National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027

This Act may be cited as the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027.
This Act is organized into four divisions as follows:
Division A—Department of Defense Authorizations.
Division B—Military Construction Authorizations.
Division C—Department of Energy National Security Authorizations and Other Authorizations.
Division D—Funding Tables.
The table of contents for this Act is as follows:
In this Act, the term congressional defense committees has the meaning given that term in section 101(a)(16) of title 10, United States Code.
The budgetary effects of this Act, for the purposes of complying with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010, shall be determined by reference to the latest statement titled Budgetary Effects of PAYGO Legislation for this Act, jointly submitted for printing in the Congressional Record by the Chairmen of the House and Senate Budget Committees, provided that such statement has been submitted prior to the vote on passage in the House acting first on the conference report or amendment between the Houses.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for procurement for the Army, the Navy and the Marine Corps, the Air Force and the Space Force, and Defense-wide activities, as specified in the funding table in section 4101.
Subject to section 3501 of title 10, United States Code, the Secretary of the Army may enter into one or more multiyear contracts, beginning with fiscal year 2027, for the procurement of Infantry Squad Vehicles (ISV), including associated components, spare parts, and support equipment.
The Secretary shall ensure that any contract entered into under subsection (a)—
provides for savings compared to annual procurement;
includes appropriate termination provisions to protect the interests of the United States; and
complies with all requirements of section 3501 of title 10, United States Code.
A contract entered into under subsection (a) shall cover a period of not more than five fiscal years.
The Secretary may include in a contract entered into under subsection (a) provisions for economic order quantity purchases of long-lead items to achieve cost efficiencies.
The Secretary of the Army shall ensure that the Army National Guard is fully integrated into the implementation and future iterations of the document entitled Regaining Arctic Dominance: The U.S. Army in the Arctic (or any successor strategy).
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of the Army shall carry out the following activities:
Identify specific Army National Guard units with existing cold-weather capabilities or geographical proximity to the Arctic Circle to be designated as Arctic-capable or Arctic-focused.
Establish a modernization roadmap to ensure that Army National Guard units designated for Arctic missions are suitably equipped with mission-critical equipment such as Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) gear, over-snow vehicles, and specialized communication equipment.
Expand participation of Army National Guard units in multi-component Arctic exercises, including Northern Edge and Arctic Edge, to validate interoperability, as possible.
Not later than June 30, 2027, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the specific roles, missions, and resource requirements identified for the Army National Guard within the Army's Arctic strategy.
Section 129 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2448), as most recently amended by section 121 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 1804), is further amended—
in subsection (a)(1), by striking up to five;
in subsection (c)—
by inserting , advance construction, or economic order quantities after advance procurement across programs; and
by inserting , spare parts, and major shore-based spares after systems and subsystems; and
in subsection (f), by striking September 30, 2026 and inserting September 30, 2030.
Subsection (g)(2) of such section 129 is amended by striking section 4251(d) and inserting section 4251(e).
Section 123(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 133 Stat. 1234) is amended by striking six years and inserting eight years.
If the Secretary of the Navy seeks to acquire one or more cable laying and repair ships, the Secretary shall seek to enter into an agreement with an appropriate vessel construction manager pursuant to which the vessel construction manager shall seek to enter into a contract for the construction of such ships.
The Secretary of the Navy shall ensure that ships procured under subsection (a)—
use a design based on nondevelopmental vessels with commercial design standards; and
to the maximum extent practicable, are constructed using commercial construction practices.
The Secretary of the Navy (in this section referred to as the Secretary) may convey, without consideration, to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama (in this section referred to as the Commission), all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to 3 surplus F–14D Tomcat aircraft, (Bureau Numbers 164341, 164602, 159437), which are excess to the operational requirements of the Navy.
The conveyance under subsection (a) shall be made by means of a conditional deed of gift.
The aircraft being conveyed under subsection (a) do not have any capability for use as a platform for launching or releasing munitions or any other combat capability that it was designed to have.
The Secretary shall include in the instrument of conveyance of the aircraft under subsection (a)—
a condition that the Secretary is not required to repair or alter the condition of the aircraft before conveying ownership of the aircraft;
a condition that the Secretary shall provide any maintenance and operations manuals that—
are specific to the F–14D aircraft; and
the Secretary has sufficient intellectual property rights to convey;
a condition that the Secretary shall provide excess spare parts to make one of the F–14D aircraft flyable or able to complete a static display, provided that any part transferred is from existing Navy stock, with no items being procured on behalf of the Commission; and
a condition that the Secretary will not be responsible for transferring any additional parts or providing any additional support beyond what is stated in this section, during or after the conveyance of the aircraft.
The Secretary may—
authorize the Commission to enter into agreements with qualified nonprofit organizations for the purpose of restoring and operating the aircraft transferred under subsection (a) for public display, airshows, and commemorative events to preserve naval aviation heritage; and
if the Secretary authorizes any such agreement, require such additional terms and conditions in the instrument of conveyance as appropriate to protect the interests of the United States.
The Secretary shall include in the instrument of conveyance of the aircraft under subsection (a)—
a condition that the Commission shall operate and maintain the aircraft in compliance with all applicable limitations and maintenance requirements imposed by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration; and
a condition that the Commission shall not convey any ownership interest in, or transfer possession of , the aircraft to another party without the prior approval of the Secretary; and
a condition that if the Secretary determines at any time that the Commission has failed to comply with the conditions set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2), all right, title, and interest in and to the aircraft, including any repair or alteration of the aircraft, shall revert to the United States, and the United States shall have the right of immediate possession of the aircraft.
The conveyance of an aircraft under subsection (a) shall be made at no cost to the United States. Any costs associated with such conveyance, costs of determining compliance with terms of the conveyance, and costs of operation and maintenance of the aircraft conveyed shall be borne by the Commission.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, upon the conveyance of ownership of the aircraft under subsection (a), the United States shall not be liable for any death, injury, loss, or damage that results from any use of such aircraft by any person other than the United States.
The transfer and use of the aircraft under subsection (a) is subject to all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations, including—
the Arms Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2751 et seq.);
the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4811 et seq.);
International Traffic in Arms Regulations (22 C.F.R. 120 et seq.);
Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. 730 et seq.);
Foreign Assets Control Regulations (31 C.F.R. 500 et seq.); and
chapter 37 of title 18, United States Code (commonly known as the Espionage Act).
The Secretary of Defense may not destroy, dismantle, scrap, cannibalize, or otherwise render permanently inoperable any aircraft that—
was manufactured prior to December 31, 1945; and
is in the custody or administrative control of the Department of the Navy as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
Aircraft described in subsection (a) may only be—
retained in the inventory of the Department of the Navy;
transferred to an eligible entity; or
deaccessioned under a plan approved by the Secretary of Defense that supports the long-term preservation of such aircraft, consistent with guidelines described in the committee report accompanying this Act.
The Secretary of Defense may waive the prohibition under subsection (a) on a case-by-case basis only if—
the aircraft is determined by qualified personnel of the Department of the Navy or another eligible entity to be beyond practical restoration or preservation;
no eligible entity expresses interest in accepting the aircraft during the one-year period following the publication of public notice of the availability of the aircraft for transfer;
the Secretary submits to the congressional defense committees written notification and justification of the waiver; and
a period of 30 days has elapsed following the date of such submission.
In this section:
The term aircraft includes fixed-wing and rotary-wing manned aircraft.
The term eligible entity means—
the National Naval Aviation Museum, the National Museum of the Marine Corps, or another official Department of Defense museum; or
a Federal department or agency, nonprofit institution, or museum, with demonstrated indoor preservation and public display capabilities.
Subject to the availability of appropriations for such purposes, the Secretary of the Navy may procure twelve or more E–2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft during fiscal years 2027 through 2029 by entering into one block buy contract.
The Secretary of the Navy may enter into one or more contracts, beginning in fiscal year 2027, for advance procurement and economic order quantities of components and material associated with the aircraft for which authorization to enter into a block buy contract is provided under subsection (a).
Any contract entered into under subsection (a) shall provide that—
any obligation of the United States to make a payment under the contract is subject to the availability of appropriations for that purpose; and
the total liability of the Federal Government for termination of the contract shall be limited to the total amount of funding obligated to the contract at the time of termination.
Subsection (i) of section 9062 of title 10, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
The Secretary of the Air Force shall—
during the period beginning on October 1, 2026, and ending on October 1, 2035, maintain a total aircraft inventory of fighter aircraft of not less than 1,800 aircraft; and
maintain a total aircraft inventory of combat-coded fighter aircraft of not less than 1,369 aircraft by December 31, 2030.
In this subsection:
The term attrition reserve means aircraft procured and held specifically to replace anticipated aircraft losses resulting from peacetime accidents (mishaps) or wartime attrition.
The term backup aircraft inventory means aircraft authorized in addition to the primary mission aircraft inventory to allow for scheduled and unscheduled depot-level maintenance, modifications, inspections, and repair without reducing the combat-ready fleet.
The term combat-coded with respect to an aircraft means an aircraft that is—
assigned to a combat-designated operational squadron or unit for the performance of its wartime mission;
formally categorized within the Department of the Air Force inventory management system as primary mission aircraft inventory, backup aircraft inventory, or attrition reserve; and
resourced and maintained to provide immediate operational capacity and the necessary organic depth required to sustain combat mission effectiveness through modernization cycles, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, and combat attrition.
The term fighter aircraft—
means an aircraft that—
is designated by a mission design series prefix of F– or A–;
is manned by one or two crewmembers; and
executes single-role or multi-role missions, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attack, air interdiction, suppression or destruction of enemy air defenses, close air support, strike control and reconnaissance, combat search and rescue support, or airborne forward air control; and
does not include collaborative combat aircraft.
The term primary mission aircraft inventory means aircraft assigned to meet the primary aircraft authorization to a unit for the performance of its wartime mission.
The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect on October 1, 2026.
Subject to section 3501 of title 10, United States Code, except as provided in this section, the Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more multiyear contracts for the procurement of F–35A, F–35B, and F–35C aircraft.
A contract described in subsection (a) is deemed to meet the requirements of section 3501(a) of such title.
Section 3501(i)(2) of such title shall not apply for purposes of this section.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report with respect to contracts described in subsection (a) containing preliminary findings of the agency head described in paragraphs (1) through (6) of section 3501(a) of such title, together with the basis for such findings.
The Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more contracts for advance procurement of key components of F–35A, F–35B, and F–35C aircraft in economic order quantities.
The Secretary of Defense shall include in any certification submitted under section 3501(i)(3) of such title a description of the specific components the Secretary intends to procure under the authority provided by paragraph (1).
Subject to section 3501 of title 10, United States Code, except as provided in this section, the Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more multiyear contracts for the procurement of F–15EX aircraft.
A contract described in subsection (a) is deemed to meet the requirements of section 3501(a) of such title.
Section 3501(i)(2) of such title shall not apply for purposes of this section.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report with respect to contracts described in subsection (a) containing preliminary findings of the agency head described in paragraphs (1) through (6) of section 3501(a) of such title, together with the basis for such findings.
The Secretary of Defense may not exercise the authority provided by subsection (a) until the Secretary submits to Congress a certification that the contractor concerned has the ability to increase production to achieve the objective inventory goal of not less than 268 F–15EX aircraft by 2035.
The Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more contracts for advance procurement of key components of F–15EX aircraft in economic order quantities.
The Secretary of Defense shall include in any certification submitted under section 3501(i)(3) of such title a description of the specific components the Secretary intends to procure under the authority provided by paragraph (1).
Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Air Force may not divest, retire, or otherwise reduce the inventory of MQ–9 aircraft below the baseline inventory level until September 30, 2031.
Any reduction in the inventory of MQ–9 aircraft resulting from combat loss, attrition, or other unplanned damage shall not be considered divestment or other reduction for purposes of paragraph (1).
The Secretary of the Air Force shall, to the maximum extent practicable, take actions to restore the inventory of MQ–9 aircraft to the baseline inventory level following any reduction in inventory described in subparagraph (A).
Not later than 30 days after any reduction in inventory described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees a notification that includes the following:
A description of the circumstances resulting in the combat loss, attrition, or other unplanned damage of the aircraft.
An assessment of the impact of such reduction in inventory on operational capability.
A plan, if any, to replace the aircraft or otherwise mitigate the reduction in inventory.
In this subsection, the term baseline inventory level means the total number of MQ–9 primary mission aircraft in the inventory of the Air Force as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
The Secretary of the Air Force shall ensure that the total inventory of MQ–9 aircraft is not fewer than 180 aircraft on and after October 1, 2028.
The total inventory described in paragraph (1) may include a mix of all variants of MQ–9 aircraft.
The Secretary of the Air Force shall, in consultation with the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, conduct an analysis of alternatives for a medium-altitude intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capability to replace the MQ–9 aircraft.
The analysis required by paragraph (1) shall evaluate options that meet or exceed the operational capabilities provided by the MQ–9 aircraft as of the date of the analysis, including endurance, survivability, sensor capability, and mission flexibility.
Not later than December 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Air Force shall—
submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the results of the analysis required by subsection (c); and
provide a briefing to such committees on such results.
Section 9062 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the Secretary of the Air Force may not retire, prepare to retire, or place in storage or in backup aircraft inventory any E–3 aircraft if such actions would reduce the total aircraft inventory for such aircraft below 16.
If the Secretary of the Air Force procures enough E–7 Wedgetail aircraft to accomplish the required mission load, the prohibition under subparagraph (A) shall not apply to actions taken to reduce the total aircraft inventory for E–3 aircraft to below 16 after the date on which such E–7 Wedgetail aircraft are delivered.
The Secretary of the Air Force may not pause, cancel, or terminate the E–7 Wedgetail aircraft program or prepare to pause, cancel, or terminate such program.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, Air Force, and available to the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for travel expenses, not more than 60 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of the Air Force submits to the congressional defense committees the report required by section 154 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 767).
Not later than January 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Air Force, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Transportation Command and in consultation with the commanders of the geographic combatant commands, shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report that includes a comprehensive and detailed strategic plan for the development, acquisition, modernization, and integration of total force mobility capabilities of the Department of Defense through fiscal year 2047.
The plan required by subsection (a) shall include each of the following:
An assessment of—
contested operations across all domains over great distances;
contested lines of communication extending from the United States to operational theaters;
adversary capabilities designed to target United States mobility forces, mobility infrastructure, and logistics networks; and
the requirement for mobility forces to operate in degraded, contested, and highly contested environments, including austere locations, battle-damaged airfields, degraded runways, ramps, taxiways, and other runway-agnostic operating environments.
An assessment of the current mobility force, including—
the ability of Air Mobility Command to support the requirements of all of the Armed Forces in competition, crisis, and conflict;
the ability of Air Mobility Command to support agility concepts for all of the Armed Forces simultaneously in conflict, including agile combat employment, multi-domain task force operations, expeditionary advanced base operations, and distributed maritime operations;
the vulnerability of mobility forces, mobility infrastructure, and global logistics networks in contested environments; and
the degree to which existing mobility capability and capacity meet homeland defense priorities, nuclear mission obligations, and simultaneous global operational demands.
An identification of the attributes required of future mobility forces, including—
secure beyond line-of-sight connectivity with—
service and joint data links;
service and joint battle management networks; and
service and joint command and control networks;
automation and autonomous aviation capabilities;
the ability to operate across the full spectrum of threat environments;
flexibility across the full scale of mobility missions, including—
small and distributed missions;
tactical, operational, and strategic missions; and
oversized and large-volume movements;
the ability to operate from runway-agnostic and degraded operating locations;
fuel-resilient aviation concepts, including aircraft capable of operating on traditional fuels and emerging propulsion systems, such as electric, hybrid-electric, and hydrogen;
consideration of aircraft designed with open architecture enabling rapid integration of mission systems, including palletized effects, electronic warfare, battle management, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities; and
signature management capabilities that enable mobility aircraft to operate globally while maintaining operational security, including the ability to comply with international aviation safety requirements while limiting exposure of aircraft identity, position, and mission information through publicly accessible tracking systems or other unclassified means.
An evaluation of future tanker capabilities, including—
collaborative tanker aircraft supporting collaborative, distant, and distributed refueling operations in contested environments;
penetrating low-observable tanker aircraft capable of operating in highly contested environments;
low-signature tanker concepts, including blended-wing body tanker aircraft;
tactical tanker aircraft capable of supporting distributed tanker and airlift operations;
modernization of legacy tanker aircraft through connectivity and full automation;
tanker aircraft designed with open architecture and multi-role capability enabling complementary missions, including electronic warfare, battle management, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities;
opportunities to expand tanker capacity through commercial tanker constructs, including Government-owned, contractor-operated models; and
the establishment of a Civil Reserve Air Fleet tanker capability that would enable the commercial operation of tanker aircraft to provide immediate and dependable augmentation of United States tanker capacity.
An evaluation of future airlift capabilities across mission scales, including—
autonomous airlift platforms supporting small and tactical missions;
the establishment of a distributed maneuver pool composed of autonomous and highly automated mobility platforms capable of supporting maneuvering units and distributed operations, with mobility capabilities owned or controlled by lower-echelon multi-service operational units and integrated into the broader mobility enterprise;
improved and automated tactical and operational airlift capabilities supporting maneuver and distributed operations;
new and improved strategic airlift capabilities supporting global force flow and theater reinforcement, including the development of a next-generation strategic airlifter to augment or replace the C–17 aircraft and establishing a new standard for military airlift through improved capability, capacity, survivability, connectivity, automation, and operational flexibility;
oversized and large-volume airlift systems, including plans to support current and future needs of the United States Space Force and other agencies;
vertical takeoff and landing and short-field takeoff and landing airlift platforms supporting multi-service agility and distributed operations;
delivery systems, including automated airdrop, glider, towable, and hybrid aircraft logistics platforms; and
opportunities to expand airlift capacity through commercial operation of strategic airlift aircraft, Civil Reserve Air Fleet participation, and service-based acquisition models, such as effects-as-a-service.
An assessment of command and control architecture required to support mobility operations in contested environments, including—
the use of maneuver battle management using technologies such as artificial intelligence, algorithmic allocation systems, and advanced data architectures to integrate logistics, maneuver, and mobility operations across the Joint Force; and
integration of distributed traditional air battle management capabilities within mobility forces.
An assessment of opportunities to expand mobility capability and capacity through commercial aviation capabilities, including—
the expansion of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet;
the establishment of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet tanker capability;
the commercial operation of excess, transitioned, or Government-owned strategic airlift and tanker aircraft;
the use of service-based acquisition models such as mobility-as-a-service or effects-as-a-service; and
the role of nonprime aviation companies in enabling the building of the future mobility enterprise.
The plan required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Section 146(a)(3)(B) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2455), as most recently amended by section 145(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 760), is further amended by striking 2026 and inserting 2028.
Section 146(b)(1) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2455), as most recently amended by section 145(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 760), is further amended by striking 2026 and inserting 2028.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the use of the Department of Defense for research, development, test, and evaluation, as specified in the funding table in section 4201.
Section 218(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 4171 note) is amended by striking relating to software and covered hardware and inserting under the Software Acquisition Pathways pursuant to section 3603 of title 10, United States Code,.
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and in coordination with secretaries of the military departments and the Director of the Missile Defense Agency, as the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate, develop, test, evaluate, demonstrate, and transition to production a portfolio of alternative, affordable, low-cost weapon systems in each of the following categories:
Hypersonic strike systems.
Cruise missiles.
Shoulder-launched missiles.
Extended range munitions.
Mid-range integrated air and missile defense interceptors.
Exo-atmospheric interceptors.
Short-range integrated air and missile defense interceptors.
Medium-range air-to-air missiles.
Programs carried out under paragraph (1) shall—
employ innovative acquisition strategies, including rapid prototyping, digital engineering, modular open-system architectures, commercial-off-the-shelf components where feasible, and other cost-reduction initiatives to achieve significantly lower unit costs than current baseline systems while maintaining operationally relevant performance;
prioritize expendable designs optimized for attritable, high-volume employment, compatibility with existing launch platforms, logistics infrastructure, and command-and-control networks, and the ability to complement existing programs of record;
be designed to enable production at scale in significantly greater quantities than current program of record systems through the prioritization of manufacturing ease and speed;
include technology maturation, risk reduction, flight testing, and transition planning to low-rate initial production no later than fiscal year 2030 for each category specified in subsection (a); and
establish specific cost and performance targets through competitive analysis, market research, prototyping, and experimentation.
In this section:
The term alternative low-cost systems means weapon systems in the categories listed in subsection (a) that are designed to achieve unit procurement costs significantly lower than existing program of record systems while delivering the minimum requirements set forth by the Secretary.
The term cruise missiles means turbojet-powered missiles designed for standoff precision strike against land or sea targets at ranges generally exceeding 250 nautical miles, with simplified guidance, propulsion, and airframe designs.
The term exo-atmospheric interceptors means kinetic hit-to-kill interceptors designed for ballistic missile defense in the exo-atmosphere, with engagement ranges generally exceeding 300 nautical miles (or equivalent altitudes above 50 nautical miles) and closing speeds of not less than Mach 8.
The term extended range munitions means ground-launched precision munitions designed for extended standoff strike at ranges generally exceeding 50 nautical miles.
The term hypersonic strike systems means systems capable of Mach 5 or greater flight with maneuverability, designed for long-range precision strike against time-sensitive, defended, or high-value targets at ranges generally exceeding 550 nautical miles.
The term medium-range air-to-air missiles means guided missiles providing beyond-visual-range air-to-air intercept capability with diverse target-set engagement potential, performing intercepts at not less than 60 nautical miles and with a maximum speed of not less than Mach 3.
The term mid-range integrated air and missile defense interceptors means interceptors optimized for integrated air and missile defense against cruise missiles, aircraft, and short- to medium-range ballistic missiles, with engagement ranges of not less than 30 nautical miles and speeds of not less than Mach 3.5.
The term short-range integrated air and missile defense interceptors means interceptors for terminal defense against aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial systems, with engagement ranges of not less than five nautical miles and maximum speeds of not less than Mach 2.
The term shoulder-launched missiles means man-portable or vehicle-launched missiles providing fire-and-forget or command-guided anti-armor capability at ranges of not less than one nautical mile.
Section 222(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92) is amended—
paragraph (1), by striking Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and inserting Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering;
in paragraph (2), by striking Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and inserting Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering;
in paragraph (4)—
in subparagraph (A), by striking for all or a portion of the overhead costs incurred in support of the arrangement and inserting for the overhead and infrastructure costs needed to support delivery of JASON’s technical assessments; and
in subparagraph (C), by striking a Federal agency that engages JASON and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting the Department of Defense may engage with another Federal agency that routinely uses JASON services to arrange for that agency to pay a proportional percentage of the total overhead and infrastructure costs needed to support delivery of JASON’s technical assessments.; and
in paragraph (6), in the matter before subparagraph (A), by inserting until December 31, 2035 after this Act.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall promulgate a modified and streamlined process for developing, negotiating and concluding international agreements relating to science and technology cooperation, including memoranda of understanding and project agreements.
The process promulgated under subsection (a) shall—
comply with all other statutory requirements;
delegate authority to the maximum extent practicable;
minimize administrative tasks;
eliminate duplicative reviews; and
impose reasonable timelines for intra-Department of Defense coordination.
Section 249 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note) is repealed.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for containerized instrumentation programs of the Test Resource Management Center, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, in consultation with the Director of the Test Resource Management Center and the Secretaries of the military departments, submits to the congressional defense committees the report described in subsection (b).
The report described in this subsection is a report that details the feasibility, advisability, and cost-benefit analysis of establishing a common architecture for integrating unmanned systems to act as instrumentation platforms for telemetry, flight safety systems, and multi-modal data collection.
The report described in paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A comparative evaluation of the total lifecycle costs, operational benefits, and limitations of alternative manned, containerized, and unmanned vessel instrumentation capabilities. Such evaluation shall include the following:
A direct comparison of the Blue Water Instrumentation (BWI) program at Point Mugu Sea Range with containerized approaches such as the Broad Ocean Area Data Collection System (BOADCS) and the Mobile Open-System Architecture Instrumentation Containers (MOSAIC) program.
An analysis of scalability, adaptability, and agility, contrasting the unmanned systems model of Blue Water Instrumentation with the logistics and crewing demands of containerized systems.
A cost-per-event and cost-per-stream analysis for each approach, accounting for platform, personnel, logistics, and sustainment costs.
An evaluation of whether distributed, unmanned platforms can meet or exceed the data collection requirements for the most stressing test scenarios, including hypersonic vehicle tracking, exoatmospheric intercepts, and terminal area data collection.
A time-phased investment and transition strategy for making an unmanned architecture the primary approach for future maritime test instrumentation investments. The strategy shall identify specific legacy or containerized programs to be divested or consolidated to fund this transition.
The report described in paragraph (1) shall be in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
In this section, the term containerized instrumentation program means any program of the Test Resource Management Center that primarily relies on packaging test and evaluation instrumentation in roll-on and roll-off shipping containers for deployment on manned vessels, including—
the Broad Ocean Area Data Collection System (BOADCS), which includes the Maritime Networked Telemetry Asset (MaNTA) system; and
the Mobile Open-System Architecture Instrumentation Containers (MOSAIC) program.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Operation and Maintenance, Defense-wide, and available to the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering for travel purposes, not more than 90 percent may be obligated or expended until the Directed Energy Working Group provides to the congressional defense committees a briefing as required by section 219(d)(6) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 10 U.S.C. 4205 note).
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Integrated Combat Systems of the Department of the Navy, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of the Navy submits to the congressional defense committees the certification required by subsection (c).
The Secretary of the Navy shall install and demonstrate, aboard one or more destroyers, an operational prototype of the warfighting data ecosystem that includes—
a shipboard artificial intelligence data engine and sensor-integration layer that provides standardized application programming interfaces to shipboard sensors and enables cross-modal data fusion and artificial intelligence-enabled detection and classification applications;
a common shipboard graphics processing unit-centric compute and software platform that integrates data workflows across combat systems, command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence systems, and hull, mechanical, and electrical systems; and
a commercially derived development and test pipeline, including software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop capabilities, that automate integration, verification, certification, and deployment of shipboard software on representative hardware.
After completion of the installation and demonstration required by subsection (b), the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a certification that the Secretary has installed and demonstrated the operational prototype of the warfighting data ecosystem as required by subsection (b).
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operations and maintenance, Defense-wide, and available for travel expenses for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, not more than 85 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of Defense provides each of the following to the congressional defense committees:
The strategy and plan required by section 236(e) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note).
The report on Gaming, exercising, modeling, and simulation to support great power competition requested in Senate report 117–130 accompanying the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263).
Chapter 305 of title 10, United States Code is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense shall, in consultation with such other government organizations as the Secretary considers appropriate, establish a program to work with institutions of higher education that perform fundamental basic research activities—
to support protection of intellectual property, controlled information, key personnel, and information about critical technologies relevant to national security;
to limit undue influence, including through foreign talent programs, by countries to exploit United States technology within the Department of Defense research, science and technology, and innovation enterprise;
to support efforts toward development of domestic talent in relevant scientific and engineering fields; and
to prepare United States students studying abroad through the National Security Education Program of the Department or other similar undergraduate or post-graduate programs to recognize and protect themselves against recruitment or exploitation efforts by agents of a foreign power (as defined in section 101 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801)).
The program required by subsection (a) shall be developed and executed to the maximum extent practicable with institutions of higher education and other educational and research organizations conducting fundamental basic research for the Department of Defense, and aligned to the maximum extent practicable with similar efforts across the Federal Government.
In selecting institutions of higher education under this subsection, the Secretary shall prioritize selection of institutions of higher education that the Secretary determines demonstrate a record of excellence in industrial security in academia and in research and development.
The program required by subsection (a) shall include development of the following:
Information exchange fora and information repositories to enable awareness of security threats and influence operations being executed against the United States research, technology, and innovation enterprise, including support coordinating relevant elements of the Department of Defense and the rest of the Federal Government.
Training and other support for institutions of higher education to promote security and limit undue influence on institutions and personnel, including financial support for execution for such activities.
The capacity of government and academic institutions and institutions of higher education to assess whether individuals affiliated with Department of Defense programs have participated in or are currently participating in foreign talent programs or expert recruitment programs, or are otherwise being targeted for exploitation by an agent of a foreign power.
Opportunities to collaborate with defense researchers and research organizations in secure facilities to promote protection of critical information and strengthen defense against agents of foreign powers.
Regulations and procedures—
for government and academic organizations and personnel to support the goals of the program; and
that are consistent with policies that protect open and scientific exchange in fundamental research and coordinated to the maximum extent practicable with similar efforts across the Federal Government.
Policies to limit or prohibit funding provided by the Department of Defense for institutions of higher education or individual researchers who knowingly violate regulations developed under the program, including regulations relating to foreign talent programs.
Policies to limit or prohibit funding provided by the Department of Defense for institutions of higher education or individual researchers who knowingly conduct joint research activities or projects, co-author scholarly publications, technical reports, or research outputs, contract, or make other financial arrangements with entities or individuals employed by such entities in the list described in paragraph (9), which policies shall include—
use of such list as part of a risk assessment decision matrix during proposal evaluations, including the development of a question for proposers or broad area announcements that require proposers to disclose any joint research activities or projects, co-authored scholarly publications, technical reports, research outputs, or contractual or financial connections with such entities or individuals employed by such entities;
a requirement that the Department shall notify a proposer of suspected noncompliance with a policy issued under this paragraph and provide not less than 30 days to take actions to remedy such noncompliance;
the establishment of an appeals procedure under which a proposer may appeal a negative decision on a proposal if the decision is based on a determination informed by such list;
a requirement that each awardee of funding provided by the Department shall disclose to the Department any joint research activities or projects, co-authored scholarly publications, technical reports, research outputs, contract, or financial arrangement made with such an entity or individual employed by such entity during the period of the award; and
a requirement that each awardee of funding provided by the Department shall provide to the Department an annual certification of compliance with policies promulgated pursuant to this paragraph.
Initiatives to support the transition of the results of academic institution research programs into defense capabilities.
A list of entities of the People’s Republic of China, the Russian Federation, and other countries that—
have a history of improper technology transfer, intellectual property theft, or cyber or human espionage;
operate under the direction of the armed forces or intelligence agency of the applicable country;
are known—
to recruit foreign individuals for the purpose of transferring knowledge to advance military or intelligence efforts of a foreign government; or
to provide misleading information or otherwise attempt to conceal the connections of an individual or institution to a defense or an intelligence agency of the applicable country;
pose a serious risk of improper technology transfer of data, technology, or research that is not published or publicly available; or
are on any of the following lists:
Any of the following lists maintained by the Bureau of Industry and Security of th Department of Commerce:
The Entity List set forth in Supplement No. 4 to part 744 of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations.
The Universal List set forth in Supplement No. 6 of part 744 of that title.
The Military-End User List set forth in Supplement No. 7 to part 744 of that title.
The Denied Persons List maintained pursuant to section 764.3(a)(2) of that title.
The list of specially designed nationals and blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Asserts Control of the Department of the Treasury (commonly referred to as the SDN list).
The list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States required by section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
The lists of debarred parties maintained by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls of the Department of State pursuant to section 38(g)(4)of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2778(g))(4).
The list of telecommunications companies of the People’s Republic of China described in section 889(f)(3) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorizations Act of 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).
The list of semiconductor companies of the People’s Republic of China described in section 5949(i)(3) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 41 U.S.C. 4713 note).
The list of biotechnology companies of concern maintained under section 851(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).
The list of entities that produce or provide communications equipment or service on the list published by the Federal Communications Commission under section 2(a) of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 (47 U.S.C. 1601(a)).
A list maintained under clause (i), (ii), (iv), or (v) of section 2(d)(2)(B) of the Act entitled An Act to ensure that the goods made with forced labor in Xinjiang Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China do not enter the United States market, and for other purposes(Public Law 117–18; 22 U.S.C. 6901 note), approved December 23, 2021 (commonly referred to as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act).
The list described in subparagraph (A) shall be developed and continuously updated in consultation with the Bureau of Industry and Security of the Department of Commerce, the Director of National Intelligence, United States institutions of higher education that conduct significant Department of Defense research or engineering activities, and other appropriate individuals and organizations.
A list, developed and continuously updated in consultation with the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine and such Government agencies as the Secretary considers appropriate, of foreign talent programs that the Secretary determines pose a threat to the national security interests of the United States.
In developing and updating such list, the Secretary shall consider—
the extent to which a foreign talent program or an agent of a foreign power—
poses a threat to research funded by the Department of Defense; and
engages in, or facilitates, cyber attacks, theft, espionage, attempts to gain ownership of or influence over companies, or otherwise interferes in the affairs of the United States; and
any other factor the Secretary considers appropriate.
Development of measures of effectiveness and performance to assess and track progress of the Department of Defense across the program, which measures shall include—
the evaluation of currently available data to support the assessment of such measures, including the identification of areas in which gaps exist that may require collection of completely new data, or modifications to existing data sets;
current means and methods for the collection of data in an automated manner, including the identification of areas in which gaps exist that may require new means for data collection or visualization of such data; and
the development of an analysis and assessment methodology framework to make tradeoffs between the measures developed under this paragraph and other metrics related to assessing undue foreign influence on the Department of Defense research enterprise, such as commercial due diligence, beneficial ownership, and foreign ownership, control, and influence.
Not later than March 30, 2025, and each March 30 thereafter until December 31, 2040—
each head of a Department of Defense component that awards grants for research shall carry out a review of a representative sample of the research grants awarded by the respective component in the previous fiscal year to ensure that the component is awarding grants in compliance with the applicable policies of the Department; and
the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering shall carry out a separate review of a representative sample of the research grants awarded by such components in the previous fiscal year.
Not later than October 1, 2020, for the purpose of maintaining appropriate security controls over research activities, technical information, and intellectual property, the Secretary shall, in conjunction with such public and private entities as the Secretary considers appropriate, establish streamlined procedures to collect appropriate information relating to individuals, including United States citizens and foreign nationals, who participate in defense research and development activities.
With respect to fundamental research programs, the academic liaison designated under subsection (h) shall establish policies and procedures to collect, consistent with the best practices of Government agencies that fund academic research, appropriate information relating to individuals who participate in fundamental research programs.
The procedures required by paragraph (1) shall include procedures to protect such information from release, consistent with applicable regulations.
The procedures required by paragraph (1) may include procedures developed, in coordination with such public and private entities as the Secretary considers appropriate, to report such information to existing Government information systems and repositories.
Not later than March 30, 2027, and not later than March 30 of each year thereafter until December 31, 2040, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the activities carried out under the program required by subsection (a), the periodic reviews conducted pursuant to subsection (d), and the waivers issued under section 4147 of this title.
Each report submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A description of the activities conducted and the progress made under the program.
With respect to the periodic reviews conducted pursuant to subsection (d), the following:
The total number of research grants awarded by the Department in the fiscal year covered by the reviews.
The number of reviews carried out pursuant to subsection (d)(1).
The number of reviews carried out pursuant to subsection (d)(2).
A description of the processes by which the heads of the components described in paragraph (1) of subsection (d) and the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering conducted the reviews under such subsection.
An assessment of issues identified during the reviews carried out under subsection (d), including a list of grants that were identified as having not been awarded in compliance with applicable policies of the Department of Defense.
The findings of the Secretary with respect to the program.
Such recommendations as the Secretary may have for legislative or administrative action relating to the matters described in subsection (a), including actions relating to foreign talent programs.
Identification and discussion of the gaps in legal authorities that need to be improve to enhance the security of research institutions of higher education performing defense research.
A description of the actions taken by such institutions to comply with such best practices and guidelines as may be established by under the program.
A description of the status of the measures of effectiveness and performance described in subsection (c)(11) for the period covered by such report, including an analytical assessment of the impact of such measures on the goals of the program.
With respect to waivers described in paragraph (1), the following:
The terms and contents of any waivers issued under section 4147 of this title in the period covered by the report;
any trends in—
the number of waivers issued under such section over time; and
the types of contracts to which such waivers pertain; and
the processes used by the Secretary to verify that covered institutions (as defined in such section) are in compliance with the requirements of such section.
The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Not later than January 1, 2021, and annually thereafter until December 31, 2032, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees the most recently updated lists described in paragraphs (9) and (10) of subsection (c).
Each list submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Each list submitted under paragraph (1) shall be published on a publicly accessible website of the Department of Defense in a searchable format.
The Secretary may submit and publish an updated list described in paragraph (1) more frequently than required by that paragraph, as the Secretary considers necessary.
The Secretary shall, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, designate an academic liaison with principal responsibility for working with the academic and research communities to protect Department-sponsored academic research of concern from undue foreign influence and threats.
The Secretary shall designate an individual under paragraph (1) who is an official of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering with experience—
working in security, counterintelligence, or academic research environments; and
with complex managerial tasks.
The duties of the academic liaison designated under paragraph (1) shall be as follows:
To serve as the liaison of the Department with the academic and research communities.
To execute initiatives of the Department relating to the protection of Department-sponsored academic research of concern from undue foreign influence and threats, including the program required by subsection (a).
To conduct outreach and education activities for the academic and research communities on undue foreign influence and threats to Department-sponsored academic research of concern.
To coordinate and align academic security policies with Department component agencies, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the intelligence community, and such Federal agencies as the Secretary considers appropriate.
To the extent practicable, to coordinate with the intelligence community to share, not less frequently than annually, with the academic and research communities unclassified information, including counterintelligence information, on threats from undue foreign influence.
Any other related responsibility, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
Each institution of higher education that receives Department of Defense funding and more than $50,000,000 in total Federal research funding annually shall designate at least one senior official to serve as the institution’s Chief Research Security Officer.
Each Chief Research Security Officer designated under (h) shall—
be a Vice President for Research, Chief Research Officer, or another designated senior official at the institution with responsibility for research administration, compliance, or institutional security, as determined appropriate by the institution; and
serve as the principal institutional officer and primary point of contact with the Department of Defense, and other appropriate Federal authorities on matters relating to research security associated with Department of Defense–funded research, including undue foreign influence, cybersecurity pertaining to such research, insider risk, and related threats.
The Chief Research Security Officer shall be eligible for sponsorship for an appropriate personnel security clearance for purposes of Department of Defense–funded research security, as determined by the Secretary of Defense.
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the appropriate Department of Defense security and counterintelligence authorities, and in coordination with other appropriate Federal intelligence agencies, shall establish processes—
to facilitate the sponsorship, adjudication, and issuance of appropriate personnel security clearances for Chief Research Security Officers, including through Department of Defense security clearance processes;
to provide threat-related training, briefings, and information, including classified briefings as appropriate, related to risks to Department of Defense-funded research; and
to ensure that information shared is relevant, timely, and provided solely for defensive, awareness, and protective purposes.
Information shared pursuant to this section shall be limited to information necessary to protect Department of Defense–funded research and associated research activities.
Nothing in this section shall be construed—
to require institutions of higher education to conduct classified research;
to reclassify or otherwise restrict fundamental research;
to impose new export control, classification, or security requirements on research that is otherwise unrestricted under applicable law or policy; or
to infringe upon academic freedom, freedom of expression, or other lawful academic activities.
The requirements of this section shall be implemented consistent with Department of Defense research security policies and programs, including National Security Presidential Memorandum–33 (relating to supported research and development national policy), issued January 2021, applicable Department of Defense directives and instructions, and guidance issued by the Office of Science and Technology Policy, as relevant to Department of Defense-funded research.
In this section:
The term agent of a foreign power has the meaning given such term in section 101 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801).
The term institution of higher education has the meaning given such term in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001).
The term intelligence community has the meaning given such term in section 3 of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3003).
Beginning on January 1, 2028, a covered institution may not enter into a contract with a covered nation or a foreign entity of concern.
Subject to the provisions of this subsection and subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense may, pursuant to a request submitted under paragraph (2) of this subsection, issue a waiver of the prohibition set forth in subsection (a).
A covered institution that desires to enter into a contract with a foreign entity of concern or a covered nation may submit to the Secretary of Defense, not later than 120 days before the institution enters into such a contract, a request to waive the prohibition set forth in subsection (a) with respect to such contract.
A waiver request submitted by a covered institution under clause (i) shall include—
the complete and unredacted text of the proposed contract for which the waiver is being requested, and if such original contract is not in English, a translated copy of the text into English (in a manner that complies with subsection (e)); and
a statement that—
is signed by the President or compliance officer of the institution designated in accordance with subsection (f); and
includes information that demonstrates that such contract is for the benefit of the institution’s mission and students and will promote the security, stability, and economic vitality of the United States.
A covered institution that has entered into a contract pursuant to a waiver issued under this section, the term of which is longer than the 1-year waiver period and the terms and conditions of which remain the same as the proposed contract submitted as part of the request for such waiver, may submit, not later than 120 days before the expiration of such waiver period, a request for a renewal of such waiver for the remainder of the contract term, but not to exceed a 4-year period (which shall include any information requested by the Secretary).
If a covered institution fails to submit a request under clause (i) or is not granted a renewal under such clause, such institution shall terminate such contract on the last day of the original 1-year waiver period.
The Secretary of Defense—
not later than 60 days before a covered institution enters into a contract pursuant to a waiver request under paragraph (2)(A), or before a contract described in paragraph (2)(B)(i) is renewed pursuant to a renewal request under such paragraph, shall notify the covered institution—
if the waiver or renewal will be issued by the Secretary; and
in a case in which the waiver or renewal will be issued, the date on which the 1-year waiver period starts;
may only issue a waiver under this subsection to a covered institution if the Secretary of Defense determines that the contract for which the waiver is being requested will both—
benefit the institution’s mission and students; and
promote the security, stability, and economic vitality of the United States; and
shall, when making the determination described in subparagraph (B)(ii), base such determination on the following factors:
The reasons for which the foreign entity of concern or covered nation has been so designated, and why those reasons do not apply to the contract for which waiver is being sought.
The foreign entity of concern or covered nation’s history of involvement with covered institutions.
The degree to which such a contract could provide access to information or technology which could materially benefit the national security of a covered nation or harm the national security of the United States.
Not later than 15 calendar days prior to issuing a waiver under this subsection, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives written notice of the intent of the Secretary to issue such waiver together with a justification for such waiver.
A waiver issued under this subsection to a covered institution with respect to a contract shall only—
waive the prohibition under subsection (a) for a 1-year period, or for the remainder of the term of the contract, but not to exceed 4 years; and
apply to the terms and conditions of the proposed contract submitted as part of the request for such waiver.
In the case of a covered institution that entered into contract with a covered nation or foreign entity of concern prior to January 1, 2028, and which contract remains in effect on such date, the Secretary shall notify the congressional defense committees within 90 days of enactment of this section.
A covered institution that has entered into a contract described in paragraph (1), the term of which is longer than the waiver period described in subparagraph (B) of such paragraph and the terms and conditions of which remain the same as the contract submitted as part of the request required under subparagraph (A) of such paragraph, may submit a request for renewal of the waiver issued under such paragraph in accordance with subsection (c)(2)(B).
In the case of a covered institution that enters into a contract with a foreign source that is not a covered nation or a foreign entity of concern but which, during the term of such contract, is redesignated as a covered nation or foreign entity of concern, such institution shall terminate such contract not later than 120 days after the Secretary notifies the covered institution of such designation or immediately requests a waiver.
Any information required to be disclosed under this section with respect to a contract that is not in English shall be translated, for purposes of such disclosure, by a person that is not an affiliated entity or agent of the covered nation or foreign entity of concern involved with such contract.
Each covered institution applying for a waiver under subsection (c), shall identify a compliance officer, who shall—
be a current employee or legally authorized agent of such institution; and
be responsible, on behalf of such institution, for personally certifying—
compliance with the prohibition under this section; and
the truth and accuracy of any information contained in such a waiver request.
In this section:
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the term contract means—
any agreement or memorandum of understanding for the acquisition, by purchase, lease, or barter, of property or services by or from a covered nation or foreign entity of concern; or
any affiliation, agreement, or similar transaction with a covered nation or foreign entity of concern that involves the use or exchange of the name, likeness, time, services, or resources of a covered institution.
The term contract does not include—
an agreement solely or primarily for the purposes of conducting a study-abroad program wherein students at covered institutions in the United States travel to a covered nation to study;
short-term, ancillary agreements such as employment contracts for visiting professorships or sponsored travel or visas of foreign nationals employed by institutions of higher education, excluding those affiliated with foreign entities of concern;
an arms-length agreement for the acquisition by purchase, lease, or barter of property or services for the covered institution from a foreign entity of concern; or
an agreement pertaining to a pre-existing campus or other satellite facility of a covered institution located in a covered nation or a joint facility of a covered institution and another entity located in a covered nation, including assignment or license of a trademark or copyright related to the name, likeness, mascot or similar image, unless that facility could provide access to information or technology which could materially benefit the national security of a covered nation or harm the national security of the United States.
The term covered institution means an institution of higher education that conducts research funded by the Department of Defense.
The term covered nation has the meaning given that term in section 4872(d) of this title.
The term foreign entity of concern means any person or entity on any of the following lists:
Any of the following lists maintained by the Bureau of Industry and Security of the Department of Commerce:
The Entity List set forth in Supplement No. 4 to part 744 of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations.
The Unverified List set forth in Supplement No. 6 part 744 of that title.
The Military End-User List set forth in Supplement No. 7 to part 744 of that title.
The Denied Persons List maintained pursuant to section 764.3(a)(2) of that title.
The list of specifically designated nationals and blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of Treasury (commonly referred to as the SDN list).
The list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States required by section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
The lists of debarred parties maintained by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls of the Department of State pursuant to section 38(g)(4)of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2778(g)(4)).
The list of telecommunications companies of the People’s Republic of China described in section 889(f)(3) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorizations Act of 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).
The list of semiconductor companies of the People’s Republic of China described in section 5949(i)(3) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year2023 (Public Law 117–263; 41 U.S.C. 4713 note).
The list of biotechnology companies of concern maintained under section 851(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).
The list of entities that produce or provide communications equipment or service on the list published by the Federal Communications Commission under section 2(a) of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 (47 U.S.C. 1601(a)).
A list maintained under clause (i), (ii), (iv), or (v) of section 2(d)(2)(B) of the Act entitled An Act to ensure that the goods made with forced labor in Xinjiang Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China d o not enter the United States market, and for other purposes, approved December 23, 2021 (Public Law 117–18; 22 U.S.C. 6901 note) (commonly referred to as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act).
The term institution of higher education has the meaning given that term in section 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002).
The following sections are hereby repealed:
Section 1277 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law 115–91; 50 U.S.C. 1914).
Section 1286 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note).
Section 1062(b)(2) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 2241 note) is amended by striking subsection (g) of section 1286 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (10 U.S.C. 2358 note), as amended by section 1299C of this Act, and inserting section 4146(h) of title 10, United States Code,.
Subchapter I of chapter 303 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, establish and maintain a Science, Technology, and Innovation Board (in this section referred to as the Board) for the purposes set forth in subsection (b).
The purpose of the Board is to advise, in response to taskings, the Secretary of Defense, the Deputy Secretary of Defense, the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the other Under Secretaries of the Department of Defense on matters relating to science, technology, research, engineering, manufacturing, acquisition process, and other matters that are of special interest to the Department of Defense.
The Board shall—
be concerned with the pressing and complex technology problems facing the Department of Defense in such areas as research, engineering, and manufacturing; and
ensure the identification of new technologies and new applications of technology in those areas to strengthen national security.
The Board shall maintain a public charter describing its functions, which shall be updated periodically as the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering considers necessary.
The Board shall report to the Secretary of Defense through the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering shall provide the Board with an Executive Director and the necessary support staff to manage the day-to-day operations of the Board and its ad hoc task forces.
The Board shall have a designated Federal officer to ensure compliance of the Board with all Department of Defense policies and procedures and relevant Federal regulations.
The Board may accept detailees from the military departments or components of the Department of Defense to serve as Armed Forces liaisons to the Board and support Board activities.
The Board shall be composed of not more than 50 members as full board members, who shall be eminent authorities in the fields of science, technology, innovation, and other matters germane to scientific, technological, and innovation topics of special interest to the Department of Defense.
The appointment of Board members shall be approved by the Department of Defense Appointing Authority for a term of service of one to four years, with annual renewals, in accordance with Department of Defense policy and procedures.
No member, unless approved by the Department of Defense Appointing Authority, may serve more than two consecutive terms of service on the Board, including its subcommittees, unless a waiver is approved by the Under Secretary.
The Department of Defense Appointing Authority shall appoint the leadership of the Board from among the members of the Board, in accordance with Department of Defense policy and procedures, for a term of service of one to two years, with annual renewal, which shall not exceed the term of a member's appointment to the Board.
Except for reimbursement for official Board-related travel and per diem, members of the Board members shall serve without compensation.
When necessary and consistent with the Board’s mission, the Board may establish subcommittees, task forces, panels, or working groups (hereafter referred to as subcommittees) to support Board activities.
The establishment of subcommittees shall be based upon a written determination, which shall include terms of reference, by the Department of Defense Appointing Authority or the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, as the Board’s sponsor.
All subcommittees operate in accordance with chapter 10 of title 5 (commonly known as the Federal Advisory Committee Act), governing Federal statutes and regulations, and Department of Defense policy and procedures.
A subcommittee shall not work independently of the Board and shall report all of its recommendations and advice solely to the Board for its thorough deliberation and discussion at a properly noticed and open Board meeting, unless the meeting must be closed in accordance with one or more of the exemptions found in section 552b of title 5.
A subcommittee has no authority to make decisions and recommendations, orally or in writing, on behalf of the Board.
Individual appointments to serve on subcommittees, which are separate and distinct from appointments to the Board itself, shall be approved by the Department of Defense Appointing Authority for a term of service of one to four years, with annual renewals, in accordance with Department of Defense policy and procedures.
The Board shall meet not less frequently than four times each year on a quarterly basis to update the Secretary and senior leadership on the activities of the Board.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall explore, establish, and carry out efforts to increase the inventory of air defense interceptors by pursuing each of the following pathways:
Cost-reduction initiatives for existing missile systems, including value engineering, design-for-manufacturability improvements, and supply-chain efficiencies.
Delivery of technical data packages on a contract-manufacturing basis to additional manufacturers, including manufacturers in the commercial sector, consistent with applicable technical data rights or agreements with the technical data owners.
Sourcing of interceptors from allies and partners and the exploration of opportunities to establish or expand domestic production lines for such interceptors, including through co-production, licensed manufacturing, or foreign military sales arrangements.
Performance of market research across industry and the Department of Defense science and technology reinvention laboratories to identify critical components for air defense interceptors and to support the rapid integration, testing, and qualification of a new or modified interceptor design.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report describing—
the specific activities conducted under each of the pathways required by subsection (a);
for each pathway, the potential improvements in unit cost, schedule, and production volume that could be achieved, as compared to any identified impacts on the performance, reliability, or other capabilities of the affected missile systems; and
the Secretary’s recommended path or paths forward, including any legislative or budgetary proposals necessary to implement or expand successful efforts.
Section 4092(b)(1)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking the semicolon and inserting , of which not more than 40 of the 140 positions may be occupied concurrently by 2 individuals, for a period not to exceed 90 days, for the purposes of accommodating recruitment cycles and managing personnel rotations, and any such concurrent occupancy shall be counted as a single position against the total number of positions set forth in this subparagraph;.
Section 238(a) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159), as amended by section 215 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60), is amended by striking or fiscal year 2026 and inserting , fiscal year 2026, or fiscal year 2027.
Not later than June 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, develop a framework for assessing the development or acquisition of future quantum computing systems, algorithms, or hybrid-quantum computing services informed by the practices developed under the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative.
In developing the framework required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall leverage the work products, insights, and lessons learned from the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative to help programs, technical developers, or source selection evaluators assess the following:
The ability of a system, algorithm, or service to achieve mission-relevant capability for the Department of Defense.
Risks and the sufficiency of risk mitigation steps in developing or acquiring a relevant system, algorithm, or service.
Timelines, technical enabling infrastructure, user requirements, doctrinal or employment conceptual needs, and training needs associated with the development or acquisition of a system, algorithm, or service.
Not later than December 1, 2027, the Secretary shall issue policy guidance to the Department regarding the use of the assessment framework required under subsection (a).
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a determination confirming whether the Additive Manufacturing for Rocket Propellant systems should be formally established as a program of record.
Not later than April 15, 2027, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a briefing on Army efforts relating to Additive Manufacturing for Rocket Propellant systems, including its procurement funding, and integration strategies.
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the implications of emerging technologies to support Department of Defense cognitive warfare.
The report submitted pursuant to subsection (a) shall include the following:
An identification and assessment of emerging technologies that have current or near-term application to cognitive warfare and operations in the information environment of the Department of Defense, including artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, synthetic media generation, analytical tools, including narrative intelligence, and neuroscience-based influence technologies.
An assessment of how adversaries of the United States, including China and Russia, are researching, developing, or employing such technologies in support of cognitive warfare objectives.
An assessment of how allies and partners of the United States, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, are researching, developing, or employing such technologies in support of cognitive warfare objectives.
An assessment of opportunities for the Department of Defense to leverage the defense industrial base, academic research institutions, and allied and partner countries in accelerating the development and fielding of relevant cognitive warfare technologies, including recommendations for public-private partnership mechanisms and international cooperation agreements.
Such other matters as the Secretary considers appropriate.
The Secretary of Defense shall seek to enter into an agreement with an organization the Secretary considers qualified, to perform the services covered by this section.
The Secretary shall seek to enter into the agreement described in paragraph (1) such that the services covered by this section are completed before the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Under an agreement between the Secretary and an organization under subsection (a), the organization shall carry out a comprehensive study analyzing current and future electronics requirements for defense systems, with particular emphasis on electronic warfare capabilities and semiconductor packaging solutions.
The study carried out under subsection (b) shall include the following:
An assessment that includes—
a system-level analysis of electronics needs and core functions across existing defense platforms;
documentation of current operational requirements, including—
electronic warfare systems’ parallel target acquisition capabilities;
threat differentiation and classification requirements; and
counter-electronic warfare response timeframes and performance specifications;
a catalog and categorization of existing technology implementations by type and application; and
an assessment of current semiconductor packaging functions and their relationship to system performance.
An analysis that includes engagement with semiconductor industry experts, including Intel Corporation and other leading manufacturers—
to map system-level requirements to semiconductor-level specifications;
to identify current technology gaps and limitations; and
to analyze existing supply chain dependencies and vulnerabilities.
Development of a definition of future requirements that includes—
a survey of stakeholders to identify desired future capabilities and performance targets;
next-generation electronics requirements across multiple domains;
scalability requirements and capability roadmaps; and
documentation of emerging technology scenarios.
Development of a framework that includes—
recommendations for standardized, modular electronics building blocks;
interface specifications to enable interoperable capabilities;
a framework for aggregate demand forecasting;
strategies for mitigating diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages; and
upgrade pathways that minimize system-wide impacts.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the organization with whom the Secretary entered into a contract under subsection (a) with regards to the study carried out under subsection (b).
The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
The findings described in paragraph (1).
An implementation roadmap with timeline and resource requirements.
Risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the use of the Armed Forces and other activities and agencies of the Department of Defense for expenses, not otherwise provided for, for operation and maintenance, as specified in the funding table in section 4301.
Section 319 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60) is amended—
in subsection (b)(1), by striking The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment and inserting The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs; and
in subsection (c), by striking The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs and inserting The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment.
The Secretary of Defense shall prioritize deployment of expeditionary solid waste disposal systems to contingency locations where open air burn pits remain in use, including Ar Riyan (Owen), Yemen, and other locations where members of the Armed Forces face elevated exposure risk due to the absence of feasible waste disposal alternatives.
Section 2911 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
The Secretary of Defense may procure sustainable aviation fuel for operational or training purposes at a cost that exceeds the cost of conventional petroleum-based aviation fuel.
Section 2911(e) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating paragraphs (9) through (13) as paragraphs (10) through (14), respectively; and
by inserting after paragraph (8) the following new paragraph (9):
The value of establishing operational redundancy in both the primary procurement sourcing of energy and the specific physical categories of energy utilized to support critical mission infrastructure, ensuring the continuous availability of independent baseload generation capacities in the event of commercial or regional utility disruption.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that any enhanced use lease executed, extended, or renewed under section 2667 and 2662 of title 10, United States Code, for purposes of infrastructure, facility modernization, or energy production of the Department of Defense shall include a comprehensive, formalized assessment of localized grid impacts and infrastructure power demands.
The assessment required under subsection (a) shall explicitly document and discuss the following:
The projected net effects of the proposed enhanced use lease on the stability, capacity, and reliability of the surrounding local commercial electric grid, including potential impacts on voltage regulation, transmission congestion, and utility-scale baseline capacity.
The total peak and baseline electrical power required to fully sustain and operate all new infrastructure, facilities, or capabilities constructed on the leased property under the enhanced use lease.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Transportation Command, the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency, and the Secretary of each military department, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive master plan to expand, harden, and optimize bulk storage capacity at strategic locations worldwide.
The plan required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
The establishment of theater-specific minimum operational storage capacity floors for all types of fuel used by the Department of Defense, including any high-priority strategic nodes capable of sustaining critical mission essential tasks for a minimum period of time determined by the Department without external replenishment.
A program and engineering assessment to construct hardened, semi-buried, underground, distributed, or geologic storage infrastructure and modular fueling nodes designed to withstand kinetic, cyber, and environmental threats.
A strategy to transition from single, large-scale vulnerable bulk fuel hubs to decentralized and redundant storage networks within individual installation footprints to mitigate single points of failure.
Upon completion of the plan required under subsection (a), and not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit the master plan to the congressional defense committees.
The plan submitted under paragraph (1) and any accompanying project list shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex to protect specific operational readiness thresholds and vulnerability profiles of designated strategic locations.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall revise the policy of the Department of Defense governing the use of open-air burn pits consistent with the findings and recommendations contained in the report by the Inspector General of the Department of Defense dated July 11, 2024, and entitled Management Advisory: Non-DoD Solid Waste Burning At or Near DoD-Occupied Sites (DODIG–2024–107).
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Transportation Command and the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive assessment of the current status, sourcing, and security of all forms of energy supplied to installations and operational forces of the Department of Defense.
The assessment required under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
A complete accounting of the geographic origin and supply chain pathways of all forms of energy, including hydrocarbons, purchased by the Department of Defense, explicitly identifying any direct or indirect reliance on foreign energy sources.
An evaluation of the systemic vulnerabilities within current energy supply lines of the Department, including single points of failure and military installations reliant on single-source commercial transmission or entities backed by a foreign country.
An inventory of current on-site energy storage capacities, including an assessment of whether existing capacities meet baseline operational requirements.
An assessment of potential disruptions to energy supplies of the Department under various kinetic and cyber conflict scenarios.
Section 322 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2701 note) is amended—
in subsection (b)(2), by striking removal and inserting remedial;
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d);
by inserting after subsection (b) the following new subsection (c):
Not less frequently than semiannually, the Secretary shall provide prompt notice to regional offices of the Environmental Protection Agency, appropriate State and local authorities, restoration advisory boards established under section 2705(d) of title 10, United States Code, and the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives of updates to the dashboard under subsection (b).
in subsection (d)(1), as redesignated by paragraph (2), by striking removal,.
The Secretary of Defense shall modify section 203.4 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations, to increase the limitation on the combined sum of purchase orders for technical assistance for public participation in defense environmental restoration activities under that section for an installation of the Department of Defense to a combined sum of purchase orders not to exceed $1,000,000 or, during any one year, the lesser of $100,000 or 1 percent of the total projected environmental restoration cost-to-complete of the installation.
The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study evaluating the cleanup and acquisition processes used by the Department of Defense as of the date of the enactment of this Act relating to remediation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances resulting from activities of the Department of Defense.
In conducting the study under subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall assess—
the extent to which the Department has identified and developed requirements for remediation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances across military installations where cleanup may be needed by the Department, including any fragmentation of requirements across military installations;
the extent to which the Department has analyzed the effectiveness of acquisition strategies and contracting approaches used to procure technologies and services for the remediation of such substances;
whether the cleanup and acquisition strategies of the Department account for the current state of remediation technologies for such substances;
whether the Department reviews the effectiveness of technologies previously employed at installations of the Department and considers the findings from such reviews when approaching future remediation efforts; and
any risks, gaps, or inefficiencies in the approach taken by the Department to remediate such substances, and any opportunities to improve speed, affordability, and outcomes.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall brief the congressional defense committees on the study conducted under subsection (a), with a report to follow at a mutually agreed upon time.
To the extent that it is consistent with the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) and any other applicable law, and except as provided in paragraph (2), not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall initiate interim remedial actions with respect to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances at not fewer than 50 covered sites.
The Secretary may initiate interim remedial actions with respect to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances at fewer than 50 covered sites only if the Secretary cannot find enough covered sites meeting the factor specified under section 300.415(b)(2)(i) of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations.
If the Secretary utilizes the exception under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report verifying that the Secretary assessed each covered site and was unable to find a sufficient number of covered sites meeting the factor specified in such subparagraph.
