The Senate approved the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act on Wednesday, sending the $900.6 billion defense policy bill to President Donald Trump’s desk for his signature.
The House had previously approved the massive 3,086-page bill on December 10 by a vote of 312 to 112, clearing the way for Senate consideration. The legislation authorizes approximately $8 billion more than the Pentagon’s original budget request and represents one of the most comprehensive overhauls of defense policy in recent years.
What Service Members Get
Military pay is going up 3.8% starting January 1, 2026—roughly $134 more per month for many soldiers, sailors, and airmen. The bill also improves family benefits: troops can now take parental leave at any time within two years after having or adopting a child, and the family separation allowance increased from $250 to $300 monthly for deployed service members.
The military will also get over $1.5 billion for new barracks and family housing, addressing longstanding complaints about living conditions.
Defense Programs and Weapons
Congress authorized $26 billion for new ships, $38 billion for aircraft, $4 billion for ground vehicles, and $25 billion for ammunition and munitions. The bill also funds President Trump’s “Golden Dome” missile defense shield, a comprehensive system designed to protect the U.S. from incoming missiles—a priority Trump has championed.
The legislation prevents future presidents from easily dismantling this missile defense program without congressional approval. It also speeds up development of new interceptors designed to shoot down hypersonic weapons.
Ukraine and European Security
Despite concerns about reduced support under Trump, the bill authorizes $400 million for Ukraine in both 2026 and 2027 to help fight Russian aggression. While less than previous years, this funding is significant because it locks in support and prevents the administration from easily cutting it off.
The bill also includes a $175 million “Baltic Security Initiative” to strengthen military deterrence in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia against potential Russian threats.
Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific
The NDAA significantly expands military support for Taiwan, increasing funding from $300 million to $1 billion annually. It authorizes joint training and equipment sharing with Taiwan, including coast guard cooperation.
The bill also directs the Pentagon to develop strategies to rapidly respond if conflict breaks out in the Taiwan Strait and allocates $1.5 billion in new security assistance for the Philippines.
Syria Sanctions Lifted
Congress voted to completely repeal economic sanctions on Syria that have been in place since the civil war. However, the administration must report to Congress twice yearly on whether Syria is cooperating with counter-terrorism efforts, protecting minorities, and meeting other U.S. priorities.
The bill also repeals old war authorizations that allowed the Iraq War and the first Gulf War—a bipartisan priority to claw back some of Congress’s war powers.
Controversial Policies on Military Culture
The bill bans diversity and inclusion (DEI) programs at the Pentagon, codifying Trump’s executive orders. It also prohibits transgender women from participating in women’s sports at military academies.
One major omission angered military families: IVF coverage for service members was stripped from the bill, despite being included in both House and Senate versions. House Speaker Mike Johnson reportedly removed the provision, leaving service members with less comprehensive fertility benefits than federal civilian employees.
However, the bill does restore women’s initiative teams at the Pentagon that were previously disbanded, aimed at improving policies affecting female service members.
Pentagon Accountability
Lawmakers withheld 25% of the Defense Secretary’s travel budget until the Pentagon provides unredacted video footage of U.S. military strikes against suspected drug boats near Venezuela to Congress. The provision addresses bipartisan concerns about transparency in military operations.
The legislation takes effect upon the president’s signature and will govern defense policy and priorities for fiscal year 2026, which runs through September 30, 2026.
