The $901 billion defense bill passes the US Senate with Ukraine aid, troop pay raises, Pentagon oversight, and historic war powers reforms.
Key Highlights
- US Senate passes the $901 billion defense bill by a decisive 77–20 vote.
- Bill authorizes a 3.8% military pay raise and long-term Ukraine security aid.
- Pentagon oversight tightened, including limits on overseas troop reductions.
- Congress repeals 1991 and 2003 Iraq War authorizations.
- Major policy shifts include cuts to DEI and climate defence programs.
$901 Billion Defense Bill Passes Senate With Ukraine Aid and Oversight Measures
The US Senate has overwhelmingly approved the $901 billion defense bill, finalising the annual National Defense Authorization Act and extending America’s military funding and policy framework into 2026. The legislation passed late Wednesday by a 77–20 bipartisan vote, continuing a 65-year congressional tradition of approving the defence policy bill annually.
The House of Representatives cleared the $901 billion defense bill last week by 312–112, sending the legislation to President Donald Trump’s desk for final approval. Lawmakers described the measure as essential to sustaining military readiness while reinforcing oversight and alliance commitments.
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Military Pay Raise and Force Modernisation
A central component of the $901 billion defense bill is a 3.8% pay raise for US service members, aimed at addressing inflation pressures and improving retention across the armed forces. Defence officials said the increase reflects ongoing demands placed on troops amid prolonged global deployments.
The bill authorises funding for advanced military capabilities, including cyber warfare systems, space defence operations, and strategic deterrence programs. Pentagon planners have argued these investments are necessary as the US confronts increasingly sophisticated threats from rival powers.
Lawmakers also approved procurement reforms designed to speed up weapons development and allow smaller defence contractors to compete for military projects.
Ukraine Aid and European Security Commitments
Support for Ukraine remains a cornerstone of the $901 billion defense bill as Russia’s invasion enters its fourth year. The legislation authorises $400 million annually for 2026 and 2027 under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, supporting weapons manufacturing and ammunition supplies for Kyiv.
To reassure NATO allies, the bill mandates that the Pentagon maintain at least 76,000 US troops in Europe, unless Congress and NATO partners receive advance notice of any planned reductions. Supporters said the provision prevents sudden force withdrawals that could weaken deterrence on the continent.
Lawmakers across parties described the $901 billion defense bill as vital to sustaining NATO unity and European security stability.
Expanded Oversight of Military Operations
Congress used the $901 billion defense bill to assert greater oversight over Pentagon decision-making. New provisions restrict unilateral troop level changes and require expanded reporting on overseas operations.
Following controversy over US naval counter-narcotics missions in the Caribbean, lawmakers tied 25% of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s official travel budget to cooperation with congressional investigations. The move follows a September 2 incident near Venezuela, where a second US strike on suspected drug-trafficking vessels left two survivors dead.
Democrats cited concerns over transparency and civilian risk, while Republicans defended the operations as necessary to combat transnational crime.
Policy Shifts and War Powers Reform
The $901 billion defense bill introduces sweeping internal changes within the Defense Department. It eliminates diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, projected to save $40 million annually, and cuts $1.6 billion in climate-related defence initiatives, aligning with administration priorities.
In a historic bipartisan move, Congress repealed the 1991 and 2003 Iraq War authorizations, restoring congressional authority over the use of military force. Senators Tim Kaine and Todd Young led the initiative to prevent future administrations from relying on outdated legal mandates.
The bill also formally lifts Syria sanctions imposed under the Caesar Act following the fall of Bashar Assad. Supporters argue the change will aid reconstruction, while critics warn it could weaken US leverage.
Aviation Safety and Procurement Reform Debate
The $901 billion defense bill sparked debate over a waiver allowing military aircraft to operate without publicly broadcasting flight positions. Senator Ted Cruz criticised the measure, referencing a January 29 collision near Washington, DC, that killed 67 people after an Army helicopter struck a passenger jet.
Despite disagreements, Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker said the bill contains the most significant military acquisition reforms in 60 years, aimed at accelerating weapons delivery and strengthening industrial competition.