The Department of Defense's proposed budget for fiscal year 2027, presented this week in Washington, provides for a 7% salary increase for military personnel ranked E-5 and below, as well as variable increases for higher ranks.
This measure is part of an overall envelope of 1.5 trillion dollars, or 44% more than the financing of the previous year, which immediately triggered questions among legislators.
Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, expressed skepticism in an interview with NBC News, recalling that "I doubt this massive increase is justified." He stressed the need for rigorous review before any approval.
According to the White House report, the salary increase would aim to strengthen the morale of the troops and support their families, a recurring argument in the president's speeches. The budget also includes an increase of 6% for military personnel of ranks E‑6 to O‑3, and of 5% for senior officers (O‑4 and above).
Financial analysts point out that this proposal could lead to a budgetary imbalance, particularly because defense spending already represents nearly 20% of the federal budget. The risk of inflationary pressure on the purchasing power of American households has been mentioned by several economists.
In France, the debate on American military spending arouses particular interest, particularly in the context of transatlantic relations and cybersecurity cooperation projects. French experts point out that Europe closely follows Washington's budgetary guidelines, which influence common defense programs.
Congress will therefore have to arbitrate between the desire to support the armed forces and national fiscal constraints. The budget committees are planning several hearings in the coming weeks, where Pentagon officials will have to justify each spending line.
Ultimately, the Pentagon's 2027 budget proposal constitutes both an opportunity for the military to obtain a salary increase and a point of tension for legislators keen to control the growth of public spending.
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