The Secretary shall ensure the timely completion of interim remedial actions at installations of the Department of Defense that are ongoing as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
In this section, the term covered site—
means, of the 723 installations of the Department assessed for use or potential use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances set forth in the publication of the Department dated March 31, 2025, the installations at which the estimated remedial investigation or feasibility study end date is delayed as compared to the date specified for such site in the similar publication of the Department dated December 2024; and
shall be interpreted consistent with the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) and any other applicable law.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, each Secretary concerned shall submit to the congressional defense committees and the Comptroller General of the United States a plan to address the following recommendations made by the Comptroller General:
Recommendations 16 through 20 in the report entitled Weapon Systems Maintenance: DOD Needs Enhanced Assessments and Exercises to Prepare for an Indo-Pacific Conflict(GAO–26–107710C).
Recommendations 7 through 11 in the report entitled Fuel Supply: DOD Is Not Prepared for a Contested Environment in the Indo-Pacific(GAO–25–107216C).
Recommendations 7 and 8 in the report entitled Force Structure: Army and Marine Corps Face Challenges Developing New Multi-Domain Units(GAO–24–106266C).
Recommendations 1 and 2 in the report entitled Military Readiness: Actions Needed to Ensure the Reserve Component Will Be Ready to Rapidly Respond to a Potential Conflict(GAO–26–107579C).
Each plan under paragraph (1) shall include, with respect to each recommendation described in such paragraph that the Secretary concerned has implemented or intends to implement—
a summary of actions that have been taken or will be taken to implement the recommendation; and
a schedule, with specific milestones, for completing implementation of the recommendation.
Each plan under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
An identification of any recommendation described in such paragraph that the Secretary concerned does not intend to implement.
A discussion of the reasons not to implement each such recommendation.
A description of alternative actions taken or intended to be taken to address the matters identified by the Comptroller General.
Not later than one year after submission by the Secretary concerned of the plan under subsection (a), the Secretary concerned shall carry out activities to implement the plan and provide a report to the congressional defense committees and the Comptroller General of the United States on the following:
The specific maintenance and repair objectives developed for exercises and wargames in the Indo-Pacific region.
Guidance on incorporating fuel storage and delivery missions into live exercises.
With respect to the Army and the Marine Corps, the specific sustainment and transportation objectives in exercises for multi-domain units of the Army and the Marine Corps in the Indo-Pacific region.
With respect to the Army and the Air Force, the specific realistic and accurate assessments conducted to evaluate the ability of relevant reserve component units of the Army and the Air Force to build the required readiness to meet contingency response missions.
In this section, the term Secretary concerned means—
the Secretary of Defense, with respect to actions taken by the United States Indo-Pacific Command;
the Secretary of the Army, with respect to actions taken by the Army;
the Secretary of the Air Force, with respect to actions taken by the Air Force; and
the Secretary of the Navy, with respect to actions taken by the Navy and the Marine Corps.
The Secretary of the Army, in coordination with the heads of relevant organizations of the Department of Defense, shall develop a plan for integrating unmanned aerial systems into the Installation Physical Security Program to expand physical security monitoring capabilities for installations and facilities of the Department of the Army within the United States.
The plan required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
A proposal for the development and implementation of a cost-effective, scalable solution to physical security of installations of the Department of the Army that employs unmanned aerial systems to identify and monitor potential threats to such installations.
An identification of one installation to potentially host the initial development of the integration required under such subsection and two locations for additional activities related to such integration, including the criteria used to determine proposed locations, which shall—
serve as potential demonstration locations for installation defense architecture that utilizes autonomous threat detection and small unmanned aerial system deployment for purposes of persistent surveillance; and
be chosen based on geographical diversity and the strategic importance of such installation and locations to the overall security infrastructure of the Army.
A comprehensive breakdown of the full costs of the integration required under such subsection, including—
initial capital expenditure for system implementation;
the cost of deploying unmanned aerial systems, sensors, and other related infrastructure at all organic industrial base sites operated by the Department of the Army in the United States;
estimated operation and maintenance costs;
a detailed funding schedule with expenditures projected across the period covered by the most recent future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code (as of the date of the plan); and
identification of potential cost-saving opportunities from the proliferation of small unmanned aerial systems and other sensors for installation security purposes across the installation footprint of the Army.
An assessment of the viability of funding and sustaining the integration required under such subsection across the period covered by the most recent future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code (as of the date of the plan), considering—
the financial impact relative to existing security infrastructure budgets of the Army, including potential impact on force structure or equipment procurement costs;
the cost-benefit analysis of upgrading existing systems versus implementing new technologies at each selected location; and
identification of technological or policy challenges or barriers to implementing small unmanned aerial system-based persistent monitoring solutions across the footprint of the Army in the United States.
A list of any additional authorities, appropriations, or other resources necessary to ensure the success of the integration required under such subsection.
Not later than September 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a completed version of the plan developed under subsection (a).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall establish and publish guidance regarding updated governance of the organic industrial base of the Army.
The guidance required under subsection (a) shall do the following:
Clearly delineate how decisions regarding resourcing and site operations that are currently overseen by the United States Army Materiel Command and workload and acquisition requirements that are currently overseen by the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology will be reconciled to ensure the efficient functioning of the organic industrial base of the Army.
Clearly delineate the relationship of the organic industrial base of the Army with the Army Sustainment Command and the Joint Energetics Transition Office.
Establish, maintain, and disseminate, not less frequently than annually, to all leadership responsible for sites of the organic industrial base of the Army a comprehensive plan for the type and quantity of production and repair activities that will occur at each site, which shall—
account for the current and projected needs of the Army, other military departments, and foreign partners;
be coordinated with other production and repair activities across the Department of Defense;
fulfill the requirements of section 351 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60); and
cover not less than the next three years of production or repair activities.
Establish an updated resourcing model for the organic industrial base of the Army that—
is focused on reducing the production costs at each site of the organic industrial base of the Army to ensure such costs are competitive with other similar facilities;
describes any modifications to the Army Working Capital Fund resulting from such model; and
describes any use of direct appropriations to fund overhead or other costs resulting from such model.
Oversee and implement ongoing modernization efforts of the Army, including by establishing, maintaining, and disseminating a comprehensive plan that—
accounts for modernization needs across all sites of the organic industrial base of the Army;
includes the criteria used to allocate modernization funds across those sites; and
shall be submitted to the congressional defense committees not less frequently than annually.
Not later than 30 days after any decision that will decrease the workload of a site of the organic industrial base of the Army by 10 percent or more, notify the congressional defense committees of such decision, which shall include an explanation for the decrease and a plan to shift other work required by the Army to the site in order to maintain workforce capability.
In this section, the term organic industrial base of the Army means the arsenals, ammunition plants, activities, and depots of the Army.
Section 8698(a)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended, in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking the date that is one year after the date of the enactment of this section and inserting January 31, 2028.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish an acquisition and sustainment strategy for aircraft spare parts, applicable to any covered aircraft platform, to maximize competition and expand the defense industrial base supply chain for sustainment.
In carrying out the strategy established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall—
identify spare parts of any covered aircraft platform that is subject to diminishing manufacturing sources or material shortages;
prioritize such parts for competitive resourcing; and
incorporate lifecycle obsolescence planning into sustainment strategies for all covered aircraft platforms.
In carrying out the strategy established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall competitively source spare parts identified under subsection (b) by enabling the use of—
reverse engineering;
advanced manufacturing;
additive manufacturing; and
digital engineering and technical data package development.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for three years, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes—
a list of covered aircraft platforms;
mission capable rates for each such platform;
actions taken to expand competition and qualify additional vendors;
contract obligations awarded to small business concerns pursuant to this section; and
measurable changes in aircraft availability attributable to actions under this section.
In this section, the term covered aircraft platform means any fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft operated by the Department of Defense with—
a fleet-wide full mission capable rate of 50 percent or less during the preceding fiscal year; or
a critical mission capable rate of 40 percent or less for primary mission aircraft inventory, as determined by the Secretary concerned.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall ensure that a sufficient quantity of rotary wing assets, including air and maintenance crews, spares and support equipment, and any other mission critical personnel or material, necessary to support all planned test events, installation maintenance requirements, and personnel movement or evacuation contingencies are located on Kwajalein Atoll and available for mission support and tasking by the Army at Kwajalein Atoll and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range, Marshall Islands.
To implement the requirements under subsection (a), the Secretary of the Army may—
consistent with section 2571 of title 10, United States Code, coordinate with the Secretary of the Air Force to obtain excess UH–1N Huey light-lift utility helicopters and any associated spares and equipment from Air Force Global Strike Command as the Air Force divests those aircraft in support of its transition to the MH–139 Grey Wolf;
obtain new or excess UH–72 Lakota light utility helicopters and any associated spares and equipment from the Army Aviation Center of Excellence as the Army transitions those aircraft in from the training fleet; or
obtain rotary wing assets for the purposes described in subsection (a) via other means, if—
such assets fulfill the capability and timeline availability requirements described in such subsection; and
the Secretary of the Army provides a written certification to the congressional defense committees not later than 30 days prior to the end of the 90-day period specified in such subsection of the intent of the Secretary to pursue such other means and that such means will fulfill the requirements of such subsection.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan outlining the enduring approach of the Army to providing rotary wing assets for mission support and tasking by the Army at Kwajalein Atoll and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range, Marshall Islands.
The plan required under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
An identification of the rotary wing assets to be made available over the next 5, 10, and 15 years.
An initial acquisition strategy for any assets not already in the inventory of the Army, as applicable.
A detailed lifecycle sustainment plan for any rotary wing assets provided for mission support and tasking by the Army at Kwajalein Atoll and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range, Marshall Islands.
A projection of anticipated costs over the upcoming future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code, for providing the capabilities described in subsection (a).
Such other matters or recommendations as the Secretary of the Army considers relevant.
With respect to any depot or arsenal of the Department of Defense, the Secretary of Defense may write-off or eliminate any internal Department accounting charges, such as remaining depreciation or internal debt from an account of a military department or the Department associated with capital assets that do not generate revenue due to mission realignments directed by the Federal Government.
Any write-off conducted under subsection (a) shall be done in a manner such that any previous revolving fund cash outlay is recovered.
The authority under subsection (a) applies only to financial balances within the accounts of a military department or the Department of Defense, not to payments owned to commercial contractors.
The Secretary of Defense may delegate the authority under subsection (a) to the Secretary of a military department.
Section 7532 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking The Secretary and inserting (a) In general.—The Secretary;
in subsection (a), as designated by paragraph (1), by striking , so far as those factories or arsenals can make those supplies on an economical basis and inserting when it is economical to do so; and
by adding at the end the following:
If the Secretary of the Army chooses to make munitions or weapons systems outside the organic industrial base of the Army, the Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology, or any successor official, shall certify that—
the choice will not undermine the capacity of sites of the organic industrial base of the Army within the continental United States to produce munitions or weapons systems to meet requirements of the Department of Defense and foreign allies or partner nations of the United States;
due consideration was given to whether it was in the interest of ensuring adequate workloads at sites of the organic industrial base of the Army to establish the capability to produce the munition or weapons system at such a site;
preference was given to a production facility within the continental United States; and
a site in the organic industrial base of the Army was not deemed ineligible for production solely because the munition or weapons systems is not currently being made at the site and consideration was given to the feasibility of increasing capability at such a site to allow it to meet the production need.
If the Secretary of the Army cannot make the certification required under paragraph (1) with respect to a choice described in that paragraph, not later than 30 days before such choice is finalized, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Secretary of Defense and the congressional defense committees an explanation for why such choice is in the interest of the national security of the United States.
In this section:
The term economical means providing a cost comparable to that of other viable production options while also—
efficiently and quickly meeting the needs of the Army and the Department of Defense; and
addressing the needs of the Army to effectively and efficiently balance workload across the organic industrial base of the Army to maintain the health of the organic industrial base.
The term organic industrial base of the Army means any operational arsenal, ammunition plant, activity, or depot of the Army.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the strategy of the Department of Defense to maintain and upgrade conventional munitions storage facilities (both in the continental United States and outside the continental United States) in order to ensure the safe, effective, and long-term storage of current and future conventional munitions inventories.
The report required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
A comprehensive description of the current strategy and practices of the United States Army Materiel Command for maintaining, repairing, and upgrading conventional munitions storage facilities, including any ongoing or planned investments in infrastructure modernization.
A detailed assessment of the current condition of all conventional munitions storage facilities, including—
the percentage or proportion of facilities at each installation of the Department of Defense that meet applicable standards of the Department of Defense, the Department of the Army, and industry for conventional munitions storage;
the percentage or proportion of storage capacity currently housing obsolete, outdated, or operationally irrelevant munitions; and
an identification of the funds necessary to invest in sustained conventional munitions readiness.
An evaluation of the sufficiency of climate-controlled storage facilities to support the full execution of conventional munitions acquisition, storage, and prepositioning plans, including the ability to preposition stocks at installations outside the continental United States in support of requirements of the commanders of the combatant commands, including by specifically addressing projected shortfalls (by location and capacity) and any associated risks to conventional munitions readiness.
A strategy for coordinating conventional munitions storage requirements and facility modernization priorities across the Department of Defense, including mechanisms to align storage needs with service-specific and theater-specific operational plans.
A detailed plan to ensure that adequate storage facilities are available under conventional munitions procurement planned under the Munitions Acceleration Council of the Department of Defense in conditions that preserve the effectiveness of such munitions.
The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex if necessary to protect sensitive operational or force-protection information.
The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a risk assessment to evaluate the air traffic control systems owned and operated by any entity of the Department of Defense and operated within the airspace of the United States and develop a modernization plan to update those systems.
The assessment required by subsection (a) shall be comprehensive across all branches of the Armed Forces and shall—
review the air traffic control systems assessed by the Department in the report dated December 2018 and entitled, Report to Congress on Air Traffic Control Facilities and assess any new systems implemented after the date of such report;
assess the status, as of the date of the assessment under subsection (a), of the functionality for the air traffic control systems specified in paragraph (1), including—
an assessment of facility condition;
an assessment of technology and equipment condition;
an identification of deficiencies in conditions assessed under subparagraphs (A) and (B);
the cost of addressing such deficiencies; and
a timeline for addressing such deficiencies;
identify the ongoing investments by the Department to modernize air traffic control systems;
assess the progress made in implementing modernization investments to such systems, including—
barriers or challenges to such implementation;
existing mitigation strategies; and
recommendations for authorities, resources, or policy changes; and
assess system compatibility and modernization alignment with efforts by the Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration to modernize the air traffic control system of the United States through the Brand New Air Traffic Control System.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees the assessment and plan required under subsection (a).
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report detailing the status of modernizing the air traffic control systems used by the Department.
Section 2476(f)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
Blue Grass Army Depot, Kentucky.
Sierra Army Depot, California.
Hawthorne Army Depot, Nevada.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and except as provided in subsection (b), the Secretary of the Air Force shall implement each recommendation of the Inspector General of the Department of Defense contained in the report dated February 17, 2026, and entitled, Evaluation of the DoD Military Working Dog Program's Management of Canine Welfare (DODIG–2026–057).
If the Secretary of the Air Force elects to not implement a recommendation specified under subsection (a), the Secretary shall, not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that includes a justification for such election.
After July 1, 2027, no connected vehicle designated under paragraph (2) may be operated on a military installation or on any other property of the Department of Defense.
A connected vehicle is designated under this paragraph if it is prohibited under part 791 of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations).
After January 1, 2029, no connected vehicle designated under paragraph (2) may be operated on a military installation or on any other property of the Department of Defense.
A connected vehicle is designated under this paragraph if it is—
designated under subsection (a)(2); and
determined by the Secretary of Defense, pursuant to the process established in the implementation plan under subsection (c)—
to be designed, developed, manufactured, or supplied by a person or persons owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of a foreign entity of concern; and
to pose—
an undue risk of sabotage to or subversion of the information and communications technology and services of a military installation;
an undue risk of catastrophic effects on the security or resiliency of defense critical infrastructure; or
an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of United States persons.
The Secretary shall publish and maintain on a publicly available website of the Department a list of connected vehicles designated under paragraph (2).
Not less frequently than annually, the Secretary shall review the list required under subparagraph (A) and shall make such additions, subtractions, supplements, or amendments to the list as the Secretary determines appropriate.
Any review under subparagraph (B) that removes a vehicle from the list under subparagraph (A) shall include a written explanation of the basis for such removal.
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees an implementation plan for carrying out the prohibitions under subsections (a) and (b).
The implementation plan under paragraph (1) shall include—
identification of the lead office within the Department of Defense responsible for implementing and overseeing this section, and an assessment of personnel and funding required to sustain that office to meet the requirements of annual reviews conducted under subsection (e);
a verification mechanism through which military installations will identify connected vehicles designated under subsection (a)(2) or (b)(2) that are seeking access to the installation, including an evaluation of vehicle registration database and point-of-entry screening, as well as consultation with State motor vehicle authorities;
the analytical process and criteria through which the lead office will designate connected vehicles under subsection (b)(2), including methodology for assessing ownership and supply chain relationships to foreign entities of concern and the risk factors under subparagraph (B)(ii) of such subsection, incorporating existing Federal rules and interagency coordination; and
an assessment of the impact on individuals with authorized access to military installations, including military retirees, military families, and civilian employees, and measures to balance security requirements with minimizing the burden on such individuals and minimizing the impact to readiness of the Armed Forces.
The Secretary of Defense shall provide not less than 180 days notice before a prohibition under subsection (a) or (b) takes effect with respect to any newly designated vehicle under such subsection, during which period individuals with authorized access to a military installation who own or operate such a vehicle may continue to access the installation.
The Secretary shall provide notice under paragraph (1) by publication on a publicly available website of the Department of Defense and by such other means as the Secretary determines appropriate to reach affected individuals.
The prohibitions under subsections (a) and (b) shall take effect only upon the submission by the Secretary of Defense of a certification to the congressional defense committees that the Department of Defense has—
the resources, personnel, and screening mechanisms in place to enforce the prohibition at military installations; and
in the case of a prohibition under subsection (b), the resources, personnel, and analytical capacity in place to conduct the designation review process under paragraph (3)(B) of such subsection on an ongoing basis.
If the Secretary of Defense is unable to make a certification under subsection (e) with respect to a prohibition under subsection (a) or (b), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a notification of that fact, including—
an explanation of why the Secretary is not ready to implement the relevant prohibition;
an identification of the steps the Secretary has taken to prepare for implementation of such prohibition;
an identification of the additional steps that remain before the Secretary is ready to implement such prohibition; and
a timeline for each step to be carried out under subparagraph (C).
The Secretary shall submit the notifications required under paragraph (1)—
with respect to the prohibition under subsection (a), not later than July 1, 2027, and not less frequently than every 180 days thereafter; and
with respect to the prohibition under subsection (b), not later than January 1, 2029, and not less frequently than every 180 days thereafter.
The Secretary of Defense may waive a prohibition under subsection (a) or (b) with respect to a military installation, category of installations, or class of connected vehicles upon a determination that operational requirements or national security considerations warrant such waiver, and may delegate such waiver authority to such officials or commanders as the Secretary considers appropriate.
The Secretary shall notify the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives of any waiver issued under paragraph (1) not later than 30 days after issuance of the waiver, including a rationale for the waiver.
In this section:
The term connected vehicle has the meaning given that term in section 791.301 of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations.
The term defense critical infrastructure has the meaning given the term critical infrastructure of the Department of Defense in section 1650(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 10 U.S.C. 2224 note).
The term foreign entity of concern has the meaning given that term in section 9901 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (15 U.S.C. 4651).
The term military installation has the meaning given that term in section 2801(c) of title 10, United States Code.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense-wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, not more than 25 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of Defense carries out the following:
Complies with the requirements of section 1067 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 2071).
Submits to the congressional defense committees the procedures for notifications relating to Department of Defense sensitive activities required by section 130g of title 10, United States Code.
Submits to the congressional defense committees, the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate, and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives a certification that the requirements of section 430e of title 10, United States Code, have been implemented.
Submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the unredacted investigation, including relevant supporting documents, directed by the Commander of the United States Special Operations Command on January 20, 2026.
Submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives unredacted civilian harm investigations, including all relevant supporting documents, for the strikes on the Ras Isa Port in Yemen on April 17, 2025, the Ayn Wadi Barracks Warehouses in Yemen on April 28, 2025, a residence in Yemen on April 6, 2025, and the Minab girls school in Iran on February 28, 2026.
Submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the report relating to allied and partner support to Ukraine required by section 1243 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 460), as amended by section 1245 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1104).
Provides to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives unedited video of strikes conducted against designated terrorist organizations in the area of responsibility of the United States Southern Command.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 30 days thereafter until the Secretary submits the matters specified in subsection (a), the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report detailing the status of funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense-wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses.
At a minimum, each report required by paragraph (1) shall specify the amounts available, obligated, and expended for travel expenses.
Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, Air Force, and available for travel expenses for the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, not more than 85 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of the Air Force provides to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an unclassified briefing on—
the status of the West Lab Project at the Lincoln Laboratory of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, including planning and construction timelines and milestones as of the date of the briefing;
the resources needed to complete the West Lab Project, disaggregated by phase of construction and fiscal year when funds are needed;
with respect to delays of the West Lab Project—
the causes of any such delay;
the impact of any additional delays on the cost and schedule of construction of such project; and
the impact of delays on the activities and projects funded by the Department of Defense at the Lincoln Laboratory; and
the plan of the Secretary of the Air Force to award a construction contract for the rest of the West Lab Project by not later than June 2027, with construction to be completed by June 2029.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act the Secretary of Defense shall implement the naming recommendations for assets of the Department of Defense in the Commonwealth of Virginia that were adopted by the Commission.
The Secretary of Defense may not change the name of an asset described in subsection (a) to any name other than the name required under such subsection.
In this section, the term Commission means the commission established under section 370(b) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
Section 183a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (i); and
by inserting after subsection (g) the following:
For any project for which the Secretary of Defense determines, based on the preliminary review conducted under subsection (c), that the proposed action may have an adverse impact on operations and readiness of the armed forces, the Secretary shall complete the review under subsection (d), conduct any mitigation discussions the Secretary determines appropriate, and issue a final determination consistent with subsections (c) and (e), including whether the proposed project would result in an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States, not later than 180 days after the date on which the Clearinghouse receives the relevant notice, filing, or request for review, unless the applicant agrees in writing to an extension.
For any project for which the Secretary of Defense determines, based on the preliminary review conducted under subsection (c), that the proposed action does not have an adverse impact on operations and readiness of the armed forces, the Secretary shall issue a final determination consistent with subsections (c) and (e), including whether the proposed project would result in an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States, not later than five days after completion of the preliminary review.
The Secretary may not extend, restart, or otherwise delay a deadline established under this subsection based on requests for additional information, recharacterization of previously identified issues, ongoing mitigation discussions, or the absence of an executed mitigation agreement.
For purposes of this subsection, a notice, filing, or request for review shall be deemed received by the Clearinghouse on the earlier of—
the date on which the Clearinghouse actually receives such notice, filing, or request; or
the date that is 60 days after the applicant provides notice to the Clearinghouse that it has submitted to a Federal agency information sufficient to initiate review under this section.
Failure to meet any deadline under this subsection shall constitute an unreasonable delay.
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to modify or alter the substantive standards or national security authorities applicable under this section, but only to establish procedural requirements governing the timing and completion of review by the Department of Defense.
With respect to a project described in subsection (h)(1) of section 183a of title 10, United States Code, for which the relevant notice, filing, or request for review was submitted before the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall comply with the requirements under such subsection by not later than the later of—
180 days after the date on which the Military Aviation and Installation Assurance Siting Clearinghouse received and recorded the relevant notice, filing, or request for review; or
90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
The Armed Forces are authorized strengths for active duty personnel as of September 30, 2027, as follows:
The Army, 469,000.
The Navy, 356,600.
The Marine Corps, 173,700.
The Air Force, 330,400.
The Space Force, 13,200.
The Armed Forces are authorized strengths for Selected Reserve personnel of the reserve components as of September 30, 2027, as follows:
The Army National Guard of the United States, 331,300.
The Army Reserve, 172,000.
The Navy Reserve, 56,500.
The Marine Corps Reserve, 34,700.
The Air National Guard of the United States, 107,400.
The Air Force Reserve, 67,400.
The Coast Guard Reserve, 8,500.
The end strengths prescribed by subsection (a) for the Selected Reserve of any reserve component shall be proportionately reduced by—
the total authorized strength of units organized to serve as units of the Selected Reserve of such component which are on active duty (other than for training) at the end of the fiscal year; and
the total number of individual members not in units organized to serve as units of the Selected Reserve of such component who are on active duty (other than for training or for unsatisfactory participation in training) without their consent at the end of the fiscal year.
Whenever units or individual members of the Selected Reserve for any reserve component are released from active duty during any fiscal year, the end strength prescribed for such fiscal year for the Selected Reserve of such reserve component shall be increased proportionately by the total authorized strengths of such units and by the total number of such individual members.
Within the end strengths prescribed in section 411(a), the reserve components of the Armed Forces are authorized, as of September 30, 2027, the following number of Reserves to be serving on full-time active duty or full-time duty, in the case of members of the National Guard, for the purpose of organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or training the reserve components:
The Army National Guard of the United States, 31,154.
The Army Reserve, 16,511.
The Navy Reserve, 10,649.
The Marine Corps Reserve, 2,400.
The Air National Guard of the United States, 25,533.
The Air Force Reserve, 6,278.
In executing these authorizations for fiscal year 2027, the Department of Defense—
shall adhere to any agreements made with states as a result of releveling efforts or manning studies; and
may use authorized variance authority to meet these requirements.
The minimum number of military technicians (dual status) as of the last day of fiscal year 2027 for the reserve components of the Army and the Air Force (notwithstanding section 129 of title 10, United States Code) shall be the following:
For the Army National Guard of the United States, 20,037.
For the Army Reserve, 5,870.
For the Air National Guard of the United States, 10,824.
For the Air Force Reserve, 6,450.
The number of temporary military technicians (dual status) employed under the authority of subsection (a) may not exceed 25 percent of the total authorized number specified in such subsection.
Under no circumstances may a military technician (dual status) employed under the authority of this section be coerced by a State into accepting an offer of realignment or conversion to any other military status, including as a member of the Active, Guard, and Reserve component. If a military technician (dual status) declines to participate in such realignment or conversion, no further action will be taken against the individual or the individual’s position.
During fiscal year 2027, the maximum number of members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces who may be serving at any time on full-time operational support duty under section 115(b) of title 10, United States Code, is the following:
The Army National Guard of the United States, 17,000.
The Army Reserve, 13,000.
The Navy Reserve, 6,200.
The Marine Corps Reserve, 3,000.
The Air National Guard of the United States, 16,000.
The Air Force Reserve, 14,000.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the use of the Armed Forces and other activities and agencies of the Department of Defense for expenses, not otherwise provided for, for military personnel, as specified in the funding table in section 4401.
The authorization of appropriations in the subsection (a) supersedes any other authorization of appropriations (definite or indefinite) for such purpose for fiscal year 2027.
Section 624(d) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (2), by adding at the end the following: “In the case of an officer whose promotion is delayed pursuant to this subsection, the Secretary of Defense shall notify the congressional defense committees of such delay not later than 30 days after the date on which the delay is imposed. Such notification shall include—
the reason for the delay, including a description of any adverse information or basis for concern;
the anticipated duration of the delay;
the status of any review or investigation associated with the delay; and
such other information as the Secretary considers appropriate.
in paragraph (4)(A), by striking , unless it is impracticable to give such written notice before the effective date of the appointment, in which case such written notice shall be given as soon as practicable.
Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary may temporarily withhold the forwarding or processing of an officer nomination or promotion recommendation for not more than 30 days.
Upon expiration of the period under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall—
forward the nomination or recommendation for further processing;
take appropriate action to permanently remove the officer from consideration due to a substantiated finding of misconduct; or
provide a written determination to the Secretary concerned, including the basis for continued withholding, to justify an extension under subsection (c).
Any withholding that exceeds 30 days shall be accompanied by written notification to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives, including a detailed explanation of the basis for such continued withholding.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the President to remove an officer from a promotion list under section 629 of title 10, United States Code.
Section 580a(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking October 1, 2015, and ending on October 1, 2019 and inserting October 1, 2025, and ending on October 1, 2030.
Section 1370 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (b)—
by striking paragraph (4); and
by redesignating paragraphs (5) through (7) as paragraphs (4) through (6), respectively; and
in subsection (c)(4), by striking subsection (b)(6) and inserting subsection (b)(5).
Subsection (d) of such section is amended—
in the subsection heading, by striking pending investigation or adverse action and inserting pending investigation, adverse action, or other administrative action;
in paragraph (1)—
by inserting or other administrative action after adverse personnel action; and
in subparagraph (A), by striking highest permanent grade of satisfactory service and inserting highest grade of satisfactory service;
in paragraph (2)—
by inserting or other administrative action after adverse personnel action; and
in subparagraph (A), by striking highest permanent grade of satisfactory service and inserting highest grade of satisfactory service;
by striking paragraph (3); and
by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (3).
Section 1370 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection (h); and
by inserting after subsection (f) the following new subsection:
The Secretary concerned, or the Secretary of Defense, as the case may be, may not make a determination that an officer has not performed satisfactory service for purposes of this section unless the officer is the subject of credible adverse information.
For the purposes of this subsection, adverse information is any substantiated finding or conclusion from an officially documented investigation or inquiry. To be credible, the information must be resolved and supported by a preponderance of the evidence. To be adverse, the information must be derogatory, unfavorable, or of a nature that reflects clearly unacceptable conduct, integrity, or judgment on the part of the individual.
Section 1370a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (i); and
by inserting after subsection (g) the following new subsection:
The Secretary concerned, or the Secretary of Defense, as the case may be, may not make a determination that an officer has not performed satisfactory service for purposes of this section unless the officer is the subject of credible adverse information.
For the purposes of this subsection, adverse information is any substantiated finding or conclusion from an officially documented investigation or inquiry. To be credible, the information must be resolved and supported by a preponderance of the evidence. To be adverse, the information must be derogatory, unfavorable, or of a nature that reflects clearly unacceptable conduct, integrity, or judgment on the part of the individual.
Section 12741 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
The Secretary concerned may not make a determination that a person has not performed satisfactory service for purposes of this section unless the person is the subject of credible adverse information.
For the purposes of this subsection, adverse information is any substantiated finding or conclusion from an officially documented investigation or inquiry. To be credible, the information must be resolved and supported by a preponderance of the evidence. To be adverse, the information must be derogatory, unfavorable, or of a nature that reflects clearly unacceptable conduct, integrity, or judgment on the part of the individual.
Section 1305(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (3), by striking 33 years and inserting 35 years; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
In the case of a regular Navy warrant officer in the grade of chief warrant officer, W–4, or a Marine Corps Marine Gunner warrant officer in such grade, the officer shall be retired 60 days after the date on which the officer completes 32 years of total active service.
Section 7153(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking branches and as professors and inserting branches, as professors; and
by inserting , and professors of the United States Army War College before the period at the end.
Chapter 723 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The permanent military professors of the United States Army War College shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.
A permanent military professor of the United States Army War College, who has served as such a professor for more than six years, has the grade of colonel. However, a permanent military professor appointed from the Regular Army has the grade of colonel after the date when the officer completes six years of service as a professor, or after the date on which the officer would have been promoted had the officer been selected for promotion from among officers in the promotion zone, whichever is earlier. All other permanent military professors have the grade of lieutenant colonel.
The Commandant of the United States Army War College may grant a leave of absence for the period of the suspension of the ordinary academic studies, without deduction of pay or allowances, to a military professor, associate professor, assistant professor, instructor, or other officer of the United States Army War College.
Section 203 of title 37, United States Code, is amended by inserting the United States Army War College, after the United States Military Academy, both places it appears.
Section 7320(b)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting and the United States Army War College before the period at the end.
Section 1252 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the section heading, by inserting and the United States Army War College after at academies; and
in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
An officer who is a permanent professor of the United States Army War College.
Chapter 35 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
In this section, the term covered officer means an officer serving in the grade of general, admiral, lieutenant general, or vice admiral in—
a position of importance and responsibility under section 601 of this title; or
any other position designated by the Secretary of Defense for purposes of this section.
Not later than 5 days after the relief, removal, reassignment, resignation, retirement, request for retirement, or other separation from position of a covered officer before the expected completion of service in that position, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives written notice of such action.
For purposes of this section, a covered officer shall be considered to separate from a position before the expected completion of service in that position if the officer departs before—
the date of a publicly announced or officially scheduled change of command, retirement, reassignment, or end date for a tour of duty;
the date on which a successor is scheduled to assume the position; or
if no such date has been established, 24 months after the officer assumed the position.
The notice requirement under subsection (b) applies regardless of whether the resignation, retirement, or request for retirement—
was initiated by the Department or by the officer;
occurred in lieu of relief, removal, or reassignment; or
occurred without a formal written direction to depart the position.
A notice under subsection (b) shall include—
the name, grade, and position of the covered officer;
the effective date of the action;
the nature of the action, including whether the action was a relief, removal, reassignment, resignation, retirement, request for retirement, or other departure;
whether the action was initiated by the Department or by the officer;
a statement of the stated basis for the action; and
whether any investigation, command inquiry, Inspector General review, or other fact-finding has been initiated in connection with the action.
Not later than 30 days after submitting a notice under subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the committees specified in subsection (b) a detailed report on the action, which may be submitted in whole or in part in classified form consistent with subsection (g), including—
a statement of the basis for the action signed by the Secretary of Defense, or by the Secretary of the military department concerned if designated by the Secretary of Defense;
any findings of investigation, command inquiry, Inspector General review, or other fact-finding completed as of the date of the report;
whether the covered officer was afforded an opportunity to provide a written statement for inclusion in the report, and any such statement if provided;
a certification by the Secretary of Defense whether the action was taken principally on the basis of misconduct, performance, loss of confidence, force management, reorganization, or other legitimate military or civilian leadership considerations, and not principally in retaliation for the good-faith provision, in the course of official duties, of military, operational, intelligence, readiness, legal, or risk assessments to civilian or military superiors; and
whether the Joint Staff, the Secretary of the military department concerned, the Chief of Staff of the Army, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, the Chief of Space Operations, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, or the commander of the combatant command concerned recommended the action.
If the Secretary of Defense determines that any information required under subsection (e) or (f) cannot be provided in unclassified form without harm to national security, the Secretary may submit such information in classified form, provided that—
the Secretary submits concurrently an unclassified notice or report containing the maximum amount of information that may be provided in unclassified form; and
the classified submission is provided as a classified annex to the notice or report otherwise required under this section.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the constitutional authority of the President as Commander in Chief or the authority of the Secretary of Defense to assign, reassign, or relieve officers. The exercise of such authority shall remain subject to the notification and reporting requirements of this section.
Section 14706 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)(3)—
by striking while in a program and inserting while participating in a service-approved program; and
by striking , but only and all that follows through such a degree;
in subsection (b), by striking other than a student status and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting a capacity other than such officer’s participation in the service-approved program of advanced education.; and
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
In this section, the term service-approved program means a service-approved educational delay of active duty, active guard and reserve, or selected reserve service for a graduate of a pre-commissioning program, including a Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps program, in order attend an advanced education program to obtain a professional degree that would be required for appointment, designation, or assignment to a professional specialty in such military service.
Section 12011(a)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking the table and inserting the following:
Section 12012(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking those parts of the table pertaining to the Navy Reserve and inserting the following:
Section 12012(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking those parts of the table pertaining to the Marine Corps Reserve and inserting the following:
Subject to subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense may convert a National Guard military technician (dual status) position filled by an individual employed under section 709 of title 32, United States Code, to either of the following:
A position filled by an individual employed under section 3101 of title 5, United States Code, or sections 1601, 1762, and 10508 of title 10, United States Code.
A position filled by an individual who is performing Active Guard and Reserve duty under section 328 of title 32, United States Code, unless prohibited by section 101(d)(6)(B)(iv) of title 10, United States Code.
In addition to the conversion authority under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense may, with agreement by the applicable State Governor, for the purpose of reducing the number of National Guard military technician (dual status) positions, provide a State with funding for a non-Federal position for an individual employed in such position. Any such funding shall be provided through a cooperative agreement entered into with the State Governor under section 6305 of title 31, United States Code.
The Secretary of Defense may not convert a position under subsection (a) or transfer a position under subsection (b) that is not vacant without the written consent of the individual filling the position being converted or transferred.
An individual filling a military technician (dual status) position that is converted to Active Guard and Reserve duty under subsection (a)(2), waives any re-employment entitlement under section 4314 of title 38, United States Code, to another National Guard military technician (dual status) position but may assert re-employment rights to a civilian position employed under section 3101 of title 5, United States Code, or sections 1601, 1762, and 10508 of title 10, United States Code if a similar position is reasonably available.
Whenever a military technician (dual status) position is converted under the authority in subsection (a)(2), the applicable statutory annual end strength limitation for Active Guard and Reserve personnel within the Army and Air National Guards of the United States in accordance with section 115 of title 10, United States Code, shall be increased accordingly.
Whenever a military technician (dual status) position converted under subsection (a)(2), the applicable statutory annual minimum end strength required for National Guard military technician (dual status) within the Army and Air National Guard of the United States in accordance with section 115 of title 10, United States Code, shall be decreased accordingly.
Section 10508(b)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting sections 1601 and 1762 of title 10, before or section 328 of title 32.
Section 328(b) of title 32, United States Code, is amended by inserting maintaining and repairing supplies issued to the National Guard or the Armed Forces, before and training the reserve components .
Beginning on October 1, 2028, no individual may be newly hired or employed, or rehired or reemployed, as a National Guard military technician (dual status) under section 709 of title 32, United States Code.
Section 709 of title 32, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following subsection:
Subject to paragraph (2), this section shall cease to be in effect as of October 1, 2038.
The Secretary of Defense may, with agreement by the applicable State governor, authorize the continued employment of military technicians (dual status) to the extent necessary to ensure adequate State disaster response capabilities within such States.
The termination of authority under this subsection shall not affect the employment, rights, and benefits of individual employees who, as of such date, are within three years of earning an unreduced Federal civilian annuity.
Section 115(d) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking each reserve component of the Army and Air Force and inserting the Army Reserve and the Air Force Reserve.
The amendment made by subparagraph (A) shall take effect on October 1, 2038.
Section 10216(a)(1)(A) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking or section 709(b) of title 32 before the semicolon.
Subject to the provisions of section 709(k) of title 32, United States Code, funds appropriated for the Department of Defense may not be used for compensation of any individual employed as a National Guard military technician (dual status) after October 1, 2048.
In this section:
The term military technician (dual status) has the meaning given such term in section 709(a) of title 32, United States Code.
The term State includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands.
The Secretary of the Navy shall conduct a feasibility study and business case analysis to evaluate the requirements necessary to expand and optimize existing Navy Reserve maintenance programs, including the Navy Reserve Engineering Duty Officer (NR EDO) Program 29 and the SurgeMain program, to provide enhanced maritime surge maintenance, repair, and production capacity.
The Secretary of the Navy shall submit a report to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives of the results of the feasibility study and business case analysis required by subsection (a) not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, which addresses the following elements:
An assessment of the expansion and optimization of existing Navy Reserve maintenance capabilities, including the Navy Reserve Engineering Duty Officer Program 29 and the SurgeMain construct, and the associated end-strength requirements for supporting both public and private shipyards without degrading current fleet readiness support.
An evaluation of the integration of advanced industrial skillsets into existing Reserve ratings and designators.
An analysis of the utilization of existing funding mechanisms, including established Navy Reserve training authorities.
An evaluation of public-private vocational and technical training partnerships to support workforce development and reduce the need for the Navy to independently develop new training pipelines.
An assessment of a legal and operational framework to allow Navy Reserve personnel to support production and maintenance backlogs at private shipyards holding Department of Defense contracts, including an assessment of labor relations, collective bargaining considerations, potential impacts on civilian overtime, recruitment, and retention, and requirements to ensure Reserve personnel supplement rather than displace skilled private-sector workers.
Identification of statutory, regulatory, funding, manpower, and other barriers associated with implementation and recommendations for necessary legislative or policy relief.
In this section, the term SurgeMain program means the Navy Reserve Surge Maintenance program.
Each Secretary of a military department shall implement capabilities to enable the remote in-processing and out-processing of covered personnel.
The capabilities required under paragraph (1) shall, at a minimum—
permit covered personnel to complete in-processing and out-processing requirements remotely, including through the use of electronic forms and digital signatures;
reduce the number of hours required for in-processing and out-processing associated with a permanent change of station, separation, or retirement; and
provide covered personnel and commanders with timely electronic access to records related to such processing.
Not later than September 30, 2027, and annually thereafter through September 30, 2030, each Secretary of a military department shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the implementation of subsection (a), including—
a description of capabilities implemented;
metrics on time required for in-processing and out-processing before and after implementation;
any challenges or limitations in execution; and
plans, if any, to expand or improve such capabilities.
In this subsection:
The term covered personnel includes members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the military department.
The term in-processing means the administrative activities that covered personnel undertake pursuant to a permanent change of station.
The term out-processing means the administrative activities that covered personnel undertake pursuant to a permanent change of station, separation from the Armed Forces, or end of employment with the military department.
Section 1781(d) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking paragraph (4); and
by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (4).
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall issue or update guidance regarding the public release of personally identifiable information of members of the Armed Forces in administrative announcements made through official public affairs channels, including announcements related to command selections, promotion selections, and board results.
The guidance required under subsection (a) shall—
establish appropriate safeguards to mitigate security and counterintelligence risks associated with the public disclosure of personally identifiable information;
account for the unique risks to members assigned to sensitive, specialized, or high-risk units, including members of special operations forces;
provide standards, as appropriate, for the review and approval of information prior to public release; and
ensure consistency in the application of such safeguards across the military departments.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the Secretary of Defense or the Secretaries of the military departments to determine what information may be publicly released in accordance with applicable law and policy.
Section 1559 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking December 31, 2025 and inserting December 31, 2031;
by amending subsection (b) to read as follows:
The baseline number for a service review agency under this section is the number of military and civilian personnel assigned to that agency as of January 1, 2026.
in subsection (c)(2), by inserting and the Secretary of the Navy Council of Review Boards (formerly known as the Navy Council of Personnel Boards) after Board of Correction for Naval Records.
Section 522(h) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114–92; 10 U.S.C. 503 note) is amended by striking December 31, 2025 and inserting December 31, 2028.
Section 1552(h) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
As a result of its review under paragraph (2), a board established under subsection (a)(1) may—
grant a claimant’s request to upgrade the characterization of a discharge or dismissal;
grant a claimant’s request to correct the following for a discharge or dismissal: the narrative reason for separation, the separation code, and the re-enlistment code; and
deny any part of the claimant’s application for relief after liberal consideration of the evidence of record.
If a claimant described in paragraph (1) requests retirement or separation for physical disability as defined by chapter 61 of this title, the board established under subsection (a)(1) shall review such request under the evidentiary standards established by the Department of Defense for current service members in the Disability Evaluation System. If the claimant submits multiple bases or requests for relief, the board shall review any eligible requests for relief that do not involve retirement or separation for physical disability as defined by chapter 61 this title, under the liberal consideration standard established in paragraph (2).
Section 1034 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (b)(2)(A), by adding at the end the following new clauses:
The conducting of, or a threat to order, a retaliatory security clearance review.
The conducting of, or a threat to order, a retaliatory psychiatric examination, mental health evaluation, psychological assessment, or other medical testing or examination.
by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (k); and
by inserting after subsection (i) the following new subsection:
No nondisclosure policy, form, or agreement shall be construed as limiting or otherwise affecting the rights and protections provided under this section.
The Secretary concerned may collect Prospective Recruit Information with respect to prospective recruits for the Armed Forces who are at least 17 years of age for the purpose of enhancing marketing, advertising, and outreach to possible prospective recruits for recruitment for service in the Armed Forces. In the case of any such prospective recruit, such information may only be collected—
with the express consent of the prospective recruit; or
in the case of a prospective recruit who is 17 years of age, with parental consent.
The process for obtaining consent under subsection (a) shall be carried out so that—
the person whose consent is requested is provided information before such consent is obtained that outlines the purpose of the collection, the authority for the collection, routine uses to be made of the collection and the effects on the individual, if any, of not providing all or any part of the requested information, consistent with section 552a of title 5, United States Code; and
the person has the opportunity to establish consent preferences.
Consent may be granted, and Prospective Recruit Information may be collected, under subsection (a) through a military recruiting digital website or platform. The collection of Prospective Recruit Information may be accomplished by the use of cookies or similar technology.
Prospective Recruit Information pertaining to any person may not be maintained for more than 3 years after the date the information pertaining to such person is first collected under this section.
The maintenance of information collected under this subsection is subject to subchapter II of chapter 35 of title 44 and section 552a of title 5.
In this section, the term Prospective Recruit Information means, with respect to a prospective recruit for the Armed Forces, the following:
Name, mailing address, physical address, email address, mobile/cell phone number, and home phone number (if any).
Age, sex, household composition, education level, birth date, marital status, and military/veteran status.
Information about browser types, connected devices, cookie data, and usage metadata.
Unique identifiers such as IP addresses and social media handles.
Fitness activity data.
Such other data elements as determined necessary for effective recruiting, as provided in regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense and maintained in accordance with the applicable system of records notice of the department concerned.
The authority established under subsection (a) shall terminate on December 31, 2031.
Section 7448 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by amending paragraph (5) to read as follows:
That the cadet may not obtain employment as a professional athlete under this paragraph until 2 years after graduating from the Academy, except as otherwise authorized by the Secretary under subparagraph (B).
The Secretary may authorize not more than 10 cadets during any academic year to obtain employment as a professional athlete before completing the active-duty service obligation otherwise required under this subsection.
The Secretary may waive the numerical limitation under subparagraph (B) and authorize participation for more than 10 graduates in a fiscal year if the Secretary determines that—
such a waiver is in the national interest; and
participation by additional graduates will provide significant recruiting, retention, public affairs, or strategic benefit to the Armed Forces.
A cadet authorized under subparagraph (B) shall—
accept an appointment as a commissioned officer in an appropriate reserve component, as determined by the Secretary;
serve in the Selected Reserve in an appropriate status, grade, and assignment, as determined by the Secretary; and
participate in recruiting, retention, public affairs or other activities that strategically benefit the armed forces, as determined by the Secretary.
The Secretary shall prescribe the period of obligated service required under this paragraph, except that such obligated service shall be served in the Selected Reserve for a period of not more than 10 years.
Upon completion of employment as a professional athlete, or upon termination of authorization under this paragraph, the Secretary may require the officer to serve on active duty for such period as the Secretary determines appropriate, except that the combined period of service required under subparagraph (E) and this subparagraph may not exceed 10 years.
If an officer authorized under this paragraph is unable or unwilling to satisfy the service obligations required under this paragraph, and is determined by the Secretary concerned to be ineligible for further military service, the Secretary may require the officer to reimburse the United States for all or a portion of the cost of the education provided by the Academy, under such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe.
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by striking Subject to paragraph (4), the Secretary and inserting The Secretary; and
by striking paragraph (4); and
in subsection (c)—
by striking paragraph (2); and
by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively.
Section 8459 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by amending paragraph (5) to read as follows:
That the midshipman may not obtain employment as a professional athlete under this paragraph until 2 years after graduating from the Academy, except as otherwise authorized by the Secretary under subparagraph (B).
The Secretary may authorize not more than 10 midshipmen during any academic year to obtain employment as a professional athlete before completing the active-duty service obligation otherwise required under this subsection.
The Secretary may waive the numerical limitation under subparagraph (B) and authorize participation for more than 10 graduates in a fiscal year if the Secretary determines that—
such a waiver is in the national interest; and
participation by additional graduates will provide significant recruiting, retention, public affairs, or strategic benefit to the Armed Forces.
A midshipman authorized under subparagraph (B) shall—
accept an appointment as a commissioned officer in an appropriate reserve component, as determined by the Secretary;
serve in the Selected Reserve in an appropriate status, grade, and assignment, as determined by the Secretary; and
participate in recruiting, retention, public affairs or other activities that strategically benefit the armed forces, as determined by the Secretary.
The Secretary shall prescribe the period of obligated service required under this paragraph, except that such obligated service shall be served in the Selected Reserve for a period of not more than 10 years.
Upon completion of employment as a professional athlete, or upon termination of authorization under this paragraph, the Secretary may require the officer to serve on active duty for such period as the Secretary determines appropriate, except that the combined period of service required under subparagraph (E) and this subparagraph may not exceed 10 years.
If an officer authorized under this paragraph is unable or unwilling to satisfy the service obligations required under this paragraph, and is determined by the Secretary concerned to be ineligible for further military service, the Secretary may require the officer to reimburse the United States for all or a portion of the cost of the education provided by the Academy, under such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe.
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by striking Subject to paragraph (4), the Secretary and inserting The Secretary; and
by striking paragraph (4); and
in subsection (c)—
by striking paragraph (2); and
by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively.
Section 9448 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by amending paragraph (5) to read as follows:
That the cadet may not obtain employment as a professional athlete under this paragraph until 2 years after graduating from the Academy, except as otherwise authorized by the Secretary under subparagraph (B).
The Secretary may authorize not more than 10 cadets during any academic year to obtain employment as a professional athlete before completing the active-duty service obligation otherwise required under this subsection.
The Secretary may waive the numerical limitation under subparagraph (B) and authorize participation for more than 10 graduates in a fiscal year if the Secretary determines that—
such a waiver is in the national interest; and
participation by additional graduates will provide significant recruiting, retention, public affairs, or strategic benefit to the Armed Forces.
A cadet authorized under subparagraph (B) shall—
accept an appointment as a commissioned officer in an appropriate reserve component, as determined by the Secretary;
serve in the Selected Reserve in an appropriate status, grade, and assignment, as determined by the Secretary; and
participate in recruiting, retention, public affairs or other activities that strategically benefit the armed forces, as determined by the Secretary.
The Secretary shall prescribe the period of obligated service required under this paragraph, except that such obligated service shall be served in the Selected Reserve for a period of not more than 10 years.
Upon completion of employment as a professional athlete, or upon termination of authorization under this paragraph, the Secretary may require the officer to serve on active duty for such period as the Secretary determines appropriate, except that the combined period of service required under subparagraph (E) and this subparagraph may not exceed 10 years.
If an officer authorized under this paragraph is unable or unwilling to satisfy the service obligations required under this paragraph, and is determined by the Secretary concerned to be ineligible for further military service, the Secretary may require the officer to reimburse the United States for all or a portion of the cost of the education provided by the Academy, under such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe.
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by striking Subject to paragraph (4), the Secretary and inserting The Secretary; and
by striking paragraph (4); and
in subsection (c)—
by striking paragraph (2); and
by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively.
Each Secretary concerned shall prescribe regulations to carry out this section and the amendments made by this section, including eligibility criteria, performance standards, and procedures for monitoring compliance.
Any Department of Defense military personnel action related to promotions, nominative assignments, command selection, and military and civil schooling selection shall be based exclusively on individual merit, fitness, capability, and performance.
Consideration of an individual’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin in any military personnel action described in subsection (a) is prohibited throughout the Department of Defense.
This section shall not be construed to prohibit tasking for specific, unconventional missions in foreign countries, where the anticipated ground operating environment of indigenous populations may justify consideration of race, ethnicity, or national origin when tasking for the mission to optimize mission success.
Any tasking pursuant to the exception described in paragraph (1) shall require the approval of the combatant commander concerned.
Not later than 60 days after a tasking pursuant to the exception described in paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall report the tasking to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The report shall describe—
the mission, including location and duration;
the staffing of the mission;
the demographic factors warranting the tasking;
the number of personnel involved, including their rank, position, and race, ethnicity, and national origin; and
the rationale for the tasking.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and all primary and secondary schools under the control of the Department of Defense, including the Department of Defense Education Activity Schools, do not permit a person enrolled at such an Academy or school whose sex is male to participate in an athletic program or activity that is designated for women or girls.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and all primary and secondary schools under the control of the Department of Defense, including the Department of Defense Education Activity Schools—
designate each multi-occupancy restroom or changing room in a facility under its control for the exclusive use of males or females and take reasonable steps to prevent individuals from using a restroom or changing room designated for the opposite sex;
if only one restroom or changing room exists in a facility under its control, clearly designate that restroom or changing room for the sole use by the sex of the team or group using the facility at the time; and
provide students the option to be housed in permanent sleeping quarters only with persons of the same sex at any student housing facilities under its control or during any academy or school-sponsored trips.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and all primary and secondary schools under the control of the Department of Defense, including the Department of Defense Education Activity Schools, from permitting males to train or practice with an athletic program or activity that is designated for women or girls so long as no female is deprived of a roster spot on a team or sport, opportunity to participate in a practice or competition, scholarship, admission to an educational institution, or any other benefit that accompanies participating in the athletic program or activity.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and all primary and secondary schools under the control of the Department of Defense, including the Department of Defense Education Activity Schools, from—
establishing single-occupancy restrooms, changing rooms, or permanent sleeping quarters;
allowing individuals to enter a restroom or changing room designated for the opposite sex—
to perform custodial services or maintenance;
to render medical assistance;
to provide childcare, disability support, or age-appropriate parental assistance in Department of Defense Education Activity School environments;
to provide services or render aid during a natural disaster, a declared emergency, or when necessary to prevent a serious threat to good order or safety; or
to provide coaching or athletic training during athletic events by coaching staff in changing rooms, provided that the individual ensures that no person of the opposite sex is in a state of undress prior to entering the room; or
utilizing temporary co-ed sleeping arrangements necessary for training exercises, deployments, or other operational environments.
In this section—
the term athletic programs and activities includes all programs or activities that are provided conditional upon participation with any athletic team;
the term changing room means a locker room, shower room, or other area designated for individuals to change clothing;
the term female means an individual who naturally has, had, will have, or would have, but for a congenital anomaly or intentional or unintentional disruption, the reproductive system that at some point produces, transports, and utilizes eggs for fertilization;
the term male means an individual who naturally has, had, will have, or would have, but for a congenital anomaly or intentional or unintentional disruption, the reproductive system that at some point produces, transports, and utilizes sperm for fertilization;
the term restroom means a room that includes one or more toilets or urinals;
the term sex means an individual’s biological sex, either male or female; and
the term sleeping quarters means a room with a bed in which more than one individual is housed overnight.
Title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in section 573(b), by striking the last sentence;
in section 612(a)(1), by striking the last sentence; and
in section 14102(b), by striking the last sentence.
Section 986 of title 10, United States Code, is repealed.
Section 2001(a)(1)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking include and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting include honor, excellence, courage, and commitment..
Section 543 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1994 (Public Law 103–160; 10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
in the section heading, by striking Gender-neutral and inserting Sex-neutral;
in subsection (a)—
in the subsection heading, by striking Gender neutrality and inserting Sex neutrality;
by striking that is open to both male and female members of the Armed Forces and inserting in the Armed Forces;
in paragraph (1), by striking on the basis of gender and inserting on the basis of sex;
by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively;
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph:
shall ensure that any member of the Armed Forces who meets the occupational standards for such occupational career field shall be eligible for qualification, assignment, and continuance in that occupational career field without differential standards or evaluation on the basis of sex;
in paragraph (3), as redesignated by subparagraph (D), by striking gender quota and inserting sex quota; and
in paragraph (4), as so redesignated, by inserting men or before women;
in subsection (b)—
in the subsection heading, by striking physical and inserting occupational; and
in paragraph (1)—
by striking physical requirements for and inserting requirements for technical, tactical, cognitive, and physical abilities, including;
by striking strength and endurance and inserting strength, endurance,;
by striking physical requirements as and inserting requirements as;
by striking gender-neutral occupational standard and inserting sex-neutral occupational standard;
by striking (in the case of a career designator that is open to both male and female members of the Armed Forces); and
by striking gender-neutral basis and inserting sex-neutral basis;
in subsection (c), by striking gender-neutral occupational standard and inserting sex-neutral occupational standard;
by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e);
by inserting after subsection (c) the following new subsection:
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the Secretary from revising occupational performance standards, where such standards are based on validated operational requirements and applied on a sex-neutral basis.
in subsection (e)(1), as redesignated by paragraph (4)—
in the paragraph heading, by striking Gender-neutral and inserting Sex-neutral; and
by striking gender-neutral occupational standard and inserting sex-neutral occupational standard.
The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice, shall analyze the feasibility and advisability of amending section 917a(a) of title 10, United States Code, (article 117a(a) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) to remove paragraph (4) (relating to requiring as an element of the offense, conduct [that has] a reasonably direct and palpable connection to a military mission or military environment).
Not later than December 31, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report detailing the results of the analysis conducted under subsection (a) and any associated recommendations.
Section 806b of title 10, United States Code (article 6b of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
in subsection (e)(3), by striking subparagraph (C); and
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
The Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces may review all decisions or dispositions taken by a Court of Criminal Appeals pursuant to a petition filed by the victim of an offense under this chapter under subsection (e) and on good cause shown.
The Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces shall take action only with respect to matters of law.
The victim of an offense under this chapter may petition the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces for review pursuant to paragraph (1) not later than 21 days after the earlier of—
the date on which the victim is notified of the decision or disposition of the Court of Criminal Appeals on a petition pursuant to subsection (e); and
the date on which a copy of the decision or disposition of the Court of Criminal Appeals, after being served on counsel for the victim (if the victim has counsel), is deposited into the United States mails for delivery by first-class certified mail to the victim at an address provided by the victim or at the latest address listed for the victim in the record of any proceedings held pursuant to section 830(a) or 832 of this title (article 30(a) or 32) or during trial.
Review of any decision or disposition of the Court of Criminal Appeals on a petition for writ of mandamus described in this subsection shall have priority in the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, as determined under the rules of the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
Section 857(c) of title 10, United States Code (article 57(c) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3);
in paragraph (1)(B), by striking Appeals and— and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting Appeals and the review and time requirements described in paragraph (2) are satisfied.; and
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph (2):
The review and time requirements referred to in paragraph (1)(B) are satisfied if any of the following applies:
The time for the accused to file a petition for review by the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces has expired and the accused has not filed a petition for such review in a timely manner and the case is not otherwise under review by that Court.
The petition for review is withdrawn by the accused.
The petition for review having been filed—
either—
the petition is denied or otherwise rejected by the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces; or
the review requested by the petition is completed in accordance with the judgment of the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces; and
with respect to subsequent review by the Supreme Court—
a petition for a writ of certiorari as provided in section 1259 of title 28 is not filed within the time limits prescribed by the Supreme Court;
such a petition is rejected by the Supreme Court;
such a petition is withdrawn by the petitioner; or
review is otherwise completed in accordance with the judgment of the Supreme Court.
Section 865(d) of title 10, United States Code (article 65(d) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
by striking paragraph (2);
by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2); and
in paragraph (2), as so redesignated—
in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking subparagraph (A), (B), or (C) and inserting subparagraph (A) or (B); and
in subparagraph (B), by striking conclusions and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting “a conclusion on each of the following matters:
Whether the court had jurisdiction over the accused and the offense.
Whether the charge and specification stated an offense.
Whether the sentence was within the limits prescribed as a matter of law.
Section 869(c)(2) of title 10, United States Code (article 69(c)(2) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended by striking section 865(b) of this title (article 65(b)) and inserting section 865(d) of this title (article 65(d)).
Section 824a(c) of title 10, United States Code (article 24a(c) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
in paragraph (3)—
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking paragraph (5) and inserting paragraphs (4) and (6); and
in subparagraph (C), by inserting or pretrial agreement after plea agreement;
by redesignating paragraphs (4) and (5) as paragraphs (5) and (6), respectively; and
by inserting after paragraph (3) the following new paragraph:
If a special trial counsel exercises authority pursuant to subsection (d) over an offense committed before January 1, 2019, the special trial counsel may enter into a pretrial agreement with the accused in accordance with regulations prescribed by the President. Upon acceptance of such an agreement by the military judge of a general or special court-martial, the agreement shall bind the parties and the convening authority.
Section 866(e)(1) of title 10, United States Code (article 66(e)(1) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
whether the portion of the sentence extending to confinement is inappropriately severe, except that in the case of an offense for which the President has established a sentencing parameter for such portion pursuant to section 539E(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (10 U.S.C. 856 note), the Court may not consider such portion inappropriately severe if such portion is at or below the upper range of such sentencing parameter;
in subparagraph (C), by striking the sentence and inserting the portion of the sentence extending to confinement.
Section 830a(a)(1)(B) of title 10, United States Code (article 30a(a)(1)(B) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended by striking warrants or orders and inserting warrants, orders, or subpoenas.
Section 846(d)(3) of title 10, United States Code (article 46(d)(3) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
in the paragraph heading, by striking Warrant or order and inserting Warrant, order, or subpoena;
by striking may issue warrants or court orders and inserting may issue warrants, court orders, or investigative subpoenas; and
by striking as such warrants and orders and inserting as such warrants, orders, or subpoenas.
