The Senate has approved the annual National Defense Authorization Act, sending the nearly $900 billion defense policy bill to President Donald Trump for signature.
The measure passed by a 77–20 vote after clearing the House last week and includes a 3.8 percent pay raise for US service members. The bill authorizes funding for major military programs and outlines US defense priorities.
BREAKING: Senate passes $901 billion defense bill that demands Secretary Pete Hegseth provide video of strikes on alleged drug boats. https://t.co/plEm3ixKvg
— The Associated Press (@AP) December 17, 2025
It also includes provisions requiring more transparency on US military strikes against suspected drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean. Until unedited strike footage is shared with Congress, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s travel budget would be cut by 25 percent.
The legislation repeals outdated Iraq war authorizations, lifts sanctions on Syria, and limits large troop withdrawals from Europe. It also restores support for tracking Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.
Passed & Headed to the President's Desk: The FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
— SASC Republicans (@SASCGOP) December 17, 2025
This bill will:
✔️modernize our defense capabilities,
✔️reform the Pentagon acquisition process,
✔️improve quality of life initiatives for our troops,
✔️ensure @POTUS has sufficient… pic.twitter.com/2prDvsOTI3
However, bipartisan concerns over aircraft safety went unresolved. Senators failed to add language closing a loophole that could weaken tracking requirements for military aircraft, drawing criticism from lawmakers in both parties.
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TIPP Staff
