It oversees the U.S. Armed Forces and manages one of the world’s largest military budgets. Established in 1943, it became central to Cold War strategy, global basing networks, and post-9/11 counterterrorism operations. The Pentagon plays a key role in defense procurement, shaping relationships with major contractors such as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon. Critics argue that its budgetary scale reflects entrenched militarism and diverts resources from social investment. Supporters maintain that it underwrites global security alliances and deterrence. The institution remains central to U.S. foreign and security policy.



