U.S. President Donald Trump said he has decided to seek a $1.5 trillion military budget for fiscal year 2027, significantly higher than the previously discussed $1 trillion figure, citing national security concerns and increased revenue from tariffs.
In a statement, Trump said the decision followed lengthy negotiations with senators, members of Congress, Cabinet officials and other political leaders. He argued that the higher spending level is necessary amid what he described as “troubled and dangerous times” and would enable the United States to build what he called a “dream military” capable of keeping the country safe from any adversary.
Trump said the increase would be made possible by revenue generated from tariffs imposed on other countries, which he claimed have produced substantial income for the United States. He said that without those tariff revenues, he would have maintained the $1 trillion military budget level.
The president also criticized his predecessor, former President Joe Biden, and said the current tariff revenue levels would have been “unthinkable” during the prior administration.
According to Trump, the additional military spending could be achieved while also reducing the national debt and providing what he described as a substantial dividend to moderate-income Americans.
The proposal would require approval by Congress as part of the federal budget process.
