The House Armed Services Committee advanced a $1.15 trillion defense policy bill early Friday, setting the stage for what would be the largest defense authorization in U.S. history. The legislation includes pay raises for service members, support for U.S. allies, and acquisition reforms.
The bill also includes provisions requiring increased accountability from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, reflecting bipartisan frustration with his leadership. The accountability measures come as some lawmakers from both parties have expressed concerns about oversight and transparency at the Pentagon under Hegseth's tenure.
The National Defense Authorization Act represents a significant increase in military spending and sets policy priorities for the Department of Defense. In addition to personnel pay increases, the legislation supports ongoing commitments to U.S. allies and implements reforms aimed at streamlining how the Pentagon acquires equipment and weapons systems.
The committee's vote sends the bill to the full House for consideration. The NDAA has historically enjoyed strong bipartisan support and is one of the few major pieces of legislation that Congress passes annually. The inclusion of provisions targeting Hegseth suggests lawmakers are using the must-pass bill as leverage to demand greater oversight of Pentagon operations.
The $1.15 trillion price tag reflects the scale of U.S. defense commitments worldwide and represents a continuation of increased military spending in recent years. The legislation will need to be reconciled with a Senate version before it can reach President Trump's desk for signature.