Recreation or addiction? Military base slot machines rake in millions.

There are several thousand slot machines on military bases

Photo collage of a US army soldier saluting a roulette wheel and other gambling related symbols
At their peak, slot machines on military bases brought in $100 million annually
(Image credit: Illustration by Julia Wytrazek / Getty Images)

You might not find a full casino at U.S. military bases, but that doesn't mean gambling isn't happening. Much of the gambling is sanctioned and encouraged by the U.S. armed forces in the form of slot machines on military bases. As a result, researchers say gambling addiction in the military has reached critical levels, with many soldiers stationed overseas finding a dangerous solace in these slot machines.

How prevalent are slot machines at U.S. military bases?

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Justin Klawans, The Week US

Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.