Overview
The US Senate on Dec 17 overwhelmingly advanced the fiscal 2026 National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA), a $901 billion compromise bill setting Pentagon policy and funding levels. Published by The Straits Times on Dec 18, 2025 at 06:20 AM, the legislation includes a 4 percent pay raise for troops and investments in equipment to enhance competitiveness against China and Russia.[1]
Key Developments
- Senate voted 77 to 20 in favor, with strong bipartisan backing after House passage last week.
- Authorizes record US$901 billion (S$1.1 trillion) in annual military spendingitary" class="inline-tag-link">military spending.
- Features 4 per cent pay raise for service members and purchases of advanced military gear.
- Compromise merges separate House and Senate measures from earlier this year.
Analysis
| Factor | Current Status | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Economic | $901B allocation with 4% pay hike | Boosts defense contractors, sustains jobs in manufacturing amid 4% spending growth |
| Political | Bipartisan 77-20 vote | Signals unity on security threats from rivals like China |
| Social | Troop morale lift via raises | Improves retention, addresses recruitment shortfalls |
Expert Reactions
"The White House has said President Donald Trump will sign it into law," reports The Straits Times, noting the bill's path to enactment.[1]
What's Next
Bill sent to White House for presidential signature, expected imminently given stated intent to approve.