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Part of CR funding changes are affecting Pentagon programs, involving Collins and Lockheed Martin.

How could the appropriation of funds for F-35 jets affect the Pentagon's budget?

Likely What happens if… A possibility worth considering, not a forecast.

Pentagon's F-35 program receives strong funding confirmation from Congress Collins voted in favor of appropriating funds to purchase 83 new F-35 jets in July 2023. This action confirms and solidifies the funding for the program, despite the F-35 facing issues like being a decade late and nearly $200 billion over its original cost estimate. The appropriation allows the Pentagon to move forward with the purchase of these jets, which Lockheed Martin claims has a nine-figure economic impact in Maine.

Reported by 1 independent outlet Written 2 hours ago
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The facts so far

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  • The F-35 program was nearly $200 billion over its original cost estimate.pressherald.com
  • Collins voted in favor of appropriating funds to purchase 83 new F-35 jets in July 2023.pressherald.com
  • Lockheed Martin donated $59,500 to Collins’s campaign committee between May 1 and June 30, 2023.pressherald.com
  • Lockheed Martin claims the F-35 program has had a nine-figure economic impact in Maine.pressherald.com

Why it matters

The F-35 program represents a massive financial commitment for the Pentagon, which is already struggling with cost overruns and delays. The confirmation of funding for 83 new jets solidifies the program's future, allowing the Pentagon to maintain its military modernization goals, even as internal watchdogs criticize how the program is managed.

This event highlights the intersection of defense spending and political influence in Washington. Lockheed Martin's large campaign donations to Collins, who holds a key position on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, occurred just before her vote to fund the jets. This pattern illustrates how defense contractors lobby for continued funding for their major programs.

What we don't know yet

  • Will the Pentagon be able to deliver the 83 new F-35 jets on time and within budget?
  • How will the Pentagon address the Government Accountability Office's criticism regarding the lumping of upgrades and purchases?

What would change this answer

The Government Accountability Office releases further reports on F-35 costsThis could increase scrutiny on the Pentagon's financial management of the program, potentially leading to future funding restrictions.
Collins or other lawmakers reduce the scope of the F-35 appropriationThe Pentagon would face immediate operational constraints, slowing down the acquisition of new jets.

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The full eventCollins Approves F-35 Funding Amid Lockheed Martin Campaign Donation Everything aboutPENTAGON

Brind's analysis is written by AI from the reporting linked above and can be wrong. This explainer is a possibility worth considering, not a forecast: steps marked as Brind's reasoning are not stated in the reporting. It is not investment advice; do your own research.