Pentagon Redirects $8 Billion in Research Funds to Pay Troops During Government Shutdown

The Pentagon announced it will transfer $8 billion in unspent research, development, testing, and evaluation funds to cover troop pay as the government shutdown continues.

A Pentagon spokesperson said President Donald Trump directed the Secretary of Defense to use all available funds to ensure service members are paid on October 15. The move comes after the Department of War identified billions in unused research funds that can be temporarily redirected to support payroll if the shutdown extends beyond Wednesday.

“The president made clear that our men and women in uniform will not go without pay during this funding lapse,” the Pentagon spokesperson said.

The decision highlights the growing financial strain of the ongoing government shutdown, which has disrupted multiple federal agencies and delayed payments for civilian workers. While the reallocation provides short-term relief for troops, defense officials noted that the move could impact future research and development programs if the shutdown continues for an extended period.

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