06/21/2026
From John Spencer’s (Executive Director of the Urban Warfare Institute) LinkedIn page:
The relationship between the U.S. and Israel is not transactional, it is a long and vital partnership, but the next time you hear the tired question of "What does the U.S. get for $3.8 Billion to Israel," answer simply - RETURNS.
R – Research, Innovation, and the Combat Laboratory
Access to one of the world's most active laboratories for military innovation, where new technologies, concepts, and operational methods are developed, tested, and refined under real combat conditions. Combined with one of the world's leading defense technology and startup ecosystems, this environment generates technological advancements, operational insights, and innovation that would be difficult, expensive, and in many cases impossible to replicate through peacetime experimentation, exercises, simulations, or war games.
E – Economic Benefits
American jobs and manufacturing supported through purchases of U.S.-made military equipment, while strengthening the U.S. defense industrial base through joint production, co-development, and missile defense cooperation for the benefit of the U.S. military and American national security.
T – Technology
Access to military technologies refined in combat, from active protection systems and missile defense to counter-drone capabilities, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies.
U – Unique Understanding of Modern Warfare
Battlefield lessons drawn from one of the world's most active conflict environments, providing insights into urban warfare, tunnel warfare, missile defense, drones, battlefield medicine, artificial intelligence, and modern combat. These lessons help the United States adapt and prepare without having to learn them first through American casualties, American mistakes, or American wars.
R – Regional Stability Through Alliance
A capable ally helping deter common adversaries and maintain stability in one of the world's most strategically important regions while remaining willing and able to fight alongside the United States when necessary.
N – National Security Intelligence
Intelligence that helps prevent attacks against Americans, American forces, and American interests while improving U.S. understanding of shared threats, adversaries, and emerging security challenges.
S – Strategic Freedom to Focus on China
Greater freedom for the United States to concentrate military, diplomatic, and economic resources on long-term competition with China in the Indo-Pacific while helping preserve a favorable balance of power in the Middle East.
I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard the question: Why does the United States give Israel $3.8 billion in military aid?
