Rear Adm. Christian 'Boris' Becker, commander, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR), served as the guest speaker for the November San Diego Military Advisory Council (SDMAC) breakfast at Naval Base Point Loma, Nov. 15.

SDMAC Executive Director Randy Bogle stated that SDMAC and its members consistently support and promote local military in defense of the nation through various engagements throughout San Diego.

"SDMAC remains committed to preserving San Diego as the largest and most important military community in the United States," said Bogle. "Having speakers like Rear Adm. Becker help our members stay connected to San Diego-based military commands and understand the important issues on the minds of military leadership."

During his speech, Becker discussed SPAWAR's impact on the local economy and the recently released SPAWAR Strategic Vision 2018-2027. He went on to explain how the vision applies to the U.S. Navy, its partners and the local San Diego community as a whole.

"Our guiding principles are 'Meet Our Commitments, Be the Technical Expert, Be Trusted Partners, and Develop Our People and Our Organization.' These are basic principles we start each day with to provide the fleet the support they need," said Becker. "Many people may wonder why this plan extends over a span of 10 years. We have to look to the distant future to plan today. There is a sense of urgency in the fleet. SPAWAR needs to continue to modernize the force and make it more lethal, while planning for tomorrow's adversaries."

Becker emphasized that SPAWAR employees are the Navy's information warfare technical experts, but, in order to maintain a competitive edge, SPAWAR must continue to work closely with government and industry partners.

"SPAWAR employees define themselves as technical experts in information systems, satellite development, cybersecurity and innovation solutions," said Becker. "We also need to be trusted partners within government and industry. Trusted and transparent communication between SPAWAR and industry is critical. This communication and feedback helps shape what we think, what we need, how we can improve, and how we can move faster with development and delivery."

Becker concluded his presentation by stating that SPAWAR requires a diverse, talented and motivated workforce in order to move forward with its strategic vision.

"SPAWAR must continue to compete for talented candidates," said Becker. "It's important that employees are motivated and understand how their efforts contribute to the mission, so that they know they are making a difference. Our 'cyber warriors' are operating and fighting on an evolving cyber battlefield. Every one of them enables us to be prepared and ready to fight tonight."

SPAWAR is the Navy acquisition command that develops, delivers and sustains advanced information warfare capabilities for warfighters. SPAWAR, along with its system centers, space field activity, and partnership with three program executive offices, provides the hardware and software needed to execute Navy missions. With more than 10,000 active duty military and civilian professionals located around the world and close to the fleet, SPAWAR is at the forefront of research, engineering and acquisition, keeping forces connected around the globe.

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