The executive action, signed during President Trump’s first visit to the Pentagon, follows through on a campaign pledge to build up the military, which Trump says was ignored under the Obama administration.
In the order, Trump detailed plans to invest in a bigger military – including more troops, warships and a modernised nuclear arsenal – declaring he was beginning “a great rebuilding of the armed services of the United States.”
“I’m signing an executive action to begin a great rebuilding of the Armed Services of the United States, developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources, and new tools for our men and women in uniform. I’m very proud to be doing that,” Trump said after signing the executive memorandum during his first visit to the Pentagon.
“As we prepare our budget request I think Congress is going to be very happy to see it. Our military strength will be questioned by no one, but neither will our dedication to peace. We do want peace,” Trump said.
He was flanked by the Vice President Mike Pence and the Defense Secretary James Mattis. Mattis, was officially sworn into office by Pence during the visit
The memorandum directs a 30-day military readiness review by the Secretary of Defense.
“President Trump’s concerns about military readiness are well-founded, and ordering the Pentagon to take immediate steps to begin rebuilding our force is exactly the right step,” said Congressman Mac Thornberry, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.
“The current readiness crisis is the consequence of years of budget cuts and neglect. Congress and the administration must act together immediately to begin to turn the situation around, understanding that a sustained effort over several years is required,” he said.
PTI