Section 1044e of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the section heading, by inserting domestic violence and before sex-related offenses;
by inserting domestic violence or before sex-related offense each place it appears;
in subsection (b)(3), by striking domestic abuse advocate and inserting domestic abuse victim advocate;
in subsection (f)(1), by inserting domestic abuse victim advocate, after healthcare provider,; and
in subsection (h)—
in the subsection heading, by inserting domestic violence or before sex-related offense; and
in paragraph (1), by striking or 930 of this title (article 120, 120b, 120c, and inserting 928b, or 930 of this title (article 120, 120b, 120c, 128b,.
The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect two years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the implementation of policies and procedures to carry out the changes required pursuant to subsection (a).
The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice, shall analyze the feasibility and advisability of, and develop recommendations with respect to, modifying chapter 47 of title 10, United States Code (the Uniform Code of Military Justice) to provide for one or more of the following changes:
To establish hazing as a sentence modifier for offenses where hazing was present.
To establish hazing as a lesser included offense under section 893 of title 10, United States Code (article 93 of the Uniform Code of Military justice; relating to cruelty and maltreatment).
To establish another method of codifying hazing as a standalone punitive article of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
As part of the analysis conducted under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall develop a proposed definition of the term hazing for purposes of such modifier, article, or alternative.
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the results of the analysis under subsection (a), including a justification for any decision not to codify hazing as a punitive article under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Section 1567a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the section heading, by inserting and victims of domestic abuse or sexual assault after civilian law enforcement;
in subsection (a), by inserting and, in a case involving domestic abuse or sexual assault, the victim or requesting individual, after appropriate civilian authorities; and
in subsection (c), by inserting and, in a case involving domestic abuse or sexual assault, the victim or requesting individual, after appropriate civilian authorities.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish and implement Department of Defense policy to require commanders, in response to domestic violence reports or complaints, to make an initial determination as to the credibility of the report or complaint. If the report is deemed credible, in consultation with the victim, the commander should—
impose military protective orders; and
whenever practicable, separate the victim and the alleged offender into separate housing;
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Department of Defense shall provide a briefing to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives concerning any additional authorities necessary to properly implement the policy referenced in subsection (a), as well as the establishment of a process to maintain emergent housing entitlements to basic allowance for housing or military housing units in support of domestic violence victims for up to 180 days.
Not later than December 1, 2027, and annually thereafter by December 1 through 2031, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the General Counsel of the Department of Defense, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive report on the findings, recommendations, and implementation status of the Department-wide review of the military legal system initiated pursuant to the Secretary of Defense memorandum dated May 8, 2026.
The report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
A detailed summary of the reviews conducted by the special review panel established by the General Counsel, including a list of all final recommendations submitted to the Secretary during the preceding fiscal year.
Details on the specific timeline, implementation status, and systemic changes executed or planned by the Department based on the panel’s recommendations.
An assessment of how any administrative, structural, or policy changes resulting from the review impact the statutory independence and authorities of the special trial counsel established under part I of subtitle D of title V of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1692).
The specific metrics, criteria, and legal justifications used to differentiate operational military legal workloads from civilian workloads, alongside a quantification of any legal personnel or billets shifted from military to civilian oversight.
A summary of the comparative data and criteria used by the Department to benchmark the military legal system against the Department of Justice and State criminal justice systems, including any findings on system efficiencies or deficiencies.
An evaluation of how proposed changes affect the professional responsibility, rating chains, and statutory duty of the Judge Advocates General of the Armed Forces to provide independent legal advice.
The report required under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex if necessary.
The Secretary of Defense shall brief the congressional defense committees not later than 30 days after implementing any changes based on the recommendations of the panel and review described in subsection (a)(1).
Section 802(d)(2)(B) of title 10, United States Code (article 2(d)(2)(B) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended by inserting or during a period specified in subsection (a)(3)(B) after on inactive-duty training.
Section 803(d) of such title (article 3(d) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended—
by inserting or a period specified in section 802(a)(3)(B) of this title (article 2(a)(3)(B)) after a period of active duty or inactive-duty training; and
by striking of active-duty or inactive-duty training before the period at the end.
Section 802 of title 10, United States Code (article 2 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking The following persons and inserting Except as provided in subsection (e), the following persons;
by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (f); and
by inserting after subsection (d) the following new subsection:
With respect to members to whom the provisions of this chapter are made applicable by paragraphs (4), (5), (6), and (14) of subsection (a), except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the provisions of subchapter X shall not be applicable to any—
conduct of such members which constitutes or pertains to political speech;
expressions pertaining to the actions, character, motivations, qualifications, or other attributes of government officials; or
statements of the law.
The exception under paragraph (1) shall not apply to a member—
to whom this chapter is applicable under a paragraph of subsection (a) other than one of the paragraphs referenced in paragraph (1) of this subsection; or
who is wearing a military uniform.
The Secretary of the Army, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of the Air Force may not reorganize a unit of the program of their respective military service until the date that is 90 days after the date on which the Secretary provides to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a briefing with respect to the reorganization of such unit that includes the following:
Each position of such unit to be eliminated.
A risk analysis regarding the impact of the reorganization on officer accessions that justifies such reorganization.
Anticipated cost savings or expenses to the United States.
The number of members of the program affected by the reorganization, including the number of members who will have to travel to another educational institution to participate in the program after the reorganization.
Any change to a scholarship awarded under section 2107 or 2107a of title 10, United States Code, due to the reorganization.
The Secretary of the Army, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of the Air Force shall ensure that any reorganization of a unit of the program of their respective military service allows a member of the program receiving financial assistance under section 2107 or 2107a of title 10, United States Code, who is affected by such reorganization to complete any requirements for receiving a commission as an officer in the military service without the member being required to transfer to another educational institution.
In this section:
The terms program and member of the program have the meanings given such terms in section 2101 of title 10, United States Code.
The term reorganize, with respect to a unit of the program, includes closing, restructuring, reclassifying, merging, or realigning.
Section 8462 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)—
by striking Superintendent of the Naval Academy and all that follows through report of the facts— and inserting Secretary of the Navy may discharge a midshipman from the Naval Academy and from the naval service—;
in paragraph (1), by striking Superintendent and inserting Secretary; and
in paragraph (2), by striking Academic Board unanimously determines and inserting Secretary determines; and
by amending subsection (b) to read as follows:
The authority of the Secretary under subsection (a) may be delegated to the Superintendent of the Naval Academy.
Section 553(c)(2) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1773) is amended by striking The repeal made under paragraph (1) and inserting The amendments made by this section.
The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect as if included in the enactment of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232).
Section 2004 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)(2), by striking Not more than 25 officers and enlisted members from each military department and inserting Not more than 35 members from each military service; and
in subsection (c)—
by inserting (1) before Officers and enlisted members; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The Secretaries of the military departments are authorized to waive the time in service minimum of two years in subsection (b)(1)(A)(i) for up to five officers who are graduates of the United States Military Academy established under section 7431 of title 10, United States Code, up to five officers who are graduates of the Air Force Academy established under section 9431 of title 10, United States Code, and up to five officers who are graduates of the Naval Academy established under section 8451 of title 10, United States Code, respectively.
Section 7451 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking subsection (b);
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b); and
in subsection (b), as so redesignated, by striking the course and inserting a course.
Section 9451 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking subsection (b);
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b); and
in subsection (b), as so redesignated, by striking the course and inserting a course.
The amendments made by this section shall apply to the first academic year beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Subsection (e)(2)(C)(i) of section 7461 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 72 hours each place it appears and inserting five calendar days.
Subsection (e)(2)(C)(i) of section 8480 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 72 hours each place it appears and inserting five calendar days.
Subsection (e)(2)(C)(i) of section 9461 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 72 hours each place it appears and inserting five calendar days.
Not later than January 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a program using the authority provided under section 2103(b) of title 10, United States Code, to promote the participation of foreign students in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (in this section referred to as the Program).
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the Secretaries of the military departments, the commanders of the combatant commands, the participant institutions in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program, and any other individual the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate, shall be responsible for, and shall oversee, the Program.
The objective of the Program is to promote the readiness and interoperability of the United States Armed Forces and the military forces of partner countries by providing a high-quality, cost effective military-based educational experience for foreign students in furtherance of the military-to-military program objectives of the Department of Defense and to enhance the educational experience and preparation of future United States military leaders through increased, extended interaction with highly qualified potential foreign military leaders.
Under the Program, the Secretary of Defense shall—
identify to the military services’ Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program the foreign students who, based on criteria established by the Secretary, the Secretary recommends be considered for admission under the Program;
coordinate with partner countries to evaluate interest in and promote awareness of the Program;
establish a mechanism for tracking an alumni network of foreign students who participate in the Program; and
to the extent practicable, work with the participant institutions in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program and partner countries to identify academic institutions and programs that—
have specialized academic programs in areas of study of interest to participating countries; or
have high participation from or significant diaspora populations from participating countries.
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a strategy for the implementation of the Program.
The strategy required by paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
A governance structure for the Program, including—
the officials tasked to oversee the Program;
the format of the governing body of the Program;
the functions and duties of such governing body with respect to establishing and maintaining the Program; and
mechanisms for coordinating with partner countries whose students are selected to participate in the Program.
A list of additional authorities, appropriations, or other congressional support necessary to ensure the success of the Program.
A description of targeted partner countries and participant institutions in the Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps for the first three fiscal years of the Program, including a rationale for selecting such initial partners.
A description of opportunities and potential timelines for future Program expansion, as appropriate.
A description of the mechanism for tracking the alumni network of participants of the Program.
Any other information the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate.
Not later than September 20, 2028, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees (as that term is defined in section 101 of title 10, United States Code) a report on the Program.
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
A narrative summary of activities conducted as part of the Program during the preceding fiscal year.
An overview of participant Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs, individuals, and countries, to include a description of the areas of study entered into by the students participating in the Program.
A description of opportunities and potential timelines for future Program expansion, as appropriate.
Any other information the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate.
The Secretary of Defense may not use the authority provided under this section to pay for tuition or room and board for foreign students who participate in the Program.
The Program shall terminate on December 31, 2032.
Chapter 58 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness shall designate a senior official of the Department of Defense to oversee policy and programs related to the transition of members of the armed forces from active duty to civilian life or reserve components.
The official designated under paragraph (1) shall be designated from among individuals with appropriate experience in military personnel policy, transition assistance, veterans' affairs, or related matters.
Subject to paragraph (2), the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness shall prescribe the roles, responsibilities, and authorities of the official designated under subsection (a).
The roles, responsibilities, and authorities prescribed under paragraph (1) shall include, with respect to the transition of members of the armed forces from active duty to civilian life and reserve components and the families of such members experiencing such transition—
serving as the principal advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness on policies, operations, and programs and activities relating to the transition of members;
assisting the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness with policies, operations, and programs and activities relating to the transition of members;
working, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Education, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of all activities relating to the transition of members;
serving as the principal coordinator for military-to-civilian transition policy within the Department of Defense, with the mission of coordinating and overseeing the effectiveness of transition programs of the Department of Defense and ensuring all members of the armed forces are well equipped for civilian life or the reserve components, as the case may be;
overseeing the implementation of transition programs in the Department of Defense;
conducting a review and assessment of all transition programs and services offered by the Department of Defense, including the programs under this chapter, and proposing legislative or administrative action—
to improve the efficacy and efficiency of the programs; and
to ensure compliance with all legal requirements related to transition assistance; and
working with Federal agencies, State and local governments, and nongovernmental organizations to improve the delivery of transition support services to members and families of members.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness shall designate a senior official under section 1156(a) of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a) of this section, not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees on—
the status of the designation of the official described under subsection (1); and
the implementation of the roles, responsibilities, and authorities of such official.
Section 2007 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the section heading, by inserting and institution fees after Payment of tuition;
in subsection (a), by striking or expenses and inserting , expenses, or institution fees; and
in subsection (c), by striking or expenses each place it appears and inserting , expenses, or institution fees.
The Secretary of Defense may prescribe regulations increasing the per-semester-hour cap for tuition assistance offered by the military services to not more than $350 per semester-hour.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on Off-Duty and Voluntary Education and Training Account (Accounts) outcomes.
The report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
Fiscal, volume, compliance, and distribution metrics.
Metrics linking investment in the Accounts to outcomes including educational attainment, recruitment/retention, mission readiness, and transition readiness.
An analysis of compliance with sections 2005, 2006a, and 2007 of title 10, United States Code.
An analysis of the severability of annual ceiling requirements from per-semester-hour caps under part 68 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations.
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with each of the States (through the Defense-State Liaison Office of the Department of Defense), the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Homeland Security (with respect to matters concerning the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Department of the Navy), shall develop recommendations to improve the transition of medics serving in the Armed Forces into the civilian workforce in health care occupations, including as certified nurse aides, licensed practical nurses, or medical assistants.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall—
identify any barriers—
to improving the ability of the Secretary to determine and communicate how the military credentials and experience of a medic separating from the Armed Forces translate to credentialed civilian employment in health care occupations;
that exist to the standardization among the Armed Forces of military medic credentials and experience and the alignment of such credentials and experience to credentialed civilian employment in health care occupations;
that exist to ensuring members of the Armed Forces with military medic credentials and experience have earned the equivalent civilian credential prior to separation from the Armed Forces in addition to receiving their military credentials;
to the increased establishment and uptake of accelerated or bridge programs to assist separating members of the Armed Forces in translating military credentials and experience into civilian health care credentials and employment;
to increasing the availability and accessibility of preparatory activities under the SkillBridge program established under section 1143(e) of title 10, United States Code, in the health care sector for members of the Armed Forces preparing for separation, to include—
the approval timeline for separating members to participate in SkillBridge programs in the health care sector; and
requirements to return to their duty station for out-processing; and
to providing information on civilian health care credentials and employment under the Transition Assistance Program to medics separating from the Armed Forces, including information on State-by-State licensing and credentialing; and
consider the potential impact of—
clarification by States through legislation, actions of State licensing boards, or actions of State credentialing boards of the civilian equivalents of certain military credentials and experience in health care;
implementation, including through State-provided incentives, of accelerated programs to bridge military medic credentials and experience with civilian health care credentials and licenses;
financial support or incentives by States to increase the availability and accessibility of such programs;
requiring the military departments to align military health care credentials with civilian equivalents; and
tracking and reporting, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Homeland Security (with respect to matters concerning the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Department of the Navy), the number of separated members of the Armed Forces with health care-related military credentials and experience who continue in the civilian health care sector, including the type of employment they pursue.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing—
the recommendations developed under subsection (a); and
a plan to implement those recommendations.
In this section:
The term medic means a member of the Armed Forces acting in a clinical health care-related occupation while serving in the Armed Forces.
The term State means each of the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, or the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands that have a Defense-State Liaison Office.
The term Transition Assistance Program means the program of the Department of Defense for pre-separation counseling, employment assistance, and other transitional services provided under sections 1142 and 1144 of title 10, United States Code.
Except as provided in subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense may not, by any policy or other action—
prohibit or otherwise restrict the Department of Defense or the military departments from permitting servicemembers to participate in an eligible program at an eligible institution of higher education, as a means to complete an eligible program, including any constituent subsidiary or subelement of such institution, regardless of the source of funds used by the member to pay tuition, fees, or related expenses; or
deny covered funds to members of the Armed Forces who are otherwise eligible for such assistance, or deny covered support to any such member, on the basis that the member has applied to, enrolled in, attends, or has completed an eligible program at an eligible institution of higher education, including any constituent subsidiary or subelement of such institution.
In this section:
The term covered funds means any program, appropriation, or other authority of the Department of Defense to pay, reimburse, or otherwise provide financial assistance for education or training of members of the Armed Forces, including under section 2007 of title 10, United States Code, and any successor authority.
The term covered support means any Department of Defense funding or facilitation of a member’s participation in education or training conducted in whole or in part at an institution of higher education, whether full-time or part-time, other than professional military education programs conducted by the Department of Defense.
The term eligible institution of higher education means an institution that—
is accredited, and maintains accreditation in good standing, by an accrediting agency or association recognized by the Secretary of Education under part H of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1099b et seq.); and
operates a program authorized in section 2006a(a) of title 10, United States Code; or
offers or administers an eligible program under paragraph (4).
The term eligible program means—
an educational program authorized by law and established by the Department of Defense under which the Department is authorized to provide covered funds or covered support; or
a fellowship, scholarship, degree, certificate, medical residency, grant, or other training or education program in which members of the Armed Forces are authorized to participate that is funded through—
covered funds;
personal funds;
authorized outside fellowships, scholarships, or grants; or
any combination of sources described in clauses (i) though (iii).
The Secretary may restrict attendance under subsection (a)(1), or suspend or terminate the availability of covered funds or covered support under subsection (a)(2), with respect to an otherwise eligible institution of higher education if—
the institution has materially failed to comply with specific terms of a memorandum of understanding, contract, or other educational partnership agreement applicable to the eligible program;
the restriction, suspension, or termination is required to address a specific, articulable national security risk;
the restriction, suspension, or termination is required by a provision of Federal law or is undertaken upon mutual written agreement between the Department and the institution; or
the institution has been convicted of, or has been the subject of a final civil judgment that the institution violated—
the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2751 et seq.) or regulations issued thereunder;
the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4801 et seq.) or regulations issued thereunder;
the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) or regulations issued thereunder; or
Section 1831 of title 18, United States Code (economic espionage).
Any action under paragraph (1) shall be narrowly tailored and implemented using the least disruptive means practicable, including to the maximum extent practicable, applying such action prospectively and permitting enrolled students to finish their current course of study.
In the event that the Secretary believes that a for cause exception has been triggered under subsection (c), the Secretary shall provide for the following:
Not later than 90 days before the proposed termination date, the Secretary shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives and the affected institution written notification, including—
the proposed termination date; and
the factual basis for suspension or termination under subsection (c).
The Secretary shall provide an opportunity for the institution to appeal or dispute the findings and cure any material deficiencies in the written notification within 30 days of receipt of such notification. If at any point the institution demonstrates that they have cured the issue, the Secretary shall re-evaluate the suspension or termination and determine whether the institution has addressed the material deficiencies.
Participation in Department of Defense education programs and activities by institutions of higher education shall be determined based on institution-agnostic eligibility requirements and objective criteria. Nothing in this section shall be construed—
to permit the Secretary to disqualify an institution of higher education from participating in Department of Defense education or training programs or activities on the basis of—
an institution of higher education’s First Amendment rights or its protection of student free speech and association rights under section 112 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1011a.); or
an institution of higher education’s religious character or affiliation;
to require the Secretary of Defense to approve any individual request for covered funds or covered support where the member or the institution of higher education does not meet program-wide, institution-agnostic eligibility or selection requirements;
to restrict the Secretary’s ability to establish institution-agnostic program guidelines, eligibility criteria, or funding caps on covered support programs that are not otherwise inconsistent with this section;
to limit the ability of the Secretary of Defense or the Secretaries of the military departments from entering into program agreements with eligible institutions of higher education to carry out educational programs authorized in law; or
create an entitlement for servicemembers to refuse orders otherwise issued in the due course of normal detailing processes or for military necessity.
The prohibitions in subsection (a) do not apply to an institution of higher education that operates for profit.
Section 105(d)(2) of title 17, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
Defense Security Cooperation University.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that each of the Service Academies (as that term is defined in section 347(d) of title 10, United States Code) may satisfy any standardized testing requirement through scores from any of not fewer than three nationally recognized standardized assessments that are designed to evaluate college readiness and that measure, at a minimum, mathematics, reading, grammar and writing, and analytical reasoning skills. Such assessments may also evaluate critical and logical reasoning, comprehension of literary, historical, or philosophical texts, and other indicators of postsecondary readiness as determined appropriate by the Secretary.
The Director of the Department of Defense Education Activity shall ensure that students enrolled in the eleventh grade are offered the opportunity to take not fewer than three standardized assessments described in subsection (a).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue a Department-wide policy applicable to members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense that—
prohibits the display, possession for display, or use of hate symbols in the workplace or in connection with official duties, including on the body, uniform, civilian work attire, personal equipment, government property, or digital work platforms, including through tattoos, brands, insignia, patches, apparel, or electronic imagery;
establishes uniform minimum standards for identifying and addressing prohibited hate symbols across all military departments and defense agencies;
requires each military department and defense agency to revise its regulations and instructions to comply with such policy; and
provides procedures for review, waiver where appropriate, removal, or remediation consistent with applicable law.
In this section, the term hate symbol—
means any symbol, image, insignia, emblem, tattoo, sign, coded designation, or other visual representation that, in context, would reasonably be understood as expressing, advocating, endorsing, or promoting hatred, unlawful discrimination, violent extremism, or supremacy directed against a protected class or group; and
does not include the good-faith display or use of symbols for legitimate religious, cultural, historical, educational, artistic, intelligence, law enforcement, or investigative purposes where the circumstances do not reasonably indicate support for extremist ideology or unlawful discrimination.
In determining whether a symbol constitutes a hate symbol under this section, the Secretary of Defense shall consider—
the historical and cultural meaning of the symbol;
the manner, context, and location in which the symbol is displayed;
whether the symbol is associated with extremist organizations or ideologies;
whether the display would reasonably be interpreted as communicating support for hatred, discrimination, or violent extremism; and
applicable constitutional, statutory, and religious accommodation protections.
The Secretary of Defense shall—
develop and maintain supplemental guidance and reference materials, in consultation with subject matter experts, to assist commanders, supervisors, human resources personnel, and investigators in identifying hate symbols; and
not less than every three years, review and, if necessary, update such guidance and reference materials in consultation with civil rights experts and organizations with recognized expertise in hate and extremist symbols.
The Secretary of Defense shall incorporate instruction on the hate symbol policy and identification guidance into existing training programs for—
members of the Armed Forces; and
civilian employees of the Department of Defense;
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, each military department and defense agency shall certify compliance with the requirements under this section.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall brief the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives on the implementation of this provision.
Of the amount authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 by section 301 and available for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide activities as specified in the funding table in section 4301, $50,000,000 shall be available only for the purpose of providing assistance to local educational agencies under subsection (a) of section 572 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 (Public Law 109–163; 20 U.S.C. 7703b).
In this subsection, the term local educational agency has the meaning given that term in section 7013(9) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7713(9)).
Of the amount authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 pursuant to section 301 and available for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide activities as specified in the funding table in section 4301, $10,000,000 shall be available for payments under section 363 of the Floyd D. Spence National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001 (as enacted into law by Public Law 106–398; 114 Stat. 1654A–77; 20 U.S.C. 7703a).
Of the amount authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 pursuant to section 301 and available for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide activities as specified in the funding table in section 4301, $20,000,000 shall be available for use by the Secretary of Defense to make payments to local educational agencies determined by the Secretary to have higher concentrations of military children with severe disabilities.
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the Department’s evaluation of each local educational agency with higher concentrations of military children with severe disabilities and subsequent determination of the amounts of impact aid each such agency shall receive.
The Director of the Department of Defense Education Activity shall ensure that each school district of such Activity has, at a minimum, one staff member dedicated to facilitating educational technology and related matters.
A staff member described in subsection (a) shall, at a minimum—
ensure classroom technologies meet policy requirements and the needs of students and teachers;
assist administrators, curriculum teams, instructional support specialists, and teachers in developing and modeling learning opportunities to make the best use of technology in the classroom;
assist in the implementation of technology integration; and
perform other duties related to educational technology as assigned.
Not later than February 1, 2028, the Director shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on—
the implementation of subsections (a) and (b); and
any recommendations for changes to policy or statutes to ensure that the Department of Defense Education Activity has sufficient staff and resources to support the use of beneficial technology in classrooms.
Section 1798(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (1), by striking the semicolon and inserting ; and;
by striking paragraph (2); and
by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2).
The Secretary of Defense may seek to enter into an interagency partnership with a Federal agency with the ability to place individuals described in paragraph (2) in military child development centers in accordance with national service laws and with all the benefits accorded to such individuals under those laws.
An individual described in this paragraph is a participant, including a volunteer or national senior volunteer, under the national service laws who is trained in education services and is in compliance with hiring requirements for military child development centers.
In this subsection, the terms participant and national service laws have the meanings given those terms in section 101 of the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12511)).
The Secretary of Defense shall standardize the collection and reporting of data related to child care capacity, workforce readiness, and waitlists across the Armed Forces and military installations.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall, at a minimum, require the collection and reporting of data with respect to the following:
Child care capacity and utilization, disaggregated by branch of the Armed Forces and military installation.
Child care workforce staffing levels, vacancies, turnover rates, and compensation ranges, disaggregated by branch of the Armed Forces and military installation.
Child care waitlists, disaggregated by—
children that are currently at home with a parent;
children that are currently being cared for by family members, friends, neighbors, or nannies;
children that are currently receiving care through—
a military child development center (as defined in section 1800 of title 10, United States Code) other than the center for which the children are on the waitlist;
a military family child care program, including identification of whether the program is supported by subsidies provided by the Department of Defense under section 1796 of title 10, United States Code; or
community-based child care, including identification of whether such care is supported by financial assistance provided by the Department through the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood program under section 1798 of title 10, United States Code;
families requiring child care during nontraditional hours; and
children for whom sufficient information is not available to categorize care status, including as a result of incomplete or self-reported data.
Demand for child care by age cohort, with specific identification of the demand for child care for children under age 5.
Utilization and attrition data for fee assistance programs.
Geographic areas with persistent unmet child care needs.
The Secretary shall—
analyze data on child care waitlists collected under subsection (b), including—
the extent of duplicate entries across military installations or child care programs; and
the proportion of waitlist entries that—
reflect unmet need for child care; and
reflect unmet preference for specific child care programs; and
take steps to resolve discrepancies in such data, including duplicate waitlist entries and inclusion of children on waitlists who are receiving care.
The Secretary may prescribe such regulations as are necessary to carry out this section.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on—
existing systems and reporting practices used to track data related to child care capacity, workforce readiness, and waitlists;
the quality, completeness, and limitations of data available as of the date of the briefing;
actions underway to standardize data collection and reporting across the Department of Defense; and
a plan, including timelines, to improve standardization of data collection and reporting.
Not later than December 31, 2027, and annually thereafter for three years, the Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on—
data collected under subsection (b);
trends in child care capacity, workforce readiness, and unmet demand, disaggregated by branch of the Armed Forces and geographic region;
actions taken to address identified gaps in child care availability, including actions taken by each branch of the Armed Forces and in each geographic region; and
any recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve collection and reporting of data related to child care capacity, workforce readiness, and waitlists.
Not later than January 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall issue or revise policy relating to the pay system for employees of child and youth programs operated by nonappropriated fund instrumentalities to implement the requirements of section 589A of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–59; 10 U.S.C. 1792 note).
The policy required to be issued or revised under subsection (a) shall—
incorporate a revised staffing model for child development programs that includes positions—
to facilitate classroom operations and provide direct support to staff of child development programs; and
to coordinate and support the needs of children with special needs and provide direct support to personnel working with such children;
modify the pay band structure and compensation rates to improve recruitment and retention of employees of child and youth programs described in subsection (a); and
provide for the implementation of the policy as soon as practicable, subject to the availability of appropriations.
In this section, the term nonappropriated fund instrumentality has the meaning given that term in section 2488 of title 10, United States Code.
Subchapter I of chapter 88 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1784a the following new section:
Not later than April 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a fellowship program for military spouses, to be known as the Department of Defense Military Spouse Fellowship Program (in this section referred to as the Program), to enhance career opportunities for military spouses and to support the readiness of military families.
Under the Program, a component of the Department of Defense selected by the Secretary under subsection (c)(1) shall provide to fellowships to military spouses.
A fellowship under the Program—
shall be for a term of not less than 12 months and not more than 24 months;
may be full time or part time, with a preference for full time; and
may be an in-person or remote position.
A fellow under the Program shall be compensated at a rate of pay under the General Schedule under section 5332 of title 5 appropriate to the role of the fellow.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall—
select components of the Department of Defense to participate in the Program based on strategic workforce planning and demonstrated need;
ensure that fellowships offered by components of the Department of Defense selected under paragraph (1) are available across a range of grade levels and provide for a wide array of career fields and experiences; and
ensure that the Program has the funding and other resources to provide for not less than 500 full-time equivalent fellowships each year.
A component of the Department of Defense selected under subsection (c)(1) to participate in the Program shall be responsible for—
providing a meaningful fellowship experience to fellows in the component, including through the provision of professional development and mentorship opportunities;
documenting the performance of fellows during the terms of their fellowships; and
subject to paragraph (2), making every effort to identify permanent positions within the component to which a fellow may be non-competitively converted at the end of the term of the fellowship.
The conversion under paragraph (1)(C) of a fellowship under the Program to a permanent position shall be contingent upon the performance of the fellow, the availability of a permanent position, and the availability of funding.
In this section, the term military spouse means any individual who is married (within the meaning of section 7703 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986), as of the first date on which the individual is employed by a component of the Department of Defense under this section, to a member of the uniformed services serving on active duty.
Not later than March 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall require each of the Armed Forces to have in place a policy for achieving, as a secondary consideration during the process of assigning members to duty stations, colocation of covered couples.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall—
ensure that, in assigning a member of the Armed Forces who is part of a covered couple to a duty station—
the primary considerations are the member’s current qualifications and ability to fill a valid mission requirement; and
colocation is a secondary consideration, to maximize the opportunities for continued employment of the civilian employee of the Department of Defense through all flexibilities available;
ensure civilian personnel policies and processes of the Department are updated to facilitate colocation; and
provide resources, training, and additional flexibilities where appropriate to the Armed Forces and human resources managers of the Department to facilitate retention of civilian employees of the Department during permanent change of station moves of members of the Armed Forces who are part of a covered couple.
In this section:
The term civilian employee of the Department of Defense—
means an employee (as defined in section 2105 of title 5, United States Code) of the Department of Defense;
includes—
a nonappropriated fund instrumentality employee (as defined in section 1587(a) of title 10, United States Code); and
a temporary employee of the Department; and
does not include an employee of a contractor of the Department of Defense.
The term colocation, with respect to a covered couple, means assigning the member of the Armed Forces to a duty location in a manner that results in the retention of the civilian employee of the Department of Defense at the same pay grade and in the same job series within any component of the Department, whether through remote work, alternate work site arrangements, a reassignment, or an internal transfer.
The term covered couple means a couple in which a member of the Armed Forces serving on active duty and a civilian employee of the Department of Defense are married to each other.
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall initiate a review of how the Exceptional Family Member Program (in this section referred to as the Program) affects assignment decisions, continuity of care, access to medical, behavioral health, and educational services, and retention and career progression of members across the Armed Forces.
The review required by subsection (a) shall—
identify military installations where families with an individual in the Program face unavailable, limited, or difficult-to-access services;
assess whether current assignment screening and coordination processes under the Program—
are effectively ensuring that such families are assigned to locations where needed services are reasonably available; and
adequately evaluate the availability, timeliness, and continuity of educational services and related supports required under an existing individualized education program, individualized family service plan, or other applicable educational accommodation for an individual in the Program, including whether families experience significant delays, gaps, or barriers in obtaining comparable services after relocation;
evaluate the impact of enrollment of a family member in the Program on assignment opportunities, assignment stability, and readiness of members of the Armed Forces; and
identify best practices across the military departments for improving continuity of care and assignment stability for families with an individual in the Program.
Not later than April 30, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the results of the review that includes a corrective action plan describing steps—
to improve assignment screening for families with an individual in the Program;
to increase transparency regarding the availability of services at military installations;
to improve how the Department of Defense assesses the availability of educational services at assignment locations and reduces disruptions in implementation of such services following a permanent change of station;
to improve coordination among military treatment facilities, the TRICARE program (as defined in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code), and civilian services providers; and
to strengthen relocation support for families with an individual in the Program while moving between duty stations.
The Secretary of Defense shall require all counselors assigned to a Family Advocacy Program or Military and Family Life program at a military installation in the United States to be trained in the requirements and resources relating to foster care of the State in which the installation is located.
A counselor who has received training under paragraph (1) shall be known as a foster care liaison.
The Secretary shall require Military OneSource to include a mechanism for military families to obtain information on foster care, including the requirements and resources relating to foster care of each State.
The Secretary may consult with the Administration for Children and Families of the Department of Health and Human Services to obtain resources relating to foster care for military families, including curricula for training under subsection (a).
Section 585 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1759) is amended—
in subsection (a)(2), by striking through 2027 and inserting through 2032; and
in subsection (b)—
by redesignating paragraph (9) as paragraph (10); and
by inserting after paragraph (8) the following new paragraph:
A description of gaps between senior and junior enlisted security forces personnel that could hinder effective oversight and leadership at each PL-1 location and actions needed to remedy such gaps.
Not later than January 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries concerned shall update Department of Defense issuances governing the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program, including the applicable Department of Defense Instruction, to—
reflect current statutory requirements relating to the minimum number of Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps units, including any increases enacted in recent National Defense Authorization Acts, and the plan of the Secretary to achieve and sustain such minimums;
an evaluation plan to assess the effects of the JROTC Standardized Instructor Pay Scale, or any successor pay system, on recruitment and retention of JROTC instructors, including the implementation and utilization of the temporary authority to provide bonuses to such instructors under section 546 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2031 note); and
standardized metrics for measuring JROTC instructor recruiting outcomes and retention rates across the military services.
The evaluation plan required under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, metrics relating to—
instructor vacancy rates and time-to-hire;
retention rates and length of service;
geographic variation in recruiting and retention outcomes, including high-cost-of-living areas, rural, urban, and geographically isolated locations;
comparisons between outcomes under the legacy pay system and the JSIPS;
the identification of recruiting efforts used to attract instructor applicants, including data on how applicants learned about available instructor positions;
the number of applicants who begin, complete, or withdraw from the instructor hiring process, including the interview and background investigation stages;
the number of applicants who accept or decline instructor position offers, including to the extent practicable, information on the reasons offers were declined;
the number, amount, and distribution of bonuses provided to JROTC instructors under section 546 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2031 note), disaggregated by military department, geographic location, and instructor type, as well as any identified barriers to use of the authority; and
any other matters the Secretary determines appropriate.
Not later than one year after the issuance of the updated guidance under subsection (a), and annually thereafter for two years, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that includes—
a description of the updated guidance and implementation status;
baseline data and metrics collected using the metrics developed under subsection (a);
an assessment of the effects of the pay scale on recruitment and retention;
an assessment of the effectiveness of the bonus authority authorized by section 546 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2031 note) in improving recruitment and retention of JROTC instructors, including whether such authority should be modified, extended, or made permanent; and
any recommendations for legislative or administrative action.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that, by not later than October 1, 2027, each secondary school operated by the Department of Defense Education Activity that meets the eligibility requirements for establishment and maintenance of a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps unit under section 2031 of title 10, United States Code, establishes and maintains such a unit.
The Secretary may waive the requirement under subsection (a) with respect to a school described in that subsection if the Secretary determines that the school will not be able to meet a threshold for enrollment in a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps unit sufficient to sustain the viability of the unit over time.
Section 592 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 899) is amended by striking posthumous in the section heading.
Notwithstanding the time limitations specified in section 7274 of title 10, United States Code, or any other time limitation with respect to the awarding of certain medals to persons who served in the Armed Forces, the Secretary of the Army may award the Distinguished-Service Cross under section 7272 of such title to Joseph P. Lynch for the acts of valor in the Republic of Vietnam described in subsection (b).
The acts of valor referred to in subsection (a) are the actions of Joseph P. Lynch on April 17, 1968, during a combat mission near Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam for which he was previously awarded the Silver Star.
Section 7274 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
A time limitation under this section may not be waived unless the Secretary of the Army first submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives the unredacted package of information considered by the Secretary, including all relevant information relating to any reconsideration of an award.
Section 8298 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
A time limitation under this section may not be waived unless the Secretary of the Navy first submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives the unredacted package of information considered by the Secretary, including all relevant information relating to any reconsideration of an award.
Section 9274 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
A time limitation under this section may not be waived unless the Secretary of the Air Force first submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives the unredacted package of information considered by the Secretary, including all relevant information relating to any reconsideration of an award.
Chapter 737 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 7274 the following new section:
The Secretary of the Army is responsible for establishing and maintaining procedures for the review of Medal of Honor recommendations submitted pursuant to this chapter, including recommendations submitted within statutory time limits under section 7274(b) of this title, recommendations lost or not acted upon due to inadvertence under section 7274(c) of this title, and recommendations submitted pursuant to section 1130 of this title upon request of a Member of Congress.
Each Medal of Honor recommendation forwarded by the Secretary of the Army to the Secretary of Defense shall—
include the recommendation of an independent board of review convened specifically to consider the award of the proposed Medal of Honor;
contain the recommendation of the Secretary of the Army;
include the recommendation of the Chief of Staff of the Army; and
contain incontestable proof that the member distinguished himself or herself in accordance with the requirements of section 7271 of this title.
Upon receipt of a Medal of Honor recommendation, the Secretary of Defense shall—
obtain the advisory recommendation of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the merits of the nomination; and
for nominations submitted within the time limits prescribed by section 7274(b) of this title, or for actions arising from ongoing combat or military operations, obtain through the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff the advisory recommendation of the applicable combatant commander.
The Secretary of Defense shall include the Secretary's recommendation to the President for any Medal of Honor recommendation determined to satisfy the criteria in section 7271 of this title.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, reconsideration of a previously reviewed Medal of Honor nomination, or upgrade of a previously approved award to the Medal of Honor, may be initiated only upon a showing of—
new, substantive, and material evidence that was not available at the time of the original recommendation and that was not previously considered by the awarding authority; or
material error or impropriety in the processing or adjudication of the original recommendation, including loss of substantiating documents or witness statements during original routing, clearly incorrect application of official policy, or substantiated discrimination based on race, sex, or religion, provided that any such conclusion is supported by a preponderance of the evidence.
Information that adds detail to facts already presented in the original recommendation, but is not new, substantive, or material, does not satisfy the requirement under paragraph (1)(A) for new, substantive, and material evidence.
Authority to determine whether the requirements of paragraph (1) have been satisfied is as follows:
The Secretary of Defense shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any prior award case adjudicated within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This authority may not be delegated.
The Secretary of the Army shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any case previously adjudicated within the Department of the Army. This authority may not be delegated.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the President to award the Medal of Honor pursuant to section 7271 of this title or to modify the time limitations established in section 7274 of this title except as provided herein.
Chapter 837 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 8298 the following new section:
The Secretary of the Navy is responsible for establishing and maintaining procedures for the review of Medal of Honor recommendations submitted pursuant to this chapter, including recommendations submitted within statutory time limits under section 8298 (a) of this title, recommendations lost or not acted upon due to inadvertence under section 8298(b) of this title, and recommendations submitted pursuant to section 1130 of this title upon request of a Member of Congress.
Each Medal of Honor recommendation forwarded by the Secretary of the Navy to the Secretary of Defense shall—
include the recommendation of an independent board of review convened specifically to consider the award of the proposed Medal of Honor;
contain the recommendation of the Secretary of the Navy;
include the recommendation of the Chief of Staff of the Navy; and
contain incontestable proof that the member distinguished himself or herself in accordance with the requirements of section 8291 of this title.
Upon receipt of a Medal of Honor recommendation, the Secretary of Defense shall—
obtain the advisory recommendation of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the merits of the nomination; and
for nominations submitted within the time limits prescribed by section 8298(a) of this title, or for actions arising from ongoing combat or military operations, obtain through the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff the advisory recommendation of the applicable combatant commander.
The Secretary of Defense shall include the Secretary's recommendation to the President for any Medal of Honor recommendation determined to satisfy the criteria in section 8291 of this title.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, reconsideration of a previously reviewed Medal of Honor nomination, or upgrade of a previously approved award to the Medal of Honor, may be initiated only upon a showing of—
new, substantive, and material evidence that was not available at the time of the original recommendation and that was not previously considered by the awarding authority; or
material error or impropriety in the processing or adjudication of the original recommendation, including loss of substantiating documents or witness statements during original routing, clearly incorrect application of official policy, or substantiated discrimination based on race, sex, or religion, provided that any such conclusion is supported by a preponderance of the evidence.
Information that adds detail to facts already presented in the original recommendation, but is not new, substantive, or material, does not satisfy the requirement under paragraph (1)(A) for new, substantive, and material evidence.
Authority to determine whether the requirements of paragraph (1) have been satisfied is as follows:
The Secretary of Defense shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any prior award case adjudicated within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This authority may not be delegated.
The Secretary of the Navy shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any case previously adjudicated within the Department of the Navy. This authority may not be delegated.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the President to award the Medal of Honor pursuant to section 8291 of this title or to modify the time limitations established in section 8298 of this title except as provided herein.
Chapter 937 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 9274 the following new section:
The Secretary of the Air Force is responsible for establishing and maintaining procedures for the review of Medal of Honor recommendations submitted pursuant to this chapter, including recommendations submitted within statutory time limits under section 9274(b) of this title, recommendations lost or not acted upon due to inadvertence under section 9274(c) of this title, and recommendations submitted pursuant to section 1130 of this title upon request of a Member of Congress.
Each Medal of Honor recommendation forwarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to the Secretary of Defense shall—
include the recommendation of an independent board of review convened specifically to consider the award of the proposed Medal of Honor;
contain the recommendation of the Secretary of the Air Force;
include the recommendation of the Chief of Staff of the Air Force; and
contain incontestable proof that the member distinguished himself or herself in accordance with the requirements of section 9271 of this title.
Upon receipt of a Medal of Honor recommendation, the Secretary of Defense shall—
obtain the advisory recommendation of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the merits of the nomination; and
for nominations submitted within the time limits prescribed by section 9274(b) of this title, or for actions arising from ongoing combat or military operations, obtain through the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff the advisory recommendation of the applicable combatant commander.
The Secretary of Defense shall include the Secretary's recommendation to the President for any Medal of Honor recommendation determined to satisfy the criteria in section 9271 of this title.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, reconsideration of a previously reviewed Medal of Honor nomination, or upgrade of a previously approved award to the Medal of Honor, may be initiated only upon a showing of—
new, substantive, and material evidence that was not available at the time of the original recommendation and that was not previously considered by the awarding authority; or
material error or impropriety in the processing or adjudication of the original recommendation, including loss of substantiating documents or witness statements during original routing, clearly incorrect application of official policy, or substantiated discrimination based on race, sex, or religion, provided that any such conclusion is supported by a preponderance of the evidence.
Information that adds detail to facts already presented in the original recommendation, but is not new, substantive, or material, does not satisfy the requirement under paragraph (1)(A) for new, substantive, and material evidence.
Authority to determine whether the requirements of paragraph (1) have been satisfied is as follows:
The Secretary of Defense shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any prior award case adjudicated within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This authority may not be delegated.
The Secretary of the Air Force shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any case previously adjudicated within the Department of the Air Force. This authority may not be delegated.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the President to award the Medal of Honor pursuant to section 9271 of this title or to modify the time limitations established in section 9274 of this title except as provided herein.
Section 1130 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (f); and
by inserting after subsection (c) the following new subsections:
Proposals to be considered under this section must originate before the military service concerned operationalized a standardized, online, awards review process.
An exception to the time limitations under this section shall be granted for a member or former member of the armed forces whose recommendation for a decoration could not be processed due to the classification of the details of the act, achievement, or service. In such cases, a recommendation for a decoration may be considered if it is submitted within three years of the date the information providing the necessary evidence is declassified.
For purposes of the exception under paragraph (1), the term 'declassification' includes—
information released through the automatic declassification mechanisms established under Executive Order 13526 (or any successor order), including the 10-year, 25-year, 50-year, or 75-year automatic declassification timelines; and
information released through a Mandatory Declassification Review (MDR) or a request under section 552 of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the Freedom of Information Act).
Section 1552 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking subsection (j); and
by redesignating subsection (k) as subsection (j).
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the following information on all decorations awarded under the authorities of sections 7271, 7272, 7279, 8291, 8292, 8295, 9271, 9272, and 9279 of title 10, United States Code, between the January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2026:
Unredacted copies of all supporting documentation, material matters, and information considered by boards of review, the chain of command, and any party employed by the Department of Defense, including the Secretary of Defense, who evaluated the merits of, offered a recommendation about, or approved the decorations.
Unredacted copies of all recommendations made by boards of review, the chain of command, and any party employed by the Department of Defense, including the Secretary of Defense, pertaining to the awarding of the decorations.
For those decorations approved by the Secretary of Defense or the Secretaries of the military departments, a written justification of the basis for awarding such decoration.
A description of the legal authority under which each of the decorations was awarded.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on each of the decorations awarded in (a) and whether any legal discrepancies or errors exist in the awarding of such decorations, along with a legislative proposal to correct any errors so identified.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, not more than 90 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of Defense has submitted all documentation for each award specified under subsection (a) to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Section 452(j)(1) of title 37, United States Code, is amended by striking more than 50 miles and inserting to a permanent duty assignment location requiring one-way travel of more than 100 miles.
Section 452(j) of title 37, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), shall apply to travel on or after January 1, 2028.
Section 623 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 1933) is amended by striking subsections (b) and (c).
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report containing the following elements:
The estimated marginal cost of implementation of subsection (j) of section 452 of title 37, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), to the Department of Defense, and, for members of the Coast Guard, the Department of Homeland Security, disaggregated by reserve component.
The estimated total number of members of the Armed Forces who would be affected by implementation of such subsection (j).
Any recommended change to such subsection in order to improve efficacy or implementation.
Any other matter that the Secretary determines appropriate.
The adjustment to become effective during fiscal year 2027 required by section 1009 of title 37, United States Code, in the rates of monthly basic pay authorized members of the uniformed services shall not be made.
Effective on January 1, 2027, the rates of monthly basic pay for members of the uniformed services are increased by 3.6 percent.
Section 453 of title 37, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
The Secretary concerned may reimburse a member of the armed forces described in paragraph (2) for the costs described in paragraph (3).
A member is described in this paragraph if—
the duty station of the member is a remote or isolated installation (as defined in section 4705 of title 10);
the member lives more than 30 miles, or has a commute of longer than one hour, from the member's residence to the member's duty station; and
the member is unable to live closer to that duty station because of a lack of affordable housing and essential services near the duty station.
The costs described in this paragraph are—
the average cost of fuel for the distance the member travels from the member's residence to the member's duty location; and
a percentage, to be determined by the Secretary of Defense, of costs associated with maintenance and wear-and-tear on the vehicle of the member as a result of commuting; or
if available, the cost of taking public transportation from the member's residence to the member's duty location.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish guidelines for administering this subsection, including guidelines with respect to—
how a member can apply for reimbursement under this subsection; and
verification of—
the distance a member travels from the member's residence to the member's duty location, which may be accomplished through a combination of housing records and tools for measuring distance using the Global Positioning System; and
the lack of affordable housing and essential services near the member's duty station.
Section 910(g) of title 37, United States Code, relating to income replacement payments for reserve component members experiencing extended and frequent mobilization for active duty service, is amended by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027.
The following sections of title 10, United States Code, are amended by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027:
Section 2130a(a)(1), relating to nurse officer candidate accession program.
Section 16302(d), relating to repayment of education loans for certain health professionals who serve in the Selected Reserve.
Section 333(i) of title 37, United States Code, is amended by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027.
The following sections of title 37, United States Code, are amended by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027:
Section 331(h), relating to general bonus authority for enlisted members.
Section 332(g), relating to general bonus authority for officers.
Section 334(i), relating to special aviation incentive pay and bonus authorities for officers.
Section 335(k), relating to special bonus and incentive pay authorities for officers in health professions.
Section 336(g), relating to contracting bonus for cadets and midshipmen enrolled in the Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps.
Section 351(h), relating to hazardous duty pay.
Section 352(g), relating to assignment pay or special duty pay.
Section 353(i), relating to skill incentive pay or proficiency bonus.
Section 355(h), relating to retention incentives for members qualified in critical military skills or assigned to high priority units.
Section 403(b) of title 37, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (7)(E), relating to an area covered by a major disaster declaration or containing an installation experiencing an influx of military personnel, by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027; and
in paragraph (8)(C), relating to an area where actual housing costs differ from current rates by more than 20 percent, by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027.
Section 334(c)(1)(B) of title 37, United States Code, is amended by striking $50,000 and inserting $60,000.
Section 335(c)(2) of title 37, United States Code, is amended by inserting or holds a comparable qualifying Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, as determined by the Secretary concerned, after is board certified.
Section 336 of title 37, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (b), by striking $5,000 and inserting $15,000; and
in subsection (c)(1), by striking field training or a practice cruise under section 2104(b)(6)(A)(ii) of title 10 and inserting training requirements prescribed by the Secretary concerned.
Section 351(b) of title 37, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (1), by striking $450 and inserting $600; and
in paragraph (2), by striking $275 and inserting $400.
Section 439(b) of title 37, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (2), by striking has been certified and inserting was initially certified;
by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (4) and (5), respectively; and
by inserting after paragraph (2) the following new paragraph (3):
has been recertified (if required), by a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, as in need of such assistance;
Chapter 54 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating sections 1061 through 1066 as sections 1062 through 1067, respectively; and
by inserting before section 1062, as so redesignated, the following new section:
The following categories of individuals may access commissary stores:
Members of the uniformed services, as follows:
Members of the armed forces on active duty.
Members of the National Guard and reserve components in any duty status under this title or title 32.
Members of the commissioned corps of the Public Health Service.
Members of the commissioned officer corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including wage-marine personnel authorized under section 264 of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Act of 2002 (33 U.S.C. 3074) to access commissary stores.
Cadets and midshipmen of the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and the United States Coast Guard Academy.
Retired members of the uniformed services, as follows:
All members carried on the official retired lists of the uniformed services who are entitled to or eligible for retired or retainer pay.
Retired wage-marine personnel of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its predecessor services.
Retired officers and crews of the former Lighthouse Service.
Other former members of the uniformed services, as follows:
Veterans—
discharged or released from service in the armed forces under honorable conditions; and
who are hospitalized in facilities where commissary stores are available.
Any other retired or former members or veterans expressly entitled under this title to access commissary stores.
Dependents (as defined in section 1072 of this title) of any individual described in subparagraph (A), (B), or (C), including surviving spouses and dependents of members or veterans described in subparagraph (B) or (C).
Civilian employees of the Department of Defense and nonappropriated fund instrumentality employees (as defined in section 1587(a) of this title) who are—
are assigned to a military installation—
outside the United States; or
in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States; or
are designated by the Secretary concerned as serving in a mission-critical occupation or a position experiencing a significant staffing shortage.
Subject to paragraph (3)(D), civilian employees of other Federal agencies when serving outside the United States, or in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, pursuant to a written support agreement authorized under section 2470 of this title or other formal interagency agreement with the Department of Defense.
Subject to paragraph (3)(D), employees of United States nongovernmental organizations or firms working outside the United States, or in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, under contracts with the Department of Defense.
Civil service mariners of the Military Sealift Command and the Army Corps of Engineers.
Nuclear materials couriers (as defined in section 8331 of title 5).
In addition to the categories of individuals described in paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense may authorize access to commissary stores for the following categories of individuals in the following circumstances:
Employees of the Defense Commissary Agency assigned to commissary stores within the United States, for personal, on-premise consumption during meals and authorized breaks within scheduled working hours.
Civilian officials of the Department of Defense appointed by the President who reside in Government quarters on military installations and family members of such officials who reside with such officials.
Officers and enlisted personnel of the military services of foreign countries when on duty with the United States armed forces or under reciprocal agreements.
Representatives and employees of the American National Red Cross, United Service Organizations, the United Seamen’s Service, the Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association, and the Fisher House Foundation when assigned to duty with or in direct support of the armed forces—
outside the United States; or
in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States.
Personal agents designated in writing by the commander of a military installation to shop on behalf of individuals who are authorized to access commissary stores under this subsection.
Individuals or employees of entities granted temporary access, when such access is necessary to restore or sustain military operations, during—
federally declared disasters (as defined in section 1065 of this title); or
humanitarian relief or other emergency operations.
Members of the armed forces who are involuntarily separated as a result of force reshaping during the two-year period following such separation.
Members of the armed forces who receive sole survivorship discharges described in section 1174(i) of this title during the two-year period following such separation.
An individual is authorized to access commissary stores under this subsection for only so long as the qualifying status, employment, or assignment of the individual remains applicable or as otherwise provided by statute.
This subsection does not authorize access to commissary stores in foreign countries where treaties or international agreements prohibit such access.
The authority under this subsection—
may not be used to establish a broad or permanent category of individuals authorized to access commissary stores other than a category specifically authorized by this subsection; and
shall be implemented in a manner that ensures no additional funds are required to be appropriated.
In the case of an individual described in subparagraph (F) or (G) of paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense may impose a fee or surcharge, or use another mechanism, as necessary to offset the administrative costs of providing the individual access to commissary stores.
Except as expressly authorized by an Act of Congress, the Secretary of Defense, and any other official or employee of the Department of Defense, may not expand eligibility for access to commissary stores to any additional individual or category of individuals by regulation, policy, memorandum, or other administrative action.
The categories of individuals authorized to access commissary stores under subsection (a) are also authorized to access the military exchange system operated by the Department of Defense, including the Army and Air Force Exchange Service, the Navy Exchange Service Command, and the Marine Corps Exchange.
Civilian employees of the Department of Defense and nonappropriated fund instrumentality employees (as defined in section 1587(a) of this title), and nuclear materials couriers (as defined in section 8331 of title 5), are authorized to access military exchange stores located in the United States and in the commonwealths, territories, or possessions of the United States, including for the purchase of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages.
Veterans discharged or released from service in the armed forces under honorable conditions are authorized to access the online military exchange system, consistent with the policy of the Department of Defense in effect before the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 governing remote sales of the military exchange system.
Access to the military exchange system authorized under this paragraph does not—
include authorization to purchase military uniforms; or
extend to any other programs, facilities, or services operated by nonappropriated fund activities of the Department of Defense for the morale, welfare, and recreation of members of the armed forces.
An individual is authorized to access the military exchange system under this subsection for only so long as the qualifying status, employment, or assignment of the individual remains applicable or as otherwise provided by statute.
Except as provided by paragraph (2)(C) or as expressly authorized by an Act of Congress, the Secretary of Defense, and any other officer or employee of the Department of Defense, may not expand eligibility for access to the military exchange system to any additional individual, or category of individuals by regulation, policy, memorandum, or other administrative action.
The Secretary of Defense may authorize temporary access to commissary stores and the military exchange system for a period of not more than one year for categories of individuals not covered by subsection (a) or (b) if—
those individuals are otherwise authorized to access military installations; and
the Secretary—
notifies the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives of the authorization; and
includes in that notification a description of the categories of individuals authorized to access the military exchange system and the rationale for authorizing such access.
The Secretary is authorized to renew an authorization for temporary access provided under paragraph (1) for additional periods of not more than one year each if, for each renewal, the Secretary submits the notification required by paragraph (1)(B) not fewer than 60 days before the effective date of the renewal.
Chapter 54 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), is further amended—
in section 1063(c), by striking section 1063 and inserting section 1064;
in section 1065(c)(2), by striking section 1063(e) and inserting section 1064;
in section 1066(h)(1)(A), by striking section 1063(e) and inserting section 1064; and
in section 1067(c)(1), by striking section 1063 and inserting section 1064.
Section 2483 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Construction, repair, improvement, and maintenance of physical infrastructure (as defined in section 2484(h)(1)(B) of this title).
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Amounts used for construction under subsection (b)(8) shall be subject to the requirements and limitations under section 2805 of this title.
The Secretary of Defense may carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility of, demand for, and financial impact of extending access to commissary stores to civilian employees of the Department of Defense while maintaining the benefit of such access for members and retired members of the Armed Forces and their families.
Under the pilot program authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary may provide access to a commissary store selected for participation in the pilot program under subsection (c) to full-time civilian employees of the Department of Defense and nonappropriated fund instrumentality employees (as defined in section 1587(a) of this title) who are assigned to a location within the vicinity of the military installation where the store is located.
The Secretary—
may select up to 16 commissary stores within the continental United States to participate in the pilot program authorized by subsection (a); and
in making selections under paragraph (1), shall ensure representation of diverse geographic regions and types of military installations.
The Secretary may impose a fee or surcharge, or use another mechanism—
to offset the administrative costs of providing access to commissary stores to employees described in subsection (b); and
to ensure that no additional amounts are required to be appropriated to carry out the pilot program authorized by subsection (a).
The Secretary may determine the duration of the pilot program authorized by subsection (a), except that the pilot program shall terminate not later than January 1, 2028.
Not later than 180 days after the termination under subsection (e) of the pilot program authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report evaluating—
the number and categories of employees described in subsection (b) participating in the pilot program, including participation rates by military installation, grade, and employment type;
the total volume of sales and patronage levels generated by those employees and the proportion of total commissary sales represented by the patronage of those employees;
the gross and net revenue generated from sales to those employees;
the disposition or use of any additional revenues, fees, or surcharges collected under the pilot program;
the impact of the pilot program on the overall operating costs of commissary stores, including with respect to labor, supply chain, and inventory management;
any observed or projected effects of the pilot program on the requirements of the Defense Commissary Agency for appropriations and the subsidies provided for the operations of commissary stores;
the impact of the pilot program on infrastructure, security, parking, and utilities at commissary stores participating in the pilot program;
the effect of the pilot program on access to and wait times at commissary stores, and customer satisfaction, for members of the Armed Forces;
any operational challenges, staffing adjustments, or system modifications required to carry out the pilot program;
any adjustments to procurement or contracting requirements associated with increased patronage resulting from the pilot program; and
the overall feasibility, fiscal sustainability, and advisability of permanent or expanded access to commissary stores for civilian employees of the Department of Defense, including recommendations for any legislative or policy changes necessary to support such access.
Section 453(c)(4) of title 37, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
The Secretary of the military department concerned may authorize the shipment or storage of more than one privately owned vehicle for a member of the armed forces in connection with a temporary or permanent move between authorized locations.
The exercise of the authority provided by subparagraph (A) shall—
be subject to the availability of appropriations and operational requirements; and
not be conditioned on the implementation of a Department of Defense-wide policy on shipment and storage of personally owned vehicles.
Section 453 of title 37, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
From amounts otherwise made available for a fiscal year to provide travel and transportation allowances under this chapter, the Secretary concerned may reimburse a member of the uniformed services for qualified guardianship costs if—
the member relocates to a new jurisdiction or geographic area as the result of—
an assignment to a duty station;
a reassignment, either as a result of a permanent change of station or permanent change of assignment, between duty stations;
a transfer from a regular component of a uniformed service into the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve of a uniformed service, if the member is authorized a final move from the last duty station to the new jurisdiction or geographic area; or
placement on the temporary disability retired list under chapter 61 of title 10; and
the movement of the member's dependents is authorized at the expense of the United States under this section as part of the relocation.
Reimbursement provided to a member under this subsection for qualified guardianship costs may not exceed $1,000 in connection with each relocation described in paragraph (1).
No reimbursement may be provided under this subsection for qualified guardianship costs paid or incurred after December 31, 2029.
In this subsection, the term qualified guardianship costs means costs, including paperwork, travel, or court, legal, or other administrative fees, incurred by a member or the spouse of a member if—
a State appoints the member or spouse as the guardian of a minor child or an adult adjudicated to be in need of a guardian; and
the member or spouse needs to seek a new appointment in a new jurisdiction because of the member's relocation described in paragraph (1).
Section 992 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (b)(2), by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
The Secretary concerned may, subject to the applicable requirements of this section, enter into contracts to provide counseling under this paragraph with individuals and organizations that provide counseling with respect to housing, including organizations that are certified under section 106(e) of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701x(e)).
in subsection (f)(3), by striking and mortgages and inserting mortgages, and other financial products related to the purchase or lease of a primary residence (and information on fees related to such products).
Section 2641b of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection (h); and
by inserting after subsection (f) the following new subsection (g):
An individual eligible pursuant to subsection (c) for the travel program who is stationed at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, may purchase transportation, at commercially competitive rates (as determined by the agency contracting for the transportation), for travel to and from Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, without regard to subsection (b).
An individual described in paragraph (1) shall have a priority for transportation under the travel program consistent with other official travelers, as determined by the Secretary.
Notwithstanding section 3302 of title 31, amounts collected under paragraph (1) shall be credited to the appropriate appropriation of the agency contracting for the transportation. Amounts so collected shall be credited to and merged with the funds in that appropriation and shall be available for the same period and purposes as the appropriation with which merged.
Chapter 101 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 2015 the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense may provide assistance to a member of the armed forces for expenses of obtaining, while serving in the armed forces, a personal driver’s license under the laws of a State.
In this section, the term State means the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, the United States Virgin Islands, and American Samoa.
Section 16301(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 15 percent and inserting 20 percent.
Section 604 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 37 U.S.C. 301b note) is amended—
in subsection (b)(2), by striking and not less than one year; and
in subsection (d), by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
Under the demonstration program required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable and consistent with the needs of the Air Force, offer a rated officer described in subsection (b)—
assignment to the duty location preferred by the officer, including consecutive assignments to the same duty location; or
the opportunity to perform a staff assignment that—
does not require the officer to relocate; or
permits the officer to remain in an active flying status while performing such assignment.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall establish a pilot program, under the authority provided by section 710 of title 10, United States Code, to permit officers in Air Force fighter aircrew career fields to take a one-time career intermission in order to evaluate whether targeted career intermissions reduce early separations and preserve experienced fighter aircrew subject-matter experts for air staff positions and leadership roles in the active component of the Air Force.
