Cost was a driving factor in the decision to turn down the request for the MRAPs, according to the study.

Stateside authorities saw the hulking vehicles, which can cost as much as a $1 million each, as a financial threat to programs aimed at developing lighter vehicles that were years from being fielded.

ah i see, and this is why soldiers don't have body armor. we are waiting until they develop titanium exoskeletons for them. heh, wouldn't want them to be under equipped.

I wonder if scenarios like this are in the recruiting propaganda?

Fat, weak willed Marine sitting in some cubical somewhere in Virginia: 'Sure, we'll equip you as long as it doesn't interfere with our long term, military industrial complex agenda. God borbid I would do anything that would hinder my career as a consultant/lobbyist after I end my less than glorious career in the military. If that means making short term decisions that will lead to your death, well that's just what you're going to have to accept Marine!! Semper Fi.'