Positioning the U.S. as the World’s Premier Arms Supplier
Complementing defensive advancements, the strategy seeks to reestablish the United
States as the “world’s premier arsenal.” The 2026 National Defense Strategy
emphasizes revitalizing the defense industrial base to produce weapons not only for
domestic use but also for export to allies and partners. This includes streamlining
foreign military sales, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and encouraging allies to increase
their own defense expenditures while procuring American systems. 35 36 37
Technological innovations from the Golden Dome—such as advanced sensors,
interceptors, and AI integration—could enhance exportable capabilities for trusted
partners facing similar threats. The approach remains transactional and aligned with
“America First” principles: sales support U.S. industry, generate revenue, and reinforce
alliances without obligating direct U.S. intervention.
Economic Resilience Through Reshoring and Nearshoring
A critical pillar involves securing supply chains by reshoring essential manufacturing to
the United States and nearshoring to friendly neighbors in Latin America. Policies
promote bringing back production of critical components—semiconductors, rare earth
elements, pharmaceuticals, and defense materials—to reduce dependence on
adversarial nations like China. 26 29
South and Central America are positioned as key nearshoring destinations due to
proximity, lower costs, abundant resources (e.g., lithium and copper), and potential for
stable partnerships. Tariffs and trade policies implemented in 2025 have accelerated
shifts in global supply chains, encouraging U.S. firms to invest in the region for
manufacturing and logistics. This creates a renovated economic ecosystem in the
hemisphere that supports U.S. needsPost too long. Click here to view the full text.