National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

Sponsor: Roger F. Wicker (Republican-MS)July 15, 2025

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Introduced

In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Held at the desk.

Increases military pay and benefits, funds new ships and planes, and sets new rules for defense.

This bill would authorize over $886 billion for the military in 2026, including a pay raise for service members and new funding for ships, aircraft, and missile defense. It would also change policies for military families' housing and healthcare, and set new rules for cybersecurity and foreign defense contractors. The bill aims to modernize the armed forces and improve quality of life for military personnel.

What Would Change

Today, military pay and benefits are set at current levels, and defense procurement follows existing plans. After this bill, military personnel would receive a pay raise, and the Navy would begin procuring new Columbia-class submarines and Medium Landing Ships, among other equipment. New policies would also govern military housing standards, access to healthcare services, and cybersecurity practices within the Department of Defense.

Key Provisions

Authorizes $886.2 billion for national defense activities in fiscal year 2026.
Increases military personnel pay and sets active and reserve force numbers for 2026.
Allows the Navy to buy up to five new Columbia-class submarines and up to 15 Medium Landing Ships.
Prohibits the Air Force from retiring A-10 aircraft and sets conditions for retiring F-15E and E-3 aircraft.
Expands TRICARE eligibility for hearing aids to children of retired service members and covers fertility treatments for active-duty members.
Establishes new policies for Department of Defense cybersecurity, including artificial intelligence systems and protection of undersea cables.