An intermission under the pilot program established under subsection (a) shall be for a period of not less than 4 months and not more than one year, as selected by the participant.
An officer described in subsection (a) may participate in the pilot program established under that subsection if the officer is subject to an active duty service obligation of not less than two years as of the beginning of the period of intermission of the officer under subsection (b). Participation in the pilot program shall not, by itself, disqualify an officer from eligibility for an aviation bonus under section 334(b) of title 37, United States Code.
Payment of an aviation bonus under section 334(b) of title 37, United States Code, to an officer shall be suspended during any period of intermission of an officer under the pilot program established under subsection (a).
Upon the return of an officer to active duty after an intermission under the pilot program established under subsection (a), payment of an aviation bonus under section 334(b) of title 37, United States Code, may resume for the remaining period of the agreement of the officer under paragraph (3) of that section, subject to the terms of the agreement.
Any period of intermission under the pilot program established under subsection (a) shall not be counted toward the fulfillment of an agreement with respect to an aviation bonus under section 334(b) of title 37, United States Code.
Except as provided in paragraph (4), an officer shall continue to satisfy any other active duty service obligation during a period of intermission under the pilot program established under subsection (a).
Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Secretary shall carry out the pilot program established under subsection (a) in accordance with section 710 of title 10, United States Code.
The authority to carry out the pilot program under subsection (a) shall terminate on the date that is 5 years after the date on which the pilot program is established.
Not later than one year after the establishment of the pilot program under subsection (a), and annually thereafter until termination of the pilot program under subsection (e), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the implementation and effectiveness of the pilot program.
Not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a digital system under which a covered beneficiary who receives health care at a military medical treatment facility or through a managed care support contractor under the TRICARE program may electronically—
file a complaint, raise awareness about an issue, or provide positive feedback relating to access to care at such military medical treatment facility or through such managed care support contractor; and
view the status of such complaint or issue at any time, including the status of any interim or final action taken to address the complaint or issue.
The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall develop a process to acknowledge receipt of complaints or issues under paragraph (1)(A) and specify a timeline for response to such complaints or issues.
Any complaint or issue filed under paragraph (1)(A) shall be promptly transmitted to an appropriate patient advocate of the Department of Defense.
Complaints or issues filed under paragraph (1)(A) with respect to a military medical treatment facility may be automatically aggregated and submitted to the Director of the Defense Health Agency on a quarterly basis.
Not later than March 1 of each year during the three-year period following the establishment of the system under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the total number of complaints or issues filed under such system.
Each report under paragraph (1) shall include, for each military medical treatment facility with respect to which a complaint or issue was filed under the system under subsection (a), the following:
An identification of the most common access to care complaints or issues filed by covered beneficiaries with respect to such facility.
A comparison of the number of complaints or issues filed regarding access to specialty care versus access to primary care.
A comparison of the number of complaints or issues filed regarding access to women’s health care versus access to health care that is not women’s health care.
A comparison of the number of complaints or issues filed regarding access to pediatric care versus access to non-pediatric care.
A comparison of the number of complaints or issues filed regarding administrative hurdles to access to care versus other access to care issues.
A summary of steps taken at such facility to reduce access to care complaints or issues by covered beneficiaries.
In this section:
The term covered beneficiary means an individual enrolled in a health care plan under the TRICARE program and eligible to receive care at a military medical treatment facility.
The term managed care support contractor means a health care organization contracted to provide care via a managed support contract in support of the health benefits under the TRICARE program.
The term TRICARE program has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
Paragraph (2) of section 1077(c) of title 10, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
Dependents who are covered by a dental plan established under section 1076a of this title may be treated by postgraduate dental residents in a dental treatment facility of the uniformed services under a graduate dental education program accredited by the American Dental Association.
Treatment under subparagraph (A) shall be provided on a space available basis and only if the Secretary of Defense determines that adequate resources exist to provide such treatment.
Section 1077(a)(16)(B)(ii) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting or TRICARE Select before the period at the end.
The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall evaluate the feasibility and advisability of permitting reimbursement under the TRICARE program of certified mental health counselors who hold a masters or higher-level degree in counseling from a program that is accredited by a covered institution.
Not later than July 1, 2027, the Director shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the evaluation conducted under subsection (a).
If the report submitted under subsection (b) recommends permitting reimbursement of counselors with a degree from a program accredited by a covered institution, the Director shall issue an interim final rule implementing such recommendations not later than two years after submittal of the report.
In this section:
The term covered institution means any of the following:
The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
The Higher Learning Commission.
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.
The Distance Education Accreditation Commission.
The Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
The American Psychology Association.
The term TRICARE program has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall—
ensure that each managed care contract under the TRICARE program entered into after the date of the enactment of this Act includes requirements that the managed care contractor—
conduct comprehensive outreach campaigns, to include electronic and non-electronic means, and mass email campaigns to network specialty care providers providing—
information relating to penalties associated with inaccurate provider directory information;
resources for improving directory information; and
direct links for providers to update their directory information;
make it a condition of joining the network managed by such contractor under the TRICARE program for specialty care providers to validate their provider directory information not less frequently than quarterly;
ensure that when specialty care providers file for reimbursement, such providers are prompted to review and verify their directory accuracy;
create a mechanism by which beneficiaries under the TRICARE program can report provider directory inaccuracy to the contractor;
conduct random tests (not less frequently than monthly) encompassing all specialty care provider types, of the accuracy of information maintained by the contractor relating to specialty care providers; and
not less frequently than monthly, submit to the Director the results of such random tests, disaggregated by each specialty care provider type, conducted during the month covered by the report; and
develop financial penalties or other contractual remedies for inaccurate provider directory information under such contracts in accordance with the penalties or remedies imposed as of the date of the enactment of this Act under the T–5 Contract.
The Director shall carry out any other methods that the Director finds useful for the improvement of provider directory accuracy under the TRICARE program.
Not less frequently than twice each year during the three-year period following the date of the enactment of this Act, the Inspector General of the Defense Health Agency shall—
conduct random tests, encompassing and disaggregating by all specialty care provider types, of the accuracy of information relating to specialty care providers contained in the provider directory under the TRICARE program; and
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing the findings of each random test.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the following four years, the Director shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on progress in carrying out this section.
Each briefing under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
A description of the techniques that are most effective in improving accuracy of provider directories.
An identification of the authorities or tools that the Defense Health Agency lacks for improving such accuracy.
An identification of challenges specific to each specialty care provider type that limit such accuracy.
An assessment of the impact of efforts of the Defense Health Agency towards improving such accuracy on providers either leaving the TRICARE program or on the willingness of non-network providers to join the TRICARE program.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the following two years, the Comptroller General of the United States shall—
conduct a holistic review of provider directory accuracy under the TRICARE program, disaggregated by each specialty care provider type, to measure the progress of the Director towards meeting the existing requirements set forth by each managed care contractor under the TRICARE program, including by providing recommendations that would inform the development of the next managed care support contract competition; and
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the review conducted under paragraph (1).
In this section:
The term random test, with respect to specialty care providers, means conducting covert calls to offices of a random sample of such providers using phone numbers from the directory available under the TRICARE program with respect to such providers to confirm the accuracy of information contained in such directory.
A random test may not be conducted with respect to the same sample of providers in consecutive tests.
The term TRICARE program has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
Section 1095c(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (1), by striking nine months after the date of the award of the contract, but in no case later than one year after the date of such award and inserting one year after the date on which the transition period of performance begins under the contract to allow for adequate start-up time for an orderly transition; and
in paragraph (3), by striking nine-month and inserting one-year each place it appears.
Section 734 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 1071 note) is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking September 30, 2027 and inserting January 31, 2028;
in subsection (c), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking a publicly accessible internet website and inserting the public-facing website of the TRICARE program;
in subsection (d)(2), by striking establish procedures to determine and inserting provide a method for verification of;
in subsection (e), by striking 2026 and inserting 2027; and
in subsection (g)(2), by inserting a health plan option under after enrolled in.
Section 1079(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
Cranial orthotic devices (molding helmets) for deformational plagiocephaly may be provided as part of a reconstructive medical treatment.
The Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 201 et seq.) is amended—
in section 2 (42 U.S.C. 201)—
in paragraph (p), by striking means the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Public Health Service, or Coast and Geodetic Survey; and and inserting has the meaning given such term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code;;
in paragraph (q), by striking the period and inserting ; and; and
by adding at the end the following:
The term Defense Agency has the meaning given such term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
in section 543(e) (42 U.S.C. 290dd–2(e))—
in paragraph (1), by inserting or the Defense Agency responsible for military health care under chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code, after Uniformed Services; and
in paragraph (2), by inserting or the Defense Agency responsible for military health care under chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code after Uniformed Services.
The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect as if included in the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328).
For purposes of determining whether a mental health care professional is eligible for reimbursement under the TRICARE program as a certified mental health counselor, an individual who holds a masters or higher-level degree in counseling from a program that is accredited by a covered institution shall be treated as holding such degree from a mental health counseling program or clinical mental health counseling program that is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
The Secretary of Defense shall implement this section beginning not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the plan of the Secretary to implement this section.
In this section:
The term covered institution means any of the following:
The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
The Higher Learning Commission.
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.
The Distance Education Accreditation Commission.
The Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
The American Psychology Association.
The term TRICARE program has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
The Secretary of Defense shall issue such regulations, policies, and procedures as may be necessary to require that, whenever appropriate following a member of the Armed Forces sustaining any significant injury or illness or being on sick call, a wellness check is conducted to account for the health and welfare of such member.
For purposes of subparagraph (A), a member of the Armed Forces shall be considered to have sustained a significant injury or illness or to be on sick call if a medical professional recommends an absence of the member from regular duties for 24 hours or longer, such as placing the member on quarters or recommending convalescent leave.
In conducting a wellness check for a member of the Armed Forces pursuant to paragraph (1), if the member does not respond to such check conducted via an electronic or telephone communication method, the individual conducting the check shall progress to an in-person method of contact.
If, as a result of a wellness check conducted pursuant to paragraph (1) for a member of the Armed Forces, the individual conducting such check is unable to locate such member, the individual shall refer to the applicable regulations, policies, and procedures of the Department of Defense regarding the determination and reporting of such member as missing, absent unknown, absent without leave, or duty status-whereabouts unknown.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that each unit commander coordinates with the judge advocates assigned or attached to, or performing duty with, the unit under the command of such commander for assistance in the implementation of any regulation, policy, or procedure required under subsection (a) with respect to such unit.
On a routine basis, each unit commander shall—
review the requirements contained in the document titled Commander’s Critical Information Requirements, dated January 2020, or any successor document, to ensure such requirements—
have been issued or updated during the three-year period preceding any such review;
reflect the medical issues or safety incidents of members of the Armed Forces that the commander deems sufficiently significant; and
have been distributed to the unit under the command of such commander; and
host confidential wellness meetings with subordinate commanders at which such commanders may discuss with one or more medical officers assigned to such unit any significant injuries or illnesses affecting members of the Armed Forces serving in or with such unit.
Confidential wellness meetings under paragraph (1)(B) may be integrated with existing command, staff, or health-of-the-force synchronization meetings if the confidentiality of the medical and personal information a member of the Armed Forces is appropriately maintained.
Each Secretary concerned, and the Secretary of Defense with respect to civilian personnel of the Department of Defense, shall ensure that training on the importance of accountability with respect to health and welfare, and the significant negative outcomes that may occur when accountability procedures fail, is integrated into existing command, leadership, and prevention training programs to the maximum extent practicable
A separate standalone training requirement is not required for purposes of carrying out paragraph (1).
In this section, the term Secretary concerned has the meaning given that term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish and implement a policy throughout the Department of Defense to require that a medical chaperone be offered and available to be present with a patient during any sensitive medical examination, as determined by the Secretary, conducted at a military medical treatment facility.
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of expanding reciprocal access to health care facilities, personnel, and services between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs (in this section referred to as the pilot program).
The purposes of the pilot program are—
to improve access to timely, high-quality health care for covered beneficiaries;
to improve continuity of care for transitioning members of the Armed Forces and veterans;
to reduce duplication of health care capacity and infrastructure;
to enhance medical readiness and provider proficiency;
to maximize the efficient use of medical facilities and personnel of the Federal Government; and
to assess opportunities for future integration and coordination between the health care systems of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Under the pilot program, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may authorize—
coordinated referral and specialty care arrangements;
integrated scheduling, credentialing, reimbursement, and care coordination processes; and
the sharing and interoperability of electronic health records and related health information systems consistent with applicable privacy and security requirements.
Activities under the pilot program shall prioritize arrangements that cannot be readily achieved under sharing agreements in effect as of the date of the enactment of this Act due to administrative, eligibility, or systemic barriers.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly designate not fewer than five and not more than 10 pilot sites.
In selecting pilot sites under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall consider—
geographic areas with overlapping medical infrastructure of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs;
locations experiencing provider shortages or access challenges;
locations with significant populations of transitioning members of the Armed Forces, former members of the Armed Forces, or veterans;
locations where at least one of the local Federal facilities has the staff and operation capacity to take on the work of the pilot program;
opportunities to improve medical readiness of the Armed Forces; and
existing sharing agreements or integrated care models.
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may jointly add, remove, suspend, or modify pilot sites and services covered under the pilot program as the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs jointly determine necessary based on performance, patient safety, operational requirements, beneficiary access, or other appropriate considerations if the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs provide to the appropriate committees of Congress, not later than 30 days before adding, removing, suspending, or modifying any such site or service, a notification of such action.
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly establish eligibility criteria and priority categories for participation in the pilot program.
In establishing criteria under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall prioritize—
transitioning members of the Armed Forces;
members of the Armed Forces and veterans residing in medically underserved areas;
beneficiaries requiring specialty care with extended wait times;
members of the Armed Forces and veterans receiving behavioral health care; and
military families if reciprocal access would improve continuity or access to care for such families.
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may waive or modify administrative requirements that would otherwise unnecessarily impede the operation of the pilot program, except requirements relating to patient safety, quality standards, or statutory eligibility for care.
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly establish metrics to evaluate the pilot program, including metrics relating to—
patient access and wait times;
quality of care and patient outcomes;
patient satisfaction and care coordination;
provider productivity and readiness impacts;
cost and resource utilization;
continuity of care for transitioning members of the Armed Forces;
continuity of care for veterans receiving care under the pilot program at facilities other than facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs;
electronic health record interoperability and information sharing; and
comparison of use of the pilot program to use of sharing agreements for similar services under other authorities.
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that data collection under this subsection is standardized across pilot sites to the maximum extent practicable.
The pilot program shall—
build upon and not duplicate authorities under section 8111 of title 38, United States Code; and
apply only to the extent necessary to test enhanced reciprocal access to health care facilities, personnel, and services beyond sharing agreements in effect as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a briefing regarding implementation plans for the pilot program.
Not later than April 1 of each year during the duration of the pilot program, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a briefing regarding—
pilot site performance;
beneficiary participation;
budgetary impacts;
patient safety and quality metrics;
any modifications to pilot sites or covered services; and
legislative recommendations, if any.
Not later than two years after commencement of operations under the pilot program at the first pilot site, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly submit to the appropriate committees of Congress an interim report on the results of the pilot program.
Not later than one year before the termination of the pilot program under subsection (k), the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a final report containing—
an assessment of the effectiveness of the pilot program;
recommendations regarding expansion, modification, or termination of the pilot program;
an assessment of impacts on medical readiness of the Armed Forces and health care delivery for veterans; and
any recommendations for legislative or administrative action.
Participation in the pilot program by veterans shall be voluntary.
A veteran eligible to participate in the pilot program may elect to receive care through—
a facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs;
a military medical treatment facility participating in the pilot program; or
a community provider pursuant to applicable community care authorities of the Department of Veterans Affairs .
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may not require a veteran to receive care through a facility of the Department of Defense as a condition of eligibility for, or receipt of, care or services under laws administered by the Secretary.
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that veterans eligible to participate in the pilot program receive clear notice regarding available health care options, including the availability of community care if otherwise authorized by law.
Nothing in this section may be construed to limit, alter, delay, or otherwise affect the eligibility of a veteran for care, services, or referrals furnished under the Veterans Community Care Program under section 1703 of title 38, United States Code, or any other authority available under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive care from non-Department of Veterans Affairs providers.
The pilot program shall commence not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act and shall terminate five years after the commencement of operations of the pilot program at the first pilot site.
In this section:
The term appropriate committees of Congress means—
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate; and
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives.
The term covered beneficiary has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
The term military medical treatment facility means a facility of the Defense Health Agency, a military department, or another component of the Department of Defense providing health care services.
The term pilot site means any medical center, hospital, clinic, or other health care facility of the Department of Defense or the Department of Veterans Affairs that is participating in the pilot program.
The term reciprocal access means systematic, non-excess-capacity access with integrated operations, as opposed to access that is limited to excess capacity only.
Not later than January 1, 2029, the Secretary of Defense shall modify the service records of covered members to include a check box or other method to signify that the covered member served at a covered location and would merit additional medical screening.
During a covered examination, a covered member shall receive—
a screening to determine if such member served at a covered location at any time during service in the Armed Forces; and
if such member served at such a location, additional exposure-specific medical screenings and evaluations to identify potential exposure to hazardous substances, radiation, or other harmful occupational and environmental hazards encountered during service in the Armed Forces, consistent with current clinical practice guidelines and recommendations of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The screenings and evaluations required under paragraph (1) may include—
a targeted assessment of medical histories;
a physical examination;
laboratory testing;
imaging studies; and
other diagnostic procedures that the Secretary determines are medically necessary.
A health care provider shall document all exposures identified by the provider and the results of any screenings and evaluations conducted under subsection (b) in the permanent medical record of the relevant covered member and ensure that relevant exposure information is transmitted to the Department of Veterans Affairs upon separation or retirement of such member.
In this section:
The term covered examination means—
a screening conducted by a health care provider of the Department of Defense for any covered member prior to a permanent change of station from a covered location; or
any annual preventive health assessment of a covered member conducted by a health care provider of the Department.
The term covered location means—
a data masked or classified location; or
a facility on the most recent list of facilities covered under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 7384 et seq.) published in the Federal Register by the Secretary of Energy.
The term covered member means a member of the Armed Forces currently serving on active duty.
During the annual periodic health assessment of each firefighter of the Department of Defense, or at such other intervals as may be indicated in subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the firefighter (at no cost to the firefighter) appropriate medical testing and related services to detect, document the presence or absence of, and prevent, certain cancers.
Services required to be provided under subsection (a) shall meet, at a minimum, the following criteria:
With respect to breast cancer screening, if the firefighter is a female firefighter—
such services shall include the provision of a mammogram to the firefighter—
if the firefighter is 40 years old to 49 years old (inclusive), not less frequently than twice each year;
if the firefighter is 50 years old or older, not less frequently than annually; and
as clinically indicated (without regard to age); and
in connection with the provision of a mammogram under subparagraph (A), a licensed radiologist shall review the most recent mammogram provided to the firefighter, as compared to prior mammograms so provided, and provide to the firefighter the results of such review.
With respect to colon cancer screening—
if the firefighter is 40 years old or older, or as clinically indicated without regard to age, such services shall include the communication to the firefighter of the risks and benefits of stool-based blood testing;
if the firefighter is 45 years old or older, or as clinically indicated without regard to age, such services shall include the provision, at regular intervals, of visual examinations (such as a colonoscopy, CT colonoscopy, or flexible sigmoidoscopy) or stool-based blood testing; and
in connection with the provision of a visual examination or stool-based blood testing under subparagraph (B), a licensed physician shall review and provide to the firefighter the results of such examination or testing, as the case may be.
With respect to prostate cancer screening, if the firefighter is a male firefighter, such services shall include the communication to the firefighter of the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screenings and the provision to the firefighter of a prostate-specific antigen test—
not less frequently than annually if the firefighter—
is 50 years old or older; or
is 40 years old or older and is a high-risk individual; and
as clinically indicated (without regard to age).
Such services shall include routine screenings for any other cancer the risk or occurrence of which the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified as higher among firefighters than among the general public, the provision of which shall be carried out during the annual periodic health assessment of the firefighter.
A firefighter of the Department of Defense may opt out of the receipt of medical testing or a related service provided under subsection (a).
In providing medical testing and related services under subsection (a), the Secretary shall use consensus technical standards in accordance with section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (Public Law 104–113; 15 U.S.C. 272 note).
In providing medical testing and related services under subsection (a), the Secretary—
shall document the acceptance rates of such tests offered and the rates of such tests performed;
shall document test results to identify trends in the rates of cancer occurrences among firefighters; and
may collect and maintain additional information from the recipients of such tests and other services to allow for appropriate scientific analysis.
In analyzing any information of an individual documented, collected, or maintained under paragraph (1), in addition to complying with other applicable privacy laws, the Secretary shall ensure the name and any other personally identifiable information of the individual is removed from such information prior to the analysis.
The Secretary may share data from any tests performed under subsection (a) with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as appropriate, to increase the knowledge and understanding of cancer occurrences among firefighters.
In this section:
The term firefighter means someone whose primary job or military occupational specialty is being a firefighter.
The term high-risk individual means an individual who—
is African American;
has at least one first-degree relative who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age; or
is otherwise determined by the Secretary to be high risk with respect to prostate cancer.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement a capability prototype that is interoperable with the electronic health record of the Department of Defense for active duty members of the Armed Forces who receive health care from the Defense Health Agency to digitally collect their medical records through a covered health record platform before separating from active duty.
The Secretary shall seek to enter into a contract using competitive procedures with an appropriate entity for the provision of the covered health record platform under the capability prototype under subsection (a).
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a request for proposals for the contract described in paragraph (1).
A request under subparagraph (A) shall be full and open to any contractor that has an existing covered health record platform.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall award a contract to an appropriate entity pursuant to the request for proposals under paragraph (2) if at least one acceptable offer is submitted.
The Secretary shall carry out a pilot program under which the Secretary shall assess the feasibility and advisability of using the capability prototype developed under subsection (a) for a period of not less than 180 days.
The Secretary shall select not less than one Armed Force in which to carry out the pilot program under paragraph (1).
At the end of the period specified in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall survey all participants in the pilot program under such paragraph and, based on survey results, may—
terminate the capability prototype developed and implemented under subsection (a);
continue the capability prototype;
expand the capability prototype; or
implement the use of a covered health record platform in the Defense Health Agency throughout the uniformed services.
No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the requirements of this section and such requirements shall be carried out using amounts otherwise authorized to be appropriated for the Department of Defense through the Joint Incentive Fund.
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the capability prototype developed and implemented under subsection (a).
In this section, the term covered health record platform means a health record platform that meets the following requirements:
Has web-based and native mobile phone application capabilities.
Has the capability to store and share records with the Department of Veterans Affairs or any other designated care provider.
Has the capability to store records in the cloud.
Does not have a requirement for integration to receive or share records.
Has the capability to instantly share data based on a combination of access key and personal identifier.
Has the capability to provide secure data storage and records transfer upon separation of a member of the Armed Forces from active duty.
Does not require a business associate agreement with any party.
Has secure data isolation with access controls.
Has, at a minimum, data security that would require separate encryption for each document, relying on AES256 or better algorithm with keys encryption using RSA2048 or better algorithm, or any successor similar algorithm.
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall develop and maintain a centralized inventory of military–civilian health care partnerships throughout the Department of Defense.
In carrying out paragraph (1), the Director of the Defense Health Agency shall coordinate with the Secretary of each military department to ensure the inventory developed and maintained under such paragraph reflects partnerships established and maintained by the Defense Health Agency, the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and the military departments.
Each Secretary of a military department shall develop and maintain an inventory of military–civilian health care partnerships under the jurisdiction of such Secretary.
The inventories developed under subparagraph (A) shall be provided to the Director of the Defense Health Agency on a recurring basis, as determined by the Secretary of Defense, for inclusion in the centralized inventory under paragraph (1).
The inventories maintained by the military departments under this paragraph shall be used to inform and update the centralized inventory maintained by the Defense Health Agency under paragraph (1).
The inventories required under this subsection shall include, at a minimum, the following:
The type and purpose of each military–civilian health care partnership.
Participating organizations, including civilian and other Federal partners.
Geographic location and supported beneficiary population.
Resources shared, including personnel, facilities, and funding.
Duration and terms of the partnerships.
Measures of performance and effectiveness of the partnerships.
Not less frequently than annually, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall conduct a catchment area assessment of military–civilian health care partnerships and resource-sharing agreements of the Department of Defense.
The catchment area assessment conducted under paragraph (1) shall be informed by the centralized inventory developed under subsection (a), including inputs provided by the military departments.
Each catchment area assessment conducted under paragraph (1) shall focus on the catchment area of a military medical treatment facility and other related organizations.
Each catchment area assessment conducted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
An assessment of the extent to which existing military–civilian health care partnerships fulfill the intended objectives of such partnerships, including access to care, quality, cost-effectiveness, and medical readiness.
An identification of gaps in care, redundancies, or underutilized resources.
An evaluation of whether individual partnerships should be expanded, reduced, or maintained.
An identification of opportunities to establish new partnerships or modify existing agreements.
Consideration of regional health care capacity, including civilian and Federal health care providers.
An analysis of trends that may affect the performance or sustainability of military–civilian health care partnerships.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish standardized metrics and benchmarks to evaluate the performance and outcomes of military–civilian health care partnerships assessed under this subsection.
Not later than April 1, 2027, and annually thereafter for the following five years, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing containing the results of the most recent catchment area assessment conducted under subsection (b), which shall include the following:
A summary of the centralized inventory developed and maintained under subsection (a).
Key findings regarding the effectiveness of military–civilian health care partnerships.
An identification of any resources that are required to ensure effective military–civilian health care partnerships.
Planned actions to expand, modify, or terminate military–civilian health care partnerships.
Any recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve military–civilian health care collaboration.
In this section, the term military–civilian health care partnership includes any agreement, contract, or arrangement between the Department of Defense and a non-Department entity for the provision, sharing, or coordination of health care services, personnel, training, or resources.
Section 1073d of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
The Secretary of Defense may not carry out any action initiated after the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 to downsize, realign, or otherwise reduce the scope of services at a military medical treatment facility until the Secretary conducts a comprehensive review consistent with this subsection.
A review required under paragraph (1) with respect to an action relating to a military medical treatment facility shall include, at a minimum, the following:
An assessment of the capacity, capability, and readiness of local civilian health care providers to absorb affected beneficiary populations.
An assessment of the capacity, capability, and accessibility of facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in the relevant catchment area.
An evaluation of the impact on access to care for covered beneficiaries, including wait times, travel distances, and specialty care availability.
An analysis of the effects on medical readiness, including clinical workload necessary to sustain provider skills within the armed forces.
An assessment of risks to continuity of care, particularly for complex or chronic conditions.
Such other factors as the Secretary determines appropriate to ensure a complete understanding of impacts on beneficiaries and mission requirements.
The Secretary of Defense shall certify to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives that the review required under this subsection has been completed prior to implementing any action described in paragraph (1) and shall include a summary of findings and a justification for the proposed action.
Not later than one year before conducting any action to downsize, realign, or otherwise reduce the scope of services at a military medical treatment facility, the Secretary of Defense shall have a consultative discussion regarding such action with the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement a policy throughout the Department of Defense regarding the notification of commanders when a health care provider determines that a member of the Armed Forces is at imminent risk of suicide.
As part of the policy required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall establish a clear and standardized definition of imminent risk of suicide for purposes of the military health system.
The definition required under paragraph (1) shall—
be informed by evidence-based clinical standards and suicide risk assessment practices;
account for the presence of suicidal ideation, intent, plan, access to means, and temporal proximity of potential self-harm;
distinguish between acute, immediate risk and non-immediate or chronic suicide risk; and
allow for the exercise of professional clinical judgment in individual cases.
The policy required under subsection (a) shall—
establish clear and standardized criteria for determining when a member of the Armed Forces is at imminent risk of suicide, consistent with evidence-based clinical practices;
require timely notification to the appropriate commander when such a determination is made, while ensuring that only the minimum necessary information is disclosed to protect the privacy of the member;
define the roles and responsibilities of health care providers, commanders, and other relevant personnel in responding to such notifications;
ensure that such notifications are made in a manner that supports the safety and well-being of the member, including coordination of appropriate interventions and support services;
incorporate procedures to safeguard the confidentiality of protected health information consistent with section 552a of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the Privacy Act of 1974), and applicable regulations of the Department of Defense;
provide guidance on documentation and accountability for decisions relating to such notifications; and
include mechanisms to ensure that such notifications do not result in inappropriate adverse personnel actions solely on the basis of a mental health condition.
The Secretary shall ensure that—
health care providers within the military health system receive training on the policy developed under subsection (a), including criteria for determining imminent risk and procedures for notification of commanders;
commanders receive training on appropriate responses to such notifications, including how to support members of the Armed Forces while maintaining good order and discipline; and
health professionals within the military health system in patient care positions receive training on—
how to respond when a member of the Armed Forces initiates the referral process under section 1090b(e) of title 10, United States Code; and
how to recognize signs indicating mental health distress and imminent risk of suicide.
In developing the policy required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult with—
the Director of the Defense Health Agency;
the Surgeons General of the Armed Forces; and
other relevant stakeholders, as determined appropriate by the Secretary.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing that includes—
a description of the policy developed under subsection (a);
an assessment of implementation of such policy across the Armed Forces;
a description of any identified challenges or barriers to such implementation; and
recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve suicide prevention efforts of the Department of Defense.
Section 1073 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs shall have authority over the entirety of the Defense Health Program.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs and the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall implement an enterprise-wide revenue cycle improvement initiative (in this section referred to as the Initiative) to standardize revenue cycle management processes, strengthen governance and accountability, improve workforce capability, and increase the accuracy, timeliness, and yield of third-party collections and claims management across the military health system.
The objectives of the Initiative are the following:
To establish and implement standardized revenue cycle management processes, defined stage-by-stage accountability, and enterprise performance standards across all military medical treatment facilities.
To improve the accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of clinical documentation, medical coding, charge capture, claims submission, and denial management, including through the use of advanced analytics, automation, and robotic process automation technologies as appropriate.
To increase third-party collections yield and reduce preventable claim denials across the military health system.
To strengthen the accuracy of medical readiness documentation, including documentation supporting deployment eligibility determinations, disability evaluation processing, and military provider clinical currency sustainment.
To ensure interoperability with the GENESIS electronic health record platform of the military health system to support end-to-end revenue cycle operations and performance visibility.
To establish enterprise workforce training and certification programs to improve revenue cycle competency across military medical treatment facilities.
To provide actionable performance data and operational feedback to markets, networks, and military medical treatment facilities of the Defense Health Agency to improve accountability and outcomes.
In carrying out the Initiative, the Secretary shall—
designate a senior official within the Defense Health Agency to serve as the enterprise revenue cycle improvement lead, with responsibility for implementation, performance oversight, and reporting;
establish enterprise-wide revenue cycle performance standards and defined accountability for each stage of the revenue cycle, from patient scheduling through final collections;
develop and implement enterprise performance metrics, including leading and lagging indicators, with escalation thresholds and corrective action requirements;
implement workforce training and proficiency assessment programs for personnel performing revenue cycle functions across military medical treatment facilities;
leverage existing investments in the GENESIS electronic health record platform of the military health system, existing analytics capabilities, and enterprise financial systems to support standardized revenue cycle operations; and
incorporate advanced analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence capabilities, consistent with policies of the Department of Defense for responsible use of artificial intelligence, to support coding accuracy, denial prevention, charge capture, and revenue integrity.
The Initiative shall apply to all military medical treatment facilities within the Defense Health Agency.
The Secretary shall prioritize initial implementation of the Initiative at facilities with the greatest opportunity for improvement in revenue cycle performance and third-party collections yield.
The Secretary may enter into contracts or other agreements using available acquisition methods and competitive procedures, as appropriate, to obtain specialized expertise, technology capabilities, or implementation support necessary to carry out the Initiative.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the establishment of a new acquisition program or program management office for the purpose of revenue cycle management.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report describing—
the baseline performance of military medical treatment facilities across key revenue cycle metrics, including days to final bill, clean claim submission rate, preventable denial rate, coding accuracy rate, and third-party collections yield;
the enterprise revenue cycle governance structure established under the Initiative, including stage-by-stage accountability designations;
implementation milestones and target dates for enterprise-wide deployment; and
the allocation of funds authorized for the Initiative.
Not later than 90 days after the submission of the initial report under paragraph (1), and quarterly thereafter for a period of not less than two years, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report describing—
progress in implementing the Initiative as compared to implementation milestones;
performance improvements in the metrics identified under paragraph (1)(A) compared to the established baseline;
the status of workforce training and certification programs;
the impact of revenue cycle accuracy improvements on medical readiness documentation, including any identified effects on deployment eligibility determinations or disability evaluation processing; and
challenges, risks, and recommendations for sustainment or expansion of the Initiative.
This section shall terminate on the date that is three years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Not later than 30 days after a covered event with respect to misconduct allegedly committed by a licensed medical professional of the Department of Defense, the Secretary of Defense shall notify the relevant State licensing and medical boards regarding such misconduct.
In this section, the term covered event, with respect to a licensed medical professional of the Department, means the date on which—
an investigation that could lead to criminal charges is started into misconduct allegedly committed by such professional; or
such professional is charged with misconduct.
Section 720 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 1094 note) is amended—
by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections (c) and (d), respectively;
by inserting after subsection (a) the following new subsection (b):
Not later than 180 days after implementing the centralized credential system established under subsection (a)(2), the Secretary shall review all processes and forms relating to health care provider credentialing and privileging of covered applicants to—
identify questions, required disclosures, or other information required to be provided by the applicant that asks or requires the applicant to disclose mental, behavioral, psychological, or other related health conditions of the applicant, including requirements contained in—
applications for credentialing, peer reference, or competency assessment; and
employee manuals, guidance, and policies of the Department of Defense governing the requirements for credentialing, privileging, or employment of health care providers; and
review credentialing, peer reference, and competency assessment forms for health care providers and make a comparison across the military departments and the Defense Health Agency as applicable, including a review of—
which forms require disclosure of mental, behavioral, psychological, or other related health conditions; and
whether such disclosure of mental, behavioral, psychological, or other related health conditions include past and current diagnoses and treatment.
in subsection (c), as redesignated by paragraph (1)—
in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting after this Act, the following: and not later than one year after implementing the centralized credential system established under subsection (a)(2);
in paragraph (1), by striking review required under subsection (a) and inserting reviews required under subsections (a) and (b); and
in paragraph (2), by striking such review and inserting such reviews.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing the following:
The findings of the review required under subsection (b) of section 720 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 1094 note), as added by subsection (a)(2) of this section.
A detailed plan outlining steps the Secretary has taken or will take pursuant to such review, including a timeline for completion of such steps.
Section 996 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (i); and
by inserting after subsection (d) the following new subsections:
The Secretary may include in the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record of a member of the armed forces exposures experienced by family members of such member during an accompanied tour while such member is serving on active duty, regardless of whether the location is in the continental United States, outside the continental United States, or a classified location.
The Secretary may provide to members of the armed forces, veterans, designated family members, and survivors password-protected access to view data within the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record to which the individual is authorized to view.
An individual may request an update or correction to any data included in the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record that relates to the individual.
The Secretary may modify the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record to provide the capability to notify an individual of a potential toxic exposure of the individual in real time.
The Secretary may modify the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record to preserve records of an individual after the death of the individual for purposes of research, survivor benefits, and disease-cluster identification.
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record maintained under section 996 of title 10, United States Code, is at full operating capacity in accordance with the requirements and authorities under such section, as amended by subsection (a).
Not later than January 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report detailing—
whether the Secretary intends to implement subsections (e) through (h) of section 996 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a)(2); and
if the Secretary does not intend to implement any such subsection, the recommendations of the Secretary with respect to the implementation of such subsection.
The Secretary of Defense shall carry out a pilot program at not more than five military installations, representing a combined total of not less than 40,000 and not more than 50,000 active-duty members of the Armed Forces, to evaluate the use of voice-based risk assessment technology to support targeted drug testing.
The purpose of the pilot program is to determine whether automated voice-based screening tools can improve the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and operational readiness of the Department of Defense’s drug testing programs by enabling risk-informed testing in place of universal urinalysis.
The pilot program shall—
integrate voice-based automated screening technology capable of producing real-time, individualized risk assessments from simple yes/no questions;
be executed as part of the Drug Demand Reduction Program of the Department of Defense;
assess impacts on testing volume, cost savings, personnel time, and operational readiness;
be conducted in a manner that protects individual privacy and complies with applicable law, Department policy, and applicable protections under section 552a of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the Privacy Act of 1974); and
only be conducted if the proposed voice-based automated screening technology or any other proposed screening technology is scientifically validated, peer-reviewed, and legally defensible as defined by the Secretary of Defense.
The Secretary of Defense shall determine when to terminate the pilot program established under this section.
Chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1110b the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense shall establish and maintain a Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System (in this section referred to as the Joint DNBI System) within the Defense Health Agency to provide standardized, interoperable, and real-time monitoring of disease and non-battle injury across the armed forces.
The Joint DNBI System shall apply to—
the regular components of the armed forces;
the reserve components of the armed forces when in Federal service; and
such other personnel of the Department of Defense as the Secretary determines appropriate.
The Joint DNBI System shall—
standardize definitions, metrics, and reporting requirements for disease and non-battle injury of members of the armed forces;
integrate with the electronic health record systems of the Department of Defense;
integrate with readiness reporting systems and operational reporting platforms;
provide commanders and combatant commands with near-real-time medical situational awareness;
incorporate environmental and occupational health surveillance data;
track lost duty days, medical evacuations, limited duty status, and other readiness impacts attributable to disease and non-battle injury;
integrate lessons learned with respect to infectious disease and preventive medicine, including through overseas medical laboratories and the Global Emerging Infectious Surveillance program, across the armed forces; and
ensure interoperability, as appropriate, with joint, interagency, and allied health surveillance systems.
The Secretary of Defense shall—
designate a senior official within the Office of the Secretary of Defense to oversee policy oversight with respect to the Joint DNBI System; and
ensure adequate resourcing and cybersecurity protections for such system.
Each Secretary of a military department shall—
implement standardized reporting procedures with respect to the Joint DNBI System;
ensure compliance with such system at all command levels; and
incorporate disease and non-battle injury metrics into readiness assessments.
The Joint Staff and the commanders of the combatant commands shall incorporate data from the Joint DNBI System into operational risk assessments and campaign planning.
The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall—
develop the concept of operations for the Joint DNBI System; and
implement policy guidance from the Secretary of Defense and ensure such system achieves full operational capability.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the Joint DNBI System complies with—
section 552a of title 5 (commonly known as the Privacy Act of 1974);
the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–191); and
all applicable cybersecurity and data protection requirements.
Not later than March 1 of each year beginning in the first full fiscal year following implementation of the Joint DNBI System, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on trends in disease and non-battle injury and associated readiness impacts.
This section shall terminate on September 30, 2032.
In this section, the term disease and non-battle injury means any medical condition not directly attributable to hostile action, including infectious disease, environmental exposure, occupational injury, training-related injury, heat or cold injury, and other non-combat-related conditions affecting readiness.
The Secretary of Defense shall—
not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, issue implementing guidance for the Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System established under section 1110c of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a);
not later than 18 months after such date of enactment, achieve initial operating capability for such system; and
not later than 36 months after such date of enactment, achieve full operating capability for such system.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report describing—
progress of implementation of the Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System established under section 1110c of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a);
identified capability gaps with respect to such system; and
resource requirements for such system.
The Medical Service Corps of the Army shall maintain a dedicated aeromedical evacuation capability, including personnel, training, doctrine, and aircraft specifically configured for aeromedical evacuation missions.
The Secretary of the Army shall ensure that—
the aviation branch of the Army has the authority to organize, train, and equip aviation assets in accordance with operational requirements; and
the medical department of the Army, under the authority delegated to such department by the Surgeon General of the Army, has the authority for medical command and control, patient care responsibilities, and clinical standards for aeromedical evacuation operations.
The Secretary of the Army shall maintain the capability required under subsection (a)—
in alignment with the sufficiency analysis of the Surgeon General of the Army;
consistent with medical evacuation doctrine and operational planning assumptions of the Army; and
in support of—
the commanders of the combatant commands;
contingency operations and operational plans;
civil authorities;
chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear response force missions;
humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations; and
garrison emergency medical response operations at installations of the Department of Defense.
The capability required under subsection (a) shall remain a distinct component within the Medical Service Corps of the Army and may not be restructured into general-purpose aviation elements or dual-use configurations without prior notification to the congressional defense committees, which shall—
be accompanied by a formal risk assessment on—
operational medical readiness of the Medical Service Corps; and
readiness of the Medical Service Corps to support the joint force and missions specified under subsection (c)(3); and
contain a report that—
is based on the force structure authorizations outlined in the most current Army Structure Message;
is informed by the most current Total Army Analysis approved by the Secretary of the Army; and
does not propose or assume any changes to the aircraft authorizations reflected in the documents specified in clauses (i) and (ii).
Any adjustments made to the force structure of the aeromedical evacuation capability of the Army must account for operational medical requirements and joint force needs where the Surgeon General of the Army retains authority over the medical force structure, staffing, clinical oversight, and doctrinal development for aeromedical evacuation units.
This section shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit augmentation of military patient movement operations with combatant, commercial, or allied assets in contingency or humanitarian operations, as determined necessary by the Secretary of Defense.
Not later than June 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, working in coordination with the commanders of the appropriate combatant commands, shall seek to enter into a partnership with appropriate governmental counterparts in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions to establish a joint program focused on military trauma care and research.
The program required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
The sharing of relevant lessons learned in combat casualty care derived from prior conflicts.
The conduct of joint conferences, symposia, and professional exchange programs involving military medical professionals from the United States and partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions.
Collaboration on matters related to health policy, health administration, and medical logistics, including medical supplies and equipment, through structured knowledge exchanges.
The conduct of joint research and development initiatives addressing the health effects of new and emerging weapons and methods of warfare.
The establishment of agreements with military medical schools in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions to support reciprocal education programs under which—
students of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences receive specialized military medical instruction at participating military medical schools in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions; and
military medical personnel from partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions receive specialized military medical instruction at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, consistent with section 2114(f) of title 10, United States Code.
The provision of assistance to partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions to support the development, sustainment, and modernization of combat casualty care systems and programs.
Coordination, through the Joint Trauma System of the Defense Health Agency, of trauma care doctrine, data collection, performance improvement, and clinical best practices with the armed forces and military medical services of partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions, in coordination with United States Indo-Pacific Command, United States Northern Command, and United States European Command.
The provision of training to the armed forces of partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions in the following areas:
Health effects and medical response related to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive weapons.
Trauma care.
Preventive medicine and infectious disease.
Post-traumatic stress disorder.
Suicide prevention.
Traumatic brain injury.
Medical and health intelligence.
Health policy and administration.
The maintenance of a list of critical medical supplies and equipment required to support program objectives and regional readiness.
Such other activities or program elements as the Secretary of Defense determines appropriate to advance the purposes of this section.
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall establish, sustain, and resource a program to provide for the safe, long-range aerial transport of personnel of the Department of Defense known to be or suspected of being infected by a high-consequence infectious disease.
The program required under subsection (a) shall serve as the aeromedical evacuation component of a capability of the Department for high-consequence infectious disease response that supports independent military operations of the Department and integration with Federal, State, local, civilian, and academic partners.
In establishing and sustaining the program required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall—
develop and maintain curriculum and identify qualified instructors to train and certify military and civilian medical personnel on procedures associated with the safe, long-range aerial transport of patients with infectious diseases;
establish and periodically update medical care standards, infection prevention and control measures, and operational safety protocols necessary to maximize patient survival and minimize infection risk to aircrew, medical personnel, and support personnel;
serve as the joint force advocate and executive agent for aerial transport of personnel with high-consequence infectious diseases within the Department;
establish standards, sustainment requirements, and lifecycle management processes for personal protective equipment, transport isolation systems, and associated medical equipment used in transporting infected patients;
develop joint doctrine, concepts of operation, and medical force requirements necessary to support a Department-wide high-consequence infectious disease capability, including patient movement, definitive care, and integration across the continuum of care;
inform the organization, training, and equipping of specialized, organized teams capable of conducting high-consequence infectious disease patient movement and care in operational, austere, and strategic environments;
support interoperability and operational integration with Federal, State, local, civilian, and academic partners to enable coordinated response to tactical incidents, large-scale contingencies, and research activities related to emerging and future infectious disease threats; and
identify capability gaps and support research, development, testing, and evaluation of medical countermeasures, transport systems, protective equipment, and operational procedures necessary to improve survivability, safety, and mission effectiveness in high-consequence infectious disease operations.
The Secretary shall develop and maintain doctrine and policy throughout the Department to guide the development, fielding, sustainment, and employment of high-consequence infectious disease response capabilities across the Department.
The purpose of this section is to ensure that the Department of Defense, in coordination with the Joint Staff Surgeon and the Director of the Defense Health Agency, maintains accurate, comprehensive, and validated estimates of potential casualties in major combat operations to inform readiness, medical planning, and policy decisions.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until September 30, 2032, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on projected casualties of the Armed Forces in large-scale combat operations.
Reports under paragraph (1) may be required more frequently upon request of the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Each report required under subsection (b) shall be prepared in coordination with—
the Joint Staff Surgeon;
the Director of the Defense Health Agency; and
the Surgeon General of each military department.
Each report required under subsection (b) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
Projected casualty estimates (including those killed, wounded, and missing and including non-battle injuries) for major combat scenarios consistent with the national defense strategy required under section 113(g) of title 10, United States Code, and joint operational planning assumptions.
An assessment of the capacity of the medical system, including—
deployable hospital beds, evacuation assets, and blood supply;
trauma team and medical personnel availability; and
contingency staffing plans under mass casualty scenarios.
A force health protection capability assessment, including preventive medicine, immunization, and disease outbreak mitigation plans.
A joint trauma system integration assessment, including lessons learned and expected survivability outcomes under projected casualty scenarios.
An identification of data sources and methodology, including assumptions, models, and validation procedures used to generate casualty estimates.
A description of gaps in capabilities and an identification of recommendations, including recommendations for resource or policy requirements, to mitigate projected shortfalls.
Each report required under subsection (b) shall be submitted in classified form, with a summary in unclassified form suitable for congressional oversight.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that classified data included in a report submitted under subsection (b) is properly safeguarded and that methodologies are appropriately documented for internal and congressional review.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the organization, oversight, capabilities, and performance of emergency medical services across military installations.
The report required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
A description of the current organizational structure responsible for providing emergency medical services across military installations, including the roles of—
the Secretary of Defense;
the Secretary of each military department;
the Director of the Defense Health Agency;
installation commanders;
fire and emergency services organizations; and
military medical treatment facilities.
An assessment of emergency medical services capabilities at military installations, including—
the number and distribution of emergency medical services response units;
ambulance capabilities and equipment levels;
staffing levels and certification levels of emergency medical personnel;
availability of advanced life support services;
integration with military medical treatment facilities and local civilian hospitals; and
an evaluation of systems used to track naloxone distribution, including—
the degree of integration of such tracking systems between emergency medical services reporting systems and medical record systems;
procedures for documenting naloxone administration during emergency responses; and
recommendations for establishing a standardized Department-wide tracking framework.
Standardized performance metrics for emergency medical services operations across military installations, including—
response-time metrics, including—
the average dispatch-to-arrival response time;
the percentage of emergency calls with arrival on scene within eight minutes; and
the time from arrival on scene to patient contact;
patient care metrics, including—
cardiac arrest survival rates;
time to first defibrillation during cardiac arrest events;
trauma stabilization and transport intervals; and
adherence to established pre-hospital clinical protocols;
operational capacity metrics, including—
the number of available ambulances per installation population;
the availability of advanced life support capabilities; and
emergency medical services coverage areas and response zones; and
personnel-readiness metrics, including—
certification levels of emergency medical technicians and paramedics;
training completion rates; and
participation in joint emergency response exercises.
An evaluation of the deployment and readiness of automated external defibrillator devices across military installations, including—
the number and distribution of such devices;
identification of high-traffic locations where such devices are deployed;
maintenance and inspection compliance rates for such devices;
training levels for personnel in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and usage of such devices;
the usage of such devices in training and physical fitness evolutions; and
response outcomes for cardiac emergencies in which such devices were used.
An assessment of coordination between installation emergency medical services systems and State or local emergency response systems, including—
mutual aid agreements;
interoperable communications systems;
joint training and response exercises; and
procedures for patient transport to civilian medical facilities.
Identification of any capability gaps or resource deficiencies affecting emergency medical services operations, including—
personnel shortages;
equipment or ambulance shortfalls;
deficiencies in placement or maintenance of automated external defibrillator devices;
limitations affecting response times; and
funding challenges.
Recommendations of the Secretary of Defense regarding—
the development of emergency medical services standards throughout the Department of Defense;
improvements to emergency response performance;
enhanced automated external defibrillator device deployment and cardiac emergency preparedness;
standardized funding within one organization of the Department;
legislative or administrative actions necessary to standardize emergency medical services operations across the Department; and
other matters that are relevant to standardized emergency medical services and usage of automated external defibrillator devices.
Not later than 30 days after submission of the report required under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the findings and recommendations contained in the report.
In this section:
The term emergency medical services means pre-hospital emergency medical care and patient transport provided by trained personnel in response to medical emergencies.
The term military installation has the meaning given that term in section 2801(c) of title 10, United States Code.
Section 1094(d)(3)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking or duty under and inserting “or duty—
under
by striking the period at the end and inserting ; or; and
adding at the end the following:
under title 32 when providing care to a member of the uniformed services.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of each military department, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall develop a process to establish required joint force medical capabilities for members of the Armed Forces that meet the operational planning requirements of the combatant commands.
The process developed under subsection (a) shall include the following:
A joint medical estimate to determine the medical requirements for managing members of the Armed Forces who are wounded, ill, or injured during military operations, including with respect to environmental health, public health, health treats, force health protection, and medical material and supply chain risks.
The development of a joint concept of health service support, which shall include a listing of the capabilities (including medical intelligence, blood support, education, and training) required by the defense health and medical enterprise to support the complexities of the future battlespace aligned against the roles of care.
A process to review and revise military health related mission essential tasks in order to ensure that such tasks are aligned with military medical knowledge, skills, abilities, education, and training.
A process to standardize the interoperability of medical equipment and capabilities to support the joint force.
A process to collect and evaluate operational medical lessons of the Department of Defense—
learned through use of the Joint Lessons Learned Information System; or
by leveraging information available through the Joint Trauma System of the Defense Health Agency, process improvement systems, Trauma Registry of the Department of Defense, and other information systems as appropriate.
A process to incorporate operational medical lessons learned into the joint medical estimate.
A process to incorporate operational medical lessons learned into the Universal Joint Task List, the Mission Essential Task Lists of each military department, and the Joint Mission Essential Task List.
A process to incorporate operational medical lessons learned into enlisted medical education and training, undergraduate medical education, and graduate medical education.
Not later than April 1 of each year through 2031, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the process required under subsection (a).
In this section, the term roles of care means the standardized levels of medical capability provided to wounded, ill, or injured personnel of the Armed Forces as such personnel move through the military health system from the point of injury to definitive treatment and rehabilitation.
Section 732 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1817) is repealed.
Section 1094(e)(3) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subparagraph (E) as subparagraph (J); and
by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following new subparagraphs:
Japan.
The Republic of Korea.
France.
Germany.
Qatar.
Section 311 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (b)—
by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); and
by inserting after paragraph (2) the following new paragraph:
Subject to certification under subparagraph (B), an agreement for the exchange of health care professionals may provide for assignment of Department of Defense personnel to perform authorized Federal duties in foreign military medical facilities or operational platforms.
In carrying out subparagraph (A), the commander of the appropriate geographic combatant command, or an authorized designee, following a review of applicable international agreements, national laws, and regulations, shall certify that sufficient mitigation of criminal and civil liability for health care professionals exists in the location in which authorized Federal duties are to be performed.
in subsection (c)—
by striking In the case of and inserting (1) In the case of; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
An agreement for the exchange of health care professionals is subject to licensure requirements as defined in section 1094 of this title.
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall establish a task force responsible for securing and negotiating the international agreements required to implement the Indo-Pacific Medical Readiness Program established under section 735 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1074 note) to ensure the Armed Forces of the United States can partner with foreign medical facilities during peacetime and wartime operations for military medical care, casualty evacuation, and storage relevant to military medical preparedness (in this section referred to as the task force).
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall designate a senior official from the Office of the Secretary of Defense to lead and coordinate the activities of the task force.
Participants in the task force shall include senior representatives from the following:
The Joint Staff.
Relevant combatant commands.
Each military department.
The Department of State.
The Defense Health Agency.
The Defense Logistics Agency.
The duties of the task force shall include the following:
Identifying the possible foreign governments and medical facilities that could meet the priority requirements in the contingency and operational plans of the United States Indo-Pacific Command.
Reviewing existing United States agreements with those foreign governments for medical readiness and identifying necessary expansions or adjustments to ensure that the Department of Defense can leverage medical facilities to carry out those requirements.
Agreeing on a priority target list of foreign governments for diplomatic outreach and developing a diplomatic plan between the Department of Defense and the Department of State for each country, in consultation with the local United States mission with responsibility for the bilateral relationship.
Coordinating outreach to foreign governments and foreign companies to develop or adjust medical readiness agreements as needed, in consultation with the local United States mission with responsibility for the bilateral relationship.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the task force shall submit to Congress a progress report that—
indicates the senior official designated under subsection (b)(1);
details a list of priority foreign governments with which the task force intends to expand cooperation and, for each such government—
the type of desired cooperation with foreign medical facilities under the jurisdiction of such government;
existing medical readiness agreement frameworks with such government; and
barriers to implementing the medical readiness program under section 735 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1074 note) with such government; and
a strategy and plan for overcoming those barriers by not later than March 2027.
The Secretary of Defense shall develop a pilot health information technology platform (in this section referred to as the platform) that can function across military and civilian medical facilities in the United States and foreign countries in the area of operations of the United States Indo-Pacific Command in accordance with the medical readiness program established under section 735 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1074 note).
In developing the platform, the Secretary shall consult with the respective stakeholders, including the Commander of United States Indo-Pacific Command, the Assistant Secretary of Defense of Health Affairs, the Director of the Defense Health Agency, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of State, health care providers of the Department of Defense, entities in the business of health data management or maintenance of electronic health records, and other relevant stakeholders in the United States.
In developing the platform, the Secretary should consider best practices developed by the European Union in refining the European Union Early Warning and Response System for medical data-sharing to support wounded Ukrainians during the Russian-Ukrainian War.
The Secretary shall ensure elements of patient information included in the platform are appropriate to support timely medical care for members of the Armed Forces and citizens of the United States located in the Indo-Pacific region in the event of a crisis or conflict.
The Secretary will strive to ensure that the platform—
is developed with the goal of adhering to applicable privacy and security standards for health information, while establishing a clear framework for data handling that distinguishes between Armed Forces personnel and civilians to ensure appropriate data sharing for military operations and to protect civilian privacy;
promotes the secure, seamless, and accurate exchange of critical electronic health information by aligning with modern interoperability standards and discouraging information blocking;
incorporates a risk-based approach for health technologies to foster innovation while protecting patient safety;
utilizes certified health information technology where feasible to ensure robust privacy and security protections;
is usable by health care providers in multiple countries and facilitates the exchange of both structured and unstructured electronic health information in compliance with best cybersecurity practices with respect to maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality, maintaining system integrity, securing individual access through encryption and security, and enhancing data availability, including—
the ability to securely aggregate, secure, and exchange information developed and housed on partner systems that do not meet all Department of Defense cybersecurity requirements; and
the use of technologies that protect data at rest, in transit, and in use, such as confidential computing, to the maximum extent practicable;
establishes shared and documented rules, as part of a defined governance structure, for which and to what extent individuals and entities obtain and maintain access to the platform, which may include—
a federated identity, credentialing, and access management system to ensure appropriate personnel from Federal and mission partner entities can securely access information; and
a mechanism to adopt and integrate unique patient identifiers used by mission partners to ensure accurate patient tracking, identification, and matching;
provides a mechanism by which health data and information of patients are available in multiple languages relevant to the Indo-Pacific region in a timely manner for use in urgent medical care, utilizing structured and computable data formats where feasible;
is easily usable by health care providers in multiple countries and facilitates the exchange of both structured and unstructured electronic health information; and
can be used in multiple environments, such as across computers, laptops, mobile devices, instances where there is low internet bandwidth, and when in contested environments.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a plan for establishing the platform.
The plan submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
The proposed list of the medical facilities within the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility at which the first iteration of the platform may be used.
A working group, including key stakeholders, established to ensure the platform is in pursuit of compliance under subsection (e), and a strategy for managing any necessary exemptions from certain requirements that could otherwise impede patient care during a crisis.
A proposed timeline for development and deployment of the platform.
A working group established to enable strategy for establishing a data governance structure, a federated identity management system, and a potential unique patient identifier mechanism as described in subsection (e)(6).
Not later than one year after the deployment of the platform under subsection (f)(2)(C), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the performance of the platform and recommendations on further refinement and utility of the platform. The report shall specifically assess the platform’s effectiveness in addressing known interoperability gaps, avoiding blocking information as mandated by the Cures Act, accommodating civilian partner integrations under HIPAA, and overcoming cybersecurity challenges identified in relevant Department of Defense studies.
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Defense Health Agency shall review the compliance by all facilities of the Defense Health Agency with chaperone policies required by the policy memorandum of the Defense Health Agency dated December 15, 2025, and titled Chaperones/Standbys within Defense Health Agency Facilities (DHA–Policy Memorandum 25–020).
In carrying out the review under subsection (a), the Director shall—
identify facilities that are not in compliance with the memorandum specified in such paragraph; and
not later than seven days after identifying a facility under paragraph (1), submit to Congress resources necessary to verify such compliance.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing the following:
The findings of the review under subsection (a).
A detailed plan outlining steps the Director has taken or will take pursuant to such review, including a timeline for completion of such steps.
An evaluation of resourcing constraints of the Defense Health Agency in ensuring compliance with the memorandum specified under such subsection.
A detailed plan outlining additional formalized guidance with respect to the provision of chaperones for sensitive medical examinations to be provided through policy instructions of the Defense Health Agency.
A mechanism for monitoring the effectiveness of the policies contained within such memorandum on an ongoing basis, to include establishing routine inspections and collecting data to assess compliance by facilities of the Defense Health Agency with such memorandum.
An assessment of how existing law affects the provision of chaperones for sensitive medical examinations.
Recommendations for changes to relevant law to more effectively implement the policies contained within such memorandum.
Not later than 10 days after the date on which the budget of the President for a fiscal year is submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, the Director of the Defense Health Agency shall submit to the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the congressional defense committees a report on the unfunded priorities of the Defense Health Agency.
Each report required under subsection (a) shall specify, for each unfunded priority covered by such report, the following:
A summary description of such priority, including the objectives outlined in the national defense strategy required under section 113(g) of title 10, United States Code, and the National Military Strategy required under section 153(b) of such title to be advanced if such priority is funded (whether in whole or in part).
The additional amount of funds recommended in connection with the objectives under paragraph (1).
Account information with respect to such priority, including the following (as applicable):
Line Item Number (LIN) for applicable procurement accounts.
Program Element (PE) number for applicable research, development, test, and evaluation accounts.
Sub-activity group (SAG) for applicable operation and maintenance accounts.
A detailed assessment of each specific risk that would be reduced in executing the national defense strategy required under section 113(g) of title 10, United States Code, and the National Military Strategy required under section 153(b) of such title if such priority is funded (whether in whole or in part).
The requirement to be addressed by the unfunded priority.
The reason funding for the priority was not included in the budget of the President.
A description of any funding provided for the requirement for the current and preceding fiscal year.
An assessment of the effect that providing funding for the priority would have on the future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code.
Each report required under subsection (a) shall present the unfunded priorities covered by such report as follows:
In overall order of urgency of priority according to the amount of risk reduced.
In overall order of urgency of priority among unfunded priorities (other than covered military construction projects).
In overall order of urgency of priority among covered military construction projects.
This section shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
In this section:
The term covered military construction project, with respect to a fiscal year, means a military construction project that—
is included in any fiscal year of the future-years defense program under section 221 of title 10, United States Code, that is submitted in connection with the budget of the President for the fiscal year and is executable in the fiscal year; or
is considered by the commander of a combatant command to be an urgent need and is executable in the fiscal year.
The term unfunded priority, with respect to a fiscal year, means a program, activity, or mission requirement, including a covered military construction project, that—
is not funded in the budget of the President for the fiscal year as submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code;
is necessary to fulfill a requirement associated with an operational or contingency plan of a combatant command or other validated requirement; and
would have been recommended for funding through the budget specified in subparagraph (A) by the officer submitting the report required by subsection (a) in connection with the budget if—
additional resources had been available for the budget to fund the program, activity, or mission requirement; or
the program, activity, or mission requirement had emerged before the budget was formulated.
