How Much Money Does The Military Get? Understanding the amount of money allocated to the military involves examining the intricacies of defense spending, national security priorities, and economic factors. At money-central.com, we provide an overview of military spending, including its impact on the economy, technological advancement, and global security, offering strategies for informed financial decision-making and resource allocation. Discover insights on budget allocation, economic implications, and security strategies, empowering you with financial literacy, budget management skills, and investment strategies.
1. What is the US Military Budget and Why is it So Large?
The US military budget is substantial, reflecting the nation’s global security commitments and defense strategies; as of 2023, it stands at over $886 billion. This figure is driven by several factors, including the need to maintain a strong defense against potential threats, the cost of modernizing military equipment, and the expenses associated with maintaining a global presence. The budget supports various branches of the military, funds research and development, and covers personnel costs.
- Global Security Commitments: The US military plays a significant role in maintaining global security and protecting its allies. This involves deploying troops and resources around the world, conducting joint military exercises, and providing security assistance to partner nations.
- Defense Strategies: The US employs a comprehensive defense strategy to counter potential threats and safeguard its interests. This includes deterring aggression, projecting power, and maintaining a technologically advanced military force.
- Modernization of Military Equipment: Keeping the military equipped with cutting-edge technology is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. This requires investing in research and development, upgrading existing systems, and procuring new weapons and platforms.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the United States accounts for about 39% of global military spending, surpassing the next nine highest-spending countries combined. The size of the US military budget is a subject of ongoing debate, with some arguing that it is necessary to protect national interests and maintain global stability, while others contend that it is excessive and could be better allocated to other priorities such as education, healthcare, or infrastructure.
2. How is the Military Budget Allocated Across Different Branches?
The military budget is divided among various branches of the armed forces, each with specific roles and responsibilities; the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force each receive a portion of the budget to fund personnel, equipment, and operations. The allocation is determined by strategic priorities, technological advancements, and evolving security threats.
- Army: The Army is responsible for land-based military operations and receives a significant portion of the budget to maintain its personnel, equipment, and training programs.
- Navy: The Navy is tasked with maintaining naval supremacy and projecting power across the world’s oceans. Its budget supports the construction and maintenance of ships, submarines, and aircraft carriers, as well as naval aviation and amphibious warfare capabilities.
- Air Force: The Air Force is responsible for air and space operations, including maintaining air superiority, conducting strategic bombing missions, and providing airlift support. Its budget funds the procurement of advanced aircraft, satellites, and other aerospace technologies.
- Marine Corps: The Marine Corps is an expeditionary force trained for amphibious warfare and rapid response to crises around the world. Its budget supports its unique capabilities and equipment, including amphibious vehicles, aircraft, and infantry weapons.
- Space Force: The Space Force is the newest branch of the military and is responsible for space operations, including satellite communications, space-based surveillance, and missile warning. Its budget is focused on developing and deploying advanced space technologies to support national security objectives.
The specific allocation to each branch can vary from year to year based on changing priorities and emerging threats. For example, increased tensions in a particular region may lead to increased funding for the branch responsible for operating in that area. Similarly, the development of new technologies may require increased investment in research and development programs within a specific branch.
Here is a breakdown of the proposed budget allocation for fiscal year 2024:
| Branch | Budget Allocation |
|---|---|
| Army | $178 billion |
| Navy | $255 billion |
| Air Force | $245 billion |
| Marine Corps | $52 billion |
| Space Force | $26 billion |
These figures are subject to change as Congress reviews and approves the budget.
3. What are the Major Categories of Military Spending?
The military budget is allocated across several major categories, including personnel, operations and maintenance, procurement, and research and development; each category plays a crucial role in maintaining the readiness and effectiveness of the armed forces.
- Personnel: This category includes salaries, benefits, and training for military personnel. It accounts for a significant portion of the budget and is essential for attracting and retaining qualified individuals.
- Operations and Maintenance: This category covers the day-to-day expenses of operating and maintaining military equipment and facilities. It includes fuel, repairs, maintenance contracts, and logistical support.
- Procurement: This category involves the acquisition of new weapons, equipment, and platforms. It includes the purchase of aircraft, ships, vehicles, and advanced technologies.
