Trump’s 2026 defence budget: pay rise, fewer jets and ships

Reuters

President Donald Trump has unveiled a nearly $900 billion defence plan for 2026, keeping spending flat but shifting firepower toward cutting-edge missiles and drones in a bid to counter China and modernise America’s military edge.

President Donald Trump has requested a $892.6 billion defence budget for 2026, maintaining current spending levels but shifting priorities.

The plan includes a 3.8% pay rise for troops, cuts to the Navy’s civilian workforce by more than 7,000, and fewer F-35 jets— just 47 jets compared with 68 under Biden’s last budget. Only three new warships are requested, with more funded separately.

Funding will focus on advanced missiles and drones, reflecting lessons from recent conflicts. Trump aims to deter Chinese aggression and strengthen the defence industrial base. Funding for the ‘Golden Dome’ missile defence is in a separate request.

The proposal faces debate in Congress, where the House subcommittee suggests increasing F-35 orders to 69 jets.

Defence spending accounts for roughly half of the U.S. discretionary budget.

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