United States: The United States saw a dramatic 29 percent surge in military equipment sales in 2024, reaching an all-time high of $318.7 billion, according to figures released by the US State Department. The record-breaking total includes $18.8 billion worth of jet fighter sales to Israel, a deal that has sparked controversy amid allegations of genocide in Gaza.
Direct sales by US companies climbed to $200.8 billion in fiscal 2024, up from $157.5 billion the previous year. Meanwhile, arms sales facilitated through the US government reached $117.9 billion, compared to $80.9 billion in 2023. The State Department characterised arms transfers as essential tools of foreign policy, with “long-term implications for regional and global security.”
Key deals approved in 2024 include $23 billion in F-16 fighter jets and aircraft upgrades for Turkiye, $18.8 billion in F-15 jets for Israel, and $2.5 billion in M1A2 Abrams tanks for Romania. The Biden administration’s arms sales strategy has come under scrutiny, particularly over its approval of military aid to Israel during its assault on Gaza.
Reports by investigative journalism group ProPublica revealed that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken ignored warnings about Israeli human rights violations, greenlighting arms transfers in potential violation of US law.
More than 47,200 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, according to local reports, with entire neighbourhoods reduced to rubble by US-supplied weapons. Human Rights Watch and other advocacy groups have accused the Biden administration of enabling what they describe as Israel’s genocide in the region.
The demand for US-made arms has surged globally, driven by the ongoing war in Ukraine and heightened geopolitical tensions. US defence contractors are under pressure to meet growing international orders while replenishing domestic stockpiles depleted by aid to Kyiv.
Industry experts predict another banner year, with orders approved in 2024 contributing to significant backlogs for weapons manufacturers. A surge in production is expected for artillery rounds, Patriot missile systems, and armoured vehicles as global defence budgets continue to climb.
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