- Research and Development: This category is dedicated to developing new technologies and capabilities for the future. It includes funding for basic research, applied research, and development programs.
The allocation of funds across these categories reflects strategic priorities and evolving threats. For example, increased investment in research and development may be necessary to counter emerging technologies, while increased spending on procurement may be required to modernize aging equipment.
According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), here is a breakdown of the major categories of military spending in 2023:
| Category | Percentage of Budget |
|---|---|
| Personnel | 28% |
| Operations & Maintenance | 36% |
| Procurement | 22% |
| Research & Development | 14% |
These figures provide insight into how the military budget is distributed across different areas of defense spending.
4. How Does US Military Spending Compare to Other Countries?
The United States spends more on its military than any other country in the world, exceeding the combined spending of the next several highest-spending nations; this reflects the US’s role as a global superpower and its commitment to maintaining a strong defense.
- Global Superpower: As a global superpower, the United States has a responsibility to maintain a strong military to protect its interests and allies around the world.
- Commitment to Defense: The US is committed to maintaining a technologically advanced and well-equipped military to deter potential threats and safeguard its national security.
According to SIPRI, the US military expenditure in 2022 reached $877 billion, accounting for 39% of global military spending. This is more than the next nine highest-spending countries combined.
Here is a comparison of military spending by the top five highest-spending countries in 2022:
| Country | Military Expenditure (USD Billions) |
|---|---|
| United States | 877 |
| China | 292 |
| Russia | 86.4 |
| India | 81.4 |
| Saudi Arabia | 75 |
This data illustrates the significant disparity in military spending between the United States and other countries.
5. What are the Economic Impacts of Military Spending?
Military spending can have both positive and negative impacts on the economy; proponents argue that it stimulates economic growth by creating jobs, fostering technological innovation, and supporting industries. Critics contend that it diverts resources from other important sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, leading to opportunity costs.
- Job Creation: Military spending can create jobs in defense industries, manufacturing, and research and development.
- Technological Innovation: Investment in military technology can lead to spin-off technologies that have civilian applications, driving innovation and economic growth.
- Industrial Support: Military spending supports defense contractors and suppliers, providing them with revenue and stability.
However, economists like Seymour Melman have argued that excessive military spending can crowd out private investment, reduce productivity, and hinder long-term economic growth.
A study by the University of Massachusetts Amherst found that investing in clean energy and healthcare creates more jobs than equivalent spending on the military. The study concluded that shifting resources from military spending to other sectors could lead to a more sustainable and equitable economy.
According to a report by the Center for Economic Policy Research (CEPR), military spending has a limited impact on job creation compared to other forms of government spending:
| Sector | Jobs Created per $1 Million Spent |
|---|---|
| Military | 6.9 |
| Clean Energy | 9.8 |
| Healthcare | 14.3 |
| Education | 19.7 |
This data suggests that investing in sectors such as clean energy, healthcare, and education can generate more jobs than military spending.
6. How Does Military Spending Affect National Debt and Deficit?
Military spending contributes to the national debt and deficit, as it is a significant component of the federal budget; financing military operations and procurement through borrowing can increase the national debt, which has long-term implications for the economy.
- Federal Budget Component: Military spending accounts for a substantial portion of the federal budget, and increases in military spending can lead to larger budget deficits.
- Financing Operations: The cost of financing military operations, such as wars and interventions, can be significant and can contribute to the national debt.
- Procurement Through Borrowing: When the government borrows money to finance military procurement, it increases the national debt, which can lead to higher interest payments and reduced fiscal flexibility.
According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the national debt is projected to reach $52 trillion by 2033, driven in part by rising military spending.
A study by the National Priorities Project found that reducing military spending could lead to significant reductions in the national debt:
| Scenario | Debt Reduction over 10 Years |
|---|---|
| 10% Reduction in Military Spending | $1 Trillion |
| 25% Reduction in Military Spending | $2.5 Trillion |
| 50% Reduction in Military Spending | $5 Trillion |
These figures illustrate the potential impact of reducing military spending on the national debt.
