National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026
Held at the desk.
Introduced:Nov 12, 2025
Primary Sponsor
Roger Wicker
R - MS
Cosponsors
0
Quick Stats
Policy Area
Armed Forces and National Security
Summary
The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 is the annual bill setting policy and funding levels for the Department of Defense. It authorizes military pay, equipment, operations, and programs for the coming fiscal year.
Latest Action
Held at the desk.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 is the annual bill setting policy and funding levels for the Department of Defense. It authorizes military pay, equipment, operations, and programs for the coming fiscal year.
Last updated: 12/26/2025
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><strong>National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026</strong></p><p>This bill sets forth policies and authorities for FY2026 for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, military construction, and the national security programs of the Department of Energy (DOE). It also authorizes the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board for FY2026. The bill authorizes appropriations but it does not provide budget authority, which is provided by appropriations legislation.</p><p>Among other elements, the bill</p><ul><li>authorizes the procurement of various items, including aircraft, ships, and missiles;</li><li>authorizes active duty and reserve component personnel strength levels;</li><li>authorizes specified military construction projects and extends the authorization of certain projects from previous fiscal years;</li><li>requires DOD to develop a strategy on the national security implications of emerging biotechnologies;</li><li>requires the Navy to implement certain processes to improve the material condition and combat readiness of Navy surface ships maintained and repaired at private shipyards; </li><li>extends the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (an initiative to enhance U.S. deterrence and defense posture, assure allies and partners, and increase capability and readiness in the Indo-Pacific region) through FY2026; and</li><li>repeals various statutory provisions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion within DOD, including a provision establishing the position of Chief Diversity Officer of DOD.</li></ul><p>For additional information on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) see</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF10516">In Focus IF10516, Defense Primer: Navigating the NDAA</a>, and</li><li><a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF10515">In Focus IF10515, Defense Primer: The NDAA Process</a>.</li></ul>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Sets defense policy and funding for fiscal year 2026
Authorizes military pay raises and benefits
Funds weapons systems and equipment purchases
Establishes military personnel and readiness policies
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
Service members would see their pay and benefits determined by this bill. Defense contractors depend on the authorization for major programs. National security posture is shaped by the policies and priorities in this legislation.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
Armed Forces and National Security
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Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
2296, 119th Congress (2025). "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/119-s-2296