S. 2296 · Passed Senate · Armed Forces and National Security

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

Sponsor: Roger F. Wicker (R-MS)

What it does

• Sets fiscal year 2026 policies and authorities for Department of Defense programs, military construction, and Department of Energy national security programs.
• Authorizes procurement of aircraft, ships, and missiles and sets active duty and reserve personnel strength levels.
• Authorizes military construction projects and extends authorizations for certain projects from prior fiscal years.
• Requires a DOD strategy on the national security implications of emerging biotechnologies and Navy processes to improve surface ship readiness at private shipyards.
• Extends the Pacific Deterrence Initiative through fiscal year 2026 and repeals DOD diversity, equity, and inclusion provisions, including the Chief Diversity Officer position.

Official summary

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 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. Among other elements, the bill authorizes the procurement of various items, including aircraft, ships, and missiles; authorizes active duty and reserve component personnel strength levels; authorizes specified military construction projects and extends the authorization of certain projects from previous fiscal years; requires DOD to develop a strategy on the national security implications of emerging biotechnologies; 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; extends the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (an initiative to enhance U.S. deterrence and defense posture, assure allies and partners, and…

Latest action

Nov 12, 2025: Held at the desk.

Committee: Senate Armed Services