NDAA Compromise: F/A-XX Funding Secured, Defense Budget Boosted

Congress has released the compromise National Defense Authorization Act with an $8 billion increase above the Pentagon’s budget request. The legislation includes full funding for the Navy’s F/A-XX sixth-generation fighter program, $26 billion for shipbuilding, and $38 billion for aircraft procurement. The NDAA also extends Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative funding and includes provisions protecting U.S. military presence in Europe. The measure represents a middle ground between House and Senate versions, with appropriators still holding authority over final spending levels.