US lawmakers warn that “more military spending is absolutely necessary” to ensure Pentagon’s readiness
The US Congress has raised concerns about how inflation rates and cuts in main acquisition programmes could affect the US military.
AirTran Airways has begun nonstop service from Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, KY, to both Orlando International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
"Expanding our network to Lexington is a win–win for AirTran and for residents of the Blue Grass state," proclaimed Paul Clements, director of sales, AirTran Airways. "We have seen potential in this region for a long time and we are looking forward to introducing our low-cost, high-quality service to the area."
The inaugural flight was celebrated with an event hosted by the airline at the airport featuring famous Kentucky resident and Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day.
"We are very fortunate in welcoming AirTran Airways to central Kentucky," said Eric Frankl, executive director of Blue Grass Airport. "Airports across the country are aggressively pursuing the low fares and excellent service AirTran brings. AirTran Airways' non-stop service to Fort Lauderdale and Orlando is a great fit for our community, and we hope our customers are excited about this incredible opportunity."
The US Congress has raised concerns about how inflation rates and cuts in main acquisition programmes could affect the US military.
Washington’s ageing inventory and the pace Moscow and Beijing have been modernising their capabilities put in check the US Nuclear deterrence.
The Pentagon has been operating under temporary funding since October 2023, which has impacted its main acquisition and development programmes, increasing the capability gap between the US and China.
In 2023, defence spending increased by an unprecedented 11% across European NATO countries and Canada. Since 2014, the group has spent an additional US$600 billion on defence.
The DoD requested nearly US$850 billion to fund operations over the next fiscal year. Despite the amount being 1% higher than the FY2024 budget request, it has not covered the 3% inflation rate, which could impact the DoD’s main programmes in the medium and long term.
As gangs gain control of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s Caribbean neighbours have been preparing to intervene in the failed state, with the US and other partners waiting in the wings with equipment and financial support.