When I read that Gates had proposed a 78 billion dollar reduction over 5 years, knee-jerk response was “chump change.” Then the chilling further reflection that $78 billion is chump change to the MIC (Military-Industrial Complex).

Also, I doubt whether Gates, or anyone else involved, truly believes that such a reduction would take place. It’s posturing to show that MIC is willing to be a team player (<- cynical humor).