA News 2009

Statement by AIA President and CEO Marion Blakey on NRO Leadership Appointment

June 15, 2009

The appointment of Gen. Bruce Carlson, (USAF-Ret.) as the director of the National Reconnaissance Office is an important step in establishing the leadership our nation needs to continue our preeminence in space. 

Gen. Carlson’s appointment comes at a very important time. There are increasing demands on national security space systems and many critical issues facing today’s national security space industrial base.  Gen. Carlson brings a wealth of experience to the position, including considerable expertise in defense acquisition. We are looking forward to working with him to address the challenges facing space systems acquisition, a shrinking workforce and other issues important to maintaining U.S. leadership in space.