The U.S. export laws have undergone minor changes, mainly directed at speeding up the export process and not since the Cold War have there been any significant changes. Since the end of the Cold War, the world, the defense industries, and the Department of Defense have undergone significant changes. The U.S. export system will have to undergo significant changes itself, more than procedural changes. The U.S. export system needs a top down review if it is to serve U.S. national interests, and adequately protect critical U.S. technology. No longer is the U.S. the sole keeper of leading edge technology, no longer is the Department of Defense relying solely on the U.S. defense industry, and no longer can the U.S. military endure long developmental cycles for weapon systems. When the Soviet Union broke up, the world entered a new era, one built not on walls but one built on bridges. This reality has changed the defense industry into an industry where mergers and acquisitions, both within national borders and across national borders, are needed to survive and compete.