The Secretary of Defense shall evaluate—
the results of completed research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health among women who are members of the Armed Forces;
the status of such research that is ongoing;
any gaps in knowledge and research on—
treatments for menopause-related symptoms, including hormone and non-hormone treatments;
the safety and effectiveness of treatments for menopause-related symptoms;
the relation of service in the Armed Forces to perimenopause and menopause and the impact of such service on perimenopause and menopause;
the effect of combat roles on symptoms relating to perimenopause and menopause, including exposure to burn pits, toxic chemicals, and perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (commonly known as PFAS); and
the impact of perimenopause and menopause on the mental health of women who are members of the Armed Forces;
the availability of and uptake of professional training resources for covered providers relating to mid-life women’s health with respect to the care, treatment, and management of perimenopause and menopausal symptoms, and related support services; and
the availability of and uptake of treatments for women who are members of the Armed Forces who are experiencing perimenopause or menopause.
Not later than January 31, 2028, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing—
the findings of the evaluation conducted under subsection (a);
recommendations for improving professional training resources described in subsection (a)(4) for covered providers; and
a strategic plan that—
resolves the gaps in knowledge and research identified in the report; and
identifies topics in need of further research relating to potential treatments for menopause-related symptoms of women who are members of the Armed Forces.
In carrying out activities under this section, the Secretary shall ensure that such activities minimize duplication and supplement, not supplant, existing information-sharing efforts with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Health and Human Services.
In this section:
The term covered provider means a health care provider employed by the Department of Defense.
The term menopause means the stage of a woman’s life—
when menstrual periods stop permanently and she can no longer get pregnant; and
that is not a disease state, but a normal part of aging for women.
The term mid-life means a life stage that—
coincides with the menopausal transition in women, which may be physical or emotional;
encompasses the late reproductive age, which can begin at approximately 35 years of age, to the late postmenopausal stages of reproductive aging, which can extend to approximately 65 years of age; and
often marks the onset of many chronic diseases.
The term perimenopause means the time during a woman's life when levels of the hormone estrogen fall unevenly in a woman’s body and is also called the menopausal transition.
The term postmenopausal means the stage of a woman's life after a woman has been without a menstrual period for 12 months that lasts for the rest of a woman’s life and reflects a time when women are at increased risk for osteoporosis and heart disease.
The Secretary of Defense shall notify the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives not later than 30 days after the date on which a material failure affects patient care in an operating room, critical care unit, intensive care unit, or emergency department at a military medical treatment facility.
Each notification under subsection (a) shall include the following:
The name and location of the military medical treatment facility.
A description of the operating room, critical care unit, intensive care unit, or emergency department affected and the scope of any shutdown.
The reason for any shutdown, including whether the shutdown is planned or unplanned.
The date on which any shutdown began or is expected to begin and the anticipated duration.
The number and types of surgical procedures, bed days, and encounters affected.
A description of mitigation measures to ensure continuity of care, including use of other military medical treatment facilities or civilian providers.
An assessment of the impact on patient safety and access to care.
The cost and funding source of any needed repairs and maintenance.
Not later than May 1, 2027, and not less frequently than quarterly thereafter for the following three years, the Secretary shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on—
for the period covered by the briefing, the aggregated data on notifications provided under subsection (a);
the funding and source of funding available to mitigate material failures in military medical treatment facilities; and
such recommendations for legislative changes or other pertinent matters as the Secretary considers appropriate.
Not later than June 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall seek to enter into a contract or other agreement with a federally funded research and development center pursuant to which the center shall carry out a study on the military health system.
The study required under paragraph (1) shall include—
an analysis of the sufficiency of the military health system—
to provide combat casualty care and force health protection to ensure the preservation of the joint force;
to achieve its goals of ensuring the health and fitness of members of the Armed Forces;
to meet the needs of the combatant commands in a large scale combat operation;
to conduct pandemic response;
through military and civilian medical doctors and other health care providers and administrators, to provide forward-deployed medical care during sustained armed conflict; and
to provide a world-class health care benefit to members of the Armed Forces, former members of the Armed Forces, and their dependents.
an in-depth analysis of future options for the military health system, including—
maintaining the TRICARE program with its structure as of the date of the enactment of this Act using large managed care support contractors offering provider networks under the military health system;
creating a marketplace of plans under the TRICARE program analogous to the Federal Employee Health Benefit Plan under chapter 89 of title 5, United States Code;
eliminating large managed care support contracts and requiring health care providers to accept beneficiaries enrolled in the TRICARE program as a condition of participating in the Medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.) or directly establishing a network of providers without the use of a managed care support contractor;
the integration of the military health system managed care support contract with the community care model of the Department of Veterans Affairs; and
any other viable model for health coverage that accomplishes the goals in subparagraph (A); and
recommendations for the future of the military health system, including policy and statutory changes.
Each option assessed under subsection (a)(2)(B) shall include—
an analysis of the viability of incorporating such option into the direct care system of health care facilities and providers of the Department of Defense, and any possible risks to the effectiveness of such direct care system;
cost assessments; and
the application of game theory and other strategic analytical methods to model and assess the anticipated behavior and incentives of key stakeholders, including health care providers, beneficiaries, managed care contractors, and Federal health programs, under such option.
The federally funded research and development center that carries out the study under subsection (a) shall submit to the Secretary of Defense a report on the results of such study.
Not later than March 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall—
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an unaltered copy of the report received by the Secretary under subsection (c), which shall include—
a detailed explanation of the strategy, methodology, assumptions, and economic analysis used to conduct the study under subsection (a), including any force shaping constructs, scenarios, and assumptions used as a part of such study; and
an assessment of operational risk based on the risk management classifications of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff set forth in the Joint Risk Analysis and Methodology on October 12, 2021 (Joint Staff Manual 3105.01A), or successor manual; and
provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the results of such study.
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretaries concerned, shall establish a comprehensive initiative for warfighter performance optimization to be known as the Warfighter Performance Optimization Initiative (in this section referred to as the Initiative), within which the Total Force Fitness (TFF) program shall serve as the foundational framework for improving readiness, resilience, and lethality across the Armed Forces. The Initiative shall be housed under the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs.
The terms Warfighter Performance Optimizationand WPO mean a Department-wide initiative to integrate human performance, safety, and resilience programs into a unified strategy that enhances readiness and lethality.
The term Total Force Fitness means the leadership-driven program nested within WPO that optimizes human performance through proactive, holistic approaches across interconnected domains of fitness, including the following activities:
Activities to reduce musculoskeletal injuries, accelerate rehabilitation, improve nutrition and sleep, and mitigate occupational and environmental exposures.
Activities to strengthen resilience, reduce stress injuries, prevent suicides and substance abuse, and enhance peer and family support.
Activities to foster meaning, ethical decision-making, and resilience under combat and operational stress.
Activities to enhance decision-making, adaptability, memory, and problem-solving under operational conditions, supported by evidence-based training and emerging technologies.
The objectives of the Initiative are as follows:
Improve overall health, readiness, resilience, and lethality of service members.
Reduce musculoskeletal injuries and accelerate rehabilitation timelines.
Enhance warfighter performance in nutrition, sleep, financial literacy, conflict resolution, stress management, and life skills.
Reduce incidence of harmful behaviors.
Advance cognitive readiness through measurable improvements in decision-making, adaptability, and operational effectiveness.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 90 days thereafter for three years, the Secretary of Defense shall submit a report to Congress on the implementation and effectiveness of the Initiative.
In this section, the term Secretary concerned has the meaning given that term in section 101 of title 10, United States Code.
Beginning in fiscal year 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a program, to be known as the Military Family Limb Loss and Limb Difference Support Program (in this section referred to as the Program), to augment the holistic rehabilitative care for covered beneficiaries with limb loss or limb dysfunction through peer mentoring, education, and community outreach.
The Program shall include—
peer mentorship and family support services;
education related to limb loss care and services;
community reintegration supports;
coordination of non-clinical resources;
outreach and awareness activities; and
such other activities as the Secretary considers appropriate.
In carrying out the Program, the Secretary may enter into a cooperative agreement or contract with one or more organizations that have demonstrated experience in carrying out the activities described in subsection (b) in virtual or in-person settings to support individuals with limb loss or limb difference, including individuals belonging to pediatric, military, or veteran populations.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a plan for implementing the Program that—
describes the process for selecting and entering into cooperative agreements or contracts with organizations under subsection (c);
estimates the costs and staffing needs of implementing the Program;
assesses the extent to which existing resources and programs of the Department of Defense can support the Program;
includes performance metrics the Secretary will use to evaluate the effectiveness of the Program; and
requires integration of the Program with research efforts of the military health system to improve healthcare quality, access and outcomes for members of the Armed Forces and their families.
Not later than one year after the date on which the Program is implemented, and annually for three years thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that includes, for the year preceding submission of the report—
the number and demographics characteristics of covered beneficiaries served by the Program;
a description of services provided and partnerships established under the Program;
an assessment of gaps in services or geographic coverage of the Program; and
recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve support for military families affected by limb loss or limb difference.
In this section, the term covered beneficiary means—
an individual who has experienced limb loss or limb difference; and
is—
a dependent of a member or retired member of the Armed Forces; or
otherwise eligible for health care under chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code, as determined appropriate by the Secretary.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Defense Health Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of the Air Force, shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing that contains—
an assessment of the force mix of active duty and civilian medical providers at military medical treatment facilities located on installations of the Air Force; and
an accompanying plan to address any primary care shortfalls that could result from a mobilization of the Air Force for military operations, particularly in locations that are remote or medically underserved.
The briefing required under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
A plan of action for each military medical treatment facility at which a primary care shortfall is identified under such subsection—
to improve access to, and the quality of, primary care for members of the Armed Forces and their families by creating a supportive, team-based clinical environment;
to enhance recruitment and retention of qualified medical personnel of the Department of Defense, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, mental health nurse practitioners, licensed practical nurses, and medical assistants; and
to increase the medical readiness of the Armed Forces through improved health outcomes, proactive health management, and ensuring health care providers of the Department maintain clinical skills.
Recommendations on the most effective use of—
hiring authorities, including temporary excepted service appointments and direct hire authorities, consistent with applicable law and regulations;
recruitment, relocation, and retention incentives, such as student loan repayment programs for certain highly qualified civilian candidates; and
appropriate licensing and credentialing flexibilities and authorities.
A description of objectives and quality metrics, including the number of providers hired and retained, patient load, patient wait times for appointments, and other information as determined appropriate by the Director of the Defense Health Agency and the Secretary of the Air Force.
An assessment of the feasibility and advisability of conducting a pilot program under which the Air Force Medical Service hires civilian health care workers to support the operational requirements of military medical treatment facilities described in subsection (a).
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and not later than one year after the effective date of the first new contract or agreement entered into by the Secretary of Defense for the administration of the pharmacy benefits program after such date of enactment, the Comptroller General of the United States shall—
conduct an audit of—
data reported by the contractor responsible for the administration of the pharmacy benefits program relating to—
rates of reimbursement and any price concessions, including direct and indirect remuneration fees, bonuses, and clawbacks;
any discrepancies between average reimbursements to various types of pharmacies disaggregated by retail, mail order, specialty pharmacies, and any pharmacy owned by or affiliated with such contractor; and
the difference between what the contractor charges the TRICARE program for a pharmaceutical agent and what the contractor pays to pharmacies for the same pharmaceutical agent, disaggregated by retail, mail order, and specialty pharmacies;
prior authorizations required by the TRICARE program for prescription drug treatments and services;
the timeliness of dispensing prescription drugs from the various types of pharmacies, disaggregated by retail, mail order, and specialty pharmacies; and
the adequacy of the retail pharmacy network under the TRICARE program and access by eligible covered beneficiaries to such network, including with respect to continuity of care, geographic accessibility (taking into account factors in addition to travel time to and from a pharmacy, with special consideration for rural and underserved areas), and the extent to which elections by such beneficiaries reflect personal preference; and
submit the results of such audit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The Secretary, as a condition of any contract entered into for the administration of the pharmacy benefits program, and notwithstanding any other provision of law, or any contract, subcontract, agreement, or confidentiality provision to the contrary, shall ensure that the contractor provides the Comptroller General full access to any information the Comptroller General determines necessary to conduct the audit under subsection (a)(1) not later than 30 days after the request for such information by the Comptroller General.
Information required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
Claims-level data.
Information on reimbursement methodologies and payment rates.
An identification of all price concessions, including rebates, fees, discounts, and remuneration of any kind from manufacturers, pharmacies, or other entities.
Information on amounts charged to the Department of Defense and amounts paid to pharmacies for the same drug.
An identification of contracts, subcontracts, and other arrangements with manufacturers, pharmacies, or third parties relevant to the administration of the pharmacy benefits program.
Information required to be provided under this paragraph may not be withheld, redacted, or limited on the basis of claims relating to proprietary information, trade secrets, or confidential commercial information, except that the Comptroller General shall protect such information from public disclosure in accordance with applicable law.
The Comptroller General may determine the form, level of detail, and frequency of data submissions required under paragraph (1).
Failure to provide information required under this subsection shall constitute a material breach of contract.
If the audit conducted under subsection (a)(1) finds that reimbursement rates paid to retail pharmacies under the pharmacy benefits program are, on average or in a systemic manner, less than the documented acquisition cost to such pharmacies for outpatient prescription drugs covered by such audit, the Comptroller General shall include with the results of such audit submitted under subsection (a)(1) an assessment of the impact of such reimbursement rates on retail pharmacy participation, beneficiary access, network adequacy, and continuity of care.
In conducting oversight of the pharmacy benefit program, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that measures of access to such program include—
continuity of care and beneficiary preference, including the ability of beneficiaries to remain with their pharmacy of choice; and
meaningful geographic access standards beyond drive-time calculations, with special consideration for rural and underserved areas.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan for the implementation of this section.
This section shall apply to any contract, agreement, or other arrangement in effect on or after the date of the enactment of this Act, including any contract, agreement, or arrangement entered into before such date.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall modify any existing contract or agreement as necessary to ensure compliance with the requirements of this section.
The Secretary may not exercise any option to extend or renew an existing contract or agreement for the administration of the pharmacy benefits program unless the contractor is in full compliance with the requirements of this section.
In this section:
The terms eligible covered beneficiary, pharmaceutical agent, and prescription drug have the meanings given those terms in section 1074g of title 10, United States Code.
The term pharmacy benefits program means the pharmacy benefit program of the TRICARE program under section 1074g of title 10, United States Code.
The term TRICARE program has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a review of the influenza vaccine requirements of the Department of Defense and the considerations that led to recent policy changes with respect to such requirements as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
The review required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
A description of previous and current influenza vaccination requirements, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, described in—
Department of Defense Instruction 6205.02 relating to the Department of Defense Immunization Program;
updated guidance on influenza vaccination issued by the Secretary of Defense in an April 20, 2026, memorandum; and
relevant implementing guidance for any such requirements or guidance.
An analysis of any risks, benefits, or other matters considered by the Secretary of Defense with respect to the updated guidance specified in paragraph (1)(B).
The impact of such updated guidance on the ability of the Department to meet medical readiness goals established in Department of Defense Instruction 6025.19 relating to the Individual Medical Readiness Program.
Such other matters as the Comptroller General determines relevant.
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Comptroller General shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the results of the review conducted under subsection (a), with a report to follow at a mutually agreed upon time and in a mutually agreed upon format.
Subject to section 3501 of title 10, United States Code, the head of an agency is authorized to enter into one or more multi-year contracts, beginning in fiscal year 2027, for the procurement of any of the following systems:
Joint Strike Missile (JSM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with JSM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the missile system).
Naval Strike Missile (NSM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with NSM systems, including systems procured for the Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS), or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the missile system).
Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with PrSM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the missile system).
Mk 48 Heavyweight Torpedo (Mk 48) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Mk48 systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the torpedo system).
Mk 54 Lightweight Torpedo (Mk 54) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Mk54 systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the torpedo system).
Clandestine-Delivered Mine, Quickstrike Mine, and Hammerhead Mine systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Clandestine-Delivered Mine, Quickstrike Mine, and Hammerhead Mine systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the mine system).
Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with JDAM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with GMLRS systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
6.8mm ammunition (and products, services, and logistics support associated with 6.8mm ammunition that performs a critical function of the munition system).
Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) (AGR-20 A/B) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with APKWS systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
Fixed-Wing, Air Launched, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Ordnance (FALCO) (AGR-20F) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with FALCO systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
Small Diameter Bomb II (SDB II) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with SDB II systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
Air Intercept Missile-9X (AIM-9X) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with JDAM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
Javelin CLU (Command Launch Unit) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Javelin CLU systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the launch unit system).
FGM-148 Javelin systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Javelin systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
Coyote Block 2C interceptor systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Coyote systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
Sonobuoys, inclusive of SSQ- 36, SSQ-53, SSQ-62, SSQ-101, SSQ1125, systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Sonobuoys systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the sonobuoy system).
RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with ESSM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with RAM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
The systems and subsystems described in subsection (a) may be procured through modifications or extensions to any existing contract for such systems and subsystems.
The head of an agency may enter into one or more contracts for advance procurement, beginning in fiscal year 2027, associated with a system or subsystem described in subsection (a) for which authorization to enter into a multi-year procurement contract is provided under such subsection, which may include procurement of economic order quantities of material and equipment when cost savings are achievable.
A contract entered into under subsection (a) shall provide that any obligation of the United States to make a payment under the contract for a fiscal year after fiscal year 2027 is subject to the availability of appropriations for that purpose for such later fiscal year.
In this section, the term head of an agency means—
the Secretary of Defense;
the Secretary of the Army;
the Secretary of the Navy; or
the Secretary of the Air Force.
Of the funds described in subsection (c), not more than 95 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of Defense submits the report required under subsection (b).
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on implementation of the software acquisition pathway (in this section referred to as the Software Pathway).
The report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
The implementation plan outlined in the March 6, 2025, memo by the Office of the Secretary of Defense titled Directing Modern Software Acquisition to Maximize Lethality.
A description of progress on the adoption by the Department of Defense components and military departments of the Software Pathway as the preferred pathway for all software development components of business and weapon system programs.
A description of progress on making commercial solutions openings and other transactions authority the default solicitation and contracting award approaches for acquiring capabilities under the Software Pathway.
The funds described in this subsection are funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Defense and available for travel expenses for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment.
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments and the portfolio acquisition executives of each military department, shall include in the budget justification materials submitted to Congress in support of the Department of Defense budget for the fiscal year (as submitted with the President’s budget under section 1105(a) of title 31, United States Code) a comprehensive report and centralized summary display on critical multiyear procurement requirements for that fiscal year.
The centralized summary display submitted under subsection (a) shall detail the multiyear procurement activities of the Department of Defense and include, at a minimum, the following information for each affected program:
Each active multiyear procurement authority currently utilized by the Department, including all utilizations under $500,000,000 that require congressional notification and all utilizations over $500,000,000 that require congressional notification.
The specific fiscal years covered by each active multiyear authority.
The total cost and annual funding increments allocated to each authority.
The annual and total production amounts, if applicable, associated with each contract.
A comprehensive list of all multiyear procurement authorities planned for by the Department over the current Future Years Defense Program cycle.
A concise description of any industrial base stabilization, cost-avoidance, any efficiency benefits that justifies each current or planned multiyear request.
To the extent possible, the Secretary of Defense shall leverage existing program acquisition executive mechanisms and office assessment mechanisms to generate the data required by this section, rather than creating new administrative offices or entities.
Section 3771(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (3)(C), by inserting , and for which the United States shall have government purpose rights, unless the Government and the contractor negotiate different license rights after component); and
in paragraph (4)(A)—
in clause (ii), by striking ; or and inserting a semicolon;
by redesignating clause (iii) as clause (iv); and
by inserting after clause (ii) the following new clause:
is a release, disclosure, or use of detailed manufacturing or process data—
that is necessary for operation, maintenance, installation, or training and shall be used only for operation, maintenance, installation, or training purposes supporting wartime operations or contingency operations; and
for which the head of an agency determines that the original supplier of such data will be unable to satisfy military readiness or operational requirements for such operations; or
Chapter 239 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 3775 the following new section:
Except as provided in subsection (b), any technical data, computer software, or computer software documentation delivered under a contract, subcontract, or other agreement entered into by the Department of Defense for the acquisition of noncommercial products or services shall be provided with government purpose rights unless the contractor establishes, through clear and convincing evidence, entitlement to more restrictive rights.
A contractor asserting less-than-government purpose rights shall provide—
a compliant assertions table identifying each specific item of data or software claimed;
factual documentation of private development funding;
clause-specific unlimited-rights exclusions applied at the lowest practicable segregable level; and
corresponding portion markings on the deliverables.
Any failure by a contractor to comply with subsection (b) shall result in the deliverable being treated as provided with government purpose rights.
For any critical readiness items of supply (as that term is defined in section 4324(d)(4) of title 10, United States Code) that are noncommercial items, if the Secretary of Defense determines that a contractor—
applied an incorrect restrictive marking;
failed to exclude unlimited- or unrestricted-rights categories;
failed to portion-mark at the required segregable level; or
submitted an incomplete or invalid assertions table;
The Secretary shall obtain an independent engineering and cost analysis to determine the fair and reasonable price for any item procured under circumstances where improper restrictive markings contributed to an unjustified sole-source environment.
If the amount paid by the Government exceeds the amount determined under paragraph (1), the difference shall constitute a contract debt owed to the United States under chapter 71 of title 41, United States Code (commonly known the Contract Disputes Act).
Any amount owed under this paragraph shall accrue interest from the date of overpayment in accordance with section 7109 of title 41, United States Code.
A contractor found to have repeatedly mismarked data or submitted invalid assertions tables shall be ineligible for award of contracts requiring the delivery of technical data or software for a period determined by the Secretary.
The Secretary of Defense shall develop key performance indicators to be used by all program acquisition executives, which shall address the following:
The portfolio cost variance from baseline estimates.
Milestone delivery performance and turnaround time across different phases of acquisition.
Market research and competition.
Use of Modular Open System Architecture.
Supply chain and workforce risk mitigation.
Authority utilization, including other transaction authority, commercial solutions opening, middle tier acquisition, and software acquisition pathway.
Derisking activity, including capital market involvement.
Any other metric the Secretary considers relevant.
The Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement a phased rollout plan for a centralized, enterprise-grade data dashboard, designed to provide real-time visibility into the operational health, strategic growth, and efficiency of each program acquisition executive portfolio.
The dashboard described in subparagraph (A) shall automatically track and visualize performance across the following four critical performance pillars:
Financial and budgeting health.
Schedule and operational delivery.
Industrial base and workforce growth.
Innovation and agility metrics.
The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a comprehensive human capital market analysis of each program acquisition executive portfolio to identify—
immediate and projected workforce deficiencies; and
the staffing ratios required to support expanded portfolios, with a focus on recruiting specialized talent from the private sector, such as data scientists, industrial base analysts, and commercial finance experts.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report that includes the performance indicators developed under paragraph (1), the phased rollout plan developed under paragraph (2), and the analysis conducted under paragraph (3).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish a pilot program (referred to in this section as the Pilot Program) to enhance the use of commercial acquisition practices within the Department of Defense by appointing highly qualified experts to serve in senior decision-making roles for covered acquisitions.
In carrying out the Pilot Program, the Secretary of Defense shall appoint not less than 10 and not more than 30 highly qualified experts as Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives—
to actively assist the Secretary in the development, instruction, and continuous refinement of the Gold Tier Capital Certification Training Program established under subsection (c); and
to align commercial and public practices for defense acquisitions and contracts.
In appointing individuals as Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall—
select individuals with significant experience in commercial acquisition, including—
not fewer than 8 years of experience in procuring or managing large-scale commercial products or services; and
demonstrated responsibility for acquisition decisions in competitive commercial markets that involve funding or a project value of more than $50,000,000; and
prioritize the appointment of individuals with experience in industries such as advanced technology, manufacturing, logistics, or any other sector characterized by large-scale commercial procurement.
A Senior Commercial Acquisition Executive shall be appointed for a term of four years.
The Secretary may—
appoint individuals under this section as highly qualified experts pursuant to section 9903 of title 5, United States Code, or any other applicable authority; and
fix the pay of an individual appointed under this section at the highest rate authorized for highly qualified experts under section 9903 of title 5, United States Code, and may use any available flexibility under such section to recruit individuals with the expertise required under this section.
Each Senior Commercial Acquisition Executive shall—
be assigned to a military department, defense agency, or other component of the Department of Defense and report to the senior acquisition executive, or any other official the Secretary considers appropriate, of the assigned department, agency, or component;
lead or participate in the development and approval of acquisition strategies for covered acquisitions;
advise and support contracting officers and program officials in the use of commercial acquisition procedures, including—
commercial solution openings;
fixed-price contracting; and
price-based evaluation methods;
promote the use of commercial practices consistent with the objectives of section 3102 of title 10, United States Code; and
provide input and recommendations for the Gold Tier Capital Certification Training Program.
For covered acquisitions, the Secretary shall ensure that a Senior Commercial Acquisition Executive either serves as the lead acquisition official or provides oversight for the acquisition strategy, which shall include meaningful participation in decisions relating to the contract structure, the pricing approach, and the source selection methodology.
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that—
provides the number of Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives and the portfolio and service assignment of each such executive;
describes the types of acquisitions in which such executives were involved;
describes the extent to which the executives influenced acquisition strategy, contract structure, and pricing approaches;
provides an assessment of the effectiveness of the Pilot Program in improving the use of commercial acquisition practices, including any impacts on cost, speed, and participation by nontraditional defense contractors; and
includes recommendations regarding whether the authority of the Secretary to appoint Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives under this section should be extended, modified, or made permanent.
Not later than 180 days prior to the termination date described in paragraph (4), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive report that evaluates the Pilot Program.
The report shall include an assessment of total cost avoidance, accelerated acquisition timelines, industry feedback, and a formal recommendation on whether to permanently codify the authorities granted under this section.
The authority of the Secretary to appoint individuals under paragraph (2)(A) shall terminate 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
An individual appointed under paragraph (2)(A) before the termination date described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph may continue to serve for the duration of the individual's appointment, subject to applicable law.
In this subsection, the term covered acquisitions means an acquisition—
not designated as a major defense acquisition program, as defined in section 4201 of title 10, United States Code; and
for a product or service that includes, as a significant component or purpose—
software or software-intensive systems;
autonomous systems, including unmanned platforms and associated enabling technologies;
artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data analytics capabilities;
cloud computing, data infrastructure, or digital platforms;
cyber capabilities, including cybersecurity and cyber defense tools;
space-based services or commercially provided space capabilities;
advanced sensing, networking, or communications technologies; or
such other technology areas as the Secretary of Defense determines can be effectively acquired using commercial acquisition procedures, including where such procedures would improve speed, cost, competition, or access to innovative suppliers.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish a pilot training program (referred to in this subsection as the Training Program) to establish, evaluate, and refine within the Department of Defense the training and qualifications necessary for an elite advanced financial certification, which shall be known as the Gold Tier Capital Certification.
For each fiscal year during which the Training Program is active, each service acquisition executive shall nominate not fewer than 10 and not more than 15 contracting officers from their respective military department to participate in the Training Program.
Nominations shall be based on demonstrated technical competence, leadership potential, and aptitude for advanced commercial acquisition practices.
The Training Program shall feature a rigorous, advanced curriculum focused on commercial capital markets and corporate and alternative defense financing, including the following instructional areas:
Capital structure fundamentals, including debt, equity, and hybrid financial instruments.
Risk allocation models and corporate financial incentive alignment.
Deal structuring and creative financing mechanisms.
Commercial valuation methodologies and return-on-investment analysis.
Public-private partnership models and execution frameworks.
Operational and structural distinctions between venture capital, private equity, internal corporate investment, and traditional commercial banking.
The curriculum described in subparagraph (A) shall be developed and delivered in coordination with partner institutions and Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives (appointed in subsection (b)), including top-tier graduate business and economic schools, investment banking firms, venture capital firms, and private equity firms.
The curriculum described in subparagraph (A) will include a formalized industry exchange program, through which contracting officers in the Training Program may complete temporary operational rotations with venture capital firms, defense prime contractors, commercial technology startups, and investment banks.
A temporary operational rotation shall last between six and 12 months.
These rotations will provide contracting officers with firsthand experience in commercial business operations, rapid scaling methodologies, and private-sector risk allocation.
The Defense Acquisition University shall serve the Training Program in a strictly administrative and coordinating capacity, to include the funding and management of travel, lodging, and enabling logistics for participants.
Any contracting officer who successfully completes the Training Program shall be awarded the Gold Tier Capital Certification.
To maintain the Gold Tier Capital Certification, an individual who completes the Training Program must meet or exceed the annual performance metrics, as set and evaluated by the relevant portfolio acquisition executive and Senior Commercial Acquisition Executive.
Any officer who fails to meet the metrics described under subparagraph (B) for two or more evaluation periods shall immediately forfeit the Gold Tier Capital Certification.
Not later than 60 days after the forfeiture of a Gold Tier Capital Certification under subparagraph (C), the relevant service acquisition executive shall nominate a qualified replacement for the Training Program.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that contracting officers holding a valid Gold Tier Capital Certification receive the incentives and operational authorities described in this paragraph.
In procedures for military and civilian personnel evaluations, the Secretary shall consider the possession of a Gold Tier Capital Certification as an advanced professional qualification and give such certification positive weight for promotion and leadership selection.
The Secretary shall establish expedited, streamlined administrative review and approval pathways for non-traditional financing mechanisms executed by any officer with a Gold Tier Capital Certification.
Any officer with a Gold Tier Capital Certification shall possess direct liaison status with the Economic Defense Unit.
The Secretary shall provide officers with a Gold Tier Capital Certification with priority access to official operational immersion opportunities within industry, including financial and investment entities and commercial startups.
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the initial implementation of the Training Program, metrics achieved by the participants, and curriculum efficacy.
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that—
provides the number contracting officers that participated in the Training Program, and the portfolio and service designation of each such officer;
describes the types of acquisitions in which such officers were involved;
describes the extent to which the Training Program influenced acquisition strategy, contract structure, and pricing approaches;
provides an assessment of the effectiveness of the Training Program in improving the use of commercial acquisition practices, including any impacts on cost, speed, and participation by nontraditional defense contractors; and
includes recommendations as to whether the authority under this section should be extended, modified, or made permanent.
Not later than 180 days prior to the termination date described in paragraph (8), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive report that evaluates the Training Program.
The report shall include an assessment of total cost avoidance, accelerated acquisition timelines, industry feedback, and a formal recommendation on whether to permanently codify the certification program.
The Training Program shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Subpart I of part V of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new chapter:
In this chapter:
The term Commerce Control List means the list maintained by the Bureau of Industry and Security and set forth in Supplement No. 1 to part 774 of the Export Administration Regulations (as defined in section 1742 of the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4801).
The term commercial product has the meaning given the term in section 103 of title 41.
The term commercially available off-the-shelf item (COTS) has the meaning given the term in section 104 of title 41.
The term covered country means—
the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea);
the People’s Republic of China;
the Russian Federation; and
the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The term covered entity means—
an entity domiciled in a covered country or subject to the influence or control of the government of a covered country, as determined by the Secretary of Defense;
an entity identified as a Communist Chinese military company under section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note);
an entity on the Non-SDN Chinese Military-Industrial Complex Companies List maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury;
Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, Dahua Technology Company, or any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities; or
any other entity designated by the Secretary of Defense as posing a national security risk due to its ties to a covered country.
The term covered item means goods, services, or materials identified in this chapter as subject to procurement restrictions, including chemical materials, munitions, strategic and critical materials, telecommunications equipment, unmanned aircraft systems, printed circuit boards, personal protective equipment, and batteries.
The term covered telecommunications equipment or services means—
telecommunications equipment produced by Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation (or any subsidiary or affiliate);
telecommunications or video surveillance equipment used for public safety, security of government facilities, physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure, or other national security purposes, that is produced by Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company (or any subsidiary or affiliate);
telecommunications or video surveillance services provided by the entities described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) or using equipment produced by such entities; and
telecommunications or video surveillance equipment or services produced or provided by an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence or the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, reasonably believes to be owned or controlled by, or otherwise unduly influenced by, the government of a covered country.
The term simplified acquisition threshold has the meaning given the term in section 134 of title 41.
Except as provided in this chapter, the Secretary of Defense may not—
procure, renew, or extend a contract for the procurement of any covered item that is, or contains materials or components that are mined, refined, processed, manufactured, or assembled, in whole or in part, by a covered country or covered entity;
enter into, renew, or extend a contract with an entity that uses a covered item as a substantial or essential component of any system or as critical technology as part of any system; or
enter into, renew, or extend a contract with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that itself uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system, regardless of whether such use is in performance of a Department of Defense contract.
Paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a) apply to prime contracts and subcontracts at any tier under such contracts.
Subsection (a)(3) applies only to the prime contractor with whom the Department of Defense enters into a contract.
Federal bidders and contractors—
may reasonably rely on certifications of compliance from covered entities and subcontractors when providing proposals to the Department of Defense; and
are not required to conduct independent third-party audits or other formal reviews related to such certifications.
Nothing in this section shall permit the Secretary to apply the prohibitions in subsection (a) to existing contracts for goods, services, or technology, including when such contracts are modified, extended, or renewed, entered into prior to the effective date of the relevant prohibited good or service.
This section applies to the following items:
Chemicals listed under the heading Task 1: Domestic Production of Critical Chemicals in section 3.0E of the document of the Department of Defense titled Statement of Objectives (SOO) for Critical Chemicals Production (FOA: FA8650–19–S–5010, Appendix VI, Call: 012) and dated December 5, 2022, or any successor document.
Goods, services, or technology provided by an entity identified in the annual list published in the Federal Register by the Department of Defense of Chinese military companies operating in the United States pursuant to section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note), except that the prohibition shall not apply to—
goods, services, or technology to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third party, including backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or
components (as defined in section 105 of title 41).
Goods and services—
on the munitions list of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations;
on the Commerce Control List that—
are classified in the 600 series; or
contain strategic and critical materials, rare earth elements, or energetic materials used to manufacture missiles or munitions.
The prohibition pursuant to this paragraph does not apply in connection with a visit by a vessel or an aircraft of the United States Armed Forces to the People’s Republic of China.
Strategic and critical materials, including specialty metals and rare earth elements (as referenced in sections 4863 and 4872 of this title, and section 857 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note)).
Unmanned aircraft systems (as referenced in section 848 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 U.S.C. 4871 note)).
Printed circuit boards (as referenced in section 4873 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 U.S.C. )).
Personal protective equipment (as referenced in section 4875 of this title).
Batteries from specified companies (as referenced in section 154 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 10 U.S.C. 4651 note prec.)).
Covered telecommunications equipment or services (as referenced in section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. 3901 not prec.)).
The Secretary of Defense may waive the prohibitions under section 4992 of this title if the Secretary determines in writing that such waiver is necessary to the national security interests of the United States.
A written determination under subsection (a)—
shall specify the quantity or scope of covered items or materials or the scope of covered telecommunications equipment or services to which the waiver applies and the time period over which the waiver applies; and
shall be provided to the congressional defense committees not later than 15 days before issuing the waiver, except that in the case of an urgent national security requirement, such certification may be provided up to 7 days after the waiver is issued.
The authority under subsection (a)—
may be delegated to either the senior acquisition executive of a military department or the official responsible for all acquisition functions of such other element or organization of the Department of Defense concerned, for a waiver applicable to one or more acquisition programs or procurements within that military department or element of the Department of Defense; or
may be delegated to the Deputy Secretary of Defense or the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment for a waiver applicable to more than one military department.
Except as provided in paragraph (2), this chapter applies to the procurement of commercial products and COTS items.
This chapter only applies to COTS items that are—
specialty metals, including mill products, that have not been incorporated into end items, subsystems, assemblies, or components;
forgings or castings of specialty metals, unless incorporated into COTS end items, subsystems, or assemblies; or
covered items or covered telecommunications equipment or services that perform a mission-critical function and are not incorporated into end items, subsystems, assemblies, or components.
Section 4992 of this title does not apply to acquisitions in amounts below the simplified acquisition threshold.
Section 4992 of this title does not apply to procurements outside the United States in support of contingency operations or for use outside the United States.
The amendments made by this section shall take effect on January 1, 2028.
The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations to implement chapter 390 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), including updates to the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
Section 3252 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by inserting officials, general counsels, after procurement;
in paragraph (2)(B), by striking measures are not reasonably available to reduce and inserting measures have been taken and are not reasonably expected to reduce;
in paragraph (3)—
in subparagraph (A)—
by inserting , including the nature of the supply chain risk, after risk assessment; and
by striking ; and and inserting a semicolon; and
in subparagraph (B)—
by striking measures that were considered and why they were not reasonably available to reduce and inserting measures that were taken and why they were not reasonably expected to reduce; and
by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and; and
by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
a legal opinion from the Department of Defense Office of General Counsel that the determination required in paragraph (2), as well as the analysis required in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of this paragraph, meets the statutory requirements of this section;
by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
determining and certifying to the appropriate congressional committees that a foreign entity of concern in the supply chain has carried out nefarious, malicious, or concerning actions warranting such exercise of authority; and
the Inspector General of the Department of Defense conducts a review and determines that all requirements under this subsection have been met.
in subsection (c)(2)—
by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as subparagraphs (C) and (D), respectively; and
by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraph:
allow the appropriate parties of a covered procurement action a 30-day window to address the Department’s concerns or take other remedial actions;
by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e); and
by inserting after subsection (c) the following new subsection:
Unless a complete and detailed notification has been received by the appropriate congressional committees within 5 days of a determination under this section, the determination shall have no effect for purposes of this section until the notification has been so received.
A determination under this section shall not be invoked for contract disputes or as a negotiating tool and shall only be invoked to protect critical defense systems from adversary exploitation by screening out suppliers who pose unacceptable risks of sabotage or malicious subversion in the procurement process.
None of the funds appropriated by this Act or any previous Act, or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended on a covered contract or other agreement unless the Secretary of Defense certifies to the congressional defense committees, in writing, that such contract or other agreement does not contain any clause or provision that would authorize the Secretary to—
remove or install personnel at any prime contractor or subcontractor; or
direct the internal resources of any prime contractor or subcontractor, including independent research and development or capital expenditures, regardless of whether such term is a condition of award, as a penalty for delinquency, or for any other reason, unless the Department of Defense paid for such resources as a direct cost under the contract or other agreement.
If the Secretary determines that any covered contract or other agreement awarded prior to the date of the enactment of this Act does not conform to the requirements of paragraph (1), the Secretary shall seek to enter into bilateral negotiations with the contractor to modify such contract or other agreement to remove the non-conforming clause or provision without consideration.
Except as may be necessary to comply with subsection (a)(2), the Secretary of Defense may not make any modification or change to any term of a covered contract or other agreement that is entered into using funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027, to alleviate contractor performance issues, including delinquency, cost overruns, schedule delays, technical performance issues, or any other performance-related grounds, and shall strictly enforce all such terms as written.
Paragraph (1) shall not apply to a modification or change to a covered contract or other agreement if such modification is made pursuant to the extraordinary contractual relief authorities provided in the Act entitled An Act to authorize the making, amendment, and modification of contracts to facilitate the national defense, approved August 28, 1958 (50 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.) and complies with all applicable regulations and procedures implementing such authorities.
In this section, the term covered contract or other agreement means any of the following contract or other agreement entered into using multiyear procurement authorities authorized in section 804 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.):
Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3).
Tomahawk Cruise Missile.
Joint Air-to-Air Standoff Missile (JASSM).
Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM).
Standard Missile-6 (SM-6).
Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IB.
Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM).
Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD).
Low-Cost Hypersonic Strike Systems.
Family of Affordable Mass Munitions (FAMM), Extended-Range Attack Munition (ERAM), Enterprise Test Vehicle (ETV), or ground-launched low-cost cruise missile systems.
No funds authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027, or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense, may be obligated or expended for the centralized commercial item capability required by section 3456(a) of title 10, United States Code, until the conditions described in subsection (b) are satisfied.
The conditions referred to in subsection (a) are the following:
The Secretary of Defense certifies that the Department of Defense has—
issued comprehensive Department-wide guidance implementing subtitle C of title XVIII of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1245); and
amended the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to fully implement such subtitle.
The Secretary of Defense has developed and issued stricter guidance, including higher standards and criteria of evidence, for the approval of noncommercial item determinations (or commercial item exceptions) with respect to the following capabilities:
Software or software-intensive systems.
Autonomous systems, including unmanned platforms and associated enabling technologies.
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data analytics capabilities.
Cloud computing, data infrastructure, or digital platforms.
Cyber capabilities, including cybersecurity and cyber defense tools.
Other technology areas as the Secretary of Defense determines are characterized by significant commercial market participation.
Not later than 180 days after the date on which the Secretary of Defense notifies the congressional defense committees that the conditions in subsection (b) have been met, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct and complete—
a review of the guidance issued pursuant to subsection (b)(1) to determine whether such guidance provides adequate implementation of subtitle C of title XVIII of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026; and
a review of a representative sample of noncommercial item determinations (or commercial item exceptions) made under the stricter guidance required by subsection (b)(2) to assess whether such determinations are supported by sufficient evidence and are not being approved through an insufficiently rigorous process.
The Comptroller General shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the reviews required by paragraph (1), including an assessment of the adequacy and rigor of the guidance and determination processes.
Except as provided in subsection (b), beginning on June 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense may not enter into a contract for the procurement of goods or services, unless the contractor agrees in writing that the entity shall not—
purchase an equity security of such entity, or any parent entity of such entity, that is listed on a national securities exchange; or
pay dividends or make any other capital distribution with respect to the equity securities of the entity.
The Secretary of Defense may waive the limitation in subsection (a) for the purpose of rewarding contractors that agree to a qualifying defense investment plan that is approved by the Secretary.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a formal review mechanism for identifying, on a continuing basis, the Department of Defense contractors that are in violation of the requirements of subsection (a).
If a contracting officer of the Department of Defense finds, or receives and substantiates, an allegation described in subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall immediately notify the contractor of the violation in writing.
An allegation described in this subparagraph is any allegation relating to—
a contractor of the Department engaging in an activity prohibited under subsection (a), if the requirements of such subsection have not been waived under subsection (b); or
a contractor who received a waiver under subsection (b) is underperforming with respect to prioritization, investment, or production such that the contractor no longer meets the requirements of the qualifying defense investment plan approved by the Secretary pursuant to subsection (b).
The notice issued under subparagraph (A) shall include, depending on the basis of the violation, a description of—
the conduct of the contractor that is prohibited under subsection (a); or
the nature of the underperformance or insufficient prioritization, investment, or production speed of the contractor that fails to meet the requirements described in the qualifying defense investment plan under subsection (b).
Not later than 15 days after the date on which the contractor receives the notice of a violation under paragraph (3)(A), the contractor may submit to the Secretary a remediation plan, approved by the board of directors of the contractor, for review by the Secretary.
The remediation plan submitted under subparagraph (A) shall include a description of the manner by which the contractor shall remedy the violation, including, if applicable, a strategy for meeting the requirements described in the qualifying defense investment plan under subsection (b) or an update of such a plan.
If the Secretary identifies deficiencies in the remediation plan submitted under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall engage with the contractor as needed to resolve such deficiencies.
If a contractor engages in an activity prohibited under subsection (a) and was not granted a waiver under subsection (b) or if the contractor was granted a waiver under subsection (b) but no longer meets the requirements of the qualifying defense investment plan, the contracting officer of the Department of Defense may take one or more of the following actions against the contractor for any contract entered into on or after the date specified in subsection (a):
Suspend payment under the contract.
Revoke the waiver issued under subsection (b) for the contractor as a whole or for any defined business segment.
Determine that the contractor lacks requisite responsibility for award of competitive contracts or other agreements.
Terminate the eligibility of the contractor to receive progress payments under section 3804 of title 10, United States Code.
Refer the matter to the Secretary for other administrative actions.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the date specified in subsection (e), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report that includes, for the one-year period preceding submission of the report—
a list of all contractors granted a waiver under subsection (b) and the justification for each waiver; and
a list of all entities that have violated agreements made pursuant to subsection (a) or diverged from the practices that justified the granting of a waiver under subsection (b).
Not later than 30 days after the date of submission of a report under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall make such report publicly available.
This section shall cease to have effect on January 1, 2031.
In this section:
The term equity security has the meaning given such term in section 3(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)).
The term national securities exchange means an exchange registered as a national securities exchange in accordance with section 6 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78f).
The term qualifying defense investment means an expenditure by a contractor that is directly related to increasing the capacity or capability of its defense business segment, including—
construction, expansion, or modernization of manufacturing facilities, shipyards, or production lines dedicated to defense programs;
acquisition of machine tools, capital equipment, and production technology for defense systems;
applied non-reimbursable research and development directly supporting defense programs;
establishment or expansion of workforce training programs and facilities for defense manufacturing skills; and
strategic stockpiling of raw materials and components critical to defense production.
A qualifying defense investment does not include—
an allowable cost for reimbursement under any contract; or
an expenditure used under any contract or other agreement as the basis for the Department of Defense to provide contract financing or advance payments.
Section 844 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 976) is amended—
by redesignating paragraph (3) of subsection (b) as subsection (c) and moving such subsection, as so redesignated, two ems to the left; and
in subsection (c), as redesignated by paragraph (1) of this section, by striking amendments made by paragraphs (1) and (2) and inserting amendments made by this section.
Any project carried out by the Department of Defense using other transaction authority under section 4021 of title 10, United States Code, shall be reported in the same manner as other Department of Defense expenditures for inclusion in the searchable public website established by the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (31 U.S.C. 6101 note; Public Law 109–282).
In this section:
The term covered entity means—
a foreign government; and
an agent of a foreign principal (as defined section 1 of the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended (22 U.S.C 611)).
The term cut flower means a flower removed from a living plant for decorative use.
The term cut green means a green, foliage, or branch removed from a living plant for decorative use.
The term qualifying area means—
a State;
the District of Columbia;
a territory or possession of the United States; or
an area subject to the jurisdiction of a federally recognized Indian Tribe.
Funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense may only be used for the procurement of a cut flower or cut green if the cut flower or cut green is grown in a qualifying area.
This subsection shall apply to a procurement made or contracted for—
in the United States; and
on or after the date that is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act.
The Department of Defense may only accept a gift of a cut flower or cut green that is not grown in a qualifying area from a covered entity for the purpose of displaying the cut flower or cut green if the origin of the cut flower or cut green is clearly displayed at the time of delivery.
If the Department of Defense accepts a gift of a cut flower or cut green from a covered entity under paragraph (1), it shall clearly display the origin of the cut flower or cut green during the period of display of the cut flower or cut green.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall initiate a Department-wide audit to identify the presence of covered cellular modules within covered systems.
The audit required under paragraph (1) shall—
cover all military departments, combatant commands, defense agencies, and Department of Defense activities or programs;
prioritize covered systems critical to military mobility, logistics, and installation security;
include both government-owned and contractor-operated covered systems connected to Department of Defense networks or accessing Department of Defense information;
identify to the maximum extent practicable, the manufacturer, model, firmware version, and host product for each covered cellular module identified; and
assess the cybersecurity risk posed by each identified covered cellular module, including data flows, network exposure, and potential for remote access.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and biennially thereafter for a period not to exceed 6 years, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the audit and mitigation activities carried out under this section.
Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
The preliminary or updated findings of the audit required under subsection (b).
A description of ongoing and planned mitigation measures, including—
rip-and-replace programs;
accelerated divestiture or retirement of legacy assets;
network segmentation, isolation, or compensating cybersecurity or engineering controls;
firmware or software remediation; and
supply-chain substitution with trusted alternatives.
Cost estimates, timelines, and resource requirements for each category of mitigation measure described in subparagraph (B).
An identification of any statutory, regulatory, or acquisition barriers to completing mitigation.
Recommendations for additional legislative authorities, if any, needed to complete mitigation.
Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Not later than 180 days after the submission of the report required in subsection (b), the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the implementation and effectiveness of the activities described in subsection (b).
In this section:
The term cellular module means a modular transmitter, as described in section 15.212 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, that provides cellular connectivity to a host product, including an Internet of things device.
The term covered cellular module means any cellular module produced, manufactured, or provided by—
an entity identified under section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.);
an entity that is owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of the People’s Republic of China; or
any other entity determined by the Secretary of Defense to present an unacceptable supply-chain risk.
The term covered system means any item of infrastructure owned, leased, operated, or controlled by the Department of Defense.
The term Internet of things device has the meaning given to such term in NIST Special Publication 1800–16.
Section 847(a)(3) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 U.S.C. 4819 note) is amended by striking in excess of $5,000,000 and inserting in excess of $500,000.
Chapter 271 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
An offeror shall be required to report to the relevant contracting officer not later than 30 days after becoming aware that the price of a product or service under a covered contract reaches or exceeds—
25 percent above the price specified in the contract bid or the government paid for that product or service the previous calendar year; or
50 percent above the price paid for such a product or service 5 years earlier.
In this section, the term covered contract means a cost-plus contract awarded without competition under section 3204 of this title and as defined under section 6.302 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
Chapter 271 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Director of the Defense Contract Audit Agency or the relevant service acquisition executive shall report in the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS) housed within the System for Award Management the following information:
Contractors who fail to report price increases as required under 3705(a)(2) of this title.
Updated findings from audits conducted by the Agency regarding noncompliance with the requirement.
With respect to unreported product or service price increases, the product or service’s National Stock Number, order quantity, unit cost, total cost, purchasing or reimbursing entity, and date of the order.
Section 3706(c) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (3), by striking ; or and inserting a semicolon;
in paragraph (4), by striking the period and inserting ; or; and
by adding at the end of the following:
the cost or pricing data were submitted by the prime contractor or subcontractor after the date of agreement on the price of the contract or, if applicable consistent with subsection (a)(2), such other date agreed upon between the parties.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a Supply Chain Risk Management Integration Cell (in this section referred to as the Cell ) within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy.
For the purposes of operating the Cell described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall delegate or otherwise assign to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy the authorities and duties to—
direct and conduct oversight of all Department of Defense Supply Chain Risk Management activities, programs, tools, and datasets;
manage and make determinations regarding lists and other restrictions relating to Department of Defense Supply Chain Risk Management, including those authorized in—
section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.);
section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note); and
section 805 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 10 U.S.C. 4651 note prec.);
manage and make determinations regarding supply chain transparency programs, incentives, and other activities, including those authorized in—
section 849 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 3241 note prec.);
section 856 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 10 U.S.C. 3241 note prec.); and
subsection (a)(3) of section 857 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note);
oversee data and databases related to Department of Defense Supply Chain Risk Management and the integration of such data and databases across the Department of Defense, to include integration with commercial data sources;
select and assign a sufficient number of dedicated staff necessary for the Cell to effectively manage the duties described in paragraphs (1) through ( 4);
consult with the Supply Chain Risk Management Threat Analysis Center at the Defense Intelligence Agency; and
any other authorities or duties necessary to manage, direct, or otherwise coordinate Supply Chain Risk Management activities and programs.
The Secretary of Defense shall not delegate or assign to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy authorities or duties that explicitly relate to cybersecurity.
Not later than 90 days after the date on which the Cell described in subsection (a) is established, the Secretary shall amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to support the establishment of the Cell and to implement the changes in authorities and duties described in subsection (b).
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees describing—
estimated staffing and resources requirements to establish and operate the Cell;
plans to reorganize existing offices and functions throughout the Department to ensure the Cell can carry out the authorities and duties described in subsection (b);
plans to provide resources to the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy for the purposes of establishing and operating the Cell; and
estimated timelines to consolidate in the Cell the various authorities and duties described in subsection (b).
Section 4022(e)(5)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking to address obsolescence.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Patriot Advanced Capability–3 (PAC–3) multiyear procurement authorized by section 804(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60), not more than 50 percent may be obligated or expended unless the Secretary of Defense certifies that at least 40 percent of fiscal year 2027 procurement of the Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) solid rocket motors is sourced from a secondary or additional qualified supplier.
The Secretary of Defense shall require the Standard Missile–6 multiyear procurement authorized by this Act and by section 804(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60) to source Mark 72 and Mark 104 solid rocket motors from more than one vendor by the following deadlines:
Beginning in fiscal year 2028, 20 percent or more solid rocket motors shall be ordered by the prime contractor from a secondary or additional qualified supplier.
Beginning in fiscal year 2029, 30 percent or more solid rocket motors shall be ordered by the prime contractor from a secondary or additional qualified supplier.
Beginning in fiscal year 2030, 40 percent or more solid rocket motors shall be ordered by the prime contractor from a secondary or additional qualified supplier.
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and other appropriate officials, shall review the list of items under subsection (b) to determine and develop appropriate actions to maintain access to critical defense industry components and materials, including—
restricting procurement, with appropriate waivers for cost, emergency requirements, and nonavailability of suppliers, including restricting procurement to—
suppliers in the United States;
suppliers in the national technology and industrial base (as defined in section 4801 of title 10, United States Code);
suppliers in other allied or partner nations; or
other suppliers;
increasing investment through use of research and development procurement activities and acquisition authorities, including the Defense Production Act and the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program to—
expand production capacity;
diversify sources of supply; or
promote alternative approaches for addressing military requirements;
prohibiting procurement from selected sources or nations;
taking a combination of actions described under subparagraphs (A),(B), and (C); or
taking no action.
The analyses conducted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall consider national security, economic, and treaty implications, as well as impacts on current and potential suppliers of goods and services.
The items described in this subsection are the following:
Boron carbide.
Copper foil, copper clad laminates, glass, or any other copper-containing inputs for printed circuit boards.
Synthetic diamond.
Silicon carbide.
Not later than February 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives—
a summary of the findings of the analyses undertaken for each item pursuant to subsection (a);
relevant recommendations resulting from the analyses, including any proposed statutory changes to implement sourcing restrictions; and
descriptions of specific activities undertaken as a result of the analyses, including schedule and resources allocated for any planned actions.
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary of Defense shall issue regulations requiring that any optional combat boots being sold at military exchanges be certified by the combat boot quality assurance program conducted by the relevant military service, to ensure combat boots meet uniform regulations regarding durability, quality, and uniform standards.
The Secretary of Defense may provide a military service a waiver for subsection (a) for 90 days until the combat boot quality assurance program is implemented.
In this section:
The term combat boot quality assurance program means the requirement in section 865(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note).
The term optional combat boots, with respect to a member of the Armed Forces, means combat boots not furnished to such member of the Armed Forces by the Secretary of Defense.
The term required uniform means a uniform a member of the Armed Forces is required to wear as a member of the Armed Forces.
Not later than May 1, 2027, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the issuance of domestic nonavailability determinations (DNADs) for strategic and critical materials covered by sections 4863 and 4872 of title 10, United States Code. The report shall—
identify all DNADs issued over the previous 5 years;
identify whether DNADs were granted for a specific program or end item or granted for a class of material;
assess the Department of Defense’s review process for DNADs, including timeframes for approval and communication with industry; and
describe any other matters the Under Secretary determines relevant for issuing DNADs for strategic and critical materials.
Not more than 80 percent of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 and available to the Defense Autonomous Warfare Group, and not more than 95 percent of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense-wide, for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, may be obligated or expended until—
the report required under section 914(e)(1) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note) is submitted to the congressional defense committees; and
the report required under section 162(c) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 4871 note) is submitted to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Director of the Joint Energetics Transition Office, in coordination with the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy and the Secretaries of the military departments, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a roadmap for the future desired state for the energetics industrial base.
The roadmap under subsection (a) shall include the following elements:
An assessment of the capacity and capability of the energetics industrial base to support the demands of existing munitions programs of record.
An assessment of the capacity and capability of the energetics industrial base to support planned future demands of munitions programs.
Identification of current and potential shortfalls in common precursors and chemicals for energetic materials.
An assessment of emerging technologies or manufacturing processes that would support the modernization or evolution of the energetics industrial base.
A description of United States Government funding to date for the energetics industrial base, whether through programs of record or through Defense Production Act (DPA) or Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) programs, broken out by fiscal year and purpose.
In this section, the term energetic materials means critical chemicals and formulations that—
release large amounts of stored chemical energy; and
are capable of being used as explosives, propellants, pyrotechnics, and reactive materials that—
create lethal effects in warheads in kinetic weapons components and systems; or
increase propellant performance in a weapon propulsion system as related to lethal effects, range, or speed.
The Secretary of Defense shall contract with a federally funded research and development center to conduct a detailed assessment of the textile industrial base providing uniform items to the military services. The review shall include—
a description of coordination between industry and the military services to understand shortfalls in the textile industrial base over the last five years;
a description of the ability of the military services to provide annual or long-term data for increased stability in long-term contracting for textile manufacturing;
any requested domestic non-availability determinations made to the Defense Logistics Agency or the services and the rationale for the absence of available domestic options;
a review of Defense Logistics Agency contracting processes, including the ability to provide industry with long-term demand, Berry amendment compliance, and responsiveness to the needs of the military services;
an assessment of the supply chains of all Berry-compliant textiles and footwear options, including current challenges, potential for surge capacity, any investments in capital expenditures in the last 10 years, data on sales over the last 10 years, quality assurance procedures, testing, and qualification procedures;
a review of the military services specifications for textiles and footwear, including where specifications are the limiting factor to higher quality items or if changes in specification can improve manufacturing timelines;
a review of any allied or Trade Agreement Act-compliant partnerships that could be expanded to improve supply chain resilience;
an assessment of the efficacy of the investments made under the automated textile manufacturing program under the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program, including any improvements or best practices that could be implemented;
an assessment of the importance of having multiple supply lines in the textile industrial base and the consequences of single points of failure; and
any other matters determined to be relevant to the review.
Not later than September 30, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the final review required under subsection (a).
Not later than May 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing with an initial review of the scope of the assessment required under subsection (a).
The federally funded research and development center conducting the review under subsection (a) may utilize any relevant supply chain technologies for in-depth review of the textile industrial base.
Not later than June 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Army shall establish and implement a pilot program to provide subsidies for the cost of certain combat boots to members of the Army that receive a uniform allowance.
Under the pilot program required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall establish a subsidy for an eligible member for the purchase of combat boots that comply with the requirements of section 4862 of title 10, United States Code, in an amount that is equal to 30 percent of the price of such boots.
A member who receives the subsidy under paragraph (1) shall use the subsidy to purchase from the Army and Air Force Exchange Service not more than one pair of combat boots that comply with the requirements of section 4862 of title 10, United States Code.
The Secretary shall select three military installations at which exchange stores operated by the Army and Air Force Exchange Service are located to carry out the pilot program required by subsection (a).
The Secretary shall provide information on eligible members to the exchange stores at the installations selected under paragraph (1).
The Secretary shall—
in collaboration with the exchange stores at the installations selected under paragraph (1), provide appropriate notice to eligible members with respect to the subsidy under subsection (b); and
under the authority provided by section 2491 of title 10, United States Code, reimburse each such store for—
the cost of the subsidies under subsection (b) provided by the store; and
any incidental marketing costs associated with the pilot program required by subsection (a) incurred by the store.
The Secretary shall collect data on—
the total population of eligible members; and
the overall cost of providing the subsidy under subsection (b).
The Secretary shall collect data from the exchange stores at the installations selected under paragraph (1) on—
the rates of use of the subsidy under subsection (b) on a quarterly and annual basis; and
which combat boots are being purchased with the subsidy.
The pilot program required by subsection (a) shall terminate on December 31, 2029.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Army shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on—
a plan to establish and implement the pilot program required by subsection (a); and
the three military installations selected under subsection (c)(1) to carry out the pilot program.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the termination under subsection (d) of the pilot program required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representative on—
the use of the subsidy provided under subsection (b); and
the data collected under subsection (c)(4).
The term eligible member means a member of the Army authorized to receive a cash clothing replacement allowance under chapter 29 of volume 7A of the Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation.
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall institute a cross-functional team on the textile industrial base to improve supply chain stability and resiliency. The cross-functional team shall meet not less than quarterly.
The cross-functional team shall include representatives from—
each military service;
the Defense Logistics Agency; and
the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy.
The cross-functional team instituted under subsection (a) shall map the textile industrial base for the service specific requirements and determine which, if any, resiliency measures need to be taken.
Not later than January 1, 2028, the cross-functional team shall establish a competitive pilot program to revitalize supply chains in the domestic textile industrial base.
The program established under paragraph (1) shall establish competitive solicitation for industrial base analysis and sustainment funding to encourage—
surge capacity as required by supply chain mapping;
modernization of relevant textile industrial facilities for vertical integration or flexible manufacturing;
expansion and qualification of second or alternative sources of supply where single points of failure exist in the industrial base;
prioritization of urgent service uniform requirements; and
expansion of competition to ensure higher quality products and improved pricing.