7. What Role Does Military Spending Play in National Security?
Military spending is considered essential for national security, as it provides the resources necessary to defend the country against threats and protect its interests; a strong military can deter potential adversaries, project power, and respond to crises around the world.
- Defense Against Threats: Military spending enables the country to defend itself against potential threats, such as terrorism, cyberattacks, and aggression from other nations.
- Protecting Interests: The military plays a role in protecting US interests abroad, such as trade routes, energy supplies, and diplomatic missions.
- Deterring Adversaries: A strong military can deter potential adversaries from attacking or undermining US interests.
- Responding to Crises: The military can respond to crises around the world, such as natural disasters, humanitarian emergencies, and conflicts.
However, some argue that excessive military spending can undermine national security by diverting resources from other important areas, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
According to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), investing in cybersecurity, intelligence, and diplomacy is also essential for national security:
| Area | Importance for National Security |
|---|---|
| Cybersecurity | Protecting critical infrastructure and data |
| Intelligence | Gathering information about threats |
| Diplomacy | Resolving conflicts and building alliances |
These areas are often underfunded compared to traditional military spending, even though they play a crucial role in safeguarding national security.
8. How Does Military Spending Influence Technological Advancement?
Military spending can drive technological advancement through investment in research and development; defense-related research often leads to breakthroughs that have civilian applications, benefiting various sectors of the economy.
- Research and Development: Military spending funds research and development programs that can lead to technological breakthroughs.
- Civilian Applications: Defense-related research often results in spin-off technologies that have civilian applications in areas such as medicine, transportation, and communication.
- Economic Benefits: The development of new technologies can stimulate economic growth and create new industries.
Examples of technologies that were initially developed for military purposes and later found civilian applications include the internet, GPS, and microwave ovens.
A study by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) found that military spending has played a significant role in driving technological innovation in the United States:
| Area | Examples of Military-Driven Innovation |
|---|---|
| Computing | ENIAC, ARPANET |
| Aviation | Jet engines, radar |
| Materials | High-strength alloys, composite materials |
These innovations have had a transformative impact on the economy and society.
9. What are the Alternative Uses of Military Spending?
Military spending could be allocated to other sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and clean energy; these alternative uses may have a greater impact on economic growth, job creation, and social welfare.
- Education: Investing in education can improve human capital, increase productivity, and promote social mobility.
- Healthcare: Allocating resources to healthcare can improve public health, reduce healthcare costs, and increase life expectancy.
- Infrastructure: Investing in infrastructure can improve transportation, communication, and energy systems, boosting economic growth and creating jobs.
- Clean Energy: Shifting resources to clean energy can reduce carbon emissions, create green jobs, and promote energy independence.
A study by the Political Economy Research Institute (PERI) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst found that investing in clean energy, healthcare, and education creates more jobs than equivalent spending on the military:
| Sector | Jobs Created per $1 Million Spent |
|---|---|
| Military | 6.9 |
| Clean Energy | 9.8 |
| Healthcare | 14.3 |
| Education | 19.7 |
These figures suggest that reallocating military spending to other sectors could lead to a more sustainable and equitable economy.
10. How Can Citizens Influence Military Spending Decisions?
Citizens can influence military spending decisions through various means, including voting, contacting elected officials, participating in public debates, and supporting advocacy groups; these actions can shape public opinion and influence policy decisions.
- Voting: Citizens can vote for candidates who support their views on military spending.
- Contacting Officials: Citizens can contact their elected officials to express their opinions on military spending and urge them to take action.
- Public Debates: Citizens can participate in public debates and forums to raise awareness about military spending and advocate for alternative policies.
- Advocacy Groups: Citizens can support advocacy groups that work to influence military spending decisions and promote peace and security.
Organizations such as the National Priorities Project, the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL), and the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation provide resources and opportunities for citizens to get involved in military spending advocacy.
By staying informed and engaged, citizens can play a role in shaping military spending decisions and promoting a more just and sustainable world.
11. What are the Ethical Considerations of Military Spending?
Ethical considerations surrounding military spending involve questions of resource allocation, human rights, and the morality of war; debates often center on whether military spending is justified given its potential impact on human lives and well-being.
