Summary
President Donald Trump announced plans to increase the U.S. military budget to $1.5 trillion. This proposal includes new military programs and an overall increase of about 50% from the current spending levels. Congress must approve any changes to the military budget.
Key Facts
- President Trump wants to raise the U.S. military budget to $1.5 trillion.
- The U.S. currently spends about $997 billion on its military.
- The proposed increase would be almost 50% more than current spending.
- Trump has introduced several costly military programs, such as a new missile defense shield and a new battleship design.
- Funding for these programs may come from tariffs on other countries.
- Congress has to approve any new military budget plans.
- Some Republicans, like Rep. Don Bacon, support increasing military spending to 4% of GDP.
- Trump criticized defense contractor Raytheon for being slow in meeting Pentagon orders.