The Office of the Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, in coordination with the members of the cross-functional team instituted under subsection (a), shall brief the congressional defense committees—
not later than 60 days after initial stand up of the cross-functional team, on membership, meeting schedule, and priorities;
not later than 90 days after the completion of initial supply chain mapping, on single points of failure, opportunities for surge capacity, and concerns regarding foreign investment or influence; and
annually, on the resources required to create competition and supply chain resiliency necessary in the competitive pilot program, progress made on supply chain mapping, and any other matters relevant to the cross-functional team.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall designate, within the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, an office with primary responsibility for identifying, assessing, monitoring, and mitigating risks related to adversarial capital in the defense industrial base and broader defense innovation base. The Secretary shall ensure the office assigned is responsible for carrying out the following functions:
The following activities related to collaborating to identify and mitigate risks of adversarial capital:
Promoting robust collaboration across the Department of Defense, other Federal agencies, industry, and academia by coordinating, deconflicting, and synchronizing, adversarial capital risk management activities, including mitigations.
Promulgating and enforcing Department-wide policy related to the monitoring and assessment of adversarial capital in the defense industrial base ecosystem, including the development of risk matrices to support decision making.
Facilitating timely sharing of threat information, vulnerability assessments, and risk indicators with covered defense industrial base entities.
Establishing cooperative research and development agreements to support joint supplier mapping and mitigation research.
Working through the Office of Strategic Capital and service and component acquisition executives to provide targeted support to small and medium-sized defense industrial base entities in implementing effective supply chain risk management measures.
The following activities related adversarial capital identification:
Mapping adversarial capital flows for mission-critical weapons systems, technologies, and materials.
Identifying and monitoring dependencies on foreign adversaries across the defense industrial base by identifying foreign adversary-controlled nodes, single points of failure, and critical chokepoints and tactics, techniques, and procedures.
Providing specific recommendations to Secretary of Defense on actions or policies necessary to reduce adversarial capital flows for mission-critical weapons systems, technologies, and materials.
The following activities related to data sharing and protection pathways:
Working with industry to develop clear legal, contractual, and technical procedures to support and enable contractor disclosures of sub-tier sourcing and beneficial ownership data relevant to national security.
Protecting this data ensuring appropriate liability protections for contractors making good-faith disclosures.
Implementing a voluntary risk-sharing framework, modeled on the protections provided under section 104 of the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 (6 U.S.C. 1503), under which industry partners may share supplier risk information and receive validated risk assessments in return, with safeguards for proprietary data.
The establishment, not later than January 1, 2028, and maintenance of a capability to be known as the Economic Security Risk Assurance capability, which shall—
consolidate and analyze information related to adversarial capital flows, materials, supplier identifiers, sourcing data, program-supplier linkages, and other information as determined by the office, including the synthesis of commercially available information and, where appropriate, classified information;
develop intelligence reporting and collection requirements for the defense intelligence community;
support analysis of entities to determine when tactics are used to obfuscate the ownership relationships to hide adversarial capital flows;
provide risk visualization;
enable federated access by authorized program offices and acquisition decision authorities, and supply chain illumination programs across the Department; and
enable the office to better perform the responsibilities outlines in paragraphs (1) through (3) of this section.
The following activities related to automated risk management:
Implementing and maintaining continuous automated monitoring for changes in corporate control, beneficial ownership, geographic sourcing, and supply chain structure.
Issuing automated alerts to contracting authorities, program leadership, and affected industry upon detection of significant risk indicators.
Applying corroboration protocols requiring validation of significant risk findings across not fewer than two independent data sources before forming the basis for risk-tier elevation, mitigation action, or referral to appropriate law enforcement or regulatory authorities.
The Secretary shall provide the congressional defense committees notification of the designation of office with primary responsibility in accordance with subsection (a) and the establishment of the Economic Security Risk Assurance tool in accordance with subsection (a)(4).
Beginning on December 1, 2027, and each year after for the next three years, the Secretary shall provide the congressional defense committees an annual report on activities, analysis, and findings of the office with primary responsibility for assessing and mitigating risks related to adversarial capital. The report may be provided in classified form and may include any recommendations the Secretary may have to reduce or further mitigate risks related to adversarial capital in the defense industrial base and broader defense innovation base.
Section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking , based on the most recent information available,;
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (3)(A), by striking based on the latest information available; and
by striking paragraph (4);
by amending subsection (e) to read as follows:
The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations to implement this section.
in subsection (g)—
by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (4), and (5) as paragraphs (4), (11), (16), and (20), respectively;
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraphs:
The term assistance means the provision of any benefit, including monetary compensation in the form of grants, loans, subsidies, tax benefits, real property, tangible or intangible property, discounts, employees, sponsored research, or any other preferential treatment.
The term association means a group of two or more entities connected for a common interest.
in paragraph (4), as redesignated by subparagraph (A), by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows:
includes a wholly owned or wholly controlled subsidiary or wholly owned or wholly controlled affiliate of a parent entity or an entity described in subparagraph (B).
by inserting after paragraph (4), as so redesignated, the following new paragraphs:
The term contributor to the Chinese defense industrial base—
means an entity that manufactures, produces, exports, or provides materials, products, or services that—
can supply, service, or expand China's military-civil fusion strategy; or
could be used for military or defense purposes by—
Chinese military and paramilitary elements, security forces, police, law enforcement, border control, the People’s Armed Police, or the Ministry of State Security; or
any other organization subordinate to the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, or the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense; and
may include manufacturing, producing, exporting, or providing materials, products, or services that have a substantial military application, even if—
the particular technology, product, or service is not directly supplied to or used by an entity described in subclause (I) or (II) of subparagraph (A)(ii); and
the particular technology, product, or service also has commercial uses.
The term directly controlled by, with respect to an entity, means that another entity exercises power over, influences, manages, or guides the business decisions or operations of the entity.
The term formal association includes established or recognized relationships between entities, such as joint ventures, standardization or working groups, task forces, consortiums, or partnerships and projects.
The term indirectly controlled by, with respect to an entity, means that another entity exercises power, influence, management, or guidance over the business decisions or operations of the entity through an intermediate entity, subsidiary, or affiliate entity.
The term indirectly owned by, with respect to an entity, means ownership of the entity achieved through investment in, or the purchase of shares or economic or voting rights in, the entity through an intermediate entity, subsidiary, or affiliate entity, without regard to—
the percentage of ownership or number of shares owned; or
whether such ownership results in control of the entity.
The term informal association means a lesser recognized, short-term relationship between entities, such as participation in exhibitions, competitions, or joint demonstrations.
in paragraph (11), as redesignated by subparagraph (A)—
by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (H) as subparagraphs (C) through (I), respectively; and
by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the following new paragraphs:
Entities knowingly receiving assistance or that knowingly received assistance from the Government of China or the Chinese Communist Party through science, technology, research, and industrial efforts that may constitute efforts initiated, granted, or created by, provided under, or related to, the Chinese military industrial planning apparatus, or in furtherance of Chinese military industrial planning objectives. Single Champion or Little Giant designations associated with Chinese industrial planning, or any other successor selection or designation as an enterprise associated with Chinese industrial planning, may constitute knowing receipt of assistance through science, technology, research, and industrial efforts initiated, granted, or created by, provided under, or related to, the Chinese military industrial planning apparatus or in furtherance of Chinese military industrial planning objectives or military-civil fusion efforts.
Entities that knowingly contract with, or provide services or components to (including as lower tier suppliers and subcontractors)—
the People’s Liberation Army, Chinese military and paramilitary elements, security forces, police, law enforcement, border control, the People’s Armed Police, or the Ministry of State Security; or
any other organization subordinate to the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, or the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense.
by inserting after paragraph (11), as so redesignated, the following new paragraphs:
The term military-civil fusion enterprise zone means a section of territory established by the Government of China for the purpose of advancing China’s policy of military-civil fusion through economic activity.
The term military equipment procurement platform means a digital marketplace that advertises or sells equipment, supplies, or services to the military or military suppliers and that are ultimately used by the Chinese military or the Chinese defense industrial base, without regard to whether the platform is established, sponsored, or run by a private entity or the Government of China.
The term military industrial planning apparatus means efforts or policies initiated by the Government of China to expand the Chinese defense industrial base, including military-civil fusion integration of dual-use products, technologies, or services.
The term military industrial planning objective means a line of effort (such as a plan, mission, or goal) outlined by the Government of China to expand the Chinese defense industrial base, including by integrating dual-use products, technologies, or services into military equipment, programs, or systems.
by inserting after paragraph (16), as redesignated by subparagraph (A), the following new paragraphs:
The terms operational direction and policy guidance mean instructions, decisions, proposals, plans, guidance, or requirements on how an entity should conduct operations.
The term owned by, with respect to an entity, mean ownership of the entity achieved through investment in, or the purchase of shares or economic or voting rights in, the entity, without regard to—
the percentage of ownership or number of shares owned; or
whether such ownership results in control of the entity.
The term parent entity, with respect to an entity, means another entity that directly or indirectly holds at least 50 percent of the economic interest or at least 50 percent of the voting interest in the entity.
Section 4873 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)(1), by inserting , copper clad laminate, copper foil, or glass after printed circuit board; and
in subsection (c)—
in paragraph (2), by striking that— and inserting containing copper foil, copper clad laminates, glass, or any other copper-containing inputs that—; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
The term copper clad laminate means a composite material consisting of copper foil bonded to a dielectric substrate used in the manufacture of printed circuit boards.
The term copper foil means thin sheets of copper used as a conductive layer in copper clad laminates or printed circuit boards.
The term glass means glass fibers used as a dielectric in copper clad laminates or printed circuit boards.
The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect on January 1, 2029.
Not later March 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report with a plan for the establishment of a partnership between the Department of Defense and appropriate counterparts of the Government of Israel in order—
to enhance market opportunities for United States-based and Israeli-based defense technology companies;
to increase interoperability through dual-use and emerging technologies;
to counter adversarial development of dual-use defense technologies; and
in coordination with appropriate counterpart offices of the Israeli Ministry of Defense—
to enable coordination on defense industrial priorities and set tangible goals for industrial base participation by both nations;
to highlight partnering opportunities for programs in both nations, and to help navigate country-specific acquisition regulations for partners unfamiliar with the regulatory environment of the other;
to streamline emerging defense technology research and development;
to create more effective pathways to market for defense technology startups that allow increased participation in industrial partners from each nation in the industrial bases of the other;
to collaborate on the development of dual-use defense capabilities through coordination; and
to leverage other private capital, equity on venture funding opportunities to augment government funds for technology deployment or scaling;
to create programs that incentivize defense technology companies from both nations to address defense priorities outside of the Middle East; and
to explore innovative mentor-protégé arrangements that partner companies from each nation to help navigate the acquisition regulatory environment of each nation.
The report required under subsection (a) shall include an assessment of the feasibility of implementing the plan.
Not later than 30 days after the submission of the report required under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the report’s recommendations on feasibility of a partnership on defense industrial base priorities.
The Secretary of Defense may not procure, obtain, or use optical fiber and optical fiber cable that are produced, manufactured, or assembled by an entity that is owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of the People’s Republic of China for use in Department of Defense information networks or communications systems.
This section applies to—
the Department of Defense; and
any contractor or subcontractor at any tier that procures or uses covered optical fiber in the performance of a contract with the Department of Defense.
In this section, the term covered optical fiber means single-mode or multi-mode optical fiber and optical fiber cable.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to require contractor certification and supply-chain disclosure with respect to covered optical fiber.
The Secretary of Defense may grant a waiver to the prohibition under subsection (a) on a case-by-case basis if the Secretary determines that—
the waiver is necessary for the national security interests of the United States; and
no practicable alternative exists from a source not described in subsection (a).
A waiver granted under this subsection shall be time limited and scoped to the minimum extent necessary.
Not later than 30 days after granting a waiver, the Secretary shall submit written notice to the congressional defense committees describing—
the justification for the waiver;
the duration and scope of the waiver; and
the plan to transition to compliant materials.
This section shall apply to contracts awarded on or after October 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Section 848(a)(1) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 USC 4871 note) is amended—
by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
uses flight controllers, radios, communication devices, navigation systems, data transmission devices, cameras and sensors, or gimbals manufactured in a covered foreign country or by an entity domiciled in a covered foreign country;
by redesignating subparagraphs (C) and (D) as subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively;
by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new subparagraph:
uses batteries, battery cells, battery management systems, motors, or electronic speed controllers developed in a covered foreign country or by an entity domiciled in a covered foreign country;
in subparagraph (D), as so redesignated, by striking ; or and inserting a semicolon; and
by inserting after subparagraph (E), as so redesignated, the following new subparagraph:
beginning one year after the date of the enactment of this subparagraph, uses any subcomponents or raw materials, as part of a component listed in subsections (B) through (E) of this section, sourced from, processed in, or manufactured in a covered foreign country or by an entity domiciled in a covered foreign country; or
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a pilot program to support the recovery of antimony and copper as byproducts of mineral production in the United States.
The pilot program required by subsection (a) shall include methods—
to evaluate multiple processes and techniques for recovery of antimony and copper as byproducts of mineral production;
to develop process design plans necessary for scaling recovery of antimony and copper to demonstration-level production;
to generate sample material for independent testing to verify suitability for defense applications; and
to produce qualified antimony material that meets specifications provided by the Defense Logistics Agency.
The Secretary may enter into contracts, cooperative agreements, or other transactions with appropriate entities to implement the pilot program required by subsection (a).
The pilot program required by subsection (a) shall terminate not later than five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the next four years, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the status and findings of the pilot program required by subsection (a).
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall include—
a summary of the progress made under the pilot program required by subsection (a) with respect to recovery and processing of antimony and copper;
technical and economic assessments with respect to such recovery; and
recommendations for expanding domestic antimony and copper production and reducing dependency on foreign sources of antimony and copper.
Section 1260H of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking , based on the most recent information available, is operating directly or indirectly in the United States or any of its territories and possessions,;
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by striking 2030 and inserting 2035; and
by striking paragraph (4);
by amending subsection (e) to read as follows:
The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations to implement this section.
in subsection (g)—
by amending paragraph (2)(C) to read as follows:
includes a majority-owned or majority-controlled subsidiary or majority-owned or majority-controlled affiliate of a parent entity or an entity described in subparagraph (B);
in paragraph (3)—
by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:
Entities knowingly receiving assistance or that knowingly received assistance from the Government of China or the Chinese Communist Party through science, technology, research, and industrial efforts that may constitute efforts initiated, granted, or created by, or provided under, or related to, the Chinese military industrial planning apparatus, or in furtherance of Chinese military industrial planning objectives. Single Champion or Little Giant designations associated with Chinese industrial planning, or any other successor selection or designation as an enterprise associated with Chinese industrial planning, may constitute knowing receipt of assistance through science, technology, research, and industrial efforts initiated, granted, or created by, or provided under, or related to, the Chinese military industrial planning apparatus, or in furtherance of Chinese military industrial planning objectives or military-civil fusion efforts.
by redesignating subparagraph (H) as subparagraph (J);
by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (G) as subparagraphs (C) through (H);
by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraph:
Entities that knowingly contract with, or provide services or components, which can include lower tier suppliers and subcontractors, to the People’s Liberation Army, Chinese military and paramilitary elements, security forces, police, law enforcement, border control, the People’s Armed Police, the Ministry of State Security, or any other organization subordinate to the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, or the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense.
by inserting after subparagraph (H), as redesignated by clause (ii), the following new subparagraph:
Majority-owned or majority-controlled subsidiaries or majority-owned or majority-controlled affiliates of entities described in subparagraphs (A) through (G).
by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
The term assistance means benefits from the Government of China, including monetary compensation in the form of grants, loans, subsidies, tax benefits, real property, tangible or intangible property, discounts, employees, sponsored research, or any other preferential treatment.
The term association means a group of two or more entities connected for a common interest.
The term contributor to the Chinese defense industrial base—
means an entity that manufactures, produces, exports, or provides materials, products, or services that can supply, service, or expand China’s military-civil fusion strategy or that could be used by Chinese military and paramilitary elements, security forces, police, law enforcement, border control, the People’s Armed Police, the Ministry of State Security, or any other organization subordinate to the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, or the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense for military or defense purposes; and
includes manufacturing, producing, exporting, or providing materials, products, or services that have a substantial military application, even if the particular technology, product, or service is not directly supplied to or used by the Chinese military or defense and even if the particular technology, product, or service also has commercial uses.
The term directly controlled by means exercising power over, influencing, managing, or guiding an entity’s business decisions or operations.
The term formal association includes established or recognized relationships, such as joint ventures, standardization or working groups, task forces, consortiums, or partnerships and projects with an entity identified in subsection (b)(1).
The term indirectly controlled by means power, influence, management, or guidance of an entity’s business decisions or operations through an intermediate entity, subsidiary, or affiliate entity.
The term indirectly owned by means ownership achieved through investment in, or the purchase of, shares or economic or voting rights of an entity through an intermediate entity, subsidiary, or affiliate entity, regardless of the percentage of ownership or number of shares owned. Indirect ownership by any entity identified in subsection (b)(1) does not require that such entity hold control of another entity through its ownership.
The term informal association means a lesser-recognized, short-term relationship, such as participation in exhibitions, competitions, or joint demonstrations with any entity identified in subsection (b)(1).
The term military-civil fusion enterprise zone means a section of territory established by the Government of China for the purpose of advancing China’s policy of military-civil fusion through economic activity.
The term military equipment procurement platforms means a digital marketplace that advertises or sells equipment, supplies, or services to the military or military suppliers. A digital marketplace can be established by, sponsored by, or run by private entities or the government of China to advertise and sell equipment, supplies, or services that are ultimately used by the Chinese military or the Chinese defense industrial base.
The term military industrial planning apparatus means efforts or policies initiated by the Chinese government to expand the Chinese defense industrial base, including military-civil fusion integration of dual-use products, technologies, or services.
The term military industrial planning objectives means lines of effort (such as plans, missions, or goals) outlined by the Chinese government to expand the Chinese defense industrial base, including by integrating dual-use products, technologies, or services into military equipment, programs, or systems.
The terms operational guidance and policy guidance mean instructions, decisions, proposals, plans, guidance, or requirements on how an entity should conduct operations.
The term owned by means ownership achieved through investment in, or the purchase of, shares or economic or voting rights in an entity, regardless of the percentage of ownership or number of shares owned. Ownership by any entity identified in subsection (b)(1) does not require that such entity hold control of another entity through its ownership.
The term parent entity includes an entity that directly or indirectly holds at least 50 percent of the economic interest or at least 50 percent of the voting interest of an entity.
Section 4902 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking disadvantaged small business each place it appears and inserting eligible small business;
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by striking Defense contracts and other contracts and subcontracts and inserting Defense contracts, subcontracts, agreements, and sub-agreements; and
in paragraph (2), by striking subcontractors and suppliers and inserting awardees, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers;
in subsection (d)(1)(B)(iii)(I)—
by striking Defense contracts each places it appears and inserting Defense contracts or agreements; and
by striking the subcontracts and inserting the subcontracts or sub-agreements;
in subsection (e)(1), by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following new subparagraph:
An agreement term for a period not to exceed five years.
in subsection (f)(1)—
in subparagraph (B), by striking ; and and inserting a semicolon;
by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (D); and
by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new subparagraph:
security compliance matters, such as cybersecurity, export controls, and facility clearances; and
in subsection (g)—
by striking Defense contract each place it appears and inserting Defense contract or agreement;
in paragraph (2)—
by striking unusual circumstances each place it appears and inserting mission needs; and
in subparagraph (B), by striking program participation and all that follows through the period and inserting agreement term under the mentor-protege agreement.;
in paragraph (3)(C), by striking concerns has declined and inserting concerns has declined in any relevant category of small business concern under the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.);
in paragraph (4), by striking would be a small business concern owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and inserting would qualify as a small business concern;
in subsection (k)—
by striking paragraph (7) and inserting the following new paragraph:
any assistance obtained by the mentor firm for the protege firm from one or more—
business development, business outreach, or assistance centers or networks for small business concerns established pursuant to the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.);
entities providing procurement technical assistance pursuant to chapter 388 of this title;
historically Black colleges or universities, minority institutions of higher education, or other colleges, universities, or institutions of higher education, including innovation and economic development entities of such colleges, universities, or institutions;
entities providing manufacturing assistance pursuant to section 25 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k(e)) or section 4841 of this title; or
entities providing research and development assistance pursuant to section 23 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3715) or section 4124(f) of this title.
in paragraph (9), by striking Defense contracts and inserting Defense contracts and agreements; and
in subsection (n)—
by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (9) as paragraphs (3) through (10), respectively;
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph:
Except when referring to a mentor-protege agreement entered into under subsection (e), the term agreement means any cooperative agreement, grant, other transaction, prize, or other agreement related to acquisition or to assistance with research and development, production, or manufacturing.
in paragraph (3), as redesignated by subparagraph (A), by striking its primary North American Industry Classification System code and inserting the North American Industry Classification System code pertinent to the objectives of the particular mentor-protege agreement.
Section 4955(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (1), by striking $1,500,000 and inserting $2,000,000;
in paragraph (2), by striking $750,000 and inserting $1,000,000; and
in paragraph (4), by striking $1,500,000 and inserting $2,000,000.
Section 834(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 (Public Law 101–189; 15 U.S.C. 637 note) is amended by striking December 31, 2027 and inserting December 31, 2037.
Notwithstanding section 8(a)(11) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(a)(11)) and section 124.501(k) of title 13, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor regulation, for purposes of a construction contract awarded by the Department of Defense under such section 8(a), such section 8(a)(11) shall be deemed satisfied if the Program Participant certifies to the Business Opportunity Specialist assigned to the Program Participant that the Program Participant will establish a staffed, physical office in the geographic area required under such section 124.501(k) not later than 60 days after the date of the contract award.
The authority under subsection (a) shall terminate on December 31, 2032.
On an annual basis until the authority under subsection (a) terminates, the Secretary of Defense shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the use of the authority under subsection (a), which shall include—
uses of the authority and in which geographic location;
data on the confirmation of the establishment of a physical office within 60 days, as required under subsection (a); and
any other matters the Secretary of Defense determines relevant.
Section 805(e)(2)(A) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 3771 note) is amended by striking by the contractor for are commensurate and inserting by the contractor are commensurate.
The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159) is amended—
in section 164(f)(3) (10 U.S.C. 4651 note prec.), as amended by section 162(4) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 769), by inserting that before uses both places it appears; and
in section 1522(d)(2)(B)(vi), as amended by section 1521(5) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1156), by striking disaggregated each element of the and inserting disaggregated by each element of the.
Title 10 of the United States Code is amended—
in subsection (d) of section 3453, as added by section 1822(a)(3) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1247)—
by striking (1) The head of an agency shall establish and inserting the following: “The head of an agency shall—
establish
by moving subparagraphs (A) and (B) two ems to the right; and
by moving paragraph (2) two ems to the right;
in section 3459, as added by section 1824 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1248), by amending subsection (c) to read as follows:
In this subsection—
The term subcontract includes a transfer of commercial products and commercial services between divisions, subsidiaries, or affiliates of a contractor or subcontractor and does not include other supply agreements; and
The term other supply agreements does not include any agreement entered into by a contractor or subcontractor for the supply of products or services that are intended for use in the performance of multiple contracts with the Department of Defense or with other parties, and that are not identifiable to any particular contract.
in section 3702(a), as amended by section 1804(c) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1234), by striking $2,000,000 in paragraph (4) and inserting $10,000,000; and
in section 4023(b), as amended by section 1831 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1253), is amended by striking Chapter 137 of this title applies and inserting Legacy provisions of chapter 137 of this title apply.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense-wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, not more than 90 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of Defense submits to the congressional defense committees—
the report required under section 364 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 834) detailing the stockpiles of critical munitions required to fight simultaneous conflicts in different theaters of operation and a plan to implement critical munitions requirements to fight simultaneous conflicts in the next budget cycle; and
a certification that the requirement under paragraph (9) of section 222c of title 10, United States Code, as added by section 361 of such Act (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 833), to modify Out-Year Unconstrained Total Munitions Requirement and Out-Year inventory numbers to include an estimate of the annual aggregate demand from United States allies and partners has been met.
Section 3702(a)(3) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking (A) An offeror and inserting An offeror;
by striking subparagraph (B); and
by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that any contract awarded for the purpose of pharmaceutical drug, active pharmaceutical ingredients, or other pharmaceutical materials stockpiling, manufacturing, onshoring, or supply chain expansion, is awarded using competitive sourcing procedures.
Not later than 15 days before awarding a contract described in subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a written notification including—
a description of the scope of work to be performed under the contract;
the anticipated value of the contract; and
the statutory or regulatory authorities under which the contract will be awarded.
Subsection (f) of section 865 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note), is amended to read as follows:
Not later than June 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the secretaries of the military departments and the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency, shall establish a program to expedite the processing of certain Source Approval Requests. The program shall provide that a Source Approval Request Package submitted by an applicant and meeting the requirements under paragraph (2) shall be subject to the expedited source approval process set under paragraph (3) and may be eligible for the incentives described in paragraph (4) .
Any Source Approval Request, regardless of category, for an item of supply that is not a critical safety item shall be classified as a Qualifying Source Approval Request Package if it meets the following requirements (as determined by the Secretary concerned):
The applicant is a manufacturer of record for the proposed subject item of supply.
The Source Approval Request is submitted on a standardized template for expedited Source Approval Requests. The standardized templates shall be published by each military department not later than April 1, 2027, and shall include all information required for the supply chain risk management review referenced in subsection (f)(3)(D) of this section on an expedited basis.
A Qualified Engineering Designee certifies in writing that the engineering data included in the applicable Source Approval Request, including the technical data Package, conforms to the applicable Technical Data Package or reverse engineering standards required of such item of supply.
The applicant, or the relevant majority-owned manufacturing subsidiary, holds a current AS9100 Rev D certification (or successor standard) issued by an accredited third-party certification body.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish mechanisms to ensure fair access for small businesses, such as subsidized engineering reviews or a waiver of designee fees for qualifying small businesses.
Not later than 7 days after receiving a Source Approval Request purporting to be a Qualifying Source Approval Request Package, the Secretary concerned shall determine whether the Source Approval Request qualifies for such treatment. A qualifying Source Approval Request Package shall be subject to the following Expedited Source Approval Process:
A qualifying Source Approval Request Package shall be referred to an Expedited Qualification Panel for the military department, which shall be established by the Secretary concerned by not later than June 30, 2027.
Absent the Expedited Qualification Panel’s written determination to the applicant that additional engineering evaluation is required solely based on either the criticality or novelty and complexity of the item of supply, the Qualified Engineering Designee’s certification under paragraph (2)(C) shall constitute the full engineering evaluation necessary for such Expedited Qualification Panel’s review of the Qualifying Source Approval Request Package.
Not later than 14 days after receipt of a Qualifying Source Approval Request Package, the applicable Expedited Qualification Panel shall issue a determination on whether to grant approval or disapproval of the Source Approval Request.
The 14-day timeline for final determination shall be paused for a maximum of 30 days to allow for the completion of a comprehensive supply chain risk management and foreign ownership, control, or influence assessment.
For qualifying items, particularly non-commercial items with an anticipated contract value exceeding $5,000,000, this review timeframe shall align with standard Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency review schedules to ensure the applicant poses no risk to the Department.
If a Qualifying Source Approval Request Package that meets the requirements of paragraph (2) also includes delivery of a Complete Technical Data Package and Government purpose rights to such Complete Technical Data Package, and such Qualifying Source Approval Request Package receives a determination of full approval pursuant to paragraph (3)(C), the Defense Logistics Agency, the Secretary concerned, or relevant head of contracting activity shall award to the manufacturer of record a firm-fixed-price indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract for the item of supply which is the subject of such qualifying Source Approval Request Package.
A contract awarded under subparagraph (A) shall include the following terms:
The unit price shall not exceed 90 percent of the weighted average unit price paid by the Defense Logistics Agency for the item of supply during the two-year period preceding the date of receipt of the Qualifying Source Approval Request Package.
A guaranteed minimum annual order quantity of not less than 60 percent of the average annual quantity of the item of supply ordered by the Defense Logistics Agency during the 3-year period preceding the date of receipt of the Qualifying Source Approval Request Package.
A period of performance of three years.
Clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) may be deviated from at the discretion of the contracting activity as necessary to establish the awardee as a viable source of supply if it is determined by the contracting activity to be in the best interest of the Government and is bilaterally negotiated with the awardee.
The award of a contract under this subsection is authorized notwithstanding the requirements of section 3201 of title 10, United States Code, and no justification and approval under section 3204(e) of title 10, United States Code, shall be required for such award.
Not later than January 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments and the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing an evaluation of the program under this subsection, which shall include a quantitative evaluation of—
the number of Source Approval Request Packages processed;
average time to qualification compared to prior to the inception of the program;
processing cost per Source Approval Request review;
impact on part unit cost; and
mission readiness.
In this subsection:
The term Complete Technical Data Package means a Technical Data Package that includes a complete set of engineering data, drawings, specifications, inspection criteria, test procedures, quality assurance provisions, and other technical information sufficient to enable a qualified manufacturer to produce an item of supply that conforms to the original design requirements.
The term criticality means any item of supply which should be a critical safety item.
The term critical safety item means any item of supply that is either an aviation critical safety item or ship critical safety item, as those terms are defined in section 3243 of title 10, United States Code.
The term Government purpose rights has the meaning given that term in section 252.227–7013(a) of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations.
The term manufacturer of record means an entity, or its majority-owned subsidiary, which shall directly, or indirectly through a majority-owned subsidiary, perform the fabrication or manufacture of the item of supply for which such Source Approval Request is being sought.
The term novelty and complexity means any Source Approval Request Package where the proposed Package introduces a material change in the form, fit, or function relative to the Technical Data Package or reverse engineering standards of such item of supply.
The term Qualified Engineering Designee means an individual who—
holds a current appointment as a Designated Engineering Representative issued by the Federal Aviation Administration under part 183 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, in the technical discipline for which the Source Approval Request is being made; or
holds an equivalent certification or certifications reflecting engineering competence in an applicable technical field and independence obligations substantially equivalent to the process by which the Federal Aviation Administration appoints Designated Engineering Representatives, as determined by the Secretary of Defense pursuant to an application and qualification process established not later than March 31, 2027, that includes, at a minimum—
eight years of engineering experience in the technical discipline for which the Source Approval Request is being made;
knowledge and experience relating to the processing of engineering data involving the qualification of parts or systems within such technical discipline; and
an engineering degree or equivalent relevant to such technical discipline.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, Army, and available for travel expenses for the Office of the Secretary of the Army, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of the Army certifies to the congressional defense committees that all portfolio acquisition executives of the Army are certified acquisition officials in accordance with section 1732 of title 10, United States Code.
Subject to appropriations for such purpose, the Secretary of Defense may procure, pre-position, sustain, and maintain medical countermeasures that are determined to be requirements pursuant to section 734(a) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1071 note).
Amounts subject to appropriation under subsection (a) may be used only for medical countermeasures that are identified by the Secretary of Defense, through the program established under subsection (a) of section 734 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1071 note), as requirements for covered personnel, as defined in subsection (c) of such section.
Amounts subject to appropriation under subsection (a) may be used for—
procurement and advanced procurement of medical countermeasures to diagnose, prevent, and treat acute radiation syndrome, cutaneous radiation injury, and thermal burns;
stockpiling, pre-positioning, storage, and replenishment;
lifecycle sustainment and maintenance; and
activities necessary to ensure deployment readiness and effective operational use of such countermeasures.
Section 801(d) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (Public Law 110–181; 10 U.S.C. 3201 note prec.) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
In the case of the procurement of property or services on behalf of the Department of Defense by the Department of Veterans Affairs for planning, design, and construction projects, a certificate of compliance shall not be required.
Section 3671(b)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows:
the Secretary has certified to such committees that—
entering into the proposed contract provides an accelerated delivery schedule or is the most cost-efficient means of obtaining the vessel, aircraft, or combat vehicle; and
the Secretary has determined that the lease complies with all applicable laws, Office of Management and Budget circulars, and Department of Defense regulations.
The Secretary of Defense may not acquire any modem or router if the manufacturer, bidder, or offeror is a covered Chinese entity.
This section shall apply only with respect to contracts or other agreements entered into, renewed, or extended after the date of the enactment of this Act.
In this section:
The term covered Chinese entity means an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the National Intelligence or the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, determines to be an entity owned, controlled, directed, or subcontracted by, affiliated with, or otherwise connected to, the Government of the People’s Republic of China.
The term manufacturer means—
the entity that transforms raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item;
any entity that subcontracts with the entity described in subparagraph (A) for the entity described in such subparagraph to transform raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item;
any entity that otherwise directs the entity described in subparagraph (A) to transform raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item; or
any parent company, subsidiary, or affiliate of the entity described in subparagraph (A).
The term modem means a modulator-demodulator, digital-to-analog, and back, signal converter that allows computers to communicate over telephone wires or cable TV cable.
The term router means a device that connects two or more packet-switched networks or subnetworks, serving the two primary functions of—
managing traffic between these networks by forwarding data packets to their intended IP addresses; and
allowing multiple devices to use the same Internet connection.
The Secretary of Defense may not acquire any television if the manufacturer, bidder, or offeror is a covered Chinese entity.
This section shall apply only with respect to contracts or other agreements entered into, renewed, or extended after the date of the enactment of this Act.
In this section:
The term covered Chinese entity means an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the National Intelligence or the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, determines to be an entity owned, controlled, directed, or subcontracted by, affiliated with, or otherwise connected to, the Government of the People’s Republic of China.
The term manufacturer means an entity that—
transforms raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item;
subcontracts with an entity described in subparagraph (A) for the entity described in such subparagraph to transform raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item;
otherwise directs an entity described in subparagraph (A) to transform raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item; or
is a parent company, subsidiary, or affiliate of an entity described in subparagraph (A).
The term television has the meaning given the term Television set or TV in section 430.2 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations.
The Secretary of Defense shall prohibit a covered entity from providing to a foreign entity of concern a digital sequence of synthetic DNA or RNA or a synthetic protein designed by humans or artificial intelligence systems.
The Secretary may waive the prohibition under subsection (a) if the Secretary—
determines the waiver is in the national security interests of the United States; and
not less than 30 days before the waiver takes effect, notifies the congressional defense committees with respect to the waiver and the determination under paragraph (1).
In this section:
The term covered entity means any entity that does any work with the Department of Defense under a contract, grant, cooperative agreement, or other federally awarded vehicle, including an agreement authorized under section 4021 or 4022 of title 10, United States Code, a cooperative research and development agreement, or a material transfer agreement.
The term digital sequence means a binary file or other digital representation containing symbols representing the identity, order, and any chemical modification for each position in a DNA, RNA, or protein molecule.
The term foreign country of concern has the meaning given that term in section 10612(a) of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (42 U.S.C. 19221(a)).
The term foreign entity of concern means—
a government entity of a foreign country of concern;
a foreign person subject to the jurisdiction of, or organized under the laws of, a foreign country of concern; or
a foreign person owned, directed, or controlled by an entity described in subparagraph (A) or (B).
The term synthetic DNA or RNA means—
molecules that are constructed by joining nucleic acid molecules and can replicate in a living cell, such as recombinant nucleic acids;
nucleic acid molecules that are chemically or by other means synthesized, including such molecules that are chemically or otherwise modified but can base pair with naturally occurring nucleic acid molecules, such as synthetic nucleic acids; or
molecules that result from the replication or derivation of molecules described in subparagraph (A) or (B).
The term synthetic protein means a non-naturally occurring sequence of amino acids, including short sequences that may combine natural and non-natural amino acids.
The Secretary of Defense shall require any entity entering into a covered contract with the Department of Defense to submit a report on the entity's operations related to China, including—
sales revenue from China;
profit attributable to its China business;
assets held or located in China;
liabilities associated with China business;
investments in Chinese entities;
loans from Chinese entities;
the number of suppliers located in China down to the second tier of subcontracting; and
the number of Chinese citizen employees, whether located in China or elsewhere and including both regular and contract employees.
The Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report aggregating the information reported pursuant to subsection (a).
In this section, the term covered contract means a contract for a major defense acquisition program, as that term is defined in section 4201 of title 10, United States Code.
For each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct an audit of the compliance of the contractors of the Department of Defense with the 7-percent utilization goal for employment of qualified individuals with disabilities by contractors established by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs of the Department of Labor under section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 793).
Not later than 5 months after the end of a fiscal year for which the Secretary of Defense was required to conduct an audit under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the findings of such audit.
Chapter 4 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
There is established in the Department of Defense an Economic Defense Unit (in this section referred to as the Unit).
The head of the Unit shall be the Director (in this section referred to as the Director).
The Director shall be appointed by the Secretary of Defense from among—
employees in Senior Executive Service positions (as defined in section 3132 of title 5); or
individuals from outside the civil service who have successfully held equivalent positions with relevant experience in strategic planning, economic planning and analysis, or similar activities in the private sector, another component of the Department of Defense, or another Federal agency.
The Director—
shall serve as a principal staff assistant to advise the Secretary on matters within the responsibilities of the Unit;
shall report directly to the Deputy Secretary of Defense without intervening authority; and
may communicate views on matters within the responsibilities of the Unit directly to the Deputy Secretary without obtaining the approval or concurrence of any other official within the Department of Defense.
The Director may not hold any other office or title.
The Unit shall be responsible for the following:
Coordinating among, and harmonizing economic competition activities by, components of the Department of Defense, including by serving as a co-chair of the National Defense Economic Competition Research Council.
Developing and maintaining requirements for economic competition activities to reinforce military advantage, including requirements described in subsection (d).
Developing and maintaining a campaign plan for economic competition activities to reinforce military advantage.
Conducting or sponsoring analyses and other net assessment activities to scope economic competition activities, gaps, needs, or requirements related to activities of the United States, allies of the United States, or adversaries.
Directing the execution of economic competition activities.
Developing programming and budget submissions for economic competition activities.
Advising the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary with respect to economic competition activities, including with respect to coordinating integration of economic competition requirements or programs into joint and interagency planning activities.
Acting as the principal interlocutor for interagency activities related to economic competition activities.
Leading outreach of the Department of Defense to relevant private actors engaged in economic competition activities, including by liaising with private actors under section 1047 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
Sponsoring or conducting regular tabletop exercises related to economic competition activities in order—
to assess the economic impacts of decisions of the Department of Defense during crises and conflicts;
to evaluate the economic tools available to the United States Government to augment the capabilities of the Department of Defense in competition, crises, and conflicts; or
to evaluate planning scenarios or concept development, including to test proposed doctrine, tactics, or other nonmaterial approaches for economic competition activities that might be used by the Department of Defense.
Selecting economic competition activities projects to be carried out using funds made available to the Unit, allocating funds to organizations to carry out such projects, and monitoring the execution of such projects.
Serving as the co-chair of the National Security Capital Forum.
Regularly updating the National Security Council and relevant Federal agencies with respect to the economic competition activities of the Department of Defense.
The Unit—
shall not be responsible for negotiating or executing any agreements related to—
taking an equity interest in an entity; or
using debt instruments, warrants, options, and other rights to acquire an equity interest in an entity; and
shall work with and through existing entities within the Department established to negotiate and execute such agreements.
The requirements for economic competition activities developed and maintained by the Unit under subsection (c)(1)(B) may include requirements for—
access, basing, and overflight;
countering mobilization of adversaries;
countering modernization of adversaries;
countering defense industrial base activities by adversaries;
ensuring the access of the United States to critical materials and capabilities; and
such other matters as the Director considers appropriate.
In developing requirements for economic competition activities under subsection (c)(1)(B), the Director shall consult—
integrated priorities lists from combatant commanders derived from operational plans or theater campaign plans;
integrated priorities lists of defense industrial base shortfalls or investment opportunities; and
the outcomes of experimentation events, science and technology activities, and examinations of issues of economic competition by concept development organizations.
In consultation with the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary, the Director shall ensure—
staffing of the Unit with individuals with relevant expertise and experience, including a diversified mix of individuals with expertise in—
financial analysis;
national security economics;
intelligence analysis;
international business or finance;
campaign planning;
military operations;
supply chain planning or risk management; and
complex real estate or construction mega-projects; and
such individuals are vetted for and abide by conflict-of-interest regulations prescribed under subsection (f) specifically for the Unit to protect the significantly sensitive nature of the economic data and decision-making conducted by staff of the Unit.
The Director shall submit to the congressional defense committees—
not later than July 1, 2027, interim conflict-of-interest regulations required by subsection (e)(2) applicable to the staff of the Unit; and
not later than January 31, 2028, final such regulations.
The conflict-of-interest regulations prescribed under subparagraph (A) shall be updated not less frequently than once every three years.
Not less frequently than quarterly, the Director shall provide to the Secretary and the congressional defense committees a briefing on, for the quarter preceding the briefing—
the activities of the Unit;
the outcomes of and advances resulting from such activities; and
work product of the Unit.
Not less frequently than annually, the Director shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the matters described in subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) of paragraph (1) for the year preceding submission of the report.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to confer upon the Director or the Unit any new authority beyond planning, coordinating, and advising the Department of Defense with respect to economic competition activities.
In this section, the term economic competition activities means actions that are taken to reinforce military advantage in and through the economic domain, including such actions taken—
to leverage private capital and market actors;
to acquire or procure items;
to protect or enhance the economic or technological advantage of the United States or allies of the United States;
in the information environment or cyber environment or as other sensitive operations; or
to leverage interagency authorities.
Section 4092(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The Director of the Economic Defense Unit may carry out a program of personnel management authority provided in subsection (b) in order to facilitate recruitment of eminent experts described in section 149a(e) of this title.
Section 228(c) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note) is amended—
by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
The Director of the Economic Defense Unit shall be the chair of the Council.
in paragraph (2)—
by redesignating subparagraphs (A) through (N) as clauses (i) through (xiv), respectively, and by moving such clauses, as so redesignated, two ems to the right; and
by striking The co-chairs and all that follows through the following: and inserting in the following: “The Council shall include the following:
The Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment.
Representatives from each of the following:
Section 1092(b) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 149 note) is amended to read as follows:
The Director of the Office of Strategic Capital and the Director of the Economic Defense Unit shall serve as co-chairs of the Forum established under subsection (a).
Section 149(e)(9) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 2028 each place it appears and inserting 2038.
Not later than August 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall develop a professional code of conduct for individuals serving in positions in the Department of Defense specified in subsection (c), or adopt or modify an existing code of conduct to apply to those positions, to ensure that individuals in those positions have clear guidance on the ethics and standards governing their professional behavior.
In developing, or adopting or modifying, a code of conduct under subsection (a), the Secretary shall ensure that the code—
reinforces the need for integrity, competence, diligence, and exercise of care in professional judgment by individuals serving in positions specified in subsection (c) in all actions representing the United States Government;
ensures the integrity of decision-making by those individuals and of data generated by those individuals that affects global capital markets;
requires those individuals to avoid any action that would potentially distort markets or lead to the perception of distorting or manipulating markets;
requires those individuals to, as representatives of the United States Government, take all care and caution to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest; and
ensures those individuals conduct thorough documentation of—
all actions taken by those individuals while serving in the positions specified in subsection (c); and
all communication between those individuals and other government entities; and
all communication between those individuals and the private sector.
A position specified in this subsection is any position of an employee or contractor in any of the following components of the Department of Defense:
The Economic Defense Unit.
The Office of Strategic Capital.
The Office of Expanded Competition.
The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy.
Not later than September 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees regarding—
the implementation of the code of conduct required by subsection (a);
the number of employees and contractors covered by that code; and
the process the Department of Defense will use to regulate breaches of that code.
Section 136 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the section heading, by striking Readiness and inserting Health Affairs; and
by striking and Readiness each place it appears and inserting and Health Affairs.
Any reference in any law or regulation to the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness or the office of that Under Secretary shall, on and after the effective date described in subsection (d), be deemed to be a reference to Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs or the office of that Under Secretary, as the case may be.
Title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness each place it appears and inserting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs; and
by striking Under Secretary for Personnel and Readiness each place it appears and inserting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs.
Section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
One of the Assistant Secretaries is the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness, who shall report directly to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics. The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness shall serve as the principal advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics and the Secretary of Defense on all matters relating to the sustainment and readiness of the armed forces.
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness shall exercise—
all functions vested in the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment before the date of the enactment of this Act, including responsibility for logistics, materiel readiness, maintenance policy, transportation, and related sustainment activities; and
all functions transferred from the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness under paragraph (3)(B), including responsibility for military readiness reporting, readiness policy, training support, and related readiness activities.
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment, within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act), is redesignated as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness, as established by paragraph (10) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1)(A).
Any reference in any law, regulation, guidance, directive, or other document to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment shall, on and after the effective date described in subsection (d), be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness.
The position of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act) is eliminated.
All functions, duties, powers, and authorities of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness are transferred to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness established by paragraph (10) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1)(A).
Any reference in any law, regulation, guidance, directive, or other document to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness shall, on and after the effective date described in subsection (d), be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness established by paragraph (10) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1)(A).
Section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as amended by paragraph (1)(A), is further amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
One of the Assistant Secretaries is the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy, who shall serve as a principal assistant secretary within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs.
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy shall be appointed from among persons who have substantial experience in military housing, personnel policy, or related fields.
Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy shall have, as the principal duties of the Assistant Secretary, the overall supervision of the policy and programs of the Department of Defense relating to—
privatized military housing under subchapter IV of chapter 169 of this title, including any privatized military family housing programs;
unaccompanied personnel housing, including the management, oversight, and policy for all unaccompanied housing programs of the Department;
travel regulations, including policies and entitlements with respect to permanent changes of station and related travel programs;
the Defense Travel Management Office and all Department-wide travel management programs; and
the Defense Personal Property Program, including the household goods and personally procured move programs.
Section 2851a(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment and inserting the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy.
All functions, duties, and authorities vested in the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment in the capacity of Chief Housing Officer of the Department of Defense are transferred to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy established by paragraph (11) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (4).
Any reference in any law, regulation, guidance, directive, or other document to the Chief Housing Officer or to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment acting in the capacity of the Chief Housing Officer shall, on and after the effective date described in subsection (d), be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy established by paragraph (11) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (4).
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall—
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a plan for implementing this section and the amendments made by this section; and
revise Department of Defense Directive 5124.02 (relating to the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness) and any other relevant documents issued by the Department in accordance with that plan.
This section (other than subsection (c)), and the amendments made by this section, shall take effect on January 20, 2029.
Notwithstanding the effective date described in paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense may implement any provision of or amendment made by this section before that effective date if the Secretary determines that doing so is in the best interests of the Department of Defense.
Section 131(b) of title 10, United States Code is amended—
in paragraph (3), by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
The Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.
by striking paragraph (5); and
by redesignating paragraphs (6) through (9) as paragraphs (5) through (8), respectively.
Chapter 4 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 133b the following:
There is an Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks, appointed from civilian life by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Under Secretary shall be appointed from among persons who have an extensive background in management, cyber operations, information technology, or related fields, and have experience with managing complex programs or organizations. A person may not be appointed as Under Secretary within seven years after relief from active duty as a commissioned officer of a regular component of an armed force.
Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary of Defense, the Under Secretary shall perform such duties and exercise such powers as the Secretary may prescribe, including—
serving as the Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of Defense, with the authorities and responsibilities specified in section 146 of this title;
serving as the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense, with the authorities and responsibilities specified in section 142 of this title;
establishing Department of Defense-wide policy, strategy, and investment priorities for the adoption and integration of artificial intelligence and data strategy and management capabilities, including the development and implementation of a comprehensive data strategy to enable decision advantage across the Department;
establishing and enforcing Department-wide cybersecurity policy, standards, and programs, and the coordination of cybersecurity standards and policies with other Federal agencies, coalition partners, and industry;
providing strategic direction and policy for the information technology enterprise of the Department, including network modernization, cloud adoption, collaboration capabilities, and the development, fielding, and scaling of digital services and software capabilities across the Department; and
establishing policy and strategy for the recruitment, development, and retention of the cyber and information technology workforce of the Department, including the Cyber Excepted Service and related workforce development programs.
With regard to all matters for which the Under Secretary has responsibility by the direction of the Secretary of Defense or by law, the Under Secretary takes precedence in the Department of Defense after the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary of Defense.
With regard to all matters other than the matters for which the Under Secretary has responsibility by the direction of the Secretary or by law, the Under Secretary takes precedence in the Department of Defense after the Secretary, the Deputy Secretary, and the Secretaries of the military departments.
The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks shall consist of the following:
An Assistant Secretary of Defense for Networks, Infrastructure, and Enterprise Software.
An Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy.
An Assistant Secretary of Defense for Resources and Forces.
The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer of the Department of Defense, who shall serve as the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer and the Chief Data Officer of the Department of Defense, and who shall report directly to the Under Secretary.
The Chief Information Security Officer of the Department of Defense, who shall report directly to the Under Secretary.
Section 137a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)(1), by striking six and inserting seven; and
in subsection (c), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
One of the Deputy Under Secretaries is the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.
Section 138 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)(1), by striking 20 and inserting 21; and
by amending subsection (b)(9) to read as follows:
One of the Assistant Secretaries is the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy. The Assistant Secretary shall report directly to the Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.
Chapter 4 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 145 the following new section:
There is a Principal Cyber Advisor of the Department of Defense.
The Principal Cyber Advisor shall do the following:
Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary of Defense, exercise authority, direction, and control over all cyber-peculiar administrative matters relating to the organization, training, and equipping of cyber forces across the military departments and the United States Cyber Command.
Act as the principal civilian advisor to the Secretary on all cyber matters, including military cyber forces and activities.
After the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary, serve as the principal cyber official within the senior management of the Department of Defense.
Execute overall integration of the activities of cyberspace operations forces, including associated policy and operational considerations, resources, personnel, technology development and transition, and acquisition.
Develop, assess, and oversee the implementation of the cyber strategy of the Department and execution of the cyber posture review of the Department on behalf of the Secretary.
Coordinate activities pursuant to subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (3) with the Principal Information Operations Advisor and other officials as determined by the Secretary, to ensure the integration of activities in support of cyber, information technology, information, and electromagnetic spectrum operations.
Undertake such other matters relating to the cyberspace operations forces of the Department as the Secretary shall specify for the purposes of this subsection.
Consistent with section 911 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 10 U.S.C. 111 note), the Principal Cyber Advisor shall—
integrate the cyber expertise and perspectives of appropriate organizations within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Staff, the military departments, the Defense Agencies, the Department of Defense Field Activities, and the combatant commands, by establishing and maintaining a full-time cross-functional team of subject-matter experts from those organizations; and
select team members, and designate a team leader, from among those personnel nominated by the heads of such organizations.
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), shall require the Secretaries of the military departments and the heads of the Defense Agencies with responsibilities associated with any activity specified in paragraph (2) to transmit the proposed budget for such activities for a fiscal year and for the period covered by the future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of this title for that fiscal year to the Principal Cyber Advisor for review under subparagraph (B) before submitting the proposed budget to the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller).
The Principal Cyber Advisor shall review each proposed budget transmitted under subparagraph (A) and, not later than January 31 of the year preceding the fiscal year for which the budget is proposed, shall submit to the Secretary of Defense a report containing the comments of the Principal Cyber Advisor with respect to all such proposed budgets, together with the certification of the Principal Cyber Advisor regarding whether each proposed budget is adequate.
Not later than March 31 of each year, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report specifying each proposed budget that the Principal Cyber Advisor did not certify to be adequate. The report of the Secretary shall include the following matters:
A discussion of the actions that the Secretary proposes to take, together with any recommended legislation that the Secretary considers appropriate, to address the inadequacy of the proposed budgets specified in the report.
Any additional comments that the Secretary considers appropriate regarding the inadequacy of the proposed budgets.
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Joint Staff, designate an officer within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy to serve within that Office as the Senior Military Advisor for Cyber Policy, and concurrently, as the Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor of the Department of Defense.
The officer designated pursuant to this paragraph shall be designated from among commissioned regular officers of the armed forces in a general or flag officer grade who are qualified for designation.
The officer designated pursuant to this paragraph shall have the grade of major general or rear admiral (upper half) while serving in that position, without vacating the officer’s permanent grade.
The officer designated pursuant to paragraph (1) is each of the following:
The Senior Military Advisor for Cyber Policy to the Principal Cyber Advisor.
The Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of Defense.
In carrying out duties under this section, the officer designated pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be subject to the authority, direction, and control of, and shall report directly to, the Principal Cyber Advisor.
The duties of the officer designated pursuant to paragraph (1) as Senior Military Advisor for Cyber Policy are as follows:
To serve as the principal military advisor on military cyber forces and military cyber activities to the Principal Cyber Advisor.
To assess and advise the Principal Cyber Advisor on aspects of policy relating to activities of cyberspace operations forces, resources, personnel, cyber force readiness, cyber workforce development, and defense of Department of Defense networks.
To advocate, in consultation with the Joint Staff, and senior officers of the armed forces and the combatant commands, for consideration of military issues within the Office of the Principal Cyber Advisor, including coordination and synchronization of activities of cyberspace operations forces.
The duties of the officer designated pursuant to paragraph (1) as Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor are as follows:
To synchronize, coordinate, and oversee implementation of the cyber strategy of the Department of Defense and other relevant policy and planning.
To advise the Secretary of Defense on cyber programs, projects, and activities of the Department, including with respect to policy, training, resources, personnel, manpower, and acquisitions and technology.
To oversee implementation of Department policy and operational directives on cyber programs, projects, and activities, including with respect to resources, personnel, manpower, and acquisitions and technology.
To assist in the overall supervision of military cyber activities relating to offensive missions.
To assist in the overall supervision of Department defensive cyber operations, including activities of component-level cybersecurity service providers and the integration of such activities with activities of the Cyber Mission Force.
To advise senior leadership of the Department on, and advocate for, investment in capabilities to execute Department missions in and through cyberspace.
To identify shortfalls in capabilities to conduct Department missions in and through cyberspace, and make recommendations on addressing such shortfalls in the Program Budget Review process.
To coordinate and consult with stakeholders in the cyberspace domain across the Department in order to identify other issues on cyberspace for the attention of senior leadership of the Department.
On behalf of the Principal Cyber Advisor, to lead the cross-functional team established pursuant to subsection (a)(3) in order to synchronize and coordinate activities of cyberspace operations forces of the Department.
In this section, the term cyberspace operations forces means the military, civilian, and contractor personnel of the Department of Defense in any component of the Department of Defense organized, trained, and equipped to plan, conduct, or enable offensive cyberspace operations, defensive cyberspace operations, and Department of Defense information network operations, as designated by the Secretary of Defense.
Section 392a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking the section heading and inserting the following:
by striking subsections (a) and (b);
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (a);
in paragraph (2) of subsection (a), as redesignated—
in subparagraph (A), by striking military cyberspace operations forces and inserting cyberspace operations forces; and
in subparagraph (B), by striking military cyberspace operations and inserting activities of cyberspace operations forces; and
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
In this section, the term cyberspace operations forces has the meaning given that term in section 146 of this title.
All functions, personnel, assets, and obligations of the Department of Defense Chief Information Officer and the Principal Cyber Advisor of the Department of Defense are transferred to the Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.
Section 167b(d)(2)(A) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking section 392a(a) and inserting section 146(a).
Section 1528(e)(2) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 2224 note) is amended by striking section 392a(c)(4) and inserting section 392a(a)(4).
The Secretary of Defense shall consolidate the positions of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities into a single position, to be known as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and Mission Capabilities.
All functions, personnel, assets, and obligations of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities are transferred to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and Mission Capabilities established pursuant to paragraph (1).
Any reference in any law, regulation, guidance, instruction, or other document of the Federal Government to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies or the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities shall be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and Mission Capabilities.
Section 5314 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting after Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. the following:
Section 5315 of title 5, United States Code is amended by inserting after Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. the following:
Subsections (a) through (e), and the amendments made by those subsections, shall take effect on January 20, 2029.
Not later than January 31, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on how the Department of Defense intends to execute the amendments made by subsections (a) through (e) that includes—
a proposed organizational chart that includes the Deputy Assistant Secretaries of Defense, the Defense Agencies, the Department of Defense Field Activities, and other offices under the new organizational structure; and
any recommendations the Secretary considers appropriate to improve the organizational structure of the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in Africa (in this section referred to as the United States Africa Command).
The principal mission of the United States Africa Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance the national interests of the United States with respect to Africa in collaboration with international partners.
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Africa Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
The Commander of the United States Africa Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Africa Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in Africa.
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 911, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in the central region (in this section referred to as the United States Central Command).
The principal mission of the United States Central Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to the central region in collaboration with international partners.
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Central Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
The Commander of the United States Central Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Central Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in the central region.
In this section, the term central region means the region comprising the Middle East, including Egypt, and Central Asia.
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 912, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in Europe (in this section referred to as the United States European Command).
The principal mission of the United States European Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to Europe in collaboration with international partners.
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States European Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
The Commander of the United States European Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States European Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in Europe.
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 913, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in North America (in this section referred to as the United States Northern Command).
The principal missions of the United States Northern Command are—
to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to North America in collaboration with international partners; and
to plan, organize, and execute missions relating to homeland defense and defense support for civil authorities.
The area of responsibility of the United States Northern Command includes Canada, the United States, Mexico, Greenland, the United States Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos Islands.
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Northern Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
The Commander of the United States Northern Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Northern Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in North America.
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 914, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean (in this section referred to as the United States Southern Command).
The principal mission of the United States Southern Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to Central America, South America, and the Caribbean in collaboration with international partners.
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Southern Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
The Commander of the United States Southern Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Southern Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 915, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in the Indo-Pacific region (in this section referred to as the United States Indo-Pacific Command).
The principal mission of the United States Indo-Pacific Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to the Indo-Pacific region in collaboration with international partners.
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Indo-Pacific Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
The Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in the Indo-Pacific region.
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 167 the following new section:
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, may establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for robotic and autonomous systems, to be known as the United States Robotic and Autonomous Systems Command (in this section referred to as RASCOM).
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, if RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM shall be responsible for, and have the authority to conduct, all functions relating to robotic and autonomous systems assigned by the Secretary of Defense, including force generation, joint training, interoperability, doctrine development, and operational employment through other combatant commands.
The Commander of RASCOM shall not be responsible for—
space systems;
autonomous cyber capabilities;
nuclear command, control, and communications systems;
integrated air and missile defense sensing; or
Integrated Tactical Warning and Attack Assessment capabilities.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force shall each establish a service component command under RASCOM to support force generation, organization, training, and equipping of forces for robotic and autonomous systems operations.
Each service component command established under paragraph (1) shall include dedicated career paths, military occupational specialties (or equivalent ratings), promotion tracks, and training pipelines for personnel assigned to robotic and autonomous systems duties.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments concerned, shall ensure that the career paths, specialties, tracks, and pipelines described in subparagraph (A) are integrated into the personnel management systems of the respective armed forces and reported in the annual manpower reports required under section 115a of this title.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM shall establish subordinate unified commands to operate under the operational control of each geographic combatant command or other combatant command identified by the Secretary of Defense for the purpose of integrating robotic and autonomous systems capabilities into theater operations. Such subordinate unified commands shall be funded and resourced through RASCOM.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM may not command or exercise operational control over operations or forces within the area of responsibility of any other combatant command unless—
the combatant commander of that command transfers operational control to the Commander of RASCOM; or
specifically directed by the Secretary of Defense.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the Secretary of Defense under section 162 or 164 of this title.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM shall establish a joint subordinate unified command to be responsible for—
generating requirements for robotic and autonomous systems;
ensuring interoperability and establishing standards across the joint force;
planning and conducting joint exercises and training;
developing tactics, techniques, and procedures;
exercising special test and evaluation authorities for acquisition projects as provided in subsection (h); and
establishing standards for human systems integration in coordination with the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs and the Surgeons General of the military departments.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM shall—
serve as the principal operational test and evaluation functional authority for all programs involving robotic and autonomous systems; and
in that capacity—
determine operational effectiveness and operational suitability; and
have authority to designate and establish test ranges, develop test plans, and issue independent reports on such programs.
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit the oversight responsibilities of the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation with respect to programs on the oversight list of the Director.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense may delegate contracting authorities to the Commander of RASCOM sufficient to enable the Commander—
subject to paragraph (2), to procure limited quantities of robotic and autonomous systems equipment and associated capabilities (including unmanned platforms, attritable systems, swarms, mission kits, and related artificial intelligence-enabled autonomy, command and control, and counter-unmanned systems) for experimental, test and evaluation, rapid prototyping, and initial fielding purposes; and
to procure, operate, and sustain robotic and autonomous systems equipment and capabilities that one or more military departments have included in a marketplace, catalog, or other pre-priced contracting vehicle with established pricing and agreed-upon terms and conditions.
The Commander may not enter into a contract under paragraph (1)(A) to procure robotic and autonomous systems equipment and associated capabilities the cost of which exceeds $20,000,000.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall establish and maintain a separate major force program category for RASCOM in—
the future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of this title; and
all budget justification materials submitted to Congress in support of the budget of the Department of Defense for a fiscal year (as submitted to Congress with the budget of the President under section 1105(a) of title 31).
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the major force program category for RASCOM required by paragraph (1) shall—
be presented distinctly in the budget justification materials described in paragraph (1)(B); and
include all resources required for the force generation, training, equipping, and sustainment of robotic and autonomous systems capabilities.
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall, not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, and annually thereafter for the following five fiscal years, submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the implementation and status of RASCOM.
