Foreword

In the unforgiving domain of defense, history has repeatedly demonstrated the cost of unpreparedness. General Douglas MacArthur captured the essence of failure in war with just two words: “too late.” Nations enter conflict with the capabilities they have on day one, not the ones they hope to develop later. This stark reality makes defense project management not just critical, but existential.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, where extraordinary technological advances continually redefine the boundaries of possibility, managing defense projects has never been more demanding, or more vital. The relentless pace of innovation transforms operational doctrines and renders yesterday’s breakthroughs obsolete, creating an environment of profound uncertainty. Success in this context requires unparalleled agility, precision, and the ability to adapt on an unprecedented scale. From my time in the Royal Canadian Air Force, I witnessed firsthand how innovative and strategic project management directly influences mission success and, ultimately, national security.

Volume 1 of the Handbook of Defense Project Management addresses some of the most pressing challenges in defense project management, including stakeholder engagement, decision-making under uncertainty, and the intricacies of contract management. These topics are explored with depth and clarity, reflecting the editors’ profound understanding of the defense sector’s unique demands.

Drawing from my experience in combat operations and defense modernization, I can attest to the indispensable value of meticulous planning, agile execution, and collaborative communication. These principles resonate throughout this work, making it an essential resource for project managers navigating the complexities of the defense sector while fostering innovation and resilience.

This handbook is more than a contribution to defense project management. It is a testament to the power of collective expertise and dedication. I commend the editors and contributors for their extraordinary efforts in advancing this critical discipline. Their vision has produced a resource that will empower defense professionals to confront today’s and tomorrow’s challenges with confidence and capability. It provides the building blocks for achieving and maintaining excellence across the defense project management lifecycle, which is fundamental to national security and prosperity.

This volume equips you with the essential principles of modern defense project management, ensuring that you are never “too late.” I congratulate the editors on this outstanding contribution to the defense community—a work of immense practical value for military professionals, industry leaders, and academia alike.