Summer 2022 Fellow: Mac Simpson, ’23
Office Description
International Cooperation supports the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (USD (A&S)) in all aspects of international cooperation and develops policy for international cooperative armaments programs.
The Director for International Armaments Cooperation responsibilities entail seeking and promoting cooperative opportunities among select key allies and introduction, development and coordination of bilateral and multilateral meetings, conferences, and other venues. Activities conducted by the Directorate include: conducting bilateral and multilateral meetings, staffing and support to Under Secretary and Director level bilateral and multilateral meetings, review of acquisition policies and matters under the authorities of Title 10, Section 27 of the Arms Export Control Act, staffing of background and issue papers on major bilateral and multilateral programs, coordination among the international components of the Military Services, the Joint Staff, Policy, and offices within A&S on international issues and decisions affecting cooperative programs and cooperative program development.
Potential Projects
A fellow assigned to International Armaments Cooperation (IA) would conduct research and analyze current and upcoming DoD acquisition programs against partner defense plans to identify opportunities to develop cooperative programs in the development phases of U.S. acquisition programs. In addition, the intern would support bilateral engagements with selected countries by preparing briefings, position papers and correspondence in support of interactions with senior DoD and foreign officials. The fellow will also support selected interagency fora; internal DoD reviews; meetings and other engagements with foreign nations; meetings with Congressional staff; and meetings with U.S. and foreign industry and other private sector entities in implementing OUSD(A&S)/IAC activities.
Desired Skills
A fellow enrolled in an international studies program and with foreign language skills is desirable although not mandatory. The fellow should be organized with above average oral and written communication skills. The ability to conduct research, analyze information and present it in a clear concise manner is also desirable.
