Global Rearmament in Motion
The Price of Protection
Rising geopolitical tensions in recent years have pushed national security back into focus. Defense spending increased rapidly in 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine and escalated further as tensions in the Middle East rose.
This shift is evident in the data. Global military spending reached a record $2.9 trillion in 2025, marking the 11th consecutive year of growth. Defense spending across Europe alone rose approximately 14% to $864 billion,¹ with European NATO members experiencing their fastest increase since 1953, reflecting both urgency and a push toward greater self-reliance.
Germany stands out as a key example, accelerating spending to $114 billion² and ranking as the world’s fourth-largest military spender as it modernizes its forces after years of underinvestment. More broadly, Europe is beginning to reduce its reliance on the United States for military assets.
While increases in Asia have been more gradual, defense spending across the region continues to rise steadily, as well, driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions and long-term modernization efforts, reinforcing the fact that this is a global, not regional, trend.
In addition to increases abroad, the United States remains the clear leader in global defense spending, allocating $954 billion in 2025, far exceeding any other country. Looking ahead, spending is expected to remain elevated, with Congress already approving over $1 trillion in defense spending for 2026.² Ongoing conflicts and long-term military investment targets suggest this upward trend is likely to persist, with the U.S. continuing to play a central role in driving global defense expenditures.
1. https://www.cnbc.com/2026/04/27/global-military-spending-record-2025-europe-asia-ukraine-sipri.html
2. https://www.cnn.com/2026/04/27/world/world-military-spending-report-sipri-intl-hnk-ml
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