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.
As part of a lease agreement signed by Embraer and Gulf Air just after the Bahrain International Airshow in January, Embraer has delivered two E-170s to the Bahrain-based carrier.
“The delivery of these Embraer 170s to Gulf Air is a significant milestone for Embraer, as this renowned airline certainly strengthens the presence of the E-Jets family in the Middle East,” commented Mauro Kern, Embraer executive vice-president, airline market. “I would like to assure our friends from Gulf Air of our full commitment in supporting the realisation of their strategic growth plans with Embraer E-Jets.”
Gulf Air’s E-170s are configured in a dual-class layout, featuring seven seats in business class and 60 in economy. The aircraft, which feature a state-of-the-art inflight entertainment (IFE) system, will be based at Gulf Air’s hub, in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
“The arrival of the new Embraer 170s marks a significant achievement, as we continue to implement our strategy,” noted Gulf Air chief executive officer, Samer Majali. “The aircraft will bring a new dynamic to Gulf Air and a new dimension to our customers, while reinforcing our position as the carrier with the largest number of Middle East connections through our Bahrain Airport hub.”
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.