US arms production at risk due to Trump's tariffs

The tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump could jeopardise US arms production and undermine global defence partnerships.

Here's What We Know

According to Politico, the new tariffs could destabilise global supply chains that the Pentagon has built over decades, increase the cost of arms production and make it harder to cooperate with international partners in countering China.

Diplomats, lawmakers, and defence industry analysts warn that this approach could force US allies to look for alternative suppliers.

Programmes that depend on international cooperation are particularly vulnerable to the effects of tariffs. These include the F-35 fighter jets, which are being developed with the participation of 20 countries, and missile defence systems created together with Norway and Israel.

The Trump administration justifies the duties by seeking to increase the number of jobs in the US by moving component production inside the country. However, the defence industry is already facing staffing difficulties as it competes with other sectors that offer more stable working conditions.

Senator Mark Kelly points out that due to the complexity of defence supplies, many parts can cross borders several times, accumulating additional duties each time. This will drive up arms prices and increase Pentagon costs, making it harder to keep the US armed forces combat ready.

Source: Politico