Hegseth Issues Trump Warning
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says President Donald Trump’s proposed $1.5 trillion defense budget is designed to send an unmistakable message to the world: the United States is rebuilding its military strength.
Speaking Monday at Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth, Texas, facility, Hegseth told employees the Trump administration is focused on restoring readiness, production speed, and deterrence after years of strain on the armed forces.
A Historic Increase in Military Spending
Under the proposal, U.S. defense spending would rise sharply from roughly $901 billion in fiscal year 2026 to $1.5 trillion in 2027 — an increase of more than 50 percent.
Hegseth described the plan as part of a broader effort to rebuild what he called America’s “arsenal of freedom,” emphasizing that the scale of the budget reflects the seriousness of today’s global threats.
If approved by Congress, the plan would mark the largest Pentagon budget in U.S. history. Annual defense spending has traditionally remained near $900 billion and has never exceeded $1 trillion.
Trump Pushes for “Dream Military”
President Trump has personally urged lawmakers to support the higher spending level, arguing that current geopolitical risks require unmatched strength.
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump said the expanded budget would allow the United States to build what he called a “Dream Military” capable of protecting the nation in increasingly dangerous times.
Trump said the funding increase followed extensive discussions with members of Congress and senior officials and was necessary to ensure America remains secure against any adversary.
Focus on Readiness and Advanced Weapons
Hegseth said the Defense Department intends to use the funding responsibly, prioritizing military readiness, production efficiency, and advanced capabilities.
He pointed to next-generation systems such as the F-35 Lightning II as examples of where sustained investment strengthens deterrence and battlefield superiority.
The goal, he said, is to ensure U.S. forces receive the best equipment in the world — and receive it faster.
Accountability for Defense Contractors
Hegseth also addressed President Trump’s recent executive order targeting defense contractor practices, including limits on executive compensation, dividends, and stock buybacks.
The administration says the move is intended to curb cost overruns and delays that have slowed the delivery and maintenance of critical weapons systems.
At the Lockheed facility, Hegseth emphasized that national defense must come before shareholder interests.
“This industry is about supporting our warriors,” he said, adding that Trump is determined to enforce accountability and urgency across the defense sector.
A Clear Message Abroad — and at Home
Hegseth concluded by stressing that the proposed budget reflects the administration’s view that deterrence depends on strength, speed, and seriousness.
According to the defense secretary, President Trump understands the urgency of the moment — and expects the Pentagon and defense industry to rise to the challenge.
