American military spending has long been the largest in the world, but a newly released report has once again shocked the public's understanding of its financial scale. Data shows that in September 2025, the U.S. Department of Defense spent $93 billion in a single month, with more than half of the funds being rapidly used in the last five days.
This data was published by the U.S. watchdog organization "Open Books." The report stated that among federal agencies, no department's monthly contract and subsidy expenditures could exceed this figure from the Pentagon.
Some specific expenditure items have also been exposed. For example, lobster tail costs reached $6.9 million, and ribeye steak expenses amounted to $15.1 million. Additionally, there were $140,000 for doughnuts and $20 million for Alaskan king crabs.
CNN reported that there is a tradition within the U.S. military called "Sea and Land Meal," consisting of steak and lobster, usually used to express gratitude to soldiers. However, a retired officer interviewed said that this practice does not really improve the morale of soldiers.
Meanwhile, other expenditures have also sparked controversy. The Pentagon spent $98,329 to purchase a Steinway grand piano, reportedly for the residence of the Air Force Chief of Staff. Replacing office chairs for employees cost $225 million, with each chair priced at around $1,900. Additionally, purchasing Apple devices cost $5.3 million.
After these data were released, public opinion in the United States quickly heated up. Many comments pointed out that in the context of challenges facing U.S. military operations, such extravagant spending appeared particularly glaring.
The magazine Esquire sarcastically noted that the U.S. military seems to maintain its combat effectiveness through lobster tails and pianos. The New Republic, on the other hand, mocked Hagerth's professional background, pointing out that he had previously only been a host on Fox News.
The Democratic Party also seized the opportunity to criticize the financial management of the Department of Defense. Senator Chuck Schumer, the leader of the Senate Democrats, stated that the $93 billion could support three years of tax cuts if used for healthcare policies.
From a systemic perspective, this concentrated spending is related to U.S. fiscal rules. Since September is the end of the fiscal year, agencies must spend their budgets before the deadline, otherwise the funds will be reclaimed. This mechanism is known as "Use it or lose it."
Therefore, every year-end, U.S. government departments often experience a concentration of spending, and the Pentagon is undoubtedly the largest example.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1859637232256011/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.