The United States Senate has approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 with a vote of 77-20. The legislation will now be sent to the president for signature.
Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker commented on the passage, stating: “Not since the era of World War II has our nation faced an axis of aggressors across multiple theaters seeking to dismantle American influence. The bill we now send to the president’s desk is a reflection of that reality and an appropriate response.
“In this NDAA, my colleagues and I have prioritized the structural rebuilding of the arsenal of democracy and returning the department to its warfighting mission. Crucially, it also contains the most sweeping upgrades to the Pentagon's business practices in 60 years—a watershed moment for our military.
“The bill sets us on a path to modernize our defense capabilities and augment our drone manufacturing, shipbuilding efforts, and the development of innovative low-cost weapons.
“Thanks to the partnership and bipartisan support from Ranking Member Reed, and that of all members who worked to improve this bill, our military will be better prepared to meet the challenges ahead.”
Ranking Member Jack Reed also provided remarks: “We face significant national security challenges, but this NDAA makes meaningful progress toward meeting them. It enhances military readiness, supports servicemembers and their families, modernizes combat platforms, and invests in critical technologies. The bill bolsters America's posture against competitors, reinforces alliances across Europe and the Indo-Pacific, and ensures sustained support for key partners. It positions the Department of Defense to adapt to evolving threats while maintaining robust Congressional oversight.
“I thank Chairman Wicker and our colleagues for their partnership, and I urge the President to swiftly sign this bill.”
Key elements in this year’s NDAA include reforms aimed at improving how the Pentagon manages its budget and acquisition processes by incorporating aspects from recent legislative proposals focused on commercial innovation. The act also expands authorities intended to strengthen domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.
The legislation provides enhanced powers for protecting military personnel and facilities from small drone threats nationwide. It authorizes a 3.8 percent pay increase for service members.
Internationally, it extends programs supporting Ukraine’s security needs as well as initiatives in Asia such as funding deterrence measures in the Pacific region. New provisions allow increased cooperation with Taiwan while prohibiting unauthorized reductions in U.S. forces stationed in Europe or Asia-Pacific areas.
Other features include establishing a new office dedicated to managing property issues affecting military families during relocations; expanding Navy fleet capacity; increasing wages for workers building conventional surface ships; and enacting restrictions on U.S. involvement with certain Chinese biotechnology firms accused of intellectual property theft or risky research activities.