Each report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A description of the establishment and manning of RASCOM, each service component command, and the subordinate unified commands, including timelines for full operational capability.
An assessment of the status of dedicated career paths, training pipelines, and force generation activities across the armed forces.
A summary of interoperability standards, tactics, techniques, and procedures developed, and joint exercises conducted.
An evaluation of RASCOM’s performance as the operational test and evaluation functional authority, including any recommendations for adjustments to the exception for major defense acquisition programs on the oversight list of the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation.
A detailed accounting of resources allocated through the major force program established under subsection (i), including any challenges in execution or service equities.
Any other matters the Secretary determines appropriate, including recommendations for legislative changes to improve the effectiveness of RASCOM.
In this section, the term robotic and autonomous systems includes unmanned aerial, maritime, ground, and subsurface platforms, attritable systems, swarms, and associated artificial intelligence-enabled autonomy and counter-unmanned systems capabilities.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan to consolidate the responsibilities for generating, organizing, training, and equipping all unmanned systems in the Department of the Navy (other than Group 4 and Group 5 unmanned aerial systems) under a single accountable official for integrating Marine Corps stand-in forces and Navy hedge forces with unmanned systems across all domains.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Chief of Naval Operations shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan for the reorganization of the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, including an assessment of the feasibility and advisability of—
disestablishing the Director for Integrated Warfare (OPNAV N9I);
the establishment of a dedicated resource sponsor for robotic autonomous systems with full programming, budgeting, and acquisition oversight responsibilities for all unmanned systems (excluding Group 4 and Group 5 unmanned aerial systems); and
alignment of programs and budget line items between that Office and the portfolio acquisition executives.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan to consolidate the responsibilities for generating, organizing, training, and equipping Group 1 through Group 3 unmanned aerial systems or runway-independent unmanned systems associated with Mission Area 1 under a single accountable official for unmanned systems requirements, doctrine, and force generation.
The Requirements and Resourcing Alignment Board shall include a joint working group on robotic autonomous systems.
The working group established under paragraph (1) shall be responsible for integrating investment strategies, identifying cross-service efficiencies, and providing recommendations to the Board with respect to robotic autonomous systems priorities.
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Board shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the working group established under paragraph (1).
In this section, the terms Group 1, Group 2, Group 3, Group 4, and Group 5, with respect to unmanned aerial systems, have the meanings given those terms in Joint Publication 3–30, entitled Joint Air Operations and dated July 25, 2019, or a successor publication.
Subsection (c) of section 910 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 111 note) is amended—
in the subsection heading, by inserting and composition after leadership;
by striking The Secretary and inserting the following:
The Secretary
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
At a minimum, the cross-functional team shall be staffed by at least one full-time employee designated by each of the following:
The Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
The Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency.
The Director of the Defense Health Agency.
The Director of the National Security Agency.
Subsection (e) of such section is amended—
in the subsection heading, by inserting and reports after Briefings; and
by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following new paragraph (2):
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, and every 90 days thereafter until March 1, 2030, the head of the cross-functional team shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that includes the following:
A description of any activities carried out to fulfill the duties specified in subsection (b) during the 90-day period preceding submission of the report.
A description of any organizational updates to the team, including the status of employees assigned to the team under subsection (c)(2).
The number of anomalous health incidents reported during the 90-day period preceding submission of the report, and the date and location of each such incident.
An assessment of the status of funding, by fiscal year, for research described in subsection (b)(2) and a description of the topics covered by such research.
The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a review of the Anomalous Health Incidents Cross-Functional Team of the Department of Defense established under section 910 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 111 note) (in this section referred to as the cross-functional team).
The review required by subsection (a) shall include an assessment of, at a minimum, the following:
The activities of the cross-functional team conducted in fulfillment of each of the duties under section 910(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 111 note), during the period beginning on February 1, 2024, and ending on February 1, 2026.
The composition and resourcing of the cross-functional team during that period, including increases or decreases in the number of assigned or detailed personnel.
Any findings by the cross-functional team regarding the causes and sources of anomalous health incidents, including identification of any individuals, entities, capabilities, or phenomena to which such incidents may plausibly be attributed.
The decision-making process and justification for the transfer of the cross-functional team from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy to the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
Support provided to the cross-functional team by the Defense Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, the National Ground Intelligence Center, and other elements of the defense intelligence enterprise since the establishment of the cross-functional team.
Recommendations for clarifying or strengthening the duties of the cross-functional team under section 910(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022.
Any other matters the Comptroller General considers relevant.
The Comptroller General shall—
not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, brief the congressional defense committees, the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate, and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives on the review conducted under subsection (a); and
provide the final results of the review to those committees in a format, and at a time, mutually agreed upon by those committees and the Comptroller General.
Chapter 1 of title 32, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, shall establish a center, to be known as the Center for the Study of the National Guard (in this section referred to as the Center), at an appropriate academic institution that—
maintains an established relationship with the National Guard Bureau;
possesses a strong academic program in military history; and
is situated in proximity to a major installation of the National Guard.
The Center shall—
serve as the principal repository for historical documents, oral histories, and other records related to the National Guard;
conduct research, analysis, and educational programs related to the history, evolution, and operational contributions of the National Guard;
facilitate outreach efforts to increase public awareness of the role of the National Guard in national defense and domestic response operations; and
support the Department of Defense in shaping policy decisions and strategic planning related to operations of the National Guard carried out under this title.
The Chief of the National Guard Bureau may—
collaborate with the Center in the collection, preservation, and dissemination of information about the history of the National Guard;
provide historical documents, records, and resources to support the research and archival efforts of the Center; and
facilitate joint initiatives between the National Guard Bureau and the Center to enhance historical preservation, education, and public awareness.
The Secretary of Defense shall seek to establish and maintain the Center as a public-private partnership to minimize costs to the Federal Government.
The Secretary of Defense may maintain and continue to operate, until December 31, 2027, the Civil-Military Coordination Center established by the Secretary before the date of the enactment of this Act (in this section referred to as the Center), as—
an implementation body for the Board of Peace that oversees the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, dated September 29, 2025; and
a joint civil-military coordination body within the Department of Defense.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a plan detailing the requirements for the Center to serve as a joint civil-military coordination body within the Department of Defense for activities related to Israel and the territory of the Gaza Strip in order to support the planning and coordination of civil-military activities relating to security, stabilization, and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
The plan required by paragraph (1) shall have the goals of ensuring—
the complete and permanent disarmament of Hamas;
the permanent exclusion of leaders and members of Hamas from governance at every administrative level;
the elimination of access by Hamas to financial and material resources, including by preventing Hamas and its affiliates from diverting or exploiting humanitarian aid; and
training an international stabilization force.
The plan required by paragraph (1) shall address the following with respect to the Center:
The mission structure and organization of the Center.
The number and rank of United States personnel required to operate the Center.
The responsibilities of the director of the Center.
The relationship of the Center to the Board of Peace and relevant allies and partners of the United States.
The funding that would be required from the United States to operate the Center and implement the goals described in paragraph (2).
The number of personnel operating out of the Center as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
The roles and responsibilities of the Center as of such date of enactment with respect to—
enforcing the ceasefire in Gaza;
coordinating the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza; and
coordination with the Government of Israel and any Palestinian entities.
The goals of the coordination described in subparagraph (G)(iii).
The level of support provided, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, to the International Stabilization Force, including activities, mission objectives, and United States personnel involved.
The level of support provided, as of such date of enactment, for the generation of Palestinian security forces, including activities, mission objectives, and United States personnel involved.
The feasibility of permanently authorizing the Center.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 180 days thereafter, the Secretary, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Central Command, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services Committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the Center that includes the following:
The number of members of the Armed Forces assigned to the Center.
The number of members of the Armed Forces assigned to the International Stabilization Force mission.
A statement of any casualties among employees or contractors of the United States Government assigned to the Center during the year preceding submission of the report.
A list of all the governmental, nongovernmental, and private sector stakeholder partners of the Center.
The number of humanitarian aid trucks and cumulative metric tons of supplies that have entered Gaza from entry points originating in Egypt and Israel, respectively, including, to the extent feasible, the following information:
The weight or volume of cooking gas or oil, engine oil, shelter materials, and materials that support the production or distribution of fresh water that have entered Gaza, disaggregated by category and operator.
The weight or volume of medical supplies by type, including medications, vaccines, and equipment that have entered Gaza, disaggregated by category and operator.
The weight or volume of food stuffs by type, including fresh produce, meat, and dry staple goods that have entered Gaza, disaggregated by category and operator.
An accounting by weight or volume and type of humanitarian assistance goods and supplies that have not been permitted into Gaza and the rationale for not permitting such goods and supplies into Gaza.
An assessment of—
whether Hamas has in any way interfered with the distribution of the items described in any of clauses (i) through (iv); and
an assessment of the extent to which Hamas has profited, or attempted to profit, from the distribution, or planned distribution, of those items.
An identification of the general officer who is in operational command of International Stabilization Force and the country of which that officer is a citizen.
An assessment of whether the International Stabilization Force operates under a multinational, coalition, or other framework.
A description of the primary objectives and mission sets of the International Stabilization Force.
An assessment of the extent to which the International Stabilization Force is participating in the disarmament of Hamas.
A map showing the deployment of the International Stabilization Force within Gaza and the areas it controls.
An explanation of the rules of engagement of the International Stabilization Force.
A description of the nature of the relationship of the International Stabilization Force with the Palestinian police force or forces.
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Section 199(h) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (1), by inserting detecting, identifying, monitoring, tracking, after safely; and
in paragraph (3)—
by inserting (A) after (3); and
by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
The term unmanned aircraft system includes a control station that enables control of an unmanned aircraft.
Section 199 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (d)—
by redesignating paragraph (7) as paragraph (8); and
by inserting after paragraph (6) the following new paragraph (7):
Identify interagency initiatives and available funding that are aligned with all applicable responsibilities of the Task Force for low-altitude airspace security aligned with covered facilities or assets (as defined in section 130i of this title) and any other initiatives the Director considers appropriate.
in subsection (f)(2)—
in subparagraph (A), by striking ; and and inserting a semicolon; and
by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
to appropriately coordinate the funding and integration priorities of the Task Force with the architecture development, capability requirements, and implementation of Golden Dome for America to enhance alignment on the defense of the United States against next-generation aerial attacks, including by small unmanned aircraft from peer, near-peer, and rogue adversaries; and
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 may be obligated or expended by the Department of Defense to terminate, replace, reduce, or prepare to terminate, replace, or reduce a program of foreign language, regional expertise, and cultural capability training or instruction until 90 days after the Secretary of Defense submits to the congressional defense committees a certification that the Department of Defense has attained a high rate of readiness, as tracked in the DoD Language Readiness Index, for any foreign languages and related competencies identified on DOD Strategic Language Lists.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that all records related to United States maritime strikes in the Caribbean and the Eastern Pacific are retained by the Department of Defense, including the following records:
Strike videos.
Investigative documents.
After action reports.
Aircrew debriefing reports.
Chat log communications immediately preceding, during, or immediately after strikes.
Written concepts of operation.
Execute orders.
Legal opinions.
Records retained under subsection (a)—
shall be retained in accordance with all otherwise applicable provisions of law relating to retention and archiving of records, including chapters 29, 31, 33, and 35 of title 44, United States Code, and subchapter B of chapter XII of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations; and
may be transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration in accordance with such provisions of law.
Upon determination by the Secretary of Defense that such action is necessary in the national interest, the Secretary may transfer amounts of authorizations made available to the Department of Defense in this division for fiscal year 2027 between any such authorizations for that fiscal year (or any subdivisions thereof). Amounts of authorizations so transferred shall be merged with and be available for the same purposes as the authorization to which transferred.
Except as provided in paragraph (3), the total amount of authorizations that the Secretary may transfer under the authority of this section may not exceed $6,000,000,000.
A transfer of funds between military personnel authorizations under title IV shall not be counted toward the dollar limitation in paragraph (2).
The authority provided by subsection (a) to transfer authorizations—
may only be used to provide authority for items that have a higher priority than the items from which authority is transferred; and
may not be used to provide authority for an item that has been denied authorization by Congress.
A transfer made from one account to another under the authority of this section shall be deemed to increase the amount authorized for the account to which the amount is transferred by an amount equal to the amount transferred.
The Secretary shall promptly notify Congress of each transfer made under subsection (a).
The reporting requirements specified in paragraph (2) shall not apply upon the issuance of an unmodified audit opinion on the consolidated financial statements of the Department of Defense, including the military departments and other reporting entities defined by the Office of Management and Budget.
The reporting requirements referred to in paragraph (1) are the following:
The requirement to submit a report and provide briefings under section 240b of title 10, United States Code, except that all other requirements of such section shall continue to apply.
The requirement to submit annual reports under section 817(d) of the Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003 (Public Law 107–314; 116 Stat. 2610).
If, after the cessation of applicability under paragraph (1), the Department of Defense receives an adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion on its consolidated financial statements in a subsequent fiscal year, the reporting requirements specified in paragraph (2)(A) shall again apply until the Department receives an unmodified audit opinion in a subsequent fiscal year.
If the Department of Defense does not obtain an unmodified audit opinion on its consolidated financial statements for fiscal year 2028 by December 31, 2028, the requirements of this subsection shall take effect on January 1, 2029.
An individual nominated for appointment as Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) under section 135 of title 10, United States Code shall—
be a certified public accountant; or
have served as a chief financial officer, or in an equivalent position at—
a Federal or State agency that received an unmodified audit opinion during such service; or
a public company that received an unmodified audit opinion during such service.
In addition to the duties specified in section 135(c) of title 10, United States Code, the Under Secretary shall perform such additional duties relating to the financial management of the Department of Defense as the Deputy Secretary of Defense, acting in the capacity of Chief Management Officer, may prescribe.
Subparagraph (A) shall not apply if the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) meets the requirements of clause (i) or clause (ii) of such subparagraph.
An individual nominated for appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management and Comptroller under section 7016 of title 10, United States Code, shall meet the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
In addition to the responsibilities specified in section 7016(b)(4) of title 10, United States Code, the individual described in clause (i) shall perform such additional responsibilities as the Deputy Secretary of Defense, acting in the capacity of Chief Management Officer, may prescribe.
Clause (i) shall not apply if the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management and Comptroller meets the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
An individual nominated for appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller under section 8016 of title 10, United States Code, shall meet the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
In addition to the responsibilities specified in section 8016(b)(4) of title 10, United States Code, the individual described in clause (i) shall perform such additional responsibilities as the Deputy Secretary of Defense, acting in the capacity of Chief Management Officer, may prescribe.
Clause (i) shall not apply if the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller meets the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
An individual nominated for appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller under section 9016 of title 10, United States Code, shall meet the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
In addition to the responsibilities specified in section 9016(b)(4) of title 10, United States Code, the individual described in clause (i) shall perform such additional responsibilities as the Deputy Secretary of Defense, acting in the capacity of Chief Management Officer, may prescribe.
Clause (i) shall not apply if the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller meets the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
In this subsection, the term public company has the meaning given the term issuer in section 2(a)(7) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. 7201(7)).
Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2027 for automation and artificial intelligence to accelerate remediation and systems modernization for the audit of Department of Defense financial statements—
$250,000,000 may be made available from Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide; and
$250,000,000 may be made available from Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, Defense-Wide.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish within the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Defense a position of Deputy Inspector General for Financial Statement Audits.
The Deputy Inspector General shall oversee the selection and performance of independent external auditors conducting audits of the Department’s consolidated financial statements.
An individual serving in the position shall be a certified public accountant.
Section 222a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by inserting before each officer the following: and not later than seven days after the date on which any covered document is delivered to any of the congressional defense committees,; and
in subsection (e), by adding at the end the following:
The term covered document means a document referred to as a dash one, including the following:
Military Personnel Programs (M–1).
Operation and Maintenance Programs (O–1).
Revolving and Management Fund (RF–1).
Procurement Programs (P–1).
Procurement Programs Reserve Components (P–1R).
Research Development, Test & Evaluation Programs (R–1).
Military Construction, Family Housing, and Base Realignment and Closure Program (C–1).
Any subsequent or successor document.
Not later than seven days after the date on which a covered document is delivered to Congress in support of the budget of the President submitted under section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, for a fiscal year, the Secretary of Defense shall transmit to Congress the Justification Books for such covered document, as detailed in the Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation (DoD 7000.14–R).
In this subsection, the term covered document has the meaning given that term in section 222a(e) of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a).
Chapter 9A of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 240i the following new section:
In this section, the term USSGL Account means United States Standard General Ledger Account.
For purposes of an audit conducted under this chapter on the financial statements of the Department of the Army, the opening balances as of October 1, 2025, for the Department of the Army Working Capital Fund shall be as follows:
For USSGL Account 101000, titled Fund Balance with Treasury, $2,010,085,640.47.
For USSGL Account 310000, titled Unexpended Appropriations—Cumulative, $104,620,026.51.
For USSGL Account 413900, titled Contract Authority Carried Forward, $4,448,474,255.57.
For USSGL Account 420100, titled Total Actual Resources—Collected, $1,836,976,540.16.
For USSGL Account 445000, titled Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority, $3,668,585,253.03.
For purposes of an audit conducted under this chapter on the financial statements of the Department of the Air Force, the opening balances as of October 1, 2025, for the Department of the Air Force Working Capital Fund shall be as follows:
For USSGL Account 310000, titled Unexpended Appropriations—Cumulative, $74,131,256.71.
For USSGL Account 413900, titled Contract Authority Carried Forward, $6,333,279,921.52.
For USSGL Account 420100, titled Total Actual Resources—Collected, $2,988,803,908.21.
For USSGL Account 445000, titled Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority, $1,930,040,147.04.
For purposes of an audit conducted under this chapter on the financial statements of the Defense Logistics Agency, opening and ending balances shall be used as follows:
For the Defense Logistics Agency Working Capital Fund, opening balances as of October 1, 2024, are as follows:
For USSGL Account 101000, titled Fund Balance with Treasury, $3,483,483,641.67.
For USSGL Account 310000, titled Unexpended Appropriations—Cumulative, $883,887,145.71.
For USSGL Account 331000, titled Cumulative Results of Operations, $27,271,547,121.85.
For USSGL Account 413900, titled Contract Authority Carried Forward, $13,130,151,985.39.
For USSGL Account 420100, titled Total Actual Resources—Collected, $3,578,944,883.86.
For USSGL Account 445000, titled Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority, $507,354,134.72.
For the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund established by section 9 of the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act (50 U.S.C. 98h), opening and ending balances are as follows:
The ending balance of $313,633,491.15 reported in the Central Accounting Reporting System of the Department of the Treasury for September 30, 2021, is the Fund Balance with Treasury ending balance on that date.
For USSGL Account 420100, titled Total Actual Resources—Collected, the opening balance as of October 1, 2021 is $314,548,154.42.
For USSGL Account 445000, titled Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority, the ending balance as of September 30, 2021 is $216,976,300.69.
For purposes of an audit conducted under this chapter on the financial statements of the United States Transportation Command Working Capital Fund, opening balances as of October 1, 2025, shall be used as follows:
For USSGL Account 101000, titled Fund Balance with Treasury, $1,703,953,150.05.
For USSGL Account 310000, titled Unexpended Appropriations—Cumulative, $9,279,074.12.
For USSGL Account 413900, titled Contract Authority Carried Forward, $7,579,101.52.
For USSGL Account 420100, titled Total Actual Resources—Collected, $1,705,320,750.62.
For USSGL Account 445000, titled Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority, $453,684,782.00.
For USSGL Account 465000, titled Allotments—Expired Authority, $2,135,263.61.
Section 1422 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1137) is repealed.
Section 1413 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 528) is repealed.
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 may be obligated or expended for Department of Defense support to the Department of Homeland Security until the Secretary of Defense certifies to the congressional defense committees that the Department of Defense has received reimbursements from the Department of Homeland Security for reimbursable support provided by the Department of Defense to the Department of Homeland Security since October 1, 2025.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a strategy detailing how the Department of the Navy will complete expedited design and construction of new Global-class auxiliary general oceanographic research (AGOR) ships to replace Global-class AGOR 23–25 ships after funding is provided for such new ships, including a cost estimate and an estimated delivery timeline.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report that includes the following:
The strategy of the Department of the Navy with respect to the replacement of Global-class AGOR 23–25 ships.
If the strategy described in paragraph (1) provides for the replacement of the last of the Global-class AGOR 23–25 ships on a date that is more than five years after the date of the enactment of this Act, a plan to maintain the operational capabilities of the fleet of such ships until the date on which such fleet is projected to be replaced.
An explanation of how the plan described in paragraph (2) specifically implements the goals of Executive Order 14269 (relating to restoring America's maritime dominance).
An explanation of—
the limitations of Global-class AGOR 23–25 ships for operating in the Arctic region; and
how a new Global-class oceanographic research ship design would improve the Navy’s overall operational and warfighting capability in the Arctic region.
An assessment of the feasibility of converting current civilian or military operational ship designs to meet the Global-class oceanographic research vessel mission, including the feasibility of adapting the Pathfinder oceanographic ship design or converting retired or obsolete littoral combat ships for that purpose.
An identification of funding in the future-years defense program by appropriation and fiscal year for the annual operation and recapitalization of the Navy’s oceanographic research fleet.
An assessment of the feasibility of transferring a retired littoral combat ship to the National Science Foundation to begin to address the Foundation’s ocean floor drilling platform requirement to replace the JOIDES Resolution, including an estimate of the costs necessary to make such a retired ship seaworthy again.
Section 2218 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (f)—
in paragraph (3)—
in subparagraph (A), by inserting (other than an excluded vessel) after any used vessel;
in subparagraph (B), by inserting (other than an excluded vessel) after a used vessel;
by striking subparagraph (C) and inserting the following new subparagraph (C):
The Secretary may only use the authority under this paragraph to purchase more than 12 foreign-constructed vessels if, for each such vessel so purchased after the twelfth vessel, the Secretary purchases one vessel under paragraph (4).
in subparagraph (D), by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting this paragraph; and
by striking subparagraph (E) and redesignating subparagraphs (F) and (G) as subparagraphs (E) and (F), respectively; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
A vessel purchased under this paragraph is a vessel—
purchased using funds in the National Defense Sealift Fund;
constructed in a ship yard located in the United States; and
the construction of which is managed by a commercial vessel construction manager.
in subsection (k), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The term excluded vessel means a vessel that was—
constructed or substantially modified by an entity located in the People’s Republic of China; or
constructed by a Chinese military company, as such term is defined in section 1260H(g) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
Section 2218 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), is further amended—
in subsection (f)(2), by striking section 1424(b) of Public Law 101–510 (104 Stat. 1683) and inserting section 1424(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 (Public Law 101–510; 10 U.S.C. 8661 note); and
in subsection (k)(2)(A), by striking section 1424 of Public Law 101–510 (104 Stat. 1683) and inserting section 1424 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 (Public Law 101–510; 10 U.S.C. 8661 note).
Section 129 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 757) is amended—
in subsection (a)(1), by striking not more than and inserting not fewer than;
in subsection (b), by striking The Secretary of the Navy and inserting If the Secretary of the Navy seeks the construction of light replenishment oilers (TAO–L), the Secretary; and
in subsection (c)—
in the subsection heading, by striking Auxiliary and support vessels and inserting Other vessels; and
by striking or support vessel and inserting , support vessel, unmanned vessel, or vessel that is not included in the battle force.
The Secretary of the Navy, in coordination with the heads of relevant organizations of the Department of Defense and other departments and agencies of the Federal Government, shall develop a plan to expand cooperation and information sharing with State university systems, community college systems, technical college systems, and State educational agencies in order to scale workforce development efforts to support distributed submarine and surface vessel shipbuilding.
The plan required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A summary of current and projected critical trade skill requirements of the maritime industrial base of the Navy, including welders, electricians, metal fabricators, machinists, weld engineers, manufacturing engineers, industrial engineers, quality inspectors, test technicians, machine programmers, additive manufacturing professionals, and naval engineers.
An analysis of labor markets that face growing demands on the maritime industrial base workforce, including such markets located in landlocked States.
A plan to catalogue and annually transmit specific workforce requirements of the maritime industrial base to State university systems, community college systems, technical college systems, and State educational agencies.
Not later than October 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the feasibility and efficacy of establishing a seventh regional talent pipeline as part of the Navy Talent Pipeline Program focused on non-coastal labor markets that are traditionally underutilized by the maritime industrial base.
The report required by subparagraph (A) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may contain a classified annex.
The Secretary of the Navy, in coordination with the heads of relevant organizations of the Department of Defense and other departments and agencies of the Federal Government, shall develop a strategy to further modernize the supply chain of the maritime industrial base by optimizing its geographic reach to incorporate capable suppliers and manufacturers for the Nation’s shipbuilding needs.
The strategy developed under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A plan to grow the Navy’s industrial base of suppliers and manufacturers for submarines and surface vessels beyond the traditional centers of shipbuilding.
Plans to build sourcing and logistics capabilities from disperse geographic United States locations.
A plan to develop a single, consolidated online portal for maritime industrial base suppliers to access information about—
parts, components, and systems needed by the maritime industrial base; and
pathways to become a qualified supplier.
A description of current and projected shortfalls in the supply chains of the maritime industrial base that are negatively impacted by workforce deficits in labor markets that traditionally support the shipbuilding industry.
Not later than October 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a completed version of the strategy developed under paragraph (1).
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the required number of submarine tenders (AS) to support the current and planned force structure of attack submarines (SSN), guided-missile submarines (SSGN), and ballistic missile submarines (SSBN), particularly in the United States Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility.
The report required under subsection (a) shall include the following elements:
An analysis of the required number of submarine tenders to meet theater maintenance and repair requirements through 2055, accounting for the planned expansion of the submarine fleet.
A detailed timeline and schedule for the procurement and deployment of the next-generation submarine tender (AS(X)) program to prevent operational capability gaps as the current aging fleet of AS–39 Emory S. Land-class tenders are decommissioned.
A detailed analysis of the impact of expeditionary submarine repair and reload capabilities on battle force effectiveness in a contested environment.
A description of how new tenders will provide depot-level maintenance, including repair of advanced weapons systems and unmanned aerial systems/unmanned underwater vehicles (UAS/UUV) support, as identified in the SSN(X) requirement report.
An assessment of the feasibility of utilizing other ship platforms, such as Expeditionary Sea Base (ESB) or Landing Platform Dock (LPD) vessels, to augment submarine tender capabilities.
An evaluation of optimal homeporting locations for tenders to maximize Pacific operational flexibility, including Japan and Australia.
The report shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Navy shall provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees on the findings of the report.
Section 8062(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 31 and inserting 33.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the plan of the Navy to achieve a continuous 3.0 amphibious readiness group (ARG)/marine expeditionary unit (MEU) presence.
The report required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A description of any changes to the Optimized Fleet Response Plan for amphibious warfare ships and an explanation of how the revised force generation model will achieve increased forward presence using the same force structure.
An assessment of the total number of amphibious warfare ships, including the number of amphibious assault ships, required to support the 3.0 ARG/MEU presence under the revised force generation model.
A description of any plans to conduct service-life extensions or modernization programs for amphibious warfare ships, including the LHD–1 Wasp.
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act for fiscal year 2027 may be obligated or expended to retire or decommission, prepare to retire or decommission, or place in storage any oceanographic research vessel of the Navy, including the Kilo Moana.
Section 8039 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the section heading, by striking Deputy Commander of the Naval Sea Systems Command for the Supervision and inserting Supervisors;
in subsection (a), by striking The Secretary and all that follows and inserting The Supervisors of Shipbuilding, Conversion, and Repair are the onsite shipbuilding, conversion, and repair oversight presence for naval vessels in private shipyards that perform new construction.;
by striking subsections (b), (f), (g), and (h);
by redesignating subsections (c), (d), and (e), as subsections (b), (c), and (d), respectively;
in subsection (b), as so redesignated, by striking The Deputy Commander and all that follows and inserting The Supervisors shall align under and report to the designated Portfolio Acquisition Executive for assigned vessels or Milestone Decision Authority if there is no designated portfolio acquisition executive.;
in subsection (c), as redesignated by paragraph (4)—
in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking Deputy Commander and inserting Supervisors;
in paragraph (1), by striking independent; and
in paragraph (4), by striking greater quality and economy and inserting on-time performance, quality, and economy; and
in subsection (d), as redesignated by paragraph (4)—
in the matter preceding paragraph (1)—
by striking Deputy Commander and inserting Supervisors; and
by striking Program Executives Offices and inserting Portfolio Acquisition Executives or Milestone Decision Authority, as applicable;
in paragraph (1)—
in subparagraph (A), by striking Commander of Naval Sea Systems Command and inserting applicable authority; and
in subparagraph (D), by striking Contract planning and procurement, including participation and inserting Participating; and
in paragraph (2)(B), by striking Naval Sea Systems Command and inserting applicable authority.
The table of sections at the beginning of chapter 805 of such title is amended by striking the item relating to section 8039 and inserting the following:
Section 8679 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking Except as provided in subsection (b), no vessel to be constructed for any of the armed forces and inserting No vessel to be constructed for any of the armed services;
by striking subsection (b); and
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b).
Notwithstanding section 8679 of title 10, United States Code, the Secretary of Defense may construct not more than two vessels for each class of covered vessels in a foreign shipyard, if the Secretary determines that—
such construction is in the national security interest of the United States, supported by evidence, for purposes of interoperability with allies and partners, forward logistics support, or accelerating achievement of fleet capacity requirements;
the foreign country in which construction is proposed—
is a treaty ally of the United States; and
has the capacity to produce the vessel, including with respect to workforce, physical shipyard constraints, and supply chain; and
such construction ensures concurrent direct capital investments in the maritime industrial base of the United States resulting in, not later than the fourth vessel of the class of covered vessels, the onshoring of the construction and the supplier base of such class.
Not later than 30 days before obligating or expending any funds pursuant to the authority under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes the following:
A certification that the conditions described in subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) of such paragraph will be satisfied.
An identification of—
the specific vessel or class of vessels to be constructed in a foreign shipyard; and
the specific foreign country and shipyard in which construction is proposed.
A description of the enforceable provisions that will govern the protection of classified information and controlled unclassified information related to the vessel during construction.
The sourcing plan and schedule to onshore the supply chain and the plan for construction of the third and subsequent vessels of the class of covered vessels in a shipyard in the United States.
In exercising the authority under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that—
all critical mission systems, command and control equipment, and secure communications systems are installed in the United States or a secure allied facility;
the vessels are projected to be constructed and delivered faster than if the vessels were constructed at a shipyard in the United States, or construction at a foreign shipyard otherwise provides a material benefit to readiness or force posture;
the software and hardware related to all machinery control systems, cargo and ballast control systems, power and electrical systems, and safety systems are secure; and
a life cycle sustainment plan is approved by the Secretary for the class of covered vessels, including class-standard repair parts.
The responsibility to submit a certification under paragraph (2) may not be delegated.
In this section:
The term class of covered vessels means the following vessels that do not have combatant classifications:
Bulk fuel vessels designed or intended primarily for the carriage of liquid fuels.
Strategic sealift vessels designed to rapidly deploy heavy military equipment globally in a roll-on/roll-off configuration.
The term critical mission system, with respect to a vessel, means a system (weapon or auxiliary) the failure of which would prevent the successful completion of the mission or severely impact ability to fight.
The term foreign shipyard means a shipyard located outside the United States.
Section 8662 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by inserting Same name.— after (a); and
in subsection (b)—
by striking (b) The Secretary and inserting the following:
Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Secretary
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The Secretary of the Navy may change the name of a vessel after such name has been officially announced by the Secretary only if—
the Secretary is holding office by and with the advice and consent of the Senate;
the Secretary determines that a compelling reason exists for the name change; and
not later than 30 days before the date on which the change takes effect, the Secretary submits to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report explaining, in detail, the justification for the change.
The authority under subparagraph (A) shall be exercised solely by the Secretary of the Navy and may not be delegated.
Section 1033 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1953), as most recently amended by section 1032 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 129 Stat. 1034), is further amended by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027.
Section 1034(a) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1954), as most recently amended by section 1033 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1034), is further amended by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027.
Section 1035 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1954), as most recently amended by section 1034 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1034), is further amended by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027.
Section 1036 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law 115–91; 131 Stat. 1551), as most recently amended by section 1035 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1035), is further amended by striking 2026 and inserting 2027.
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act for the Department of Defense may be used to knowingly provide active and direct support to any film, television, or other entertainment project if the Secretary of Defense has demonstrable evidence that the project has complied or is likely to comply with a demand from the Government of the People’s Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party, or an entity under the direction of the People’s Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party, to censor the content of the project in a material manner to advance the national interest of the People’s Republic of China.
The Secretary of Defense may waive the prohibition under subsection (a) if the Secretary submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a written certification that such a waiver is in the national interest of the United States.
Section 1050 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1042) is amended—
by striking Beginning and inserting the following:
Beginning
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
The Secretary may waive the application of subsection (a) with respect to a unit or command for a period of one year, and may renew such a waiver for additional one-year periods, if the application of that subsection is demonstrated to have a direct impact on the operational readiness of the unit or command, as the case may be.
Not later than 15 days after issuing or renewing a waiver under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a notification that includes, at a minimum—
an identification of the unit or command to which the waiver applies;
a description of the assessed impact to operational readiness that necessitated the waiver;
a description of ongoing efforts to increase combat medic training in civilian settings; and
a certification that no technically acceptable alternative exists to replace the use of live animals.
No funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available may be used to transport Army Prepositioned Stock-2 (APS-2) equipment, so assigned as of March 1, 2026, outside of the European area of operations for the purposes of maintenance or divestment.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall implement each recommendation for the Department of Defense and the Department of the Army from the National Transportation Safety Board contained in the report dated January 27, 2026, and entitled, Midair Collision over the Potomac River PSA Airlines Flight 5342, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) RJ Aviation CL–600–2C10 (CRJ700), and US Army Priority Air Transport Flight 25, Sikorsky UH–60L (Aviation Investigation Report AIR–26–02), as the Secretary determines appropriate and practicable.
The Secretary of Defense shall implement the recommendations under subsection (a), as applicable, across the Armed Forces and aviation units under the jurisdiction of the Secretary.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives—
a certification specifying which recommendations under subsection (a) have been implemented, including a justification for any recommendation not implemented; and
a plan of the Department of Defense to mitigate the risk identified in each such recommendation not implemented.
Not later than March 1, 2027, and not less frequently than quarterly thereafter until December 31, 2030, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report detailing the status of implementation of this section across each branch of the Armed Forces and any barriers to such implementation.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and not less frequently than annually thereafter, the Inspector General of the Department of Defense shall conduct an audit of oversight by the Department of Defense of all operations of aircraft of the Department in the national airspace system.
In conducting each audit under paragraph (1), the Inspector General shall assess the efficacy of implementation by the Department of the recommendations under subsection (a).
Not less frequently than annually after the completion of the first audit under paragraph (1), the Inspector General shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the findings of the audits conducted under such paragraph.
Section 127d of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking $20,000,000 and inserting $30,000,000;
in subsection (c)(2)(E), in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting satisfy the requirements of section 130g to after shall; and
in subsection (j)(1)(A), by inserting as required by section 130g before the semicolon.
The second section 130g of title 10, United States Code, is redesignated as section 130h.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall designate activities, support, and operations conducted by the Department of Defense in support of civil authorities at the southwest land border as a named operation.
The purpose of the designation required by subsection (a) is to provide unified identification, planning, budgeting, oversight, and reporting for the activities, support, and operations described in such subsection in efforts to detect, deter, and disrupt transnational criminal organizations and other border-related threats.
In the budget justification materials of the Department of Defense submitted to Congress each year, beginning with the first such submission following the designation required by subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall include, in a distinct line item—
a program title and budgetary line for the named operation showing requested obligational authority by appropriations account and fiscal year;
a narrative justification describing the scope of Department of Defense support, planned activities, and the legal authorities under which support is provided; and
performance metrics and planned outputs for the coming fiscal year.
The budget justification materials described in subsection (c) shall include an unclassified summary of the types and estimated value of support provided, with a classified annex as necessary to protect sources and methods.
In this section:
The term southwest land border means the land border of the United States adjacent to Mexico.
The term support of civil authorities—
has the meaning given that term in Department of Defense Directive 3025.18, as amended; and
includes planning, logistics, intelligence support, aviation, engineering, and other non-law-enforcement assistance.
Nothing in this section may be construed to authorize the use of military force.
This section may be cited as the Border Drone Threat Assessment Act.
In this section:
The term appropriate congressional committees means—
the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate;
the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate;
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate;
the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate;
the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate;
the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate;
the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives;
the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives;
the Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives;
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives;
the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives;
the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives; and
the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives.
The term at or near the international borders of the United States means at or within 100 air miles of an international land border or coastal border of the United States.
The term Commander means the Commander of the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM).
The term foreign malign influence has the meaning given such term in section 119B(f) of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3059(f)).
The term malign actor means any individual, group, or organization that is engaged in foreign malign influence, illicit drug trafficking, or other forms of transnational organized crime.
The term transnational organized crime has the meaning given such term in section 284(i) of title 10, United States Code.
The term Under Secretary of Defense means the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security
The terms unmanned aircraft and unmanned aircraft system have the meanings given such terms in section 44801 of title 49, United States Code.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commander shall—
conduct a review of all incidents involving unmanned aerial systems operated at or near the international borders of the United States and counter-unmanned aerial systems actions taken by, or using equipment of, the Department of Defense during February 2026; and
make an assessment and determination on whether modifications should be made to the communications and coordination by and between the Department of Defense and other Federal agencies with regard to unmanned aerial systems operated by a government entity in commercial airspace.
Not later than 30 days after completing the review and assessment required under subsection (a), the Commander shall submit a report to—
the Under Secretary of Defense, which shall be included as part of the threat assessment required under subsection (d);
the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate; and
the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense shall complete an assessment of the threat regarding unmanned aircraft systems at or near the international borders of the United States.
The threat assessment required under paragraph (1) shall include—
a description of the malign actors operating unmanned aircraft systems at or near the international borders of the United States, including malign actors who cross such borders;
a description of how a threat is identified and assessed at or near the international borders of the United States, including a description of the capabilities of the United States Government to detect and identify unmanned aircraft systems operated by, or on behalf of, malign actors;
a description of the data and information collected by operators of unmanned aircraft systems at or near the international borders of the United States, including how such data is used by malign actors;
a description of the tactics, techniques, and procedures used at or near the international borders of the United States by malign actors with regards to unmanned aircraft systems, including how unmanned aircraft systems are acquired, modified, and utilized to conduct malicious activities, including attacks, surveillance, conveyance of contraband, and other forms of threats;
a description of the guidance, policies, and procedures that address the privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties of persons who lawfully operate unmanned aircraft systems at or near the international borders of the United States;
a description of the capabilities of the United States Government to counter, contain, trace, defeat, or otherwise mitigate threats from unmanned aircraft systems operated by malign actors at or near the international borders of the United States;
an assessment of whether the capabilities of the United States Government are sufficient for achieving complete air domain awareness at or near the international borders of the United States;
an assessment of the adequacy of current authorities of the United States Government to counter the use of unmanned aircraft systems by malign actors at or near the international borders of the United States, including an accounting of the delineated responsibilities of Federal agencies to counter, contain, trace, or defeat unmanned aircraft systems at or near the international borders of the United States; and
an assessment of the coordination between Federal Government entities for airspace domain awareness, protection, and safety.
In carrying out the assessment required under subsection (d), the Under Secretary of Defense may consult with—
the Director of National Intelligence;
the Secretary of Homeland Security;
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration;
the Secretary of State; and
the heads of other elements of the intelligence community, the defense community, and the Department of Homeland Security as the Under Secretary considers appropriate.
Not later than 180 days after completing the threat assessment required under subsection (d), the Under Secretary of Defense shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees containing findings with respect to such assessment.
The report required under paragraph (1) shall include—
a detailed description of the threats posed to the national security of the United States by unmanned aircraft systems operated by malign actors at or near the international borders of the United States;
a summary of the current responsibilities, authorities, regulations, policies, and procedures of the United States Government for achieving air domain awareness at and near the international borders of the United States and countering and defeating unmanned aircraft systems used by malign actors along such borders;
a summary of the current responsibilities, authorities, regulations, policies, and procedures of the United States Government for coordinating across Federal agencies for achieving air domain awareness at or near the international borders of the United States and ensuring airspace safety;
an assessment of whether a change in authorities or additional authorities or resources are necessary—
to achieve complete air domain awareness at or near international borders of the United States;
to provide adequate coordination across agencies on airspace safety; and
to counter and defeat unmanned aircraft systems used by malign actors along such borders.
The report required under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex, as appropriate.
Not later than 90 days after the submission of the report required under paragraph (1), the Under Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing regarding the report to the appropriate congressional committees.
Section 1094(e)(2)(A)(ii)(I) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1541) is amended by striking 3 and inserting 4.
Section 1070 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2791), as amended by section 1064 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60), is further amended—
by striking through December 31, 2026 and inserting through December 31, 2028;
in paragraph (5), by striking ; and and inserting a semicolon;
in paragraph (6), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
a cost analysis and an accompanying report that includes—
the costs associated with the assistance provided by the Department of Defense to the Department of Homeland Security during the most recently concluded 90-day period;
the costs associated with the assistance provided by the Department of Defense to the Department of Homeland Security during the most recently concluded 12-month period;
the projected costs associated with any requests for assistance from the Department of Homeland Security that have been granted by the Secretary of Defense, but have not been delivered; and
a detailed accounting of—
costs for assistance that the Department of Defense provided, is providing, or will provide to the Department of Homeland Security, including whether such assistance is being provided on a reimbursable basis or a nonreimbursable basis; and
an accounting of the reimbursements received by the Department of Defense for the assistance described in the report.
The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a drone posture review for uncrewed aerial, ground, surface, and undersea vehicles and their enabling systems, including an identification of gaps in the capability of United States forces and the vulnerabilities of United States forces to foreign uncrewed systems.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes the findings of the review required under subsection (a).
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Americas Security Affairs (in this section referred to as the Assistant Secretary) shall submit to the congressional defense committees quarterly reports on incidents involving unmanned aerial systems (UAS) incursions—
over military installations and other sensitive sites within the United States and its territories; and
along the international land borders of the United States, with a particular focus on the southern border.
Each report required under subsection (a) shall include, for the preceding quarter—
a comprehensive accounting of all known or suspected UAS incursions over—
military installations; and
other sensitive sites, as determined by the Secretary of Defense;
for each such incursion, to the extent practicable—
the date, time, and location of the incident;
the duration and altitude of the UAS activity;
the assessed origin and operator, if known;
the type and capabilities of the UAS involved; and
any assessed intent or threat posed by the incursion;
a description of actions taken in response to each incursion, including—
detection, tracking, and identification measures;
mitigation or interdiction actions; and
coordination with Federal, State, local, Tribal, and territorial authorities;
an assessment of trends, patterns, and emerging threats related to UAS incursions;
an evaluation of the effectiveness of existing counter-UAS authorities, policies, technologies, and procedures; and
identification of any capability gaps, resource constraints, or legal limitations affecting the Department of Defense’s ability to detect, deter, or respond to such incursions.
Each report required under subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
In this section, the term sensitive sites means military installations and other facilities and assets located in the United States that are subject to the authority provided under section 130i of title 10, United States Code, relating to the protection of certain facilities and assets from unmanned aircraft.
The requirement to submit reports under this section shall terminate on December 31, 2031.
Not later than March 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the implementation of Department of Defense Instruction 3000.17, entitled Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response and dated December 21, 2023.
The report required by subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
An assessment of the progress made toward implementation of each responsibility, function, and task assigned in section 2 of Department of Defense Instruction 3000.17.
An assessment of the progress made toward implementation of sections 3, 4, and 5 of that Instruction, related to mitigating, assessing, and responding to civilian harm, respectively, including any related changes in policy or practice of the Department of Defense.
A breakdown of the number of full-time equivalent staff assigned to implementation of that Instruction across the Department, including the locations, offices, and roles of such staff.
An estimate of the resources required by the Department to effectively implement that Instruction.
The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex if necessary.
Section 2576a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection (h); and
by inserting after subsection (f) the following new subsection (g):
Not less frequently than once every 180 days, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report setting forth, for the preceding 180-day period, the following:
An identification of the type of controlled and non-controlled property transferred by the Secretary under this section and the quantity transferred.
An identification of the agency receiving such property.
The date of any such transfer.
Not later than March 15 of each year for five years beginning one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the rules of engagement in force in the preceding calendar year governing operations conducted pursuant to direction from the President or the Secretary of Defense.
The annual report shall include the following elements:
A description of any changes made to the standing rules of engagement, a legal and policy explanation for each such change, and a copy of revised standing rules of engagement.
An identification and description of any supplementary or theater-specific rules of engagement issued by the commander of a combatant command.
A list and description of each declared hostile force that could be targeted under the rules of engagement identified under subparagraphs (A) and (B) without the United States Armed Forces observing a hostile act or demonstration of hostile intent, including—
the legal basis for the designation of the declared hostile force; and
the risk posed by the declared hostile force to United States persons or territory.
A certification signed by the Secretary of Defense, the General Counsel of the Department of Defense, and the Judge Advocate General for each military service branch that all rules of engagement have been reviewed by the appropriate legal officers and comport with the rules and principles of the law of armed conflict.
The report required under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex.
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committee a report with the elements and in the form described in subsection (a) that covers the preceding two calendar years.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commander of the United States Africa Command, in consultation with the head of any other relevant Federal agency, as appropriate, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a strategy to address intelligence gathering shortcomings in the area of responsibility of the United States Africa Command.
With respect to the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance architecture, the strategy required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
An assessment of the scope, coverage, and operational tempo of existing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets and activities in the area of responsibility of the United States Africa Command.
A description of the manner in which the United States Africa Command could further develop an integrated, multi-layered intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance architecture in such area of responsibility.
A description of the manner in which the United States Africa Command can incorporate emerging technologies into the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance architecture, including—
artificial intelligence and machine-learning tools for the automated processing, exploitation, and dissemination of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance data;
language recognition software and natural language processing tools capable of monitoring, transcribing, and analyzing communications in regional languages and dialects; and
other emerging technologies that the Commander of the United States Africa Command determines could improve the speed, accuracy, or coverage of activities conducted by the United States Africa Command in such area of responsibility.
A description of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance cooperation and information-sharing arrangements with partner countries and allied forces in such area of responsibility, including an analysis of the extent to which partner country capabilities may be integrated into the United States intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance architecture.
An identification of capability gaps, resource shortfalls, or authority limitations that constrain the ability of the United States Africa Command to establish and sustain a persistent, meshed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance architecture in the area of operation, and recommendations for addressing such gaps.
With respect to information campaigns carried out by the United States African Command, the strategy required by subsection (a) shall include the following, which the Secretary of Defense shall develop in consultation with the Secretary of State:
A description of the current information environment in the area of responsibility of the United States Africa Command, including—
an identification of the means and mechanisms through which violent extremist organizations, near-peer competitors, and any other actors of concern to the United States Africa Command disseminate propaganda, recruit members, and foment instability in such area of responsibility;
an assessment of the relative effectiveness of violent extremist organization information operations in such area of responsibility and the populations most vulnerable to such influence; and
an assessment of the relative effectiveness of information operations conducted by other state and non-state actors in such area of responsibility and the populations most vulnerable to such influence.
A description of current and planned information campaigns and military information support operations of the United States Africa Command in such area of responsibility, including—
activities conducted through digital means, including social media engagement, counter-narrative campaigns, and efforts to disrupt or degrade adversary and competitor online presence and propaganda distribution networks;
activities conducted through traditional means, including radio broadcasts, print media, community engagement, and support to trusted local voices and civil society organizations;
efforts to coordinate and synchronize digital and traditional information activities into a consistent, persistent, and regionally coherent campaign;
an identification of main information campaign themes and an assessment of the effectiveness of current information campaign activities, including metrics used to measure such effectiveness; and
an identification of gaps, resource shortfalls, or authority limitations that constrain the ability of the United States Africa Command to sustain consistent and effective information campaigns, and recommendations for addressing such gaps.
Section 149 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (i);
by inserting after subsection (g) the following new subsection (h):
There is established in the Treasury of the United States a Department of Defense Equity Investment Account (in this subsection referred to as the Equity Investment Account), to be used to make equity investments under this subsection.
The Equity Investment Account shall consist of amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations specifically designated for equity investments under this subsection.
The Director may use amounts in the Equity Investment Account to make equity investments in entities for the purpose of carrying out this subsection.
The Director may exercise the authority under paragraph (2) only with respect to—
critical minerals, materials, and chemicals; and
batteries.
The amount of an equity investment in an entity under paragraph (2) may not exceed the amount that is equal to 40 percent of the total amount of all equity investments made to the entity at the time of the equity investment by the Director under paragraph (2).
The Director may not make equity investments under paragraph (2) in an entity that exceed $500,000,000 in the aggregate.
The Department of Defense may not hold more than 50 percent of the ownership interest in an entity in which the Director makes an equity investment under paragraph (2).
The Director shall not take or maintain board seats, directors, or any other form of voting representation in any entity in which the Director makes an equity investment under paragraph (2).
The Director may make an equity investment in an entity under paragraph (2) only if the Director certifies to the congressional defense committees that—
without the investment—
sufficient commercial credit is not available to the entity under reasonable terms or conditions to finance the activity the entity plans to carry out using the investment; or
the entity would be unable to expand operations to support the defense industrial base in the time frame necessary to address a shortfall in such operations;
the investment is the most cost effective, expedient, and practical alternative available to meet the needs of the Federal Government; and
the investment is in the national security interests of the United States.
The Director, in coordination with the National Security Capital Forum, shall develop guidelines and criteria for the use of the authority to make equity investments under paragraph (2).
The guidelines and criteria required by subparagraph (A) shall require, when determining whether to make an equity investment in an entity under paragraph (2), consideration of whether—
the equity investment in the entity would be more likely than not to substantially reduce or overcome the effect of an identified market failure;
the operations of the entity would be terminated or substantially delayed without the equity investment;
the investment supports a use described in paragraph (3);
the investment would be aligned with incentives provided by commercial partners;
the investment would have a significant benefit for, or contribute to long-term commercial sustainability of, the defense industrial base;
the investment would not unduly harm or hinder competition within the defense industrial base;
the investment would further the economic security policy of the United States; and
the investment would comply with all applicable laws related to ethics and conflicts of interest.
An equity investment under paragraph (2) may be denominated in a foreign currency only if the National Security Capital Forum determines the policy goal of the investment cannot be achieved using United States dollars.
The Director may dispose of any equity investment made under paragraph (2) only after taking into consideration the national security interests of the United States.
Any proceeds from the disposition of an equity investment made under paragraph (2)—
may not be used for any purpose; and
shall be deposited into the Treasury of the United States.
The authorities under this subsection shall terminate on December 31, 2037.
in subsection (i), as redesignated by paragraph (1)—
by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (6); and
by inserting after paragraph (4) the following new paragraph (5):
The term equity investment means any direct or indirect purchase, acquisition, or commitment of funds by the Department of Defense in exchange for an ownership interest, convertible interest, warrant, revenue-sharing instrument, or other similar financial instrument in a non-Federal entity.
Section 149 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 1051 ROS26896, is further amended—
by redesignating subsection (i) as subsection (j);
by inserting after subsection (h) the following new subsection (i):
Before the obligation or disbursement of funds for any equity investment made by the Office in any non-Federal entity, the Director shall conduct a review of the ownership structure of the entity.
The review required by paragraph (1) with respect to the ownership structure of an entity shall—
assess any direct or indirect foreign ownership interest in the entity, including the ability of any foreign person to exercise control or influence over the management, governance, operations, or technology of the entity;
identify of all owners holding, directly or indirectly, 5 percent or more of any class of equity in the entity;
identify members of the board of directors, advisory boards, and executive leadership of the entity and any potential conflicts of interest between those individuals and officials of the Federal Government; and
determine whether mitigation measures are necessary to protect the national security interests of the United States or prevent conflicts of interest described in subparagraph (C).
Not later than 15 days after completing the review required by paragraph (1) with respect to an equity investment, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the results of the review.
in subsection (j), as redesignated paragraph (1)—
by redesignating paragraph (6) as paragraph (7); and
by inserting after paragraph (5) the following new paragraph (6):
The term foreign person means—
an individual who is not a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States; and
an entity that is not organized under the laws of the United States or any jurisdiction within the United States.
Section 149 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by sections 1051 and 1052 ROS26896 and ROS26897, is further amended—
by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (k);
by inserting after subsection (i) the following new subsection (j):
With respect to an equity investment or debt investment made by the Office in an amount that is less than $50,000,000, the Director—
not later than five days after signing a term sheet for the investment, shall—
notify the congressional defense committee of the investment; and
brief the congressional defense committees on the terms of the investment; and
may only enter into a legally binding agreement to make the investment if 15 business days have elapsed after the briefing required by subparagraph (A)(ii) with respect to the investment.
With respect to an equity investment or debt investment made by the Office in an amount that is equal to or more than $50,000,000, the Director—
not later than five days after signing a term sheet for the investment, shall—
notify the congressional defense committee of the investment; and
brief the congressional defense committees on the terms of the investment; and
may only enter into a legally binding agreement to make the investment if 30 business days have elapsed after the briefing required by subparagraph (A)(ii) with respect to the investment.
Each notification required under paragraph (1) or (2) with respect to an equity investment or debt investment made by the Office—
shall include—
an unredacted copy of the term sheet for the investment;
an articulation of the legal authorities supporting each part of the investment;
a description of why the investment is—
necessary; and
determined to be in the long-term defense interests of the United States; and
clear criteria for the Federal Government to sell, liquidate, or otherwise exit the investment; and
an accounting of the estimated costs to the Federal Government of the investment over the duration of the investment, disaggregated by the type of authority used and appropriation type; and
may be submitted in a format that contains classified or controlled unclassified information.
in subsection (k), as redesignated paragraph (1)—
by redesignating paragraphs (3) through (7) as paragraphs (4) through (8), respectively; and
by inserting after paragraph (2) the following new paragraph (3):
The term debt investment means any loan, note, bond, debenture, or other instrument representing an obligation of an entity to repay funds advanced by the Secretary—
including any such instrument that is convertible into or exchangeable for an equity investment; and
excluding any instrument that is an equity investment.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall transmit to the congressional defense committees all unredacted term sheets for each equity investment or debt investment (as defined in section 149 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a) and section 1051 ROS26896) made by the Department of Defense before such date of enactment.
Section 4817 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by redesignating subsections (k) through (m) as subsections (l) through (n), respectively; and
by inserting after subsection (j) the following new subsection (k):
The Secretary may not use any authority provided by this section to enter into an equity investment (as defined in section 149). Section 149 provides the sole authority for entering into equity investments under this title.
Section 867 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 996) is amended by striking subsections (b) and (d).
Not later than January 31, 2027, and every 90 days thereafter until January 31, 2029, the Deputy Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on activities of the Economic Defense Unit during the 90-day period preceding the briefing and any supporting classified details.
Each briefing required by paragraph (1) shall address the following:
Projects of the Economic Defense Unit ongoing as of the date of the briefing.
Agreements recently completed before the date of the briefing.
An overarching strategy for the Economic Defense Unit.
Efforts to coordinate activities across the Department of Defense during the 90-day period preceding the briefing.
Matters relating to personnel of the Economic Defense Unit during that period.
Any projects reviewed or approved by the Economic Defense Unit during that period, including—
projects of the Office of Strategic Capital;
projects carried out under the Defense Production Act of 1950 (50 U.S.C. 4501 et seq.); and
projects carried out under the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program.
For each briefing required by paragraph (1), the Deputy Secretary of Defense shall provide the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the ability to review relevant analysis and documentation for all projects reviewed or approved by the Economic Defense Unit during the 90-day period preceding the briefing.
None of the funds appropriated by this Act or any previous Act, or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense, may be used by the Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense for the Economic Defense Unit or any activities of the Economic Defense Unit until the following actions are complete:
The Deputy Secretary provides the first briefing required by subsection (a).
The Secretary of Defense completes and submits to the congressional defense committees the ownership review required by subsection (i) of section 149 of title 10, United States Code, as added by section 1052 ROS26897, for all equity investments the Department has made as of the date of the review.
The Secretary certifies to the congressional defense committees that the Department does not hold, and does not have the option to hold, any seat on the board of directors or any other form of voting representation or control in any entity in which the Department holds equity.
Section 4817 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 1054 ROS26907, is further amended—
by redesignating subsections (l) through (n) as subsections (m) through (o), respectively; and
by inserting after subsection (k) the following new subsection (l):
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall be the authority to review and approve all expenditures from the Fund of less than $75,000,000.
Not later than January 31, 2027, and every 90 days thereafter until January 31, 2029, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the activities of the Business Operators for National Defense (BOND) Program (in this section referred to as the Program) during the 90-day period preceding the briefing that includes supporting details.
Each briefing required by paragraph (1) shall address the following:
Participants in the Program and where those participants are placed.
Metrics for success.
Conflict of interest guardrails employed.
Cost.
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act, or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense, may be obligated or expended by the Office of the Secretary of Defense for the Program until the Secretary provides the first briefing required by subsection (a).
Section 6(b)(1) of the Joint Resolution entitled A Joint Resolution to approve the Covenant to Establish a Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in Political Union with the United States of America, and for other purposes, approved March 24, 1976 (Public Law 94–241; 48 U.S.C. 1806(b)(1)), is amended—
in subparagraph (A), by inserting , Wake Island, after Guam; and
in subparagraph (B)—
in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking December 31, 2029 and inserting December 31, 2031; and
by inserting , Wake Island, after Guam each place such term appears.
The Secretary concerned shall provide to the congressional defense committees notification of any member of the Armed Forces wounded in action in a theater of combat within 24 hours of the incident.
The notification required under subsection (a) shall include—
the time, date, and location of the incident;
the servicemember’s unit;
a brief description of the incident; and
any other information the Secretary concerned determines appropriate.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish an initiative, to be known as the Americas Defense Initiative (in this section referred to as the Initiative), to carry out prioritized activities to enhance the defense and security of the United States, counter transnational criminal organizations and malign foreign actors, and strengthen the capacity of partner nations in the Western Hemisphere.
To improve the design and posture of the joint force within the area of responsibility of the United States Southern Command, the Secretary, through the Initiative, shall—
enhance the ability of the United States and partner nations in the detection and monitoring of the aerial and maritime transit of illegal drugs into the United States;
support efforts to identify, disrupt, and degrade transnational criminal organizations;
increase persistent maritime and air domain awareness through the deployment of autonomous and unmanned systems;
provide cost-effective, lower-maintenance, and sustainable capabilities to partner nations in the Western Hemisphere;
strengthen regional security cooperation and interoperability with partner nations by improving the capabilities of partner nations in counter-illicit drug trafficking, counter-transnational organized crime operations, and border security operations;
invest in geographic areas of key strategic terrain, including Panama, Jamaica, and United States Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; and
develop and coordinate planning with the United States Northern Command, Joint Interagency Task Force–Counter Cartel, and relevant interagency partners.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary, in consultation with the Commander of the United States Southern Command, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on future-year activities and resources of the Initiative.
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A description of the activities and resources of the Initiative for the first fiscal year that begins after the date on which the report is submitted, and the plan for such activities and resources for not fewer than the four following fiscal years, organized by the activities described in paragraphs (1) through (7) of subsection (b).
A summary of progress made toward achieving the purposes of the Initiative, including through investments in—
the procurement, integration, and deployment of low-cost, low-maintenance autonomous and robotic systems designed for persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance and maritime domain awareness;
improved interoperability and information sharing with partner nations;
bilateral and multilateral military exercises and training with partner nations; and
the use of security cooperation authorities to further build the capacity of partner nations.
A description of any significant parts of the Initiative not achieved and a detailed explanation of the obstacles that prevented achievement of the Initiative.
A detailed explanation of any significant modifications to activities or resources of the Initiative, as compared to reports previously submitted under this subsection.
Any other matter, as determined by the Secretary.
The Secretary shall include a detailed budget display for the Initiative in the materials of the Department of Defense submitted to Congress in support of the budget of the President pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, for fiscal year 2028 and each fiscal year thereafter.
Each budget display required by paragraph (1) shall include the following information:
The resources necessary for the Initiative to carry out the activities required by subsection (b) for the applicable fiscal year and not fewer than the four following fiscal years, organized by the activities described in paragraphs (1) through (7) of such subsection.
With respect to procurement accounts—
amounts displayed by account, budget activity, line number, line item, and line item title; and
a description of the requirements for such amounts specific to the Initiative.
With respect to research, development, test, and evaluation accounts—
amounts displayed by account, budget activity, line number, program element, and program element title; and
a description of the requirements for such amounts specific to the Initiative.
With respect to operation and maintenance accounts—
amounts displayed by account title, budget activity title, line number, and subactivity group title; and
a description of the specific manner in which such amounts will be used.
With respect to military personnel accounts—
amounts displayed by account, budget activity, budget subactivity, and budget subactivity title; and
a description of the requirements for such amounts specific to the Initiative.
