President Donald J. Trump has signed into law the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), marking the largest annual U.S. military spending authorization in history. The legislation authorizes $901 billion in defense spending — about $8 billion more than the administration requested — and when combined with supplemental appropriations and related budget measures, brings total national defense outlays for 2026 close to $1 trillion.
Key Provisions of the FY2026 NDAA
- Record Authorization: The NDAA sets a defense spending authorization of $901 billion, maintaining bipartisan Congressional support for robust U.S. military funding.
- Personnel Support and Pay: The bill includes a 3.8% pay raise for service members, reflecting ongoing investment in military personnel and families.
- Strategic Modernization: Substantial funding is directed toward modernizing U.S. capabilities, including:
- Investments in next-generation combat aircraft, submarines, and warships, with billions allocated to air and naval systems.
- Continued support for the Golden Dome missile defense initiative and enhanced research and development.
- Foreign Security Assistance: The legislation authorizes $800 million in Ukraine security assistance over two years and establishes funds for the Baltic Security Initiative to support Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia.
- Force Posture and NATO: The NDAA restricts reductions in U.S. troop levels in Europe below set thresholds and preserves NATO command structures.
- Global Engagement: The bill includes new authorities and funding for cooperation with allied partners in the Indo-Pacific and European theaters, as well as enhanced deterrence measures.
Bipartisan Congressional Action
The NDAA passed both chambers of Congress with strong bipartisan majorities. The Senate approved the bill 77–20, demonstrating cross‑party consensus on defense priorities.Its passage continues a 65‑year streak of annual defense authorizations, underscoring the institutional importance of the NDAA in U.S. security planning.
Strategic and Policy Significance
The FY2026 NDAA reflects a comprehensive approach to national defense, balancing investments in personnel readiness, advanced weapons systems, force modernization, and international security commitments. Analysts and lawmakers have characterized the legislation as essential for maintaining U.S. technological edge and deterrence capabilities amid evolving global threats.