- Resource Allocation: Ethical considerations arise regarding whether military spending is the best use of resources, especially when other pressing needs such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation exist.
- Human Rights: The use of military force can have profound impacts on human rights, including the right to life, liberty, and security of person.
- Morality of War: Ethical debates often revolve around the morality of war, including questions of just cause, proportionality, and discrimination.
Philosophers and ethicists have long debated the ethical implications of military spending, with some arguing that it is necessary for self-defense and the protection of innocent lives, while others contend that it is inherently immoral due to its potential for violence and destruction.
According to the United Nations Charter, the use of military force should be a last resort, and all peaceful means of resolving disputes should be exhausted before resorting to armed conflict.
12. How Does Military Spending Affect International Relations?
Military spending can have a significant impact on international relations, shaping alliances, fueling arms races, and influencing global power dynamics; countries with large military budgets often wield greater influence on the world stage, while arms races can increase tensions and the risk of conflict.
- Shaping Alliances: Military spending can strengthen alliances by providing resources for joint military exercises, security assistance, and defense cooperation.
- Fueling Arms Races: Increased military spending by one country can lead to arms races as other countries seek to match or surpass its military capabilities.
- Influencing Power Dynamics: Countries with large military budgets often wield greater influence on the world stage, shaping international norms and institutions.
The concept of “security dilemma” suggests that when one country increases its military capabilities, it can lead other countries to feel threatened and respond in kind, resulting in a spiral of escalating military spending and increased tensions.
According to the Council on Foreign Relations, military spending is just one factor that influences international relations, and other factors such as diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange also play important roles:
| Factor | Impact on International Relations |
|---|---|
| Military Spending | Shaping alliances, fueling arms races |
| Diplomacy | Resolving conflicts, building trust |
| Trade | Promoting economic interdependence |
| Cultural Exchange | Fostering understanding and cooperation |
A balanced approach that combines military strength with diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange is essential for promoting peace and stability in the world.
13. What is the Future of US Military Spending?
The future of US military spending is uncertain, but several factors are likely to influence it, including evolving security threats, technological advancements, and budgetary constraints; debates over military spending are likely to continue as policymakers grapple with competing priorities and limited resources.
- Evolving Threats: Emerging threats such as cyberattacks, terrorism, and great power competition are likely to shape future military spending decisions.
- Technological Advancements: The development of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous weapons, and hypersonic missiles could lead to increased investment in research and development.
- Budgetary Constraints: Growing national debt and deficits could lead to pressure to reduce military spending in the future.
According to a report by the Stimson Center, several potential scenarios could influence the future of US military spending:
| Scenario | Impact on Military Spending |
|---|---|
| Increased Great Power Competition | Increased |
| Technological Revolution | Increased |
| Fiscal Austerity | Decreased |
| Shift to Soft Power | Decreased |
The future of US military spending will depend on how policymakers respond to these competing pressures and priorities.
14. How Does Military Spending Impact Veterans’ Affairs?
Military spending indirectly affects Veterans’ Affairs, as it determines the resources available for veterans’ healthcare, benefits, and services; adequate funding is essential for providing comprehensive support to veterans who have served the nation.
- Healthcare: Military spending can impact the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for veterans, including medical care, mental health services, and rehabilitation programs.
- Benefits: The level of military spending can influence the amount of benefits available to veterans, such as disability compensation, education benefits, and housing assistance.
- Services: Military spending can affect the availability of services for veterans, such as job training, career counseling, and support for homeless veterans.
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), providing comprehensive support to veterans is a moral obligation:
| Area | Importance for Veterans |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | Ensuring access to quality medical care |
| Benefits | Providing financial assistance and support |
| Services | Helping veterans transition to civilian life |
Adequate funding for Veterans’ Affairs is essential for fulfilling this obligation and ensuring that veterans receive the support they need and deserve.
15. What are the Views of Different Political Parties on Military Spending?
Views on military spending often differ between political parties, with some favoring a strong military and increased defense spending, while others prioritize social programs and reduced military expenditures; these differences reflect contrasting ideologies and priorities.
- Increased Defense Spending: Some political parties advocate for increased defense spending to maintain a strong military and protect national interests.
- Social Programs: Other political parties prioritize social programs such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, and advocate for reduced military spending to fund these programs.
- Contrasting Ideologies: These differences reflect contrasting ideologies and priorities, with some emphasizing national security and others emphasizing social welfare.
According to a report by the Pew Research Center, views on military spending often align with political party affiliation:
| Political Party | Views on Military Spending |
|---|---|
| Republican | Favor increased spending |
| Democrat | Favor reduced spending |
| Independent | Divided views |
These differences can lead to debates and gridlock in Congress over military spending decisions.
16. How Can Military Spending Be Made More Transparent and Accountable?
Increased transparency and accountability in military spending can help ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively; measures such as independent audits, public disclosure of contracts, and congressional oversight can promote responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
- Independent Audits: Conducting independent audits of military spending can help identify waste, fraud, and abuse.
- Public Disclosure: Publicly disclosing military contracts can promote transparency and accountability.
- Congressional Oversight: Strengthening congressional oversight of military spending can ensure that resources are used in accordance with the law and in the best interests of the nation.
Organizations such as the Project On Government Oversight (POGO) advocate for increased transparency and accountability in military spending:
| Area | Measures for Transparency and Accountability |
|---|---|
| Audits | Independent audits of military spending |
| Disclosure | Public disclosure of military contracts |
| Oversight | Strengthened congressional oversight |
By promoting transparency and accountability, it is possible to ensure that military spending is used wisely and effectively.
17. What is the Relationship Between Military Spending and Diplomacy?
Military spending and diplomacy are often intertwined, with military strength sometimes used as leverage in diplomatic negotiations; however, some argue that overreliance on military power can undermine diplomatic efforts and escalate conflicts.
- Leverage in Negotiations: Military strength can be used as leverage in diplomatic negotiations, giving a country greater bargaining power.
- Undermining Diplomacy: Overreliance on military power can undermine diplomatic efforts by creating mistrust and escalating tensions.
According to the United States Institute of Peace, diplomacy should be the primary tool for resolving conflicts, and military force should be used only as a last resort:
| Tool | Role in Conflict Resolution |
|---|---|
| Diplomacy | Primary tool |
| Military Force | Last resort |
A balanced approach that combines military strength with effective diplomacy is essential for promoting peace and stability in the world.
18. How Does Military Spending Relate to Global Poverty and Development?
Military spending can divert resources from global poverty and development efforts, as funds spent on defense could potentially be used to address pressing social and economic needs in developing countries; some argue that reducing military spending could free up resources for humanitarian assistance, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.
- Diverting Resources: Military spending can divert resources from global poverty and development efforts, as funds spent on defense could potentially be used to address pressing social and economic needs.
- Humanitarian Assistance: Reducing military spending could free up resources for humanitarian assistance, such as providing food, shelter, and medical care to people in need.
- Poverty Reduction: Reallocating military spending to poverty reduction programs could help lift millions of people out of poverty and improve their living standards.
- Sustainable Development: Investing in sustainable development initiatives could promote economic growth, protect the environment, and improve the well-being of future generations.
According to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), addressing global poverty and promoting sustainable development are essential for building a more just and equitable world.
19. How Does Military Spending Affect Climate Change?
Military activities are a significant contributor to climate change, as they consume large amounts of fossil fuels and generate greenhouse gas emissions; reducing the military’s carbon footprint and investing in green technologies could help mitigate the impacts of climate change.
- Fossil Fuel Consumption: Military activities consume large amounts of fossil fuels, such as jet fuel, gasoline, and diesel, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The military is a significant emitter of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, which contribute to global warming.
- Mitigating Impacts: Reducing the military’s carbon footprint and investing in green technologies could help mitigate the impacts of climate change.
According to a report by Brown University’s Costs of War Project, the US military is one of the largest institutional consumers of fossil fuels in the world:
| Area | Impact on Climate Change |
|---|---|
| Fossil Fuels | Significant consumer |
| Emissions | Significant emitter |
| Mitigation | Reducing carbon footprint |
Addressing the military’s impact on climate change is essential for achieving global climate goals and protecting the planet for future generations.
20. What Are Some Alternatives to Military Intervention?
Alternatives to military intervention include diplomacy, economic sanctions, mediation, and international law; these approaches can be used to resolve conflicts peacefully and address the root causes of instability.
- Diplomacy: Engaging in diplomatic negotiations can help resolve conflicts and build trust between countries.
- Economic Sanctions: Imposing economic sanctions can pressure countries to change their behavior without resorting to military force.
- Mediation: Using mediation to facilitate dialogue between conflicting parties can help find common ground and resolve disputes peacefully.
- International Law: Upholding international law can help prevent conflicts and promote justice and accountability.
According to the International Crisis Group, these alternatives to military intervention can be more effective and sustainable in the long run:
| Tool | Role in Conflict Resolution |
|---|---|
| Diplomacy | Resolving conflicts |
| Sanctions | Pressuring countries |
| Mediation | Facilitating dialogue |
| International Law | Promoting justice |
Exploring and utilizing these alternatives to military intervention can help promote peace and stability in the world.
Understanding “how much money does the military get” is critical for informed financial awareness and strategic decision-making. At money-central.com, we provide comprehensive insights and tools to help you navigate the complexities of defense spending, assess its economic impacts, and explore alternative investment strategies. Take control of your financial future by exploring our resources and expert advice today. Visit money-central.com to read more articles, use our financial tools, and connect with financial experts who can provide personalized guidance. Address: 44 West Fourth Street, New York, NY 10012, United States. Phone: +1 (212) 998-0000.
FAQ: Understanding US Military Spending
- How is the US military budget determined each year?
The US military budget is determined through a process that begins with the Department of Defense submitting a budget request to the President. This request is then reviewed and revised by the Office of Management and Budget before being submitted to Congress. Congress then debates and votes on the budget, often making changes before it is finalized and signed into law by the President. - What percentage of the US federal budget is allocated to military spending?
Military spending accounts for a significant portion of the US federal budget. In recent years, it has typically been around 15-20% of the total federal budget. This percentage can fluctuate based on national security priorities and economic conditions. - Which countries are the largest recipients of US military aid?
The largest recipients of US military aid vary from year to year based on geopolitical considerations and strategic partnerships. Historically, countries such as Israel, Egypt, Afghanistan, and Iraq have been among the largest recipients of US military aid. - How does US military spending impact the global arms trade?
US military spending has a significant impact on the global arms trade. The US is one of the largest exporters of military equipment and technology, and its spending decisions can influence the demand for and supply of arms worldwide. - What are some examples of wasteful spending in the US military budget?
Examples of wasteful spending in the US military budget include cost overruns on major weapons systems, duplicative programs across different branches of the military, and inefficient procurement processes. These issues are often highlighted by government watchdogs and oversight committees. - How does military spending affect the US economy in terms of job creation and economic growth?
Military spending can have both positive and negative effects on the US economy. While it can create jobs in the defense industry and stimulate technological innovation, it can also divert resources from other sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Studies have shown that investing in these other sectors can often create more jobs and have a greater positive impact on economic growth. - What are some potential reforms to the US military budget that could save money without compromising national security?
Potential reforms to the US military budget include reducing the number of overseas military bases, streamlining the procurement process, eliminating redundant programs, and prioritizing investments in cybersecurity and other emerging threats. These reforms could save money while ensuring that the military remains effective and prepared to meet future challenges. - How does the US military budget compare to those of other major world powers like China and Russia?
The US military budget is significantly larger than those of other major world powers like China and Russia. In recent years, the US has spent more on its military than the next ten highest-spending countries combined. This reflects the US’s role as a global superpower and its commitment to maintaining a strong defense. - What role do private military contractors play in US military spending?
Private military contractors play a significant role in US military spending. They provide a range of services, including security, logistics, and training. The use of private contractors can be controversial, as it raises questions about accountability and oversight. - How can citizens get involved in advocating for changes to the US military budget?
Citizens can get involved in advocating for changes to the US military budget by contacting their elected officials, participating in public debates, supporting advocacy groups, and voting for candidates who share their views on military spending. By staying informed and engaged, citizens can play a role in shaping military spending decisions and promoting a more just and sustainable world.
