The Cost of Fighting ISIS: Military Connection

By Debbie Gregory.

In 2003, President George W. Bush fired economic adviser Lawrence Lindsey after Lindsey suggested that the Iraq War might cost as much as $200 billion – a number others in the administration thought to be greatly exaggerated. But ultimately, that number ended up being an underestimation.

According to the Pentagon, the U.S. has spent more than $2.74 billion — or roughly $9.1 million per day — just in the fight against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS.)

More than half of the budget has been spent on airstrikes, according to the Department of Defense. Just under a quarter has been spent on weapons, and the rest has been spent on missions involving military carriers and other operations.

Until U.S. airstrikes expanded to Syria in mid-September, the average daily cost totaled $5.6 million. From mid-September through late May, the average daily cost increased to $9.7 million.  By April, the U.S. had surpassed the $2 billion mark in its campaign against ISIS and passed the $1 billion mark in December.

The report comes days after the White House announced the administration is planning to deploy 450 additional U.S. troops to Iraq. About 3,050 U.S. service members currently serve in advisory or security roles in the country. About 3,050 U.S. troops are currently deployed in the country. The deployment of the additional U.S. troops is part of a plan to open a new training base in Iraq, which is expected to help local forces expand their footprint in Anbar province.

“It’s an adjustment that is significant, in that it gives us access to another Iraqi division and extends their reach into al Anbar province and gives us access to more tribes,” Army General Martin E. Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in a statement.

Military Connection proudly serves those who serve in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Guard and Reserve, Veterans and their families. We are the go-to site for Veteran Employment and information on Veteran education. Militaryconnection.com provides Veterans with and Directory of Employers, a Job Board, information on the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and a blog that offers Veterans boundless information. Be sure to visit Militaryconnection.com, the go-to site.

The Cost of Fighting ISIS: Military Connection: by Debbie Gregory

Mitalis

Recent Posts

Best World War II Books to Enjoy This Autumn – A Military Connection Top Ten List

Dive into World War II's finest literature, perfect for history buffs and those seeking captivating…

1 year ago

7 Important Moments in US Military History for Our Service Members

Explore 7 Pivotal Moments in US Military History: From the Birth of the Continental Army…

1 year ago

Military Influencers Use Social Media to Connect Across Experiences

Explore a diverse group of military influencers and veterans as they share their unique experiences,…

1 year ago

Agent Orange and New PACT Act Benefits for Vietnam Veterans

Understanding Agent Orange Effects, VA Benefits, and Veteran Support: A Comprehensive Guide for Vietnam War…

1 year ago

Best Books About World War 1 – A Military Connection Top Ten List

Explore the top ten must-read books about World War One, including memoirs, historical non-fiction, and…

1 year ago

Vietnam Veterans: Their Unique Experience and Its Impact on America

Discover the enduring legacy of Vietnam Veterans and the profound impact of the Vietnam War…

1 year ago