US Senate Approves $901 Billion Defense Budget for Fiscal Year 2026

Washington:The US Senate has approved a $901 billion defense budget for fiscal year 2026, setting the direction for America’s defense policy and military spending. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was passed by a vote of 77 to 20 and has now been sent to President Donald Trump for signature.

The legislation reflects a blend of the Trump administration’s priorities and Congress’s efforts to maintain US military strength. Under the law, the Pentagon will be required to maintain at least 76,000 US troops in Europe unless, after consultation with NATO allies, any reduction is deemed to be in America’s national interest. Similarly, the number of US troops stationed in South Korea cannot be reduced below 28,500.

Congress has also reaffirmed its support for Ukraine, approving $800 million under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, with an allocation of $400 million annually for the next two years. An additional $400 million per year has been earmarked for weapons production for Ukraine.

The bill designates the Asia-Pacific region as the central focus of US foreign and defense strategy. To counter China’s growing military influence, $1 billion has been allocated under the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative.

Security assistance of $600 million has been approved for Israel, including funding for joint missile defense programs such as the Iron Dome. At the same time, Congress has strengthened reporting requirements to enhance oversight of US military operations.

The legislation repeals the military authorizations for the 2003 Iraq War and the 1991 Gulf War, aiming to limit the possibility of future military actions without congressional approval.

The bill also includes a provision to permanently lift US sanctions on Syria, a move viewed as support for reconstruction efforts following the removal of former President Bashar al-Assad.

However, in line with the Trump administration’s “America First” policy, the legislation mandates the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices and training programs within the Pentagon, a move expected to save around $40 million. Additionally, $1.6 billion has been cut from defense programs related to climate change.