U.S. President Signs Executive Order
U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that reshapes the priorities for American arms exports. This policy shift, enacted under the 'America First' arms transfer strategy, will give priority to partners who make significant investments in their own defense and hold strategic importance for the United States. This move represents a significant recalibration of long-standing U.S. defense cooperation practices.
According to a Reuters report from February 6, 2026, the order also underscores commitments made by NATO members in 2025 to annually invest 5% of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in defense. Of this total, at least 3.5% is to be allocated to core military needs, with up to 1.5% directed toward protecting critical infrastructure, networks, and innovation.
Criteria for Prioritizing Arms Recipients
The criteria for selecting countries to receive priority in arms supplies now include:
- Substantial financial contributions to their own national defense;
- Strategic importance to the United States.
As Trump stated, 'The U.S. has supported NATO for so long and covered almost 100% of the costs.'
This change in U.S. arms export priorities could significantly impact international relations and the security status of partner nations. By focusing on financial contributions to self-defense, the policy may incentivize states to invest more heavily in their militaries, potentially increasing regional tensions in unstable areas. Simultaneously, the decision reflects a new U.S. strategy aimed at global security and increasing the effectiveness of military aid to allies.