Expenses of operational military forces and depot maintenance are funded by which appropriation?

• A. RDT&E
• B. MILCON
• C. O&M
• D. Procurement

Answer: (C)

Ongoing operating and maintenance costs for forces and the repair/overhaul of equipment at depots are funded by Operations and Maintenance (O&M) appropriations. This funding stream covers day-to-day expenses to keep units ready, including personnel costs, training, fuel, supplies, and maintenance activities, with depot maintenance specifically falling under this category. Other appropriations serve different purposes: RDT&E funds development, testing, and evaluation of new systems; MILCON funds military construction; and Procurement funds the purchase of new equipment and major systems. So, the expenses of operational forces and depot maintenance are funded by O&M.