The Heritage Foundation’s 2026 Index of U.S. Military Strength assesses the condition of the United States military with respect to America’s vital national security interests, the threats to those interests, and the context within which the U.S. might have to use military force to protect them. Employing a standardized, consistent set of criteria accessible to policymakers and the American public, the Index gauges the capacity, capability, and readiness of the U.S. military, evaluates the global operating environment, and analyzes the capabilities and intent of America’s major adversaries.

Using the two-war force as its benchmark, the 2026 Index measures whether the U.S. military is able to deter and, if necessary, succeed in two major conflicts simultaneously. By providing a single-source reference on force capacity, modern equipment, readiness, and regional challenges, the Index equips policymakers and citizens with a clear understanding of whether America’s military is up to the task of defending our national interests.

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