In brief
Former President Donald Trump has announced his proposal to raise US military spending to $1.5 trillion by 2027, more than a 50% increase from the current budget. Trump advocates for expanded military capabilities amid ongoing global tensions and promises to ensure that defense contractors improve their production rates or face consequences. Critics have raised concerns about the sustainability of such spending.
President Donald Trump has called for US defence spending to be increased to $1.5 trillion (£1.1 trillion) in 2027 for what he described as these very troubled and dangerous times.
This proposed budget represents a more than 50% increase from this year's approved budget of $901 billion.
Trump expressed on social media, This will allow us to build the 'Dream Military' that we have long been entitled to and, more importantly, that will keep us SAFE and SECURE, regardless of foe.
Furthermore, he indicated that he would impose restrictions on payouts to executives and shareholders of major US defence contractors unless these firms expedite the delivery of armaments and establish new manufacturing plants.
Despite economists warning about the pressing gap between US spending and income, Trump is confident that the proposed budget can be met through tariffs.
The former president, who has consistently advocated for increased military spending throughout his political career, criticized defence giant Raytheon for being the least responsive in meeting America's defence needs and urged them to enhance production or risk losing government contracts.
He specified, Either Raytheon steps up and starts investing in more upfront investments like Plants and Equipment, or they will no longer be doing business with the Department of War.
The BBC reached out to Raytheon for a response but has not yet received a comment.
