Why delays in approving the FY2024 budget can widen the gap between Chinese and US capabilities
The use of continuing resolutions for funding will impact the acquisition of critical munitions such as Tomahawk missiles. (Photo: USN)
Naval shipbuilding and restocking key munitions, as well as development projects, may be directly impacted by short-term funding measures.
Although the US FY2024 starts on 1 October, the possibility of delays in approving the defence budget for the next year remains a concern. Lawmakers and Pentagon officials warn that postponing access to funds may create a wider gap between Chinese and US military capabilities.
Historically, the federal government has operated under continuing resolutions (CRs) in all but three of the last 46 years as a report issued by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in 2022 pointed out.
While CRs prevent shutdowns and allow the government to continue operating until the spending bill is ratified, they preclude the DoD from
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