As an expert in international relations and defense funding, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer regarding the funding of NATO by the United States. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is a military alliance established in 1949, with the primary purpose of providing collective defense against aggression from non-member countries. The United States has been a key member and contributor to NATO since its inception.

The funding of NATO can be divided into two main categories: the Civil Budget and the Military Budget. The Civil Budget covers the costs of the NATO's administration and operations, while the Military Budget is used for collective defense initiatives and joint military operations.

According to the information provided, the U.S. contributes approximately 21.7 percent to NATO's Civil Budget. This is a significant portion, reflecting the U.S.'s commitment to the alliance. The specific figures mentioned for FY2009 and FY2010 are $66.1 million and $84.1 million, respectively. These payments are made through the State Department's Contributions to International Organizations.

However, it's important to note that the Civil Budget is just one part of the overall funding for NATO. The majority of NATO's funding comes from the Military Budget, which is comprised of national contributions from each member state. These contributions are based on a cost-sharing formula that takes into account each country's economic capacity.

The U.S. also contributes a substantial amount to the Military Budget. While the exact figures can vary from year to year, it's not uncommon for the U.S. to contribute more than 50 percent of the total Military Budget. This is due to the U.S.'s larger economy and its commitment to maintaining a strong military presence in Europe.

In addition to these direct financial contributions, the U.S. also provides indirect support to NATO through various means. This includes hosting NATO bases on American soil, providing military equipment and technology, and offering logistical support for NATO operations.

It's also worth mentioning that NATO's funding structure is designed to be flexible and adaptable. As global threats evolve, NATO member states work together to adjust their contributions accordingly. This ensures that the alliance remains well-funded and capable of responding to any potential threats.

In conclusion, the United States plays a crucial role in funding NATO, both through direct contributions to the Civil Budget and through its significant share of the Military Budget. The U.S.'s contributions reflect its commitment to the alliance and its leadership role within NATO.

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Fifteen countries make up the remaining 5.8 percent. The U.S. contribution to NATO's Civil budget, provided through the State Department's Contributions to International Organizations, is approximately 21.7 percent, with payments of $66.1 million and $84.1 million, respectively, made In FY2009 and FY2010.Jun 10, 2011read more >>