Trump Proposes Dramatic Increase in US Military Spending

Fri Jan 09 2026 21:09:33 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump has called for a significant rise in US defense spending, proposing a budget of $1.5 trillion by 2027, reflecting a more than 50% increase. This proposal highlights his commitment to enhancing national security amid what he describes as 'troubled and dangerous times'.

President Trump has proposed that the US increase its military budget to $1.5 trillion in 2027, marking a 50% rise from the current budget of $901 billion. He emphasizes the need for a 'Dream Military' and also mentions his plans to address defense contractors' performances in fulfilling contracts. Economists express concern over the sustainability of such spending levels amidst existing financial challenges.

President Donald Trump has called for US defence spending to be increased to $1.5 trillion (£1.1 trillion) by 2027, citing concerns over 'these very troubled and dangerous times'. This proposed budget represents a significant over 50% increase from this year's $901 billion budget, which was approved by Congress in December.

'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,' Trump stated in a social media post on Wednesday.

In addition, Trump has expressed intentions to take action against payouts to bosses and shareholders of major US defence contractors unless these firms expedite the delivery of armaments and establish new manufacturing plants.

Despite warnings from economists about the growing gap between US spending and income, Trump believes that the proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget can be achieved through revenue generated from tariffs.

Stressing his long-standing push for increased defence spending by the US and its allies, Trump specifically criticized Raytheon, a major defence contractor, for being 'the least responsive' and 'the slowest to increase production'. He warned that if Raytheon does not invest in new facilities and equipment, it may no longer receive contracts from the Department of War.

The BBC has reached out to Raytheon for their comments on the matter.