In a significant move, the Senate has granted final approval to an annual military policy bill, authorizing a robust $901 billion for defense programs. This legislation, known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), includes a 3.8% pay raise for troops and has garnered bipartisan support as it progressed through Congress. The White House has expressed that the bill aligns with President Trump's national security priorities, signaling a strong commitment to military funding.
The NDAA, which spans over 3,000 pages, highlights some tensions between Congress and the Pentagon. As the Trump administration shifts its focus from European security to Central and South America, the bill aims to address recent Pentagon actions. Notably, it demands increased transparency regarding military operations, particularly boat strikes in the Caribbean, and mandates that U.S. troop levels in Europe remain stable. Additionally, the bill allocates military aid to Ukraine, reflecting ongoing geopolitical concerns.
One of the bill's critical aspects is its emphasis on enhancing congressional oversight of the Department of Defense. It repeals outdated war authorizations and seeks to reform how the Pentagon procures weapons, particularly as the U.S. aims to maintain a competitive edge over China in military technology. According to Senator Roger Wicker, the Republican chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, this legislation represents "the most sweeping upgrades to DOD's business practices in 60 years."
Despite its bipartisan support, the NDAA faced criticism from both Democratic and Republican leaders on the Senate Commerce Committee. The legislation allows military aircraft to operate without broadcasting their precise location, a move that has raised safety concerns following a tragic midair collision in January that resulted in 67 fatalities. Senator Ted Cruz emphasized the need for more stringent regulations to ensure military aircraft coordinate effectively with commercial aviation.
In a notable bipartisan effort, lawmakers have agreed to provisions that threaten to withhold a quarter of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's travel budget unless he provides unedited video footage of military strikes in international waters near Venezuela. This decision comes in light of a recent strike that resulted in the deaths of two individuals who had initially survived an attack on their boat. The requirement for greater accountability reflects a growing concern among lawmakers regarding military operations.
The NDAA also codifies several controversial changes aimed at purging the military of diversity and inclusion programs. The bill proposes the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion offices, alongside significant cuts to climate change-related initiatives, which could save the Pentagon approximately $40 million. Critics argue that these changes undermine the military's readiness to address modern threats posed by climate change.
In a historic move, Congress is set to repeal the authorizations for the 2003 invasion of Iraq and the 1991 Gulf War. Supporters of this provision assert that it is essential to prevent future abuses of power, as Iraq has now become a strategic partner for the U.S. Furthermore, the legislation proposes lifting U.S. sanctions on Syria permanently, a decision aimed at fostering economic reconstruction and supporting the establishment of democracy in the region.
The passage of the National Defense Authorization Act marks a pivotal moment in U.S. military policy, balancing defense spending with accountability and oversight. As Congress navigates the complexities of military operations and international relations, this legislation reflects ongoing efforts to adapt to emerging global challenges while ensuring that the military remains a formidable force.