On Thursday, President Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act into law, setting Pentagon spending at a record $901 billion for fiscal 2026.
Record Spending and Pay Raise
The bill authorizes $901 billion in military spending, about $8 billion more than the administration’s request. It also grants a nearly 4 percent pay increase for active-duty members.
Ukraine Aid, China Restrictions, and Travel-Budget Provision
Included are $400 million in aid for Ukraine over the next two years and limits on U.S. investments in China. The law also withholds a portion of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s travel budget until he supplies lawmakers with unedited footage of U.S. military strikes against alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and copies of the orders that authorized those operations.
Legislative Process and Pentagon Reforms
The Senate approved the measure 77-20 on Wednesday, while the House advanced the package earlier this month with a 312-112 vote. Trump and Hegseth have been working for the past 11 months to reshape the Pentagon, pledging to remove “woke” elements and restore a “macho” image. Actions taken include eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion programs, renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War, and reinstating a ban on transgender troops.
Key Takeaways
- The NDAA sets $901 billion in defense spending for fiscal 2026.
- The bill adds a 4 percent pay raise and $400 million Ukraine aid.
- Travel budget is withheld until Hegseth provides requested footage and orders.
President Trump’s signature on the NDAA marks the culmination of a year-long effort to overhaul the Pentagon’s culture and priorities.
