I started @ArsenalIRP because I couldn't ignore a problem I'm seeing. After 1993, foundries, shipyards,, many of the facilities that produced national readiness were mothballed. The bones are still there and can be returned to production. linkedin.com/posts/jamesschm… #SideHustle

How many other processes, repairs, and parts rely on 70+ year old industrial equipment? What will it take to source or build new equipment? Lots only available overseas right now. And we need that before we can re-industrialize fully. Or ironclad partnerships and co-manufacturing.

Jamie Dimon told CNBC that "the arsenal of democracy has been reignited." In WWII it built tanks, planes, and ammo for a war effort that couldn't wait for new construction. We're now doing it again, including building new and reactivating shipyards. Building new, even with a bank's balance sheet behind it, even with many banks, investors, and philanthropists, takes too long - new construction alone can't move fast enough for shipbuilding. That doesn’t even account for the need to manufacture munitions, drones, hypersonic missiles, space launch, new satellites, and all of the parts that go into all of them, manufactured in secure and strong supply chains. Preferably built in America, with American allies and partners. That's the gap Arsenal exists to close. Not by building new. By bringing back what's already standing. Not just the giant shipyard. The small factories and machine shops that can be restored, repurposed, or rebuilt. The places we can activate small and large factories quickly. lnkd.in/p/eHiSakac

On my way to Seoul this week for #ACES2026 next week. First trip to South Korea. I expect to learn a lot and continue building networks there.

I’ve spent 25 years noticing the same things across different areas of focus. Same challenge. And then built organizations and solutions within them. About to do what’s next. #SideHustle linkedin.com/posts/jamesschm…

Now where are the many, many suppliers to these manufacturers? First through fifth tier suppliers and manufacturers are critical to aerospace and defense.

"The capability existed in each. The need existed across groups. The connections didn't exist. Yet." I've spent 25 years building those bridges. Starting a new one. More soon. lnkd.in/p/egwZ9r6f #DefenseIndustrialBase #NationalReadiness #VeteranLed #SideHustle

A terrific night! Thanks to all who attended and particularly those who sponsored the dinner and supported NDU through the @NDUFoundation!