Houston, Texas – (August 23, 2026) — As the United States works to strengthen its defense industrial base and modernize military capabilities, the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), the global authority in materials protection and performance, welcomes the announcement of approximately $10 billion in planned federal investment supporting shipbuilding, munitions production, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, robotics, and other critical defense capabilities.
AMPP highlights maintaining these investments through industry-leading corrosion mitigation practices, workforce training and development, and ensuring asset integrity as key to ensuring long-term readiness and operational success.
The investment reflects a renewed focus on reinvesting in U.S. manufacturing, improving supply chains and developing the technologies required to support national defense. Protecting these assets over their full service life is essential and requires a comprehensive focus on corrosion control, coatings, inspection and a skilled workforce.
For decades, AMPP and its members have helped government and industry protect critical military assets through corrosion control, protective coatings, standards development, workforce training, and professional certifications.
“America’s defense capabilities rely not only on building new ships, submarines and military systems but also on preserving those assets over their service life,” said Jennifer Merck, Vice President of Maritime and Defense at AMPP. “The corrosion prevention, protective coatings, inspection and qualified personnel are critical to achieving long-term readiness, reliability and value of these investments. AMPP and its members are uniquely qualified to support this mission through internationally recognized standards, technical expertise, training and certifications that strengthen defense infrastructure and protect our nation’s valuable assets.”
Corrosion remains one of the costliest and most persistent challenges facing military equipment and infrastructure. It drives up maintenance costs, reduces equipment availability, and shortens service life. Corrosion costs the U.S. economy an estimated $500 billion each year, highlighting the importance of incorporating corrosion management into defense planning and sustainment.
“Investments like this create opportunities that extend well beyond manufacturing,” said Kern Williams, Manager of Government Relations at AMPP. “As these initiatives move forward, AMPP will continue working with policymakers, government agencies, and industry partners to ensure corrosion prevention, workforce development, and lifecycle asset management remain part of the national conversation. Our members provide the expertise needed to help protect these investments for decades to come.”
Through internationally recognized standards, professional certifications, workforce training, and technical expertise, AMPP supports government and industry in improving the durability, reliability, and performance of critical defense assets and infrastructure.
Learn more about AMPP’s legislative priorities at Legislative Agenda – AMPP.
