What is the Most Expensive Thing in the Military?
The United States Department of Defense (DoD) is one of the largest and most complex organizations in the world, with an annual budget of over $700 billion. Despite the massive spending, there are some military programs, equipment, and personnel that are significantly more expensive than others. In this article, we will explore what the most expensive thing in the military is and how much it costs.
What is the Most Expensive Military Program?
According to the latest estimates, the most expensive military program in history is the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, with a total development cost of over $412 billion. The F-35 is a multirole fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin for the US military and several international partners. The aircraft has been plagued by development delays, cost overruns, and technical issues, which have contributed to its staggering price tag.
Here is a breakdown of the F-35’s development cost:
- Total program cost: $412 billion
- Cost per aircraft: $103 million (F-35A), $121 million (F-35B), and $142 million (F-35C)
What is the Most Expensive Military Equipment?
The B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber is another significant military expense, with a total development cost of over $2.1 billion. The B-2 is a strategic bomber developed by Northrop Grumman for the US Air Force. Its advanced stealth technology and ability to operate in heavily defended airspace make it a valuable asset in modern warfare.
Here are some other expensive military equipment:
- Apache AH-64 Helicopter: $17 million per unit
- F/A-18E/F Super Hornet: $76 million per unit
- Abrams M1 Tank: $8 million per unit
- CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford Aircraft Carrier: $13 billion
How Much Does it Cost to Supply 1 US Soldier?
The United States military has a total personnel strength of over 1.3 million active duty personnel. Providing them with the necessary equipment, food, and supplies costs the government a significant amount of money. According to a report by the National Defense Budget Office, the average cost per active duty soldier is $136,000 per year.
Here is a breakdown of the costs:
- Basic pay: $42,000
- Housing and subsistence: $23,000
- Clothing and equipment: $15,000
- Healthcare and other benefits: $20,000
- Transportation and travel: $12,000
- Other expenses: $24,000
Can You Make a Million Dollars in the Military?
Yes, it is possible to make a million dollars in the military, especially for those who choose to serve for an extended period. Here are some ways to achieve this goal:
- Special forces operators: $150,000 to $250,000 per year
- Pilots: $100,000 to $200,000 per year
- Warrant officers: $90,000 to $170,000 per year
- Senior non-commissioned officers: $60,000 to $100,000 per year
Conclusion
In conclusion, the most expensive thing in the military is the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, with a total development cost of over $412 billion. The US military also spends significant amounts of money on other equipment, personnel, and services. While it is possible to make a million dollars in the military, it requires a combination of factors such as education, skills, and experience.
Additional Resources
- US Department of Defense: www.defense.gov
- National Defense Budget Office: www.ndbo.gov
- Military Times: www.militarytimes.com
- Military.com: www.military.com
References
- "F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Cost Soars to $412 Billion" by David Fumero, Military Times
- "What Does it Cost to Supply 1 US Soldier?" by National Defense Budget Office
- "Military Salary and Benefits" by Military.com