Pentagon Says 2025 Defense Budget “Must Grow”

By Joel Rothschild, Warrior Contributor

The Department of Defense rolled out it’s 2025 budget request this week. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks stated that the $849 billion budget “must grow” to meet the national defense strategy.

Secretary Hicks emphasized that this budget was closely aligned with the 2022 National Defense Strategy and reflected the department priorities of maintaining readiness and taking care of people. The decision was made to sacrifice future year capabilities and modernization to meet Congressionally mandated funding levels.

Even as the 2025 budget request was presented, Secretary Hicks noted that Congress has yet to pass the 2024 DoD budget. All of the departments expressed frustration with the continuing resolution and emphasized the impact that it is having on planned acquisitions. They also underscored the urgency to pass the Emergency Supplemental Funding Request which covers the cost of support to Ukraine, Israel, and operations to protect shipping from Houthis rebel attacks. Until Congress approves the spending, the services must cover the costs by moving money from other programs.

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Most of the changes from 2024 were adjustments to major weapon system acquisitions which have been delayed. A common theme throughout the budget presentation was the departments commitment to rebuilding the Defense Industrial Base to ensure a consistent and reliable production line for everything from munitions to submarines.

Many weapon system programs continue to experience workforce and supply chain shortages precipitated by COVID-19. The U.S. Defense Strategy recognized these challenges and committed to rebuilding and strengthening the industrial base. As part of the 2025 Budget Request, some acquisition programs have opted to delay deliveries and alleviate stress on key weapon system builders.