John Thune on the NDAA: Strengthening US Military Preparedness and Modernization

Critical Role of the NDAA

• 🇺🇸 The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026 is crucial for ensuring the United States military is prepared for current and future threats.
• 🎯 It aims to deter and, if necessary, defeat any future threats by putting the military on a strategic path.
• ⚠️ The bill addresses the consequences of past underinvestment in the military, acknowledging the world's dangerous nature and the presence of aggressive actors.

Modernizing Military Capabilities

• 🚢 The NDAA supports growing the Navy fleet to enhance global power projection and narrow the shipbuilding gap with China.
• 🛡️ It advocates for the construction of the Golden Dome Missile Defense System to protect against airborne attacks.
• 🏭 The bill proposes increased munitions production, which also helps revitalize the industrial base and support industries nationwide.
• ✈️ It authorizes the B-21 Raider program, a next-generation stealth bomber, and related military construction at Ellsworth Air Force Base.

Supporting Service Members and Families

• ⬆️ The act authorizes the first increase in active duty strength in several years, aiding in sustaining recruitment levels.
• 💰 A 3.8% pay raise for troops is included, alongside investments in quality of life, such as on-base housing, education, and child care.

Pentagon Reforms and Innovation

• 🛠️ This year's NDAA introduces significant reforms to Pentagon operations, streamlining buying and innovation processes.
• 🚀 It aims to remove burdensome rules and laws, enabling more American businesses, including small ones, to contribute to national defense.
• ⚡ The reforms are designed to harness American innovation to deliver superior capabilities to service members faster and at a lower cost.