The Puzzle of Wasted Spending on Defense: An In-Depth Analysis
Introduction
The term 'wasted spending' on defense often evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue, much like the opening of a Mission Impossible sequence. To understand the percentage of wasted spending on defense, we must first delve into the complexities of the defense budget and the challenges faced in accounting for and reducing its expenditures.
The Challenges in Defining 'Waste'
Few would agree on the definition of 'waste.' A 'pork-barrel' project may seem wasteful to some, but not to others. By its very nature, the bloated federal budget contains wasteful spending that continues to be a contentious issue. However, it is important to note that the majority of defense spending is focused on ensuring national security and preparedness, rather than on frivolous or unnecessary expenses.
Case in Point: The Pentagon's Audit and Unaccounted Funds
Consider, for instance, the recent audit conducted by the Pentagon. According to the most recent audit, only half of the $3.8 trillion in assets, including equipment and facilities, can be accounted for. This staggering figure reveals that an astounding $1.9 trillion remains unaccounted for—a sum larger than the entire budget Congress has agreed to for the current fiscal year.
This situation is unprecedented and undeniably concerning. No other federal agency could get away with such discrepancies. Congressional hearings, demands for accountability, and potential defunding of agencies could be expected under such circumstances. However, the armed forces persist in their efforts to reduce, prevent, and address wasteful spending.
Risk Management and Contingency Planning
Defense agencies like the USAF have continuously focused on the 'prevention of waste, fraud, and abuse.' Replacement of obsolescent equipment is often considered necessary, even though some may view it as wasteful. The armed forces must order sufficient supplies to meet present or anticipated needs. These needs may end sooner than expected or may not materialize at all. As a result, there can be surplus quantities of goods that are purchased but not entirely necessary. Some might consider this 'contingency planning,' while others see it as prudent planning.
Learning from the Past
Post-World War II, the United States was left with an abundance of military goods that were deemed surplus. This surplus was due to the unexpected conclusion of the war and the anticipated home-islands invasion. The war against Japan was initially expected to continue beyond 1947, and the scale of the conflict led to a massive buildup of military equipment. The dropping of the two atomic bombs in mid-1945 brought an abrupt end to the war, and the surplus goods were then either scrapped or sold in the civilian market.
Examples of this are still vividly remembered. War-surplus stores were still operating into the 1960s, selling durable goods that now command high prices. These stories underscore the complex nature of defense spending and the challenges in accurately accounting for and managing these resources.
Conclusion
The question of wasted spending on defense is indeed a multifaceted issue. While significant amounts of unaccounted funds exist and may be rightly labeled as wasteful, the defense sector's efforts to prevent and reduce such spending are ongoing. Understanding the context and challenges can help policymakers and the public make more informed decisions regarding defense budgets.