The Defense Budget Analysis program regularly publishes analysis on trends in the overall defense budget and its alignment with defense strategy, military readiness, force structure, defense acquisitions, military compensation, and Congressional action on defense spending.

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Photo: Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto/Getty Images

Photo: Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto/Getty Images

Defense Budgets in an Uncertain Security Environment

Uncertainty in the current global security environment since the start of the Ukraine war has increased global defense spending as states perceive themselves to be at greater risk. But political and fiscal realities will also shape future defense spending levels.

Commentary by Seamus P. Daniels — September 16, 2025