VIDEO: Protecting America Requires A Strong Defense

Mike Brownfield / June 01, 2011

“National defense receives unique and elevated emphasis under the Constitution,” writes Ernest Istook of The Heritage Foundation. “It is not ‘just’ another duty of the federal government.” But as Congress looks for much-need cuts in federal spending, some are wrongly looking to balance the budget by decimating defense. That’s a dangerous road to head down.

As we note in our new video, we live in a hostile world, and being prepared — no matter the challenge — is key to the federal government living up to its constitutional duty to protect America. But as even as the military continues to wage war overseas, defense spending is at historic lows, all while critical investments in modern equipment are postponed. Jim Talent, distinguished fellow at The Heritage Foundation and former U.S. senator explains where our military stands today:

The Navy has fewer ships than at any time since 1916. The Air Force inventory is smaller and older than at any time since the service came into being in 1947. The Army has missed several generations of modernization, and many of its soldiers are on their fourth or fifth tour of duty in Iraq or Afghanistan. The Reserves have been on constant mobilization; many vital programs, such as missile defense, have been cut; and in the past two years, no fewer than 50 modernization programs have been ended. (more…)