WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI), Chairman of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, celebrated the passage of the FY2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) as it heads to be signed into law by President Biden. The NDAA authorizes policies, programs, and spending for the Department of Defense and includes provisions that address national security threats and strengthen the military.
Chairman Gallagher emphasized the importance of the NDAA in the current geopolitical landscape. He stated, "We are in the window of maximum danger when it comes to a conflict with China over Taiwan. Ensuring our military has the resources to deter, and if necessary, win such a conflict must be our primary focus in Congress." He highlighted key provisions in the NDAA that contribute to this objective, such as the requirement for the Pentagon to develop a strategy for deploying and utilizing long-range conventional missiles in the Indo-Pacific. The bill also enhances military cybersecurity cooperation with Taiwan and strengthens programs that integrate cutting-edge technologies from the private sector into the military.
In addition, Chairman Gallagher emphasized the importance of refocusing the Pentagon on warfighting rather than "wokeness." He expressed satisfaction with the removal of the Pentagon's DEI bureaucracy, the banning of Critical Race Theory, and the emphasis on promoting military personnel based on merit. The NDAA also supports Wisconsin's role in national defense by fully authorizing funding for two Frigates built at Marinette Marine and supporting Oshkosh's medium and heavy tactical vehicles.
While Chairman Gallagher recognized the significance of the NDAA, he stressed that it is not sufficient alone to address growing national security threats. He urged Congress to pass a defense appropriations bill that fully funds the priorities outlined in the NDAA. Operating under Continuing Resolutions has hindered the ability of the military to fulfill its duties and the defense industrial base to build the necessary weapons and infrastructure.
The bill includes several provisions led by Chairman Gallagher or related to the work of the Select Committee on the CCP. These provisions focus on countering China's influence and enhancing deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region. They include measures such as banning the federal operation and procurement of DJI drones, conducting an independent review of the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, and promoting military cybersecurity cooperation with Taiwan.
The NDAA also prioritizes defense supply chains by prohibiting the Department of Defense from contracting or procuring goods from Chinese military companies. It requires an assessment of biotechnology companies headquartered in China to determine if they should be identified as Chinese military companies operating in the United States. Additionally, the bill prohibits DoD from utilizing consulting services from firms that engage with the People's Liberation Army or affiliated entities.
In terms of supporting Wisconsin and fostering innovation in the military, the NDAA authorizes over $2 billion for Marinette to build two Frigates, fully supports the Family of Medium and Heavy Tactical Vehicles, and supports the Defense Innovation Unit and non-traditional vendors in the armed services. The bill also establishes a Joint Transition Office for Energetic Materials to enhance missile development and scaling, introduces a pilot program for an Anything-as-a-Service model to promote competition in the defense industry, and supports digital night vision technology produced in Wisconsin.
Chairman Gallagher concluded by urging Congress to pass the funding for the NDAA rather than going home and considering the job done. He emphasized the importance of fully supporting the military and ensuring the ability to protect Americans and national interests worldwide.
With the passage of the NDAA, Chairman Gallagher has secured major wins in addressing national security threats and strengthening the military. The provisions in the bill related to China and Wisconsin demonstrate a commitment to countering the influence of the Chinese Communist Party and supporting innovation in defense. As the NDAA moves toward becoming law, it marks a significant step in safeguarding the nation's interests.
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