Compromise NDAA Protects Wedgetail, Greenlights Black Hawk Multiyear Buys

December 8, 2025 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2025-1765235086237-1258

Congress Approves Defense Policy Bill with Aerospace Provisions Amid Fiscal 2026 Funding Uncertainty

In keeping with tradition, lawmakers’ fiscal 2026 defense policy bill released late Sunday tweaks several key Pentagon programs, including the Air Force’s E-7 Wedgetail program and Army helicopter procurement. The FY26 National Defense Authorization Act would boost the Pentagon’s topline by $8 billion above what the Trump administration requested. According to Breaking Defense, lawmakers authorized $846.7 million for Wedgetail radar plane development and procurement, while also giving the Army new multiyear authority to buy Black Hawk UH-60s starting in 2027.

Sponsored by Jumpseat Solutions, jumpseatsolutions.com

Key Takeaways

The FY26 National Defense Authorization Act would boost the Pentagon’s topline by $8 billion.
Lawmakers authorized $846.7 million for Wedgetail radar plane development and procurement.
Air Force C-40 program gets $250 million for one new jet.
Army gets multiyear authority to buy Black Hawk UH-60s starting in 2027.

Rheinmetall BAE Systems Delta Air Lines Airbus

Strategic Implications

The compromise NDAA may indicate a shift in defense priorities, with a focus on preserving retired aircraft and modernizing fleets. The bill’s provisions also suggest a continued emphasis on air refueling inventory and tactical surveillance capabilities.