NATO allies took a bold step in making the commitment all the way. Most notably, they will more than double their defense spending target from 2% of gross domestic product (GDP) to 5% by 2035. This major policy change underscores the alliance’s deep determination to address changing security threats. It arrives amid all the recent, heightened threats from Russia and another wave of persistent terrorism.
The new target requires that at least 3.5% of GDP be allocated to “pure” defense spending. The remaining one-third would go toward addressing critical infrastructure needs that support DOD security and mission. Even today, most NATO member states are not able to fulfill the 2014 agreement of achieving 2% of GDP on defense spending. Indeed, this reality underscores a rising desperation for expanded military spending.
NATO allies can and should do more to hold them accountable. They should submit annual plans that detail a clear and step-by-step plan for accomplishing this lofty but doable goal. Mark Rutte, the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, underscored the significance of this agreement in a recent press conference.
“The decisions made today will make NATO much stronger; they also make NATO a fairer alliance. The resolve of allies is clear: we are in this together, committed to Article 5, and we are determined to stand firm,” – Mark Rutte.
Rutte explained that this initiative is not just about building up defense. He stated that it would “not only increase our security but create jobs,” highlighting the economic benefits of enhanced military spending.
He stressed that this agreement is only “Day One” of an important campaign’s effort. It is intended to deter NATO’s eastern and southern flanks from major aggression.
“We need to innovate and we need to act fast,” – Mark Rutte.
The other half of NATO’s ironclad commitment is its collective defense, which is described in Article 5. This principle asserts that an attack on one NATO member constitutes an attack on all, reinforcing the alliance’s solidarity against external threats.
At the same time NATO members are looking to and for the starkly changed global security landscape. They are serious about building up their offense strategies to match. Rutte remarked on this unity by stating that allies are “united in understanding that we need to step up to stay safe.”
This new defense spending target marks a significant pivot for NATO as it adapts to an increasingly complex security landscape. The military alliance is dedicated to protecting freedom, stability and security for its member nations. It proves this resolve not only by building military might but by investing in its most critical infrastructure.
“We remain united and steadfast in our resolve to protect our one billion citizens, defend the Alliance, and safeguard our freedom and democracy.”
This new defense spending target marks a significant pivot for NATO as it adapts to an increasingly complex security landscape. The alliance’s determination to invest in both military capabilities and critical infrastructure reflects its commitment to ensuring stability and security for its member nations.