The Pentagon plans to cut back on several weapons programs in its upcoming budget request to stay under a budget agreement made last year that caps DOD spending at around $850 billion, a 1% cut from what DOD had projected for fiscal year 2025.

“The Defense Department plans to cut F-35 fighter jets, an attack submarine, Army helicopters and drones and Air Force overhead as it seeks to stay under the spending caps,” Politico reported.

Officials speaking to Politico noted that the weapons modernization cuts are necessary to ensure pay raises, readiness and quality of life enhancements are paid for. Four House Armed Services Committee leaders wrote to President Biden last week asking to prioritize quality of life in the budget blueprint, as On Base reported.

The administration’s budget request for fiscal year 2025 is expected to be released in the spring.

Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Katelynn Jackson