

Episode 234 — Defense Budget, Fighter Modernization, and Warfighting in Space: The Rendezvous
12 snips May 3, 2025
Guest
Jennifer “Boots” Reeves
Guest
Douglas Birkey
Guest
Jeff “Rowli” Rowlison

Guest
Todd “Sledge” Harmer

Guest
Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski
In this insightful discussion, guests include Anthony Lazarski, a budget expert from Cornerstone Government Affairs, and Todd Harmer, a senior vice president at American Defense International. They delve into the intricacies of the defense budget and its implications for air and space power. Topics include airpower gaps highlighted by Admiral Paparo, Lockheed's strategy for the F-35, and the operational importance of new military capabilities. The conversation also covers the foundational documents of the Space Force and the evolving landscape of military meteorology.
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Episode notes
Understanding Reconciliation Process
- Reconciliation allows Congress to change spending with a simple majority, bypassing filibusters.
- It is used for urgent budget changes but must strictly affect the budget to pass Senate rules.
Reconciliation Funding Obligation Timeline
- Defense reconciliation funds aim to obligate 40% in the first year and 60% in the second year.
- This rapid funding is intended to jumpstart critical programs for countering China and modernization.
Flat Base Budget Despite Plus-Up
- The FY26 base defense budget is flat compared to FY25, with most increase from reconciliation.
- Cuts to non-defense discretionary funding may limit passing the broader budget in Congress.