"Surge in US Weapons Exports Amid Growing Competition with Russia and China"
US weapons exports surged by over 50% in 2023, reaching $81 billion, driven by major deals with European allies like Poland and Germany amid tensions with Russia. The Biden administration aims to reduce countries' reliance on Russian arms and bolster domestic defense manufacturing. The increased sales also reflect efforts to counter Moscow's influence and support allies like Ukraine and Taiwan. The State Department has expedited sales to meet global demand, with a focus on countering Beijing's influence and encouraging allies to choose US weaponry over Chinese alternatives.