The Inside Story Podcast How is the rising military spending changing warfare?
Nov 20, 2025
Michael Boyle, a political science professor and author on modern warfare, explores concerns about rising military spending and its implications for the U.S.-China rivalry. Elijah Magnier, a senior political risk analyst, discusses how tensions over Taiwan are fueling an arms race. Fabrice Pothier, a former NATO head of policy, highlights Europe's rearmament in response to threats from Russia. The conversation also delves into the financial trade-offs of defense spending versus public needs and the shifting dynamics of warfare with new technologies like drones.
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US Prepares For Multi-Decade Competition
- The US is dramatically increasing defense spending to prepare for a long-term strategic competition with China.
- Michael Boyle says this ramp-up reflects a 20-50 year trajectory and makes the US 37% of global military spending.
Europe Responds To Growing Threats
- Europe is increasing defence capacity because leaders see credible threats from Russia and China.
- Fabrice Pothier argues the spending is about responding to a more serious threat environment, not propping up US industry.
China’s Build-Up Tied To Taiwan And US Presence
- Elijah Magnier links rising Chinese spending to Taiwan and increased US presence in Asia.
- He warns that US actions and narratives have helped shape a new arms race dynamic.
