US House Passes National Defense Authorization Act with $900 Billion Military Funding and Key Provisions
The US House of Representatives has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorizing $900 billion for military programs with a vote of 312-112.
The bill provides a 3.8% pay raise for many service members and includes funding for base housing and facility upgrades. It also reforms Department of Defense weapon procurement processes to accelerate purchases while increasing congressional oversight.
A significant provision demands information regarding nearly two dozen lethal boat strikes in the Caribbean and requires the Pentagon to release the full unedited video of a September strike. Part of the defense secretary's travel budget will be withheld unless the Pentagon provides this unedited strike video.
The NDAA authorizes $400 million annually for two years to supply weapons to Ukraine.
The bill includes cuts of $1.6 billion in climate crisis-related spending and a $40 million cut to diversity, equity and inclusion offices.
It repeals the 2003 authorization for the Iraq War and mandates the permanent removal of US sanctions on Syria.
Regarding troop deployments, the NDAA requires the Pentagon to maintain at least 76,000 troops and major equipment in Europe unless NATO consultation determines withdrawal is in US interests; typical US European presence ranges from 80,000 to 100,000 troops. It also requires a minimum of 28,500 US troops stationed in South Korea.
Overall, the legislation aims to support military readiness while reforming procurement and increasing oversight.
