The Truesdell Wealth corporate website is undergoing an update; therefore, I will use my personal website and this page for those who expressed an interest in The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio.

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio

Friday, May 23, 2025 – Casual Cocktail Conversation Cancelled

We will begin the Casual Conversation at 6:30 pm

Please arrive between 6:00 pm and 6:20 pm

Stone Creek at Stonewater

352-612-1000 – Text or Call for Reservations / We will reschedule

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio: Investing in the Backbone of American Defense

Introduction: A Quiet Giant in Your Portfolio

The defense sector of the United States is an enduring economic pillar, transcending political changes and economic cycles. At the center of this sector is what President Dwight D. Eisenhower termed the "military-industrial complex" - a robust network of government funding and private sector innovation. The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio (TMPP) captures this nexus by allocating capital into the top 20-30 publicly traded U.S. defense contractors, each with significant Department of Defense (DoD) contracts.

Unlike traditional funds, TMPP gives investors direct access to this critical industry through a separately managed account. This bypasses the layered fees of ETFs, mutual funds, and third-party asset managers. And while market trends come and go, one truth remains: the U.S. will always fund its military. The TMPP makes that truth investable.

Defense Spending - A Cross-Party, Non-Cyclical Anchor

Whether under Democrats or Republicans, military spending rarely declines in real terms. From 2010 to 2023, annual defense budgets averaged $700-$800 billion, with consistent growth during global crises such as Ukraine, Taiwan tensions, and cybersecurity threats. Defense spending is not reactive - it's preventative. This budget stability offers a unique investment hedge.

One study comparing defense contractors to the S&P 500 found that portfolios made up of companies like Lockheed Martin and Raytheon consistently outperformed the market in down years and matched it in bull markets. The implication is clear: defense stocks function as a "market floor," particularly in portfolios vulnerable to volatility.

Who Powers the Portfolio?

The TMPP consists of industry giants and strategic mid-tier players. Let's briefly profile the major constituents:

- Lockheed Martin (LMT)

- Raytheon Technologies (RTX)

- Northrop Grumman (NOC)

- General Dynamics (GD)

- Boeing Defense (BA)

- L3Harris Technologies (LHX)

- Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII)

- Textron (TXT)

- Leidos Holdings (LDOS)

- Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS)

Together, these companies provide full-spectrum capability for the U.S. military - above ground, at sea, in cyberspace, and beyond.

Domain-Based Capabilities - The Theater of Modern Warfare

The modern battlefield is no longer confined to just land, sea, and air. It now spans cyberspace and outer space, with highly integrated weapon systems, sensors, and autonomous platforms forming a seamless network of defense and offense. The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio includes companies that engineer and deliver the full scope of capabilities required by the U.S. Department of Defense to maintain superiority across every domain of conflict.

Air and Space Superiority:

The skies remain a critical theater of both deterrence and engagement. The F-35 Lightning II, B-21 Raider, and V-22 Osprey form the core of U.S. air dominance. Satellite-based missile detection systems and AI-integrated communications platforms provide strategic oversight and space-based command. These systems allow real-time targeting, navigation, and missile tracking across every continent.

Sea and Underwater Dominance:

Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers (Ford-class), advanced destroyers (Arleigh Burke-class), and fast-attack submarines (Virginia-class) provide unmatched U.S. naval power. Columbia-class submarines ensure second-strike nuclear deterrence, while advanced systems like the SeaRAM and Orca XLUUV enable surface and subsurface engagement autonomously or in manned configurations.

Ground Warfare Capabilities:

The M1 Abrams tank and Paladin howitzer are cornerstones of ground-based firepower. Robotic platforms (UGVs) such as the XM30 and HIMARS provide mobile, intelligent, and autonomous support roles. Ground defense includes remote weapon systems and drone-scouting vehicles to enhance soldier protection and field awareness.

Cyber and Electronic Warfare:

Leidos, Raytheon, and L3Harris provide the digital backbone for military operations. From battlefield network security to red team cyber-penetration exercises, these companies are responsible for protecting U.S. digital sovereignty. Electronic countermeasure systems jam, intercept, or deceive enemy communications and targeting systems.

Drones, Autonomy, and the Future Battlefield

Aerial Drones:

The MQ-9 Reaper remains the world's most recognized ISR and precision strike drone, while the Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie introduces loyal wingman AI-assisted coordination alongside human pilots. Strategic drones like the RQ-4 Global Hawk handle wide-area reconnaissance at high altitudes for extended periods.

Sea-Based Drones:

Unmanned underwater vehicles such as the Boeing Orca XLUUV and the Leidos Sea Hunter demonstrate autonomy, stealth, and long-duration endurance. These drones are vital for mine countermeasures, underwater mapping, and anti-submarine operations in high-threat waters.

Swarm Technology:

DARPA-funded projects have birthed swarms of microdrones capable of adaptive intelligence. The Perdix and Gremlin programs represent a shift from single-asset dependency to collective drone mission structures-reducing cost and increasing redundancy in ISR and strike missions.

AI & Battle Networks:

Palantir and Leidos provide the integrated battle network architecture that powers modern joint operations. These systems collect real-time satellite, drone, and soldier data, synthesize it using AI, and transmit rapid response orders across battlefield nodes.

Air and Space:

- Aircraft Systems: F-35, B-21 Raider, V-22 Osprey

- Space Force and Satellites: Missile detection and autonomous systems

Sea and Underwater:

- Naval Dominance: Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, Ford-class aircraft carriers

- Subsurface Capability: Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines

Ground Warfare:

- Main Battle Tanks & Artillery: M1 Abrams, Paladin howitzers

- UGVs: Robotic platforms for field use

Cyber and Electronic Warfare:

- Cyber Defense: Leidos, Raytheon, Booz Allen

- Electronic Countermeasures: L3Harris

Drones, Autonomy, and the Future Battlefield

- Aerial Drones: MQ-9 Reaper, AI-enabled Kratos drones

- Sea Drones: Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs)

- Swarm Technology: DARPA-funded systems

- AI & Battle Networks: Palantir and Leidos integration platforms

Market Analysis - How These Firms Perform

Historical performance data shows that defense stocks:

- Outperformed the S&P 500 by 20-30% during conflict years

- Rebounded faster during economic crises

- Offer insulation from consumer and retail trends

Moral Complexity, Economic Reality

The decision to invest in the defense sector, particularly through the Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio (TMPP), invites an honest confrontation with both ethical concerns and undeniable economic truths. While some investors approach the military-industrial complex with caution-citing issues like global militarization or arms proliferation-there exists a parallel, often underappreciated dimension: national defense spending is not simply about war, but about deterrence, innovation, and national survival.

Critics of defense investing often frame it as a moral paradox: profiting from companies associated with conflict. Yet, these firms are also responsible for cybersecurity, global satellite communications, disaster relief operations, and even medical transport. A large portion of defense spending funds non-combat support, humanitarian relief, and infrastructure for U.S. allies and citizens.

The U.S. defense budget, largely insulated from economic downturns, provides stable, multiyear revenue pipelines. In 2023, over $850 billion in defense allocations supported procurement, R&D, and innovation. Defense equities continue to attract institutional capital due to low volatility, strong dividend history, and resilience in crises.

Moreover, the defense sector is a massive job engine, employing over 3 million Americans directly and indirectly, contributing over $100 billion in states like Florida alone. These jobs range from software engineering to advanced welding, logistics, cyber operations, and more.

TMPP investors are not merely supporting weapons systems-they are investing in a secured global structure, local jobs, high-tech manufacturing, and deterrence that protects freedom, commerce, and the American way of life.

Why TMPP Stands Apart

Most traditional defense exposure comes with:

- 1.00% advisor fee [them not us]

- 0.50% platform fee [them not us]

- 0.75% fund expense [them not us]

= 2.25% Total Drag [them not us]

Over 20 years on a $100,000 investment at 9% growth:

- Gross Value: $560,441

- Net Value (after fees): $369,282

- Lost to Fees: $191,159

At Truesdell Wealth, Inc. via all portfolios, including TMPP we utilize or trademarked Fixed Cost Investing℠, direct fractional ownership, eliminating hidden costs, resulting in the maximization of returns through reduced portfolio cost drag.

Florida - A Military Powerhouse and an Investor's Stronghold

Florida hosts 21 major military installations, including:

- Eglin AFB, MacDill AFB, NAS Pensacola, Mayport, and Patrick Space Force Base

Major contractors with Florida operations:

- Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, L3Harris (HQ), Boeing, Raytheon, GD, Kratos, HII

Economic impact:

- $102.6 Billion annually

- 865,000+ jobs supported

- 6.2% YoY growth

For Florida-based investors, participation in the Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio (TMPP) represents far more than just a prudent financial allocation-it is an investment in the stability, prosperity, and ongoing vitality of their own communities. With Florida ranking among the top five states in total defense spending and economic output tied to military activity, every dollar allocated toward this sector supports not only national security on a strategic level but also local economic lifelines that directly benefit retirees, working families, small businesses, and future generations of Floridians.

A Legacy Asset Class, Reimagined for Today

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio (TMPP) is not just a curated collection of defense equities-it is a strategically engineered asset class with enduring purpose and tangible impact. It represents a modern expression of a timeless investment principle: seek long-term value in institutions that endure, produce, and protect. As a portfolio rooted in the defense of the United States, TMPP offers exposure to a sector that is not only backed by the full faith and credit of the federal government, but also driven by decades of innovation, federal funding, and bipartisan policy support.

For investors-especially those in Florida-TMPP delivers more than portfolio stability. It delivers community reinforcement, job creation, and participation in one of the most vital and resilient sectors of the American economy. At a time when market uncertainty and global instability dominate headlines, this portfolio offers a rare blend of security, opportunity, and national purpose.

It protects capital by anchoring it in companies with long-term government contracts and technological superiority. It enhances personal financial health while simultaneously fueling the economic vibrancy of the very regions where investors reside. And ultimately, it aligns individual wealth strategies with the broader mission of national defense, technological advancement, and peace through strength.

TMPP isn't just about investing in stocks-it's about investing in the institutions that invest in us. It's an asset that protects its investors while empowering the mission of protecting the nation. A legacy asset class-reimagined, repurposed, and realigned for today's world.

The Casual Cocktail Conversation

Join us for a Casual Conversation About National Defense, Investing, and the Military-Industrial Complex

Date: Friday, May 24th, 2024 Cancelled - Rescheduling Pending

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: Stonewater at Stone Creek

We’re inviting residents, retirees, veterans, and thoughtful investors to come out and join us for an open and engaging discussion around the topic of military procurement and defense investing in America. You’ll learn about the Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio and why defense is not only a cornerstone of national security, but also a powerful, long-term, and often overlooked component of a well-built investment strategy.

This is not a formal seminar—it’s a casual conversation. Bring your curiosity, your perspectives, and your questions. In preparation, we encourage you to start thinking about some of the following questions and ideas that we’ll explore together.

50 Questions to Spark Curiosity and Conversation

When’s the last time your financial advisor asked you what you really think about national defense? Not about the stock market or interest rates or the latest inflation report—but about how this country protects itself, builds what it needs, and prepares for whatever comes next. When’s the last time someone asked your opinion about how America should respond to rising tensions around the world—and then showed you how that conversation ties directly into your investment strategy?

Again, this Friday evening at 6:30 PM at Stonewater in Stone Creek, we’re doing something different. No pitch. No product push. Just a real, open conversation about the role defense plays in our economy, our safety, and—yes—even our retirement portfolios. We’ll start with a brief overview of the mechanics behind the Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio, a portfolio that invests directly in the top U.S. defense contractors—the companies building submarines, aircraft carriers, drone systems, missile defense networks, and space-based security platforms. These are the companies quietly operating in the background of your daily life, ensuring the stability that allows economies to grow and communities to thrive.

But the real purpose of the evening isn’t just to explain the portfolio—it’s to listen, to ask questions, and to invite you into a conversation that most investment professionals never have. Because here’s the truth: this isn’t just about returns. It’s about values. It’s about security. And it’s about your place in the broader economic engine that keeps America strong.

We’ve outlined fifty questions—real questions—that everyday retirees like you should be asking: Can we still manufacture what we need? What happens if China invades Taiwan? How does the defense industry affect jobs here in Florida? What’s the difference between how a Biden or Trump administration funds military operations? What role does cybersecurity play in the next major war? These aren’t hypothetical. They’re urgent, they’re real, and they’re personal. And these fifty questions are designed to get you thinking to ask your own questions.

So if you’re tired of surface-level conversations about investing and you want to be part of something deeper—something that connects your capital to the protection of your country and the prosperity of your state—then show up. Because this is more than a meeting. It’s a moment to think, speak, and maybe even see your own portfolio in a completely new light.

You may have seen those segments on Fox News—hosted by pollster Frank Luntz—where he gathered everyday Americans from all walks of life, seating them on small bleachers after presidential debates or major national events. I always found those conversations to be some of the most insightful and genuine reflections you could hear. The best ideas and most grounded opinions didn’t come from the pundits or polished soundbites—they came from real people, unfiltered and unscripted. That’s how I’ve always run my business, going back to the 1980s. I believe every client brings something valuable to the table—experience, perspective, wisdom—and I’m not just here to advise, but to listen. That’s the spirit behind everything we’re doing with this conversation around the Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio. Your voice matters. It always has.

Now, let’s begin. Review these questions and let’s have a frank and open conversation after the relatively brief overview of the mechanics of The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio.

And don’t forget to make your reservation by texting or calling: 352-612-1000.

50 Questions

1. What exactly is a military procurement portfolio?

2. How do these defense companies make money?

3. Is this really different from a normal mutual fund?

4. Can individual investors actually invest in these companies directly?

5. Who decides what goes in the portfolio?

6. Can the U.S. manufacture everything it needs for war?

7. How vulnerable are we to foreign supply chains for weapons?

8. Are there enough skilled workers in the defense industry today?

9. What happens if China or Russia cuts off access to rare earth materials?

10. Are American-made weapons always better than foreign ones?

11. How has the war in Ukraine affected defense spending?

12. What does rising tension with China mean for our military strategy?

13. Are we entering a new Cold War?

14. Would a conflict over Taiwan change everything?

15. Is NATO still relevant—and should we invest like it is?

16. Does defense spending change under Republican or Democrat leadership?

17. How would a second Trump term impact defense contractors?

18. What about a second Biden term—what might shift?

19. Why does Congress rarely cut the defense budget?

20. How much influence does the Pentagon have on the economy?

21. How have defense stocks performed during past wars or conflicts?

22. Do these companies pay good dividends?

23. Are defense stocks more stable than tech or real estate?

24. What are the risks of investing in this sector?

25. Is it ethical to profit from military spending?

26. What are “force multipliers” and which ones matter most?

27. Are drones the future of war—or are they already the present?

28. How important is space warfare?

29. How vulnerable are we to cyber attacks?

30. Is artificial intelligence making our military stronger—or more dangerous?

31. How many jobs in Florida depend on defense contracts?

32. Do military bases help the local economy?

33. What role do veterans play in the defense industry?

34. How can we support national defense while supporting peace?

35. Are we spending too much—or too little—on defense?

36. Should we be preparing for “old-school” warfare—or future tech wars?

37. What would a modern World War look like?

38. How would the U.S. respond to an invasion of an ally?

39. Are nuclear weapons still a deterrent?

40. Who would we turn to first in a national emergency—private defense firms or the government?

41. Is investing in defense immoral—or is it a civic duty?

42. What happens when defense technology falls into the wrong hands?

43. Should ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) investing include or exclude defense companies?

44. Are private companies too powerful in national security?

45. Should the U.S. sell weapons to allies involved in conflicts?

46. How has the defense industry changed since your time in the service (for veterans)?

47. If you could build one new military system, what would it be?

48. What role should the U.S. play in protecting peace around the world?

49. What are your biggest concerns about America’s readiness today?

50. If the U.S. had to mobilize for a major war tomorrow, are we prepared?

Paul Grant Truesdell, J.D., AIF, CLU, ChFC, RFC

President & Founder of The Truesdell Companies

Truesdell Wealth, Inc. – Registered Investment Advisor

The Truesdell Professional Building

200 NW 52nd Avenue

Ocala, Florida 34482

truesdellwealth.com

352-612-1000 – Florida

212-433-2525 – New York