Full Breakdown
U.S. Military Spending in Competition with China: A $3.4 Trillion Analysis
3/10/2026, 8:09:02 PM
Overview of Military Expenditures
A recent report by Jennifer Kavanagh, Senior Fellow and Director of Military Analysis at Defense Priorities, estimates that the United States has spent approximately $3.4 trillion on military competition with China from 2012 to 2024. This expenditure averages about $260 billion annually, surpassing the $2.3 trillion spent on the 20-year war in Afghanistan. The analysis, part of the Costs of War project at the Watson School for International and Public Affairs, includes spending from various government agencies, such as the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department, focusing solely on military competition and excluding economic or technological costs.
Breakdown of Spending
The report details that the Navy and Marine Corps account for around 33% of the total military spending directed at China, followed by Defense Agencies (25%), the Air Force and Space Force (15%), and the Army (14%). Kavanagh's methodology involved adjusting expenditure estimates based on the focus of each military branch, particularly emphasizing the Navy's operations in Asia.
Opportunity Costs of Military Spending
The report highlights significant opportunity costs associated with this military spending. For instance, the funds allocated to countering China could have been used to overhaul the U.S. air traffic control system, estimated at $31.5 billion, or to repair bridges rated in poor condition, which would cost approximately $319 billion. Additionally, the expenditure could finance about 85 years of tuition-free college education for all U.S. college-goers, with tuition-free education costing around $400 billion per decade.
Rising Anti-Asian Sentiment
In a related analysis, Suisheng Zhao, a professor at the University of Denver, argues that the militarized rivalry with China has contributed to a rise in anti-Asian racism in the United States. Zhao's report indicates that this hostility has manifested through hate crimes and legal exclusions, undermining American values and harming U.S. interests. He warns that this environment risks losing valuable scientific talent from China, which significantly contributes to the U.S. economy and technological advancements.
Perspectives on Military Spending
Critics of the current military strategy argue that understanding the financial implications of U.S. policies is crucial for making informed decisions. Benjamin Friedman, policy director at Defense Priorities, emphasizes the importance of recognizing what is sacrificed for military expenditures. Stephanie Savell, director of the Costs of War project, notes that while the public often focuses on the immediate costs of war, the broader implications of military preparation are less visible but equally significant.
Official Responses
The Department of Defense did not respond to requests for comment regarding the findings of Kavanagh's report. The White House also declined to provide a statement on the matter.
Conclusion
The $3.4 trillion spent by the U.S. in military competition with China raises critical questions about resource allocation and the societal impacts of such expenditures. As the rivalry continues, the implications for both domestic policy and international relations remain significant, warranting ongoing scrutiny and discussion.
