Ukraine Gets More Patriots, US Arms Industry Gets More Profits
While ABC News celebrates Ukraine receiving more Patriot air defense systems to counter 'deadly Russian attacks,' the real winners are quietly cashing in. Lockheed Martin, the co-producer of the Patriot, saw its stock price (LMT) jump from $380 at the war's start to over $460 in late 2023. Raytheon, providing the missiles, also logged record profits, their CEO hailing the 'robust demand
environment.' (Check their Q4 2023 earnings calls for the numbers; executives practically high-fived on record orders). So, while the nightly news talks 'democracy' and 'defense,' the Pentagon's revolving door spins faster than a Patriot missile, ensuring a steady stream of your tax dollars flows into the coffers of weapons manufacturers. How many American cities could be rebuilt or schools funded
with the billions poured into 'aid' that translates directly into corporate profit? (Perhaps those deadly attacks are just good for business.)