The United States dedicates substantial resources to its military for several key reasons: protecting its territory from strategic threats, ensuring citizen safety, bolstering global security by supporting allies, and fostering international economic stability. This commitment is reflected in the significant investment outlined in the annual Defense Budget.
According to the 2022 National Defense Strategy (NDS), the Department of Defense (DoD) prioritizes four main military objectives. These include defending the homeland, particularly against complex challenges from nations like China, and deterring strategic attacks against the US, its allies, and partners. A strong focus is placed on maintaining security in both the Indo-Pacific region, to counter Chinese influence, and Europe, in response to Russian aggression. Furthermore, the US military aims to deter aggression and be prepared to decisively win conflicts when necessary, emphasizing overall readiness. Finally, building a resilient joint force is crucial to enhance the defense ecosystem and maintain America’s technological and operational edge.
The National Defense Strategy clearly identifies China as the primary long-term competitor for the United States. Addressing China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific and its ambition to reshape the international order is a central concern. The strategy also recognizes the need for a robust military posture to address threats from Russia, Iran, North Korea, and various violent extremist organizations. This comprehensive approach is designed “to protect the security of the American people; expand economic prosperity and opportunity; and realize and defend the values at the heart of the American way of life.”
Beyond immediate threats, the NDS acknowledges broader military challenges including the rise of authoritarian powers, rapid technological advancements in areas like artificial intelligence, global economic inequalities, and the increasing impact of climate change.
When examining America’s spending on military compared to other countries, it becomes evident that the US is the world’s largest military spender. Data from the State Department’s 2021 World Military Expenditures and Arms Transfers report highlights this fact. This report provides a detailed analysis of military expenditure across nations, alongside data on armed forces size, GDP, population, and other critical metrics from 2009 to 2019. While the US military budget dwarfs that of most nations, understanding the strategic priorities and global challenges outlined in documents like the National Defense Strategy provides crucial context. These factors illuminate why the United States allocates such a significant portion of its resources to defense compared to other countries, reflecting its unique global role and security concerns.
Data regarding the US Department of Defense budget originates from the 2024 Defense Budget Overview. Further details, including budget specifics for each branch of the military and particular defense initiatives, are available from the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) and official DoD press releases. Historical data on national defense spending can be found through USAFacts custom aggregation of data sourced from the Office of Management and Budget, the Census Bureau, and the Bureau of Economic Analysis.