With respect to each project under military construction accounts (including with respect to unspecified minor military construction and amounts for planning and design), the country, location, project title, and project amount by fiscal year.
With respect to the activities described in subsection (b)—
amounts displayed by account title, budget activity title, line number, and subactivity group title; and
a description of the specific manner in which such amounts will be used.
With respect to each military service—
amounts displayed by account title, budget activity title, line number, and subactivity group title; and
a description of the specific manner in which such amounts will be used.
With respect to the amounts described in each of subparagraphs (B)(i), (C)(i), (D)(i), (E)(i), (G)(i), and (H)(i), a comparison between—
the amount in the budget of the President for the following fiscal year; and
the amount projected in the previous budget of the President for the following fiscal year.
A detailed summary of funds obligated for the Initiative during the previous fiscal year.
A detailed comparison of funds obligated for the Initiative during the previous fiscal year to the amount of funds requested for such fiscal year.
Not later than March 1, 2027, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the budget proposal for and programs of the Initiative, including the budget display information for the applicable fiscal year required by subsection (d).
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and on a quarterly basis thereafter, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, in coordination with the Northern Command, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Indo-Pacific Command, shall jointly brief the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives on the status of Department of Defense planning for, and implementation of, core homeland defense priorities, including plans for responding to a major attack on the homeland in the context of military operations in other areas of responsibility, including Hawaii and Alaska.
Each briefing required under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
An update on current homeland defense strategies, plans, and operational concepts.
An assessment of emerging and persistent threats to the homeland, including threats from state and non-state actors.
A description of interagency coordination efforts with the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Transportation, the National Nuclear Security Administration, and other relevant Federal, State, local, Tribal, and territorial partners.
An update on capabilities, force posture, force allocation, and resourcing requirements necessary to execute homeland defense missions during peacetime and wartime, including supporting civil authorities during times of crisis such as pandemic and disaster response, protection of defense critical infrastructure, mobilization of the industrial base to support needed capabilities, activation of the Selective Service, and use of national stockpiles.
Any identified resourcing gaps, risks, or challenges in homeland defense planning and mitigation efforts underway.
An update on coordination with United States Northern Command, United States Strategic Command, United States Cyber Command, Indo-Pacific Command, the Director of Golden Dome, and other combatant commands or agencies, as appropriate.
An update on the Integrated CONUS Medical Operations Plan and the available bed capacity within the organizations supporting the National Disaster Medical System, to include an update on medical operations in Hawaii and Alaska.
An update on progress in planning for the management of homeland defense priorities during overseas contingency operations.
Each briefing under subsection (a) shall be provided in classified form, but may include an unclassified summary as appropriate.
The requirement to provide quarterly briefings under this section shall terminate five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that—
editorial policies and practices of the Stars and Stripes are in accordance with journalistic standards governing United States news media of the highest quality, with emphasis on matters of interest to the Stars and Stripes readership;
Stars and Stripes’ editorial operations are independent of the military chain of command, military public affairs activities, or other external influences, and without censorship or propaganda;
the Stars and Stripes Publisher remains a civilian government employee with independent professional news media experience, who manages and controls the day-to-day business and financial, operational, and administrative activities, and provides editorial oversight of Stars and Stripes;
Stars and Stripes’ reporters with access to Department of Defense installations are authorized to cover events or activities open to those with installation access even though commercial news media may not have the same unescorted access;
Stars and Stripes is a digital-first news organization but is also published in a print newspaper edition at a frequency and distribution determined by the Publisher to best serve its readership; and
except as provided in paragraph (3), the Stars and Stripes provides a free flow of news and information to its readership without news management or censorship from the Secretary of Defense or the Department of Defense.
The calculated withholding from publication in Stars and Stripes of news unfavorable to the Department of Defense, the military services, or the United States Government is prohibited.
Notwithstanding the requirement under paragraph (1), Stars and Stripes shall not publish original staff-produced news stories based upon classified information or publish information that clearly endangers the lives of United States personnel or would adversely affect national security.
The exceptions under subparagraph (A) may not be construed to permit the calculated withholding of news unfavorable to the Department of Defense, the military services, or the United States Government. Any security risk information shall not be withheld without concurrence from both the Stars and Stripes publisher and the relevant combatant commander.
The exclusion of civilian candidates for consideration for officer, journalist, or other Stars and Stripes staff positions is prohibited.
The Stars and Stripes Ombudsman is a highly qualified independent news media professional hired from outside of the DoD to serve a three-year term. The Stars and Stripes Ombudsman independently advises the Stripes Publisher and senior editorial leaders, DoD leadership and congressional oversight authorities on matters relating to audience interests, journalistic practices, editorial interference, news management, or censorship.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall—
designate an existing or new office or official within the Department of Defense to serve as the lead for the identification, assessment, prioritization, and mitigation of risks to critical defense sites, including privately owned or commercially operated, in the defense industrial base, including physical and airspace protection against unmanned aircraft systems incursions and other emerging threats; and
notify the congressional defense committees of the office or official designated under paragraph (1) and the specific authorities and resources assigned to it.
Not later than 180 days after the designation made under subsection (a), the designated office or official shall, in consultation with the Secretaries of the military services, the heads of relevant defense agencies, and appropriate private sector representatives—
compile and maintain a classified list of the critical defense sites in the defense industrial base, including privately owned or commercially operated sites; and
rank such sites by the potential devastating effect on national security if disrupted or compromised, taking into account—
the criticality of the capability to current and future military operations;
the absence or limited availability of alternative sources;
the vulnerability to physical threats, including unmanned aircraft systems incursions, sabotage, or natural disasters; and
any other factors the Secretary determines appropriate.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes the following elements:
The list of critical defense sites and prioritization of those sites compiled under subsection (b).
A formal, unclassified definition of the term single point of failure, as a subset of the critical defense sites identified in subsection (b), which shall be used to refer to facilities, sites, production lines, suppliers, or capabilities, whether privately owned or commercially operated, that, if disrupted, would halt or cause undue harm to United States military production, sustainment, or operational readiness due to the lack of viable near-term substitute sources.
A detailed assessment of current protection levels at each identified critical defense site, including any gaps in physical security, airspace protection, or counter-unmanned aircraft systems capabilities.
A description of the risks to national security of failing to protect such sites, including potential impacts on military readiness, supply chain resilience, and strategic deterrence.
A path forward that includes—
options for the Department of Defense to assume or share responsibility with industry for protecting these sites;
estimated costs and recommended funding mechanisms;
proposed legislative or regulatory changes necessary to close the identified gaps; and
a timeline and milestones for implementation of mitigation measures for the highest-ranked single points of failure.
Any other recommendations the Secretary considers appropriate.
The Secretary of Defense shall provide annual updates to the report required under subsection (c) for each of the five years following the initial report, including any changes to the definition, list, or ranking and progress on the path forward.
Section 1094(f) of the Afghanistan War Commission Act of 2021 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1942) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate is authorized to approve the use of Senate resources, including IT, to support the Commission in carrying out its official duties.
Section 1091(h) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1929) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate is authorized to approve the use of Senate resources, including IT, to support the Commission in carrying out its official duties.
Section 1004(h) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1884) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate is authorized to approve the use of Senate resources, including IT, to support the Commission in carrying out its official duties.
Section 1095(h) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1943) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The use of any Senate resources, including IT, by the Commission in carrying out its official duties is hereby approved.
Section 1687(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 2126) is amended to read as follows:
In addition to information, suggestions, estimates, and statistics provided under subsection (e), departments and agencies of the United States may provide to the Commission such services, funds, facilities, staff, and other support services as those departments and agencies may determine advisable and as may be authorized by law.
The Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate is authorized to approve the use of Senate resources, including IT, to support the Commission in carrying out its official duties.
Section 1092(a) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2807) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate is authorized to approve the use of Senate resources, including IT, to support the Commission in carrying out its official duties.
Section 1095(d) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60;) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate is authorized to approve the use of Senate resources, including IT, to support the Commission in carrying out its official duties.
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Chief of Staff of the Army, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the Chief of Space Operations shall each—
identify critical munitions under primary management responsibility of the respective military service;
in place of any designation consisting solely of an acronym or alphanumeric code, assign to each such munition—
a conventional name in the English language that is memorable and suitable for clear operational communication and training; and
not limited in understanding to specialized personnel of the Armed Forces; and
implement the use of the assigned name in all official documentation, public communications, and relevant material of the Department of Defense related to that munition.
The officials specified in subsection (a) shall coordinate with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and the Director of the Missile Defense Agency to ensure that names assigned under subsection (a) are consistent across joint programs and do not conflict with existing nomenclature for allied or foreign systems.
In cases in which primary management under paragraph (1) with respect to a particular munition is unclear, the Deputy Secretary of Defense shall resolve any disputes regarding primary management responsibility.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, each official specified in subsection (a) shall complete full implementation of the names assigned under such subsection, including any necessary updates to logistics systems, labeling, and training curricula.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for two years, each official specified in subsection (a) shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report containing—
a list of all munitions reviewed and the conventional name assigned to each;
a brief rationale for each name selected;
an assessment of any costs associated with implementation; and
a description of the process used to incorporate operational feedback from end users in the naming decisions.
In this section, the term critical munitions includes munitions designated on the critical munitions list of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Subsection (a)(1)(B) of section 806 of title 10, United States Code (article 6 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), as added by section 561(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 881), is amended to read as follows:
maintains a license status in good standing that provides eligibility to practice law;
Section 702(a)(2) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 1561 note) is amended by striking Defense Criminal Investigative Organization and inserting military criminal investigative organization.
Section 1115(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 1580 note prec.) is amended—
in paragraph (2)—
by inserting , except those assigned to the United States Marine Corps, after Department of the Navy; and
by striking ; and and inserting a semicolon;
by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); and
by inserting after paragraph (2) the following new paragraph:
with respect to civilian employees of the Department of the Navy assigned to the United States Marine Corps, the Deputy Commandant of the Marine Corps with principal responsibility for manpower and personnel whose responsibilities arise under section 8045 of such title; and
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall develop and submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive strategy for cognitive warfare for the Department of Defense.
The strategy required by subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following elements:
A Department-wide definition of cognitive warfare.
An assessment of the cognitive warfare threat landscape, including the cognitive warfare threat posed by China, Russia, Iran, and other adversaries, as appropriate, as well as their capabilities, tactics and techniques, and strategic objectives.
An assessment of the cognitive warfare capabilities and objectives of key partners and allies of the United States, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
A plan for integrating cognitive warfare into Department of Defense joint planning, operations, and exercises.
Designation of a Department of Defense entity with responsibility to develop, and continually refine, capabilities and associated policies for the effective conduct of cognitive warfare.
A framework for coordinating cognitive warfare activities with other elements of the United States Government.
Establishment of lines of effort, objectives, and tasks that are necessary to implement such strategy.
Any other matters deemed relevant by the Secretary.
Section 130f of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)
by inserting (1) before The Secretary;
by striking no later than 48 hours following such operation; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
Not later than 48 hours following a sensitive military operation, the Secretary shall submit a written notification that includes, with respect to such operation, the following information:
The date and time of the operation.
The legal authority under which the operation was executed.
The name and date of the execute order under which the operation was conducted.
An identification of the target engagement authority.
The specific location of the operation.
The target or objective of the operation.
The pre-strike assessment with regard to the presence of targeted individuals, civilians, or uncharacterized individuals.
A battle damage assessment.
Any indication or assessment of civilian casualties or other civilian harm.
Any other matters deemed relevant by the Secretary.
Not later than 7 days following a sensitive military operation, the Secretary shall submit a written notification that includes, with respect to such operation, the following information:
Updates to the elements required under paragraph (1).
The strike criteria used by the target engagement authority and a description of how such criteria were satisfied.
The rules of engagement for such operation.
The operational chain of command for the operation.
A detailed description of the intelligence underpinning the operation, including the capabilities and disciplines used such as human, signals, and geospatial.
The number and type of platforms and munitions used.
A description of each engagement, including the timing of such engagement.
A description of the target or objective of the operation, including whether any targeted individuals were armed.
The status of any civilian harm allegations and investigations.
For capture operations, the detention plan and plan for ultimate disposition of those captured.
Any other matters deemed relevant by the Secretary.
in subsection (d)—
by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
a lethal, capture, or kinetic operation conducted by the armed forces;
in paragraph (2), by striking ; or and inserting a semicolon;
in paragraph (3), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; or; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
a lethal, capture, or kinetic operation conducted by a foreign partner advised, assisted, or accompanied by the armed forces.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue written guidance for the ad hoc declassification of Department of Defense information by Department of Defense original classification authorities.
The guidance required by subsection (a) shall be applicable to the Secretary of Defense and any other Department of Defense official designated as an original classification authority.
At a minimum, the guidance required by subsection (a) shall require that—
not later than 24 hours after an ad hoc decision by an original classification authority to declassify Department of Defense information, the original classification authority shall document their decision and the justification for such decision in writing;
not later than 48 hours after an ad hoc decision by the original classification authority to declassify Department of Defense information, the written documentation and justification required by paragraph (1) shall be provided to—
relevant officials of the Department of Defense and other departments and agencies of the United States Government, as appropriate; and
the congressional defense committees; and
the original classification authority shall document the justification.
Not later than 48 hours after issuing the written guidance required by subsection (a) or making any change to the written guidance required by subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall submit such guidance to the congressional defense committees.
In this section:
The term ad hoc declassification means the declassification of Department of Defense information outside the deliberate automatic or systematic declassification processes outlined in Executive Order 13526 Classified National Security Information issued on December 29, 2009, or a successor executive order.
The term original classification authority means a Department of Defense official appropriately authorized to classify information in the first instance or to declassify such information.
Section 1045 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law 115–91; 10 U.S.C. 971 note prec.) is amended to read as follows:
In addition to the restrictions set forth in section 207 of title 18, United States Code, an individual who is an officer or employee described in subsection (b) may not, within two years after the termination of the individual’s service or employment as such officer or employee, knowingly make, with the intent to influence, any communication to or appearance before any officer or employee of the department or agency in which such individual served within one year before such termination, on behalf of any other person (except the United States), in connection with any matter on which such individual seeks official action by any officer or employee of such department or agency.
Subsection (a) shall apply to any individual—
employed as an active duty commissioned officer of the Armed Forces serving in a grade or rank for which the pay grade (as specified in section 201 of title 37, United States Code) is O–9 or higher; or
employed as a civilian officer or employee of the Department of Defense in a civilian grade equivalent to a military grade specified in paragraph (1).
The provisions of subsections (h), (j), and (k) of section 207 of title 18, United States Code, shall apply to the restriction contained in subsection (a) of this section in the same manner as to the restrictions contained in subsection (c) of such section 207.
The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act and shall apply to activities taking place on or after such date, without regard to the termination date of an individual’s service or employment as such an officer or employee.
The following provisions of title 10, United States Code, are hereby repealed:
Subsection (c) of section 493a.
Section 6135.
Section 8227.
Subsection (d) of section 8932.
Subsection (e) of section 9516.
The following provisions are hereby repealed:
Section 909 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 2033).
Of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31)—
section 112 (10 U.S.C. 7013 note);
subsection (c) of section 224 (137 Stat. 194);
paragraph (2) of section 253 (137 Stat. 212);
section 535 (137 Stat. 262);
section 565 (137 Stat. 275);
paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 1247(e) (137 Stat. 463);
paragraph (2) of section 1535(c) (10 U.S.C. 167b note); and
subsection (a) of section 1685 (137 Stat. 620).
Of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263)—
section 218 (136 Stat. 2476);
subsection (g) of section 389 (10 U.S.C. 7013 note);
section 862 (10 U.S.C. 4811 note);
section 1513 (10 U.S.C. 4001 note);
subsection (b) of section 1657 (136 Stat. 2951); and
section 1664 (136 Stat. 2958).
Of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81)—
section 147 (135 Stat. 1584);
subsection (c) of section 228 (10 U.S.C. 2001 note prec.);
section 377 (10 U.S.C. 2001 note prec.);
section 1036 (135 Stat. 1901);
subsection (c) of section 1504 (135 Stat. 2022); and
section 1602(b)(4) (10 U.S.C. 9082 note).
Of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Yea 2021 (Public Law 116–283)—
section 121 (134 Stat. 3424);
subsection (d) of section 364 (6 U.S.C. 106(d));
section 539C (134 Stat. 3609);
paragraph (1) of section 574(a) (10 U.S.C. 8431 note prec.);
section 1299I (134 Stat. 4001);
section 1521(c)(5) (134 Stat. 4035);
subsection (d) of section 1634 (134 Stat. 4059);
section 1673 (134 Stat. 4078);
subsection (d) of section 1723 (10 U.S.C. 394 note);
subsection (b) of section 1727 (10 U.S.C. 2224 note); and
section 1746 (134 Stat. 4139).
Of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92)—
subsection (e) of section 550B (10 U.S.C. 1561 note);
section 597 (133 Stat. 1418);
subsection (d) of section 1674 (133 Stat. 1778);
section 1675 (133 Stat. 1778); and
section 1722 (133 Stat. 1810).
Of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232)—
subsection (b) of section 127 (132 Stat. 1664);
section 1018 (10 U.S.C. 221 note);
subsection (d) of section 1082 (132 Stat. 1988);
section 1276 (132 Stat. 2070); and
section 1657 (132 Stat. 2151).
Section 1267 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law 115–91; 132 Stat. 2070).
Of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328)—
section 123 (130 Stat. 2030); and
section 912 (130 Stat. 2349).
Section 1656 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114–92).
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit a report and provide a briefing to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the Worldwide Expeditionary Multiple Award Contract Territorial Integrity of the United States contract (commonly referred to as the WEXMAC–TITUS contract).
The report required under subsection (a) shall include—
a description of regulations prescribed by the Secretary that govern the provision of humanitarian assistance and logistics support by the Department of Defense for purposes of the detention of migrants;
a description of the procedures used to award contracts for the construction and operation of migrant detention facilities at military installations in the United States;
a list of contracts awarded for the construction and operation of migrant detention facilities at military installations in the United States, including a breakdown of how funding will be allocated at each such facility; and
a summary of any feedback, if applicable, that the Department of Defense has received from local communities on the impact the construction and operation of migrant detention facilities has had on local resources, including sewage systems and water resources.
Section 1707 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking approves a Request for Assistance from the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of Health and Human Services and inserting approves a written Request for Assistance from another Federal agency;
in subsection (b)—
by striking submits to the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Secretary of Health and Human Services and inserting submits to the requesting Federal agency; and
by striking from the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of Health and Human Services, as applicable,; and
by adding at the end the following new subsections:
If the Secretary of Defense approves a Request for Assistance submitted by a Federal agency in other than written form, the Secretary of Defense shall, not later than 7 days following the approval of the Request for Assistance, ensure that such approval is documented in writing and electronically transmitted to the Committees on Armed Services in the Senate and House of Representatives.
The written documentation required under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum—
the requesting department or agency;
the date on which the request was received;
the date on which the request was verbally approved;
the Department of Defense official who provided the verbal approval;
a description of the assistance to be provided;
the legal authority under which the assistance is provided;
the estimated duration of the assistance; and
any anticipated reimbursement or cost-sharing arrangement associated with the assistance.
The Secretary of Defense shall electronically transmit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives within 7 days of providing support under section 272, 273, or 274 of title 10, United States Code, a notification that includes—
the agency to which the support was provided;
the authority under which support was provided;
the source and amount of funds provided for such purpose or project;
a description of the arrangements, if any, for the sustainment of such purpose or project and the source of funds to support sustainment of the capabilities and performance outcomes achieved using the support, if applicable; and
a description of objectives for such purpose or project and the projected timeline.
In this section:
The term Federal agency means any department, independent establishment, commission, authority, board bureau, office, administrative unit, or other entity of the Federal Government.
The term Request for Assistance means any written, oral, visual, non-verbal, or other communication based on mission requirements and expressed in terms of desired outcome, formally asking the Department of Defense to provide assistance to a local, State, tribal, or other Federal agency.
Section 2208(k)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking $500,000 for procurements by a major range and test facility installation or a science and technology reinvention laboratory and not less than $250,000 for procurements at all other facilities and inserting $500,000 for procurements by a major range and test facility installation, a science and technology reinvention laboratory, or any other facility.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army, in coordination with the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, shall develop a comprehensive strategy and roadmap to optimize Army National Guard readiness, force posture, and infrastructure in remote or isolated areas to include the Arctic. The strategy shall take into consideration the posture and plans of the United States Northern Command as well as Golden Dome for America in the assessment and development of the strategy, to ensure infrastructure investments meet homeland defense requirements and maximize operational effectiveness. The strategy shall be known as the Army National Guard Rural Revival and Modernization Plan (referred to in this section as the Plan).
The Plan required under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
A comprehensive audit and assessment of all National Guard armories, readiness centers, training support centers, and ranges within remote or isolated areas. The audit should include an assessment of necessary facilities improvements and include a plan for—
joint-force and extreme-cold-weather tactical training, including integrated survival, mobility, logistics, and combat operations specific to degraded and contested Arctic environments;
forward-operating logistical hubs, cold-weather equipment staging, and intra-theater supply-chain distribution points;
emergency management, disaster response, and homeland defense staging zones; and
communications nodes and remote command-and-control capabilities.
A feasible plan to address and fill critically vacant, unassigned, or under-strength National Guard billets within the designated regions to meet increasing operational tempo (OPTEMPO). The optimization plan shall include—
an analysis of recruitment and retention barriers unique to rural, isolated, or high-cost geographic areas;
a targeted marketing, recruitment, and localized incentives framework, including specialized remote duty allowances, signing bonuses, and educational stipends, designed to source personnel directly from local and rural communities; and
a potential rotational assignment framework to temporarily bridge immediate operational readiness gaps while permanent personnel pipelines are materialized to include associated funding.
A comprehensive capitalization and modernization plan for existing multi-mission, dual-use facilities. The blueprint shall—
identify specific structural and technological upgrades necessary to sustain prolonged, multi-domain operations in austere environments, predicated on a comprehensive cyber-resilience and vulnerability assessment of the existing operational technology at installations and facilities, with an emphasis on—
grid resilience, microgrid integration, and continuous primary power capabilities under extreme environmental degradation;
communications modernization, including secure tactical satellite integration and redundant high-latitude network systems;
hangar, maintenance bay, and cold-storage runway and housing upgrades to handle modern tactical, rotary-wing, and autonomous aerial platforms, and personnel; and
dual-use airfield infrastructure reutilization and expansion of existing runways to accommodate modern military and civilian aircraft; and
ensure all proposed command and control (C2) and facility infrastructure is engineered to operate seamlessly within Denied, Degraded, Intermittent, or Limited environments, incorporating resilient closed and restricted network architectures.
In developing the facility expansion and modernization elements of the Plan, the Secretary of the Army shall evaluate and identify opportunities to leverage enhanced use lease (EUL) authorities or enter into public-private partnerships. The Plan shall—
include specific strategies to co-locate dual-use commercial, community, or telecommunications infrastructure within National Guard footprints to lower Federal infrastructure cost premiums and enhance installation resilience; and
establish or clarify statutory data-sharing authorities and indemnification for the rapid exchange of cyber threat intelligence, risk assessments, and incident response data between the Department of Defense and the co-located commercial entities.
The Plan shall include an assessment of funding mechanisms and potential legislative adjustments required to execute the infrastructure developments, conversions, and modifications identified under the Plan, including an evaluation of how the Secretary may utilize funds available for unspecified minor military construction under section 2805 of title 10, United States Code.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army and the Chief of the National Guard Bureau shall provide an interim briefing to the congressional defense committees on the initial findings of the armory audit and the initial personnel recruitment milestones.
Concurrently with the submission of the President’s budget request for the upcoming fiscal year following the completion of the Plan, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the congressional defense committees a formal report detailing the finalized strategy.
Titles 10, 32, and 37, United States Code, are amended, in each case with the matter inserted to be in the same typeface and typestyle as the matter stricken, by—
striking Department of Defense each place it appears and inserting Department of War; and
striking Secretary of Defense each place it appears and inserting Secretary of War.
Title 10, United States Code, is amended, in each case with the matter inserted to be in the same typeface and typestyle as the matter stricken—
in sections 143, 2701(a)(4), 7381(c), 8226(c), and 9381(c), by striking OSD each place it appears and inserting Office of the Secretary of War ;
in sections 148(c)(6), 165(c), 194(f), 392(e), 430b(d)(2), 1501(b), 1784(g), 2111b(e), 2461(b), 2563(a), 2701(f), 2704(c), 2704(d)(3), 7543(a), and 7687(a), by striking DoD and DOD each place it appears and inserting Department of War;
in section 127e(h), by striking ASD and inserting Assistant Secretary of War;
in sections 1175a(j)(5), 4863(b)(3)(C), and 4872(d)(3), by striking Undersecretary of Defense each place it appears and inserting Under Secretary of War;
in section 2926(f)(5)(D), by striking Secretary for Defense and insert Secretary of War;
in sections 131(b), 137a, 138, 139b(b)(3)(B)(vii), 398a(c), 1142(b)(19), by striking Secretaries of Defense each place it appears and inserting Secretaries of War;
in section 2164b, by striking DODEA each place it appears and inserting Department of War Education Activity; and
in section 4091, by striking Defense Test Resource Management Center each place it appears and inserting Department of War Test Resource Management Center.
The amendments in subsections (a)(1) and (b)(2) shall not apply to sections 120(d), 1721(c), 2216a(c)(1), 2263(b)(2), 2856a(c)(2), 2856b(c), 3138(f)(4), 4505(h)(5), 4506(d)(2)(A), 4506(f), 4832(c)(4), and 5502(c)(3)(B) of title 10, United States Code.
The amendments in subsection (a)(1) shall not apply to the term Department of Defense Interim Guidance dated February 29, 2000 in section 2475(a) of title 10, United States Code.
The amendments in subsection (a)(2) shall not apply to sections 499c(a)(1)(D), 500d(c), 2281(d)(2), 3138(f)(4), 5502(c)(3)(A), and 5502(c)(3)(B) of title 10, United States Code.
Chapter 1 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 102 the following new section:
Any reference to the Secretary of Defense and Department of Defense in any law, regulation, map, document, record, or other paper of the United States shall be deemed to be a reference to the Secretary of War and Department of War, respectively.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of each military department shall establish a service-wide strategy for human performance to identify service-wide requirements and policies to optimize the use and acquisition of human performance technology and services.
The strategy required under subsection (a) shall—
identify a program of primary responsibility for human performance across the service to integrate, synchronize, and optimize human performance technology and services across each service;
identify requirements for the procurement of human performance technology and services;
identify security requirements, including risks stemming from wearable technology devices for which the hardware is assembled in China;
provide a timeline and estimated funding for implementation of the human performance enterprise solution, including acquisition plans, for the period covering fiscal years 2027 through 2031; and
provide metrics and performance indicators for assessing the effectiveness and value of the human performance enterprise solution.
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, each Secretary of a military department shall submit to the congressional defense committees a description of the strategy required under subsection (a), including a detailed description of the elements required in subsection (b).
In this section:
The term human performance means optimization of physical and mental health (such as physical readiness, mental readiness, sleep readiness, nutritional readiness, spiritual readiness) required for optimal performance and improved readiness.
The term human performance technology and services means wearables and data management platforms that support human performance.
In this section and only for the purpose of the Department of Defense records preservation processes established by this section, the term Afghan ally means an alien who is a citizen or national of Afghanistan, or in the case of an alien having no nationality, an alien who last habitually resided in Afghanistan, who—
was—
a member of—
the special operations forces of the Afghanistan National Defense and Security Forces;
the Afghanistan National Army Special Operations Command;
the Afghan Air Force; or
the Special Mission Wing of Afghanistan;
a female member of any other entity of the Afghanistan National Defense and Security Forces, including—
a cadet or instructor at the Afghanistan National Defense University; and
a civilian employee of the Ministry of Defense or the Ministry of Interior Affairs;
an individual associated with former Afghan military and police human intelligence activities, including operators and Department of Defense sources;
an individual associated with former Afghan military counterintelligence, counterterrorism, or counternarcotics;
an individual associated with the former Afghan Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior Affairs, or court system, and who was involved in the investigation, prosecution, or detention of combatants or members of the Taliban or criminal networks affiliated with the Taliban;
an individual employed in the former justice sector in Afghanistan as a judge, prosecutor, or investigator who was engaged in rule of law activities for which the United States provided funding or training; or
a senior military officer, senior enlisted personnel, or civilian official who served on the staff of the former Ministry of Defense or the former Ministry of Interior Affairs of Afghanistan; and
provided service to an entity or organization described in paragraph (1) for not less than one year during the period beginning on December 22, 2001, and ending on September 1, 2021, and did so in support of the United States mission in Afghanistan.
For purposes of this section, the Afghanistan National Defense and Security Forces includes members of the security forces under the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Interior Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, including the Afghanistan National Army, the Afghan Air Force, the Afghanistan National Police, and any other entity designated by the Secretary of Defense as part of the Afghanistan National Defense and Security Forces during the relevant period of service of the applicant concerned.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a process by which an individual may apply to the Secretary of Defense for classification as an Afghan ally.
The process established under paragraph (1) shall—
include the development and maintenance of a secure online portal through which applicants may provide information verifying their status as Afghan allies and upload supporting documentation; and
allow—
an applicant to submit his or her own application;
a designee of an applicant to submit an application on behalf of the applicant; and
the submission of an application regardless of where the applicant is located, provided that the applicant is outside the United States.
As soon as practicable after receiving a request for classification described in paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall—
review—
the service record of the applicant, if available;
if the applicant provides a service record or other supporting documentation, any information within the internal or contractor-held records of the Department of Defense that helps verify the service record concerned, including information or an attestation provided by any current or former official of the Department of Defense who has personal knowledge of the eligibility of the applicant for such classification; and
available data holdings in the possession of the Department of Defense or any contractor of the Department of Defense, including as applicable biographic and biometric records, iris scans, fingerprints, voice biometric information, hand geometry biometrics, other identifiable information, and any other information related to the applicant, including relevant derogatory information; and
in a case in which the Secretary of Defense determines that the applicant is an Afghan ally without significant derogatory information, the Secretary shall preserve a complete record of such application for potential future use by the applicant or a designee of the applicant; and
include with such preserved record—
any service record concerned, if available;
if the applicant provides a service record, any information that helps verify the service record concerned; and
any biometrics for the applicant.
In the case of an applicant with respect to whom the Secretary of Defense denies a request for classification and records preservation based on a determination that the applicant is not an Afghan ally or based on derogatory information—
the Secretary shall provide the applicant with a written notice of the denial that provides, to the maximum extent practicable, a description of the basis for the denial, including the facts and inferences, or evidentiary gaps, underlying the individual determination; and
the applicant shall be provided an opportunity to submit not more than 1 written appeal to the Secretary for each such denial.
An appeal under clause (ii) of subparagraph (A) shall be submitted—
not more than 120 days after the date on which the applicant concerned receives notice under clause (i) of that subparagraph; or
on any date thereafter, at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense.
An applicant who receives a denial under subparagraph (A) may submit a request to reopen a request for classification and records preservation under the process established under paragraph (1) so that the applicant may provide additional information, clarify existing information, or explain any unfavorable information.
After considering one such request to reopen from an applicant, the Secretary of Defense may deny subsequent requests to reopen submitted by the same applicant.
The application process under this subsection shall terminate on the date that—
is not earlier than ten years after the date of the enactment of this Act; and
on which the Secretary of Defense makes a determination that such termination is in the national interest of the United States.
The Secretary of Defense may not charge any fee in connection with a request for a classification or records preservation under this section.
Any limitation in law with respect to the number of personnel within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the military departments, or a Defense Agency (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code) shall not apply to personnel employed for the primary purpose of carrying out this section.
An alien applying for records preservation under this section may be represented during the application process, including at relevant interviews and examinations, by an attorney or other accredited representative. Such representation shall not be at the expense of the United States Government.
In this section:
The term covered individual means—
a member of the Armed Forces;
a civilian employee of the Department of Defense; or
an employee of a Department of Defense contractor, subcontractor, grantee, or subgrantee or personal services contractor.
The term designated agency ethics official means the designated agency ethics official, as that term is defined in section 13101 of title 5, United States Code, for the Department of Defense.
The term material nonpublic information means information—
that a reasonable investor would consider important in making a decision relating to a prediction market contract; and
that is not publicly available.
The term prediction market contract means any financial instrument, contract, or derivative—
listed on or offered by a platform, regardless of whether the platform is domiciled in the United States; and
tied to the occurrence or non-occurrence of an event, including event contracts, as described in section 5c(c)(5)(C)(i) of the Commodity Exchange Act (7 U.S.C. 7a-2(c)(5)(C)(i)).
No covered individual may use material nonpublic information derived from the position of the covered individual as a member of the Armed Forces, civilian employee of the Department of Defense, or employee of a Department of Defense contractor, subcontractor, grantee, or subgrantee or personal services contractor or gained from the performance of the official responsibilities of the covered individual as a means for making a profit through a covered transaction.
Not later than 30 days after receiving notification of any covered transaction the value of which is more than $250 and to which the covered individual is a party, the covered individual shall submit to the designated agency ethics official a report describing the covered transaction, which shall include—
the value of the prediction market contract, including the purchase price and number of prediction market contracts purchased;
the date and time of the covered transaction;
the name of the prediction market contract and the position taken on the prediction market contract;
the prediction market contract trading platform used to complete the covered transaction; and
the profit or loss of the covered transaction after the prediction market contract closes, or the covered individual exits the position, provided that if the prediction market contract is not closed on the date on which the report under this section is submitted, an additional report shall be submitted not later than 30 days after the date on which the prediction market contract closes or the covered individual exits the position.
Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish appropriate penalties for violating the prohibition under subsection (b).
A violation of the prohibition under subsection (b) shall be reported by the designated agency ethics official to the Secretary of Defense.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall issue regulations prohibiting members of the covered Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense from entering into transactions on prediction markets in cases that relate to—
the Department of Defense, the Armed Forces, the military departments, the defense agencies, a combatant command, or any other component of the Department;
military operations, military plans, military activities, mobilization, deployments, force posture, readiness, casualties, military exercises, contingency operations, or the use of force;
intelligence activities, counterintelligence activities, special operations, cybersecurity operations, cyber incidents, or operations in the information environment;
terrorism, armed conflict, foreign military operations, foreign internal instability, sanctions, export controls, foreign military sales, security assistance, or defense articles or services;
defense acquisition, contract awards, bid protests, milestone decisions, program delays, production rates, weapons deliveries, the defense industrial base, or other matters involving Department procurement or acquisition;
authorization, appropriation, apportionment, allotment, obligation, expenditure, rescission, reprogramming, transfer, or withholding of funds for the Department;
classified information, controlled unclassified information, procurement-sensitive information, deliberative information, predecisional information, or other nonpublic Government information; or
any other category of event, contingency, occurrence, decision, action, outcome, or circumstance that the Secretary determines, by regulation, creates a risk to the integrity of Department operations, the protection of nonpublic Government information, the impartiality of Department personnel, or public confidence in the Department.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall revise the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to require an appropriate clause in relevant contracts to prohibit contractor personnel from participating in prediction markets in cases described in subsection (a).
The clause required under paragraph (1) shall require the contractor to report to the contracting officer and appropriate security officials any credible information indicating that contractor personnel described in paragraph (1) knowingly violated the prohibition required by such clause.
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit any other requirement relating to conflicts of interest, procurement integrity, insider threat, cybersecurity, contractor responsibility, or eligibility for access to classified information.
The regulations under subsections (a) and (b) shall specify a range of punishments for the use of prediction markets in violation of this section.
In this section, the term covered Armed Forces means the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force.
In this section, the term wager—
means the staking or risking by any person of something of value upon the outcome of an event, including the outcome of any portion or aspect thereof, upon an agreement or understanding that the person or another person will receive something of value in the event of a certain outcome; and
does not include insurance for which the insured holds a lawful insurable interest—
under State law, within the meaning of the Act entitled An Act to express the intent of the Congress with reference to the regulation of the business of insurance, approved March 9, 1945 (commonly known as the McCarran-Ferguson Act (15 U.S.C. 1011 et seq.)); or
under foreign law, with respect—
to risks located outside the United States; or
the reinsurance of risks covered under clause (i).
It shall be unlawful for any person to place, accept, or facilitate the placement or acceptance of a wager regarding a military operation, including pursuant to any contingency operation, sensitive military operation, introduction of American forces into hostilities, authorization for the use of military force, or war.
The Attorney General may bring a civil action for injunctive relief in an appropriate district court of the United States against any person who violates paragraph (1).
Section 1952(b)(i)(1) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by inserting after gambling the following: (including conduct prohibited by section 3(a) of the Military Operations Bets Ban Act of 2026).
Section 1955(b) of title 18, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (1)(i), by inserting section 3(a) of the Military Operations Bets Ban Act of 2026 or after is a violation of; and
in paragraph (4), by inserting conduct prohibited by section 3(a) of the Military Operations Bets Ban Act of 2026, after gambling includes but is not limited to.
Section 5362(1) of title 31, United States Code, is amended—
in subparagraph (D), by striking and at the end;
by redesignating subparagraph (E) as subparagraph (F); and
by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following:
includes conduct prohibited by section 3(a) of the Military Operations Bets Ban Act of 2026, without regard to subparagraph (F) of this paragraph; and
Section 5c(c)(5)(C) of the Commodity Exchange Act (7 U.S.C. 7a–2(c)(5)(C)) is amended—
in clause (i)—
in the matter preceding subclause (I)—
by striking the occurrence, and inserting an occurrence,;
by striking 1a(2)(i)), and inserting 1a(19)(i)),; and
by striking or transactions each place it appears and inserting transactions, or swaps;
by striking subclause (IV); and
by redesignating subclauses (V) and (VI) as subclauses (IV) and (V), respectively; and
by striking clause (ii) and inserting the following:
No agreement, contract, transaction, or swap may be listed or made available for clearing or trading on or through a registered entity if—
the agreement, contract, transaction, or swap involves war or United States Armed Forces military operations; or
the Commission determines the agreement, contract, transaction, or swap is contrary to the public interest under clause (i).
If any provision of this section or amendment made by this section, or the application of such provision or amendment to any person or circumstance, is held to be unconstitutional, the remainder of this section and the amendments made by this section, and the application of the provision or amendment to any other person or circumstance, shall not be affected.
This section shall take effect on the date that is 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act.
Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue guidance applicable to all military departments establishing a standardized definition and tiered classification system for determining the remote and isolated designation status of military installations for the purposes of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) and resale, workforce shortages, providing critical services to members and families, and infrastructure The guidance shall—
supersede any conflicting definitions, criteria, or designations issued by individual military departments with respect to remote and isolated status, except as otherwise provided in subsection (c);
apply uniformly across all branches of the Armed Forces and all military departments;
align with and support the program eligibility determinations, MWR program category assignments, and NAF activity entitlements established under Department of Defense Instruction 1015.10 (Military Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Programs and Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentalities) and Department of Defense Instruction 1015.18 (Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentality Procurement Policy); and
establish a tiered system of remote and isolated designations as provided in subsection (b).
In developing the guidance required under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that—
each tier classification established under subsection (b) directly corresponds to specific MWR program categories and funding levels authorized under DoDI 1015.10, such that installations within a given tier are assigned MWR program categories commensurate with their degree of isolation;
the guidance clarifies and reconciles any inconsistencies between current remote and isolated designations used by the military departments and the location category definitions employed by DoDI 1015.10 in determining appropriated fund support levels;
procurement authorizations for nonappropriated fund instrumentalities (NAF) at remote and isolated installations under DoDI 1015.18 are calibrated to reflect the tier designation of such installations, with higher-tier installations receiving proportionally greater procurement flexibility; and
any future revisions to DoDI 1015.10 or DoDI 1015.18 are reviewed for consistency with the universal guidance required by this section within 180 days of such revision, and updated as necessary to maintain alignment.
In developing the guidance required under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall consult with—
the Secretaries of the military departments;
the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff;
the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness; and
the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment.
The guidance issued pursuant to subsection (a) shall establish a tiered system for classifying military installations by degree of remoteness and isolation. The Secretary shall designate not fewer than three and not more than five tiers. In developing the tier criteria, the Secretary shall consider, at a minimum, the following factors:
Whether the installation is located CONUS or OCONUS, as defined in subsection (f), recognizing that OCONUS installations generally face a broader range of access limitations that may not be captured by proximity or distance metrics alone.
Commissary availability and off-base subsistence access, including—
the distance and travel time to the nearest on-installation commissary, off-installation grocery store, or supermarket equivalent;
the hours of operation of such facilities;
price competitiveness relative to standard retail markets; and
the variety and adequacy of available goods to support servicemember and family dietary needs.
Childcare and school availability, including—
the capacity and waitlist status of on-installation childcare facilities and Child Development Centers;
the availability and quality of off-installation licensed childcare providers; and
the availability, quality, and accreditation status of kindergarten through grade 12 educational institutions both on-installation and in the surrounding community, including Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) Schools, local public schools, and private or charter school options.
Housing availability, including—
the quantity, quality, and vacancy rate of on-installation government quarters;
the availability and affordability of off-installation rental and for-purchase housing in the surrounding community;
the adequacy of the applicable Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rate relative to local housing market conditions; and
the availability of accessible housing for servicemembers with special needs or larger family sizes.
Commute distance and time associated with housing availability, including—
the average driving distance and travel time between available off-installation housing and the installation gate;
the availability and reliability of public transportation options;
road infrastructure quality and seasonal road conditions; and
the degree to which limited off-installation housing inventory forces servicemembers and families to reside at distances that impose an unreasonable commute burden.
Healthcare availability, including—
the capacity and scope of services offered by the on-installation military treatment facility, if any;
the distance to the nearest off-installation civilian hospital, including consideration if care is only available in a neighboring country, and whether these facilities have emergency and trauma services, urgent care facility, and primary care provider accepting TRICARE and civilian healthcare insurance like the Federal Employee Health Benefits Plan;
the availability of specialty care including pediatric, mental health, obstetric, and dental services both on and off installation; and
appointment wait times relative to community standards.
Fitness center and recreational facility availability, including—
the presence, capacity, quality, and hours of operation of on-installation fitness centers, gymnasiums, aquatic facilities, and outdoor recreation areas;
the extent to which servicemembers and families must rely exclusively on on-installation fitness resources due to the absence or inadequacy of off-installation commercial fitness and recreational options; and
the condition and modernization status of on-installation MWR facilities.
Regional employment rate and military spouse employment opportunities, including—
the unemployment rate in the surrounding labor market area;
the availability of career-level civilian employment opportunities accessible to military spouses within a reasonable commute distance;
the presence of industries or employers known to be military-spouse-friendly;
access to higher education and vocational training programs; and
the availability of remote or telework employment options given existing telecommunications infrastructure at the installation location.
Physical accessibility of the installation, including road conditions, distance from the nearest population center, presence of geographic barriers such as mountains, bodies of water, or desert terrain, and seasonal inaccessibility due to weather or environmental conditions.
Access to commercial air transportation, including the distance to the nearest commercial airport, frequency of commercial air service, and availability of reasonable airfares.
The cost-of-living differential between the installation location and relevant baseline comparators, including the availability and cost of off-installation housing.
For OCONUS installations, host nation restrictions on the movement of servicemembers and their families, status of forces agreement limitations, force protection and travel restrictions, foreign language or cultural barriers affecting access to community services, and the operational posture of the installation.
Emergency services, including—
access to critical emergency services, including the availability, response time, and operational capacity of emergency medical services, fire and rescue services, law enforcement support, emergency evacuation capabilities, disaster response infrastructure, and mutual aid agreements with surrounding civilian jurisdictions;
the reliability of emergency communications systems;
the extent to which geographic isolation, weather conditions, or transportation limitations impede timely access to emergency assistance for servicemembers and their families.
In assigning a tier designation to an installation, the Secretary shall develop and apply a standardized scoring methodology that—
weights the factors described in paragraph (1) and any additional factors the Secretary deems appropriate on a consistent basis across all military departments;
distinguishes between CONUS and OCONUS installations with separate scoring criteria reflective of the unique circumstances of each category;
permits periodic re-evaluation of an installation's tier designation upon a significant change in circumstances, including changes to base population, infrastructure, or surrounding community development;
includes a formal appeals process by which a Secretary of a military department or an installation commander may request re-evaluation of a tier designation, with a decision required not later than 180 days after submission of such request;
incorporates both quantitative and qualitative measures, including servicemember and military family quality-of-life indicators, workforce vacancy rates, spouse employment outcomes, childcare wait times, healthcare appointment availability, and access to emergency services; and
accounts for cumulative effects of multiple access limitations, such that installations experiencing deficiencies across several categories may receive a higher tier designation notwithstanding moderate scores in any individual category.
Notwithstanding subsection (a)(1)(A), all military installations that have been designated as remote and isolated by any military department as of the date of the enactment of this Act shall retain their remote and isolated designation until the date that is 12 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, at which time the Secretary of Defense shall publish a new and comprehensive list of installations designated as remote and isolated under the tiered classification system established pursuant to subsection (b).
During the period in which existing designations are preserved under paragraph (1), servicemembers assigned to installations with an existing remote and isolated designation shall continue to receive all programs, entitlements, and MWR support authorized under such designation. No servicemember or dependent shall lose access to any program solely as a result of the transition to the tiered classification system prior to the publication of the new list required by paragraph (1).
The new list published pursuant to paragraph (1) shall—
include each military installation designated as remote and isolated, organized by tier designation under the tiered classification system;
identify any installation that held a remote and isolated designation under prior military department criteria that is not included in the new list, together with a written justification for the removal of such designation; and
be published in a manner accessible to all servicemembers, Department of Defense employees, and the general public.
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a consolidated list of all military installations currently designated as remote and isolated by each military department. The list shall—
identify each installation by name, location, and military department;
identify the criteria applied by each military department to designate such installations as remote and isolated as of the date of submission;
note the approximate date each installation received its current remote and isolated designation; and
identify any installations for which remote and isolated status is in dispute or under review by a military department as of the date of submission.
Not later than 30 days before publishing the new and comprehensive list of remote and isolated installations required under subsection (c)(1), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the updated list. The briefing shall include—
a complete draft of the proposed new list, organized by tier designation;
an explanation of the scoring methodology and weighting criteria applied under the tiered classification system to assign tier designations to each installation;
a comparison of the proposed new list to the consolidated list submitted under paragraph (1), identifying installations added to, removed from, or reclassified on the updated list, and the rationale for each such change;
an assessment of the anticipated effects of the new designations on MWR program categories, appropriated fund support levels, and NAF entitlements under DoDI 1015.10 and DoDI 1015.18; and
a summary of any formal requests for re-designation received during the development of the new list and the disposition of each such request.
Following publication of the initial list under subsection (c)(1), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an updated list not less frequently than every three years, or within 180 days of any significant revision to the universal guidance issued under subsection (a). Such updated list shall include the same information required under paragraph (2) of this subsection with respect to any changes from the prior list.
The Secretary of Defense shall review the universal guidance issued pursuant to subsection (a), including the tiered classification system, not less frequently than once every three years. Such review shall consider—
changes in population, infrastructure, or community development in the vicinity of designated installations;
feedback from installation commanders, servicemember surveys, and military family organizations;
revisions to applicable Department of Defense Instructions or policy directives; and
any significant changes to the global basing posture or force structure of the Armed Forces that may affect the remote and isolated status of installations.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to—
limit the authority of the Secretary of Defense to designate additional installations as remote and isolated beyond those identified under the tiered classification system where warranted by unique operational, environmental, or mission requirements;
limit the authority of the Secretary of Defense to revise DoDI 1015.10 or DoDI 1015.18 in accordance with applicable law; or
require the disclosure of any classified information with respect to installations or operations in submitting reports, lists, or briefings required under this section.
In this section:
The term CONUS means the continental United States, excluding Alaska and Hawaii.
The term community support access means the availability, within reasonable proximity of an installation, of commercial retail establishments, medical and dental care providers, recreational and entertainment venues, educational institutions, and other community services routinely used by servicemembers and their families.
The term military department has the meaning given that term in section 101(a)(8) of title 10, United States Code.
The term military installation has the meaning given that term in section 2801(c)(4) of title 10, United States Code.
The term OCONUS means outside the continental United States, including Alaska, Hawaii, United States territories, and all foreign countries.
The term off-base subsistence access means the availability of grocery stores, commissary equivalents, restaurants, and other food retail establishments accessible to servicemembers and their dependents without undue burden.
Except as provided in subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall declassify any information referred to in paragraph (2), or, if such declassification is not possible, make such information available to family members to review.
Paragraph (1) applies to any record, live-sighting report, or other information in the custody of the Department of Defense that relates to the location, treatment, or condition of any POW/MIA from World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War on or after the date on which such individual passed from United States control into a status classified as a prisoner of war or missing in action, as the case may be, until that individual is returned to United States control.
For purposes of this section, a POW/MIA from World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War is any member of the Armed Forces or civilian employee of the United States who was at any time classified as a prisoner of war or missing in action during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War and whose person or remains have not been returned to United States control.
The Secretary of Defense may not declassify a record or other information available to the public pursuant to subsection (a) if the record or other information specifically mentions a person by name unless—
in the case of a person who is alive (and not incapacitated) and whose whereabouts are known, that person expressly consents in writing to the declassification of the record or other information; or
in the case of a person who is dead or incapacitated or whose whereabouts are unknown, a family member or family members of that person determined by the Secretary of Defense to be appropriate for such purpose expressly consent in writing to the declassification of the record or other information.
The authority of a person to consent to disclosure of a record or other information for the purposes of subparagraph (A) may be delegated to another person or an organization only by means of an express legal power of attorney granted by the person authorized by that paragraph to consent to the disclosure.
The limitation on disclosure in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1) does not apply—
in the case of a person who is dead or incapacitated or whose whereabouts are unknown if the family member or members of that person determined pursuant to such subparagraph cannot be located after a reasonable effort; or
to the access of an adult member of the family of a person to any record or information to the extent that the record or other information relates to that person.
In the case of records or other information that are required by subsection (a) to be declassified and that are in the custody of the Department of Defense on the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall declassify such records and other information pursuant to this section not later than three years after such date. Such records or other information shall be declassified as soon as a review carried out for the purposes of subsection (b) is completed.
If the Secretary of Defense determines that the declassification of any record or other information referred to in subsection (a) by the date required by paragraph (1) may compromise the safety of a POW/MIA who may still be alive in the area of conflict, then the Secretary may withhold that record or other information from the disclosure otherwise required by this section. Whenever the Secretary makes a determination under the preceding sentence, the Secretary shall immediately notify the President and Congress of that determination.
The Secretary of Defense shall work with the heads of other Federal departments and agencies to address the disposition of records in possession of such agencies, including records received or discovered after the deadlines referred to in subsection (c).
Chapter 141 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense may not employ a manned platform with offensive lethal weapons capabilities to conduct an attack if such platform does not include markings to—
signify its affiliation with the United States Armed Forces; and
distinguish itself from the civilian population, equipment, or platforms when conducting an attack.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the employment of a manned platform with integrated weapons capabilities of a purely defensive character.
Section 1095(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1072) is amended by striking 90 days after and inserting 15 months after.
None of the amounts authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act for the Department of Defense may be used to transfer or assist in the transfer or involuntary return of an individual described in subsection (b) to—
Afghanistan;
a third country from which it may reasonably be assumed that the individual will be sent to Afghanistan; or
any location the transfer or involuntary return to which would otherwise violate existing law.
An individual described in this subsection is an individual housed at Camp As Sayliyah who—
is a national of Afghanistan (or in the case of an individual having no nationality, an individual who last habitually resided in Afghanistan); and
was transported to Camp As Sayliyah by the United States Government for the purpose of consideration for admission to the United States.
With respect to Afghanistan or a third country from which it may reasonably assumed that an individual described in subsection (b) will be sent to Afghanistan, the Secretary may waive the application of subsection (a) in the case of such an individual with respect to whom there is pre-existing derogatory information that would preclude the individual from settling in the United States or Qatar.
Not later than 30 days before the date on which the Secretary intends to exercise the waiver authority under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall notify the relevant committees of Congress of such intent.
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation and the Program Evaluation Competitive Analysis Cell established under section 139a(e) of title 10, United States Code, shall provide a briefing to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on force requirements for alternative warfighting scenarios.
The alternative warfighting scenarios to be addressed under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following types of scenarios:
A variety of first island chain scenarios in the Pacific, including protracted and simultaneous conflicts.
Regional contingencies from not fewer than two additional geographic combatant command areas of responsibility.
Conflicts with near-peer adversaries that result in horizontal escalation across geographic regions.
Hybrid or gray-zone conflict scenarios combining cyber operations, electronic warfare, space-based disruption, and irregular maritime activity by adversary forces.
For each scenario addressed under subsection (a), the briefing required by that subsection shall assess the following:
Required force composition (naval, air, and land-based units, including joint and allied contributions).
Current readiness levels of United States forces to execute the scenario.
Identified shortfalls in personnel, equipment, logistics, basing access, medical support capabilities, contingency contracting capability, munitions stockpiles, industrial base production capacities, and sustainment capabilities.
Estimated timelines for force reconstitution and sustainment under combat conditions, including replacement and training of military manpower personnel due to attrition.
Opportunities to increase the quantity and availability of required military effects through the use of lower-cost, rapidly producible, attritable, autonomous, commercial, or otherwise scalable capabilities capable of achieving acceptable operational outcomes, together with an evaluation of the risks, benefits, costs, implementation timelines, and any legislative or regulatory barriers associated with such approaches.
The purposes of the assessment of alternative warfighting scenarios under this section are—
to test and evaluate United States force readiness across a spectrum of potential contingencies;
to identify risks and gaps in such readiness; and
to inform future force planning, posture, and investment decisions.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue guidance on treatment of claims under the HAVANA Act (Public Law 117–46) with respect to the inclusion of current and former members of the Armed Forces.
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense (referred to in this subsection as the Secretary) shall complete a comprehensive assessment of the vulnerabilities in the Department of Defense phosphate supply chain, including—
the reliance of defense-relevant industries and military operations on foreign-sourced phosphate and phosphate-derived products; and
the risks to national security posed by patterns of import dependence, foreign supply concentration, and the susceptibility of global commodity supply chains to disruption in existence as of the date of the assessment.
The assessment required under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, an evaluation of the following:
The extent to which the Department of Defense, the defense industrial base, and defense-related agricultural and manufacturing supply chains depend on phosphate and phosphate-derived products, including—
phosphate-based munitions components, propellants, flame retardants, energy storage, and pyrotechnics;
phosphoric acid and phosphate compounds used in metal finishing, corrosion protection, and other defense manufacturing processes; and
phosphate fertilizers essential to domestic agricultural production supporting military food supply chains and civil-military operations during a national emergency.
Current and projected domestic production capacity for phosphate rock and processed phosphate products, including an assessment of the number, location, and operational status of domestic mining and processing facilities.
The vulnerability of the phosphate supply chain to deliberate or inadvertent disruption, including—
the degree of United States net import reliance for phosphate at each stage of the supply chain, from raw ore to finished defense-relevant products;
the concentration of foreign suppliers, including the market share and geopolitical risk profile of Morocco, China, and other major producers;
the risk of supply disruption arising from hostile foreign actions, armed conflicts, sanctions, trade restrictions, export controls imposed by foreign governments, or anti-competitive behaviors by state-owned or state-influenced enterprises;
the risk of disruption arising from single points of failure in domestic transportation, processing, or storage infrastructure; and
the adequacy and feasibility of substitution, including the availability of alternative materials, alternative suppliers, or alternative production methods capable of replacing phosphate in defense-critical applications within operationally relevant timeframes.
The adequacy of existing United States phosphate stockpiles, including any quantities held in or eligible for inclusion in the National Defense Stockpile established under the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act (50 U.S.C. 98 et seq.), and the sufficiency of such stockpiles to sustain defense-relevant consumption during a supply disruption of 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively.
The relationship between domestic phosphate production capacity and the long-term ability of the United States to reduce supply chain vulnerability through domestic sourcing.
A comparison of phosphate supply chain vulnerabilities with vulnerabilities of other materials designated, as of the date of the assessment, as strategic and critical materials under the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act (50 U.S.C. 98 et seq.) or as critical minerals on the list of critical minerals published under section 7002(c)(3) of the Energy Act of 2020 (30 U.S.C. 1606(c)(3)), for the purpose of informing relative prioritization.
The assessment required under paragraph (1) shall include recommendations with respect to—
actions the Department of Defense should take to reduce identified vulnerabilities in the phosphate supply chain, including through stockpiling, domestic production incentives, or other supply chain resilience measures; and
any legislative or regulatory action necessary to address identified gaps in phosphate supply chain security.
Not later than 30 days after the date on which the assessment required under paragraph (1) is completed, the Secretary shall submit a report containing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the assessment to—
the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate;
the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives;
the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate; and
the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives.
The report required under subparagraph (A)—
shall be submitted in an unclassified form; but
may include a classified annex if the Secretary determines that the inclusion of certain information in an unclassified report would be detrimental to the national security of the United States.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the actions of the Secretary of the Interior in the approval and issuance of land patent No. 11-2021-0002 pursuant to the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) are reaffirmed and ratified.
The use by the University of Utah of the land described in paragraph (2) as a University research park, as approved by the letter from the Secretary of the Interior to the University of Utah dated December 10, 1970, and any modifications of the approved plan of development and management approved by the Department of the Interior prior to the date of enactment of this Act, is confirmed as a valid public purpose consistent with the requirements of the Act of June 14, 1926 (commonly known as the Recreation and Public Purposes Act) (44 Stat. 741, chapter 578; 43 U.S.C. 869 et seq.), subject to the terms and conditions included in the letter and approvals.
Any other uses of the land described in paragraph (2) by the University of Utah that are consistent with use as a University research park and related university purposes (including development of student housing and a transit hub) are confirmed as valid public purposes consistent with the requirements of the Act of June 14, 1926 (commonly known as the “Recreation and Public Purposes Act”) (44 Stat. 741, chapter 578; 43 U.S.C. 869 et seq.).
The land referred to in paragraph (1) is the approximately 593.54 acres of land conveyed to the University of Utah under the Act of June 14, 1926 (commonly known as the Recreation and Public Purposes Act) (44 Stat. 741, chapter 578; 43 U.S.C. 869 et seq.), by patent numbered 43–99–0012 and dated October 18, 1968, and more particularly described as tracts D (excluding parcels numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5), G, and J, T. 1 S., R. 1 E., Salt Lake Meridian.
In this subsection:
The term Secretary means the Secretary of Agriculture.
The term Trail means the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
The term Trail Completion Team means the joint Forest Service-Bureau of Land Management Trail completion team established under paragraph (3).
Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior shall seek to complete the Trail as a continuous route not later than 10 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior shall establish a joint Forest Service-Bureau of Land Management Trail completion team to work in coordination with the administrator of the Trail—
to facilitate the completion and optimization of the Trail, consistent with the purposes of the Trail; and
to assist in the development of the comprehensive development plan for the Trail under paragraph (4).
As appropriate, the Trail Completion Team shall consult with other Federal agencies, affected State, Tribal, and local governments, landowners, affected land-grant mercedes owners and users, acequias, and other interested parties in—
the completion and optimization of the Trail; and
the development and completion of the comprehensive development plan for the Trail under paragraph (4).
Not later than 3 years after the date of establishment of the Trail Completion Team under paragraph (3), the Secretary shall complete a comprehensive development plan for the Trail.
The comprehensive development plan under subparagraph (A) shall—
identify any gaps in the Trail for which the Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior have not been able to acquire land;
identify opportunities for the use of easements acquired from willing sellers to facilitate completion of the Trail; and
include general and site-specific Trail development plans, including anticipated costs of the plans.
The Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior shall seek to enter into agreements with volunteer and nonprofit organizations, as appropriate, to facilitate the completion and administration of the Trail.
Nothing in this subsection—
provides any authority to acquire land or interests in land for inclusion in the Trail beyond the authorities provided for the Trail in the National Trails System Act (16 U.S.C. 1241 et seq.), including acquisition by eminent domain; or
makes the acquisition of land or interests in land for the Trail a priority over other land acquisition authorizations.
Subject to valid existing rights, the Federal land described in paragraph (2) is withdrawn from all forms of—
location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and
disposition under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws.
The Federal land referred to in paragraphs (1) and (3) is the approximately 4,288 acres of land administered by the Director of the Bureau of Land Management and generally depicted as Tract A, Tract B, Tract C, and Tract D on the map entitled Placitas, New Mexico Area Map and dated November 13, 2019.
Subject to the reservation of the mineral estate under subparagraph (B), nothing in this subsection prohibits the Secretary of the Interior from conveying the surface estate of the Federal land described in paragraph (2) in accordance with—
the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.); or
the Act of June 14, 1926 (commonly known as the Recreation and Public Purposes Act) (43 U.S.C. 869 et seq.).
Any conveyance of the surface estate of the Federal land described in paragraph (2) shall require a reservation of the mineral estate to the United States.
In this section:
The term common operating picture means an integrated, interoperable, near-real-time geospatial and temporal display and repository of multi-source sensor, analytic, and operational data and intelligence designed to improve situational awareness, deconfliction, and coordinated response among participating agