Optimizing Defense Budgets through Economic Statecraft (warontherocks.com)

• Defense budgets are inextricably linked to underlying economic output.
• Military power requires sustained industrial support and strategic economic integration.
• Improving signals between fiscal planning and defense readiness is essential.

"This article examines the inextricable link between economic capacity and military power. It argues that defense budgets must be integrated into broader economic strategy to maintain long-term national security. By aligning fiscal policy with industrial capabilities, policymakers can better translate economic power into tangible military strength, reducing noise in the strategic decision-making process."