OMAHA, Neb. — The cost of rebuilding Offutt Air Force Base is going to be far higher than engineers first thought, according to a Nebraska congressman and military officials.
Republican Rep. Don Bacon told the Omaha World-Herald that he’s been told by Offutt officials to expect the original estimate of nearly $800 million to rise to around $1.1 billion.
Officials at Offutt’s 55th Wing agreed that costs would be higher, but declined to specify an amount. Lt. Col Chris Conover said initial estimates were done quickly and with incomplete information about what the reconstruction would need to include. He also blamed the COVID-19 pandemic for pushing up the costs of supplies and labor.
The flood hit Offutt on March 15, 2019. About one-third of the base was inundated with water up to 8 feet deep. The flood took weeks to recede.
The service has no requirements for a hybrid electric capability when it comes to the optionally manned fighting vehicle, but it does have the need for a reduced logistics footprint.
At the top of his mind is a threat impacting the service's mission, people, platforms and installations.
Australia's defense minister also reiterated the country's focus on and commitment toward the South Pacific islands, saying the government will embark on a new era of engagement in the region.
Among the envisioned equipment investments are hybrid armored vehicles, with a Griffon-centric program serving as the prototype for future trucks.
Dozens of overseas missions across multiple geographic regions incurred approximately $77 million in questionable fuel costs due to insufficient documentation and document reviews, improper acceptance procedures and fuel equipment deficiencies, according to the State Department Office of Inspector General.