Military power doesn’t float in thin air—it rides on the back of an economy. For decades, America had the perfect formula: the dollar as the world’s reserve currency, unmatched industrial capacity, and allies willing to bankroll U.S. leadership. But cracks are showing. U.S. debt has passed $34 trillion, interest payments alone are bigger than the defense budget. The dollar still dominates, but China, Russia, and even U.S. allies are exploring ways to trade outside it. At the same time, defense spending rises while social programs eat more of the budget. Here’s the uncomfortable truth: sustaining global power means convincing taxpayers to pay for it. If America’s economic foundation weakens, military commitments abroad become harder to keep. So the real question isn’t just about ships or missiles—it’s whether Washington can afford the role it claims on the world stage. #Military #Economy