Building a US Manufacturing Ready Reserve

Mobilizing US manufacturers to boost economic competitiveness, reduce risks in prolonged conflict, and deter war through industrial strength.

What is a Manufacturing Ready Reserve (MRR)?

The Manufacturing Ready Reserve is a network of vetted commercial manufacturers prepared to support surge production needs. Participating companies share key data—such as capabilities, certifications, and experience—to enable rapid mobilization when needed. Modeled after programs like the Merchant Marine and Civil Reserve Air Fleet, the MRR strengthens national readiness through industrial capacity.

Activating the Manufacturing Ready Reserve Through Sustainment

How the US could use Sustainment as part of a national solution to identify, verify, and collaborate with nontraditional manufacturers when it matters most.

Network map

Identify qualified commercial manufacturers on Sustainment

Sustainment’s network includes tens of thousands of small and medium-sized commercial manufacturers who could be called upon to support the national mission. 

Onboard new vendors

Validate manufacturer capabilities via Sustainment’s support organization partners

Review comprehensive profiles and leverage Sustainment’s manufacturing support organization partners to directly validate participants meet minimum standards.

Increase bid flow

Evaluate manufacturer performance by running manufacturing jobs through the network

Test the capabilities and responsiveness of MRR participants by driving low-volume and low-complexity manufacturing requirements through the network, such as Tier 1 UAS or repair parts for Ukraine equipment.

The Ready Reserve is an Investment in US Manufacturing That Works

The MRR is a bottom-up strategy that puts government incentives to work in Middle America—not just with the nation’s largest manufacturers. By engaging directly with the small and medium-sized manufacturing (SMM) ecosystem, it fosters greater competition, promotes manufacturing excellence, and ensures more efficient use of government resources.

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Who We Are

Sustainment is a Public Benefit Corporation dedicated to helping American manufacturers thrive.
See Our Statement of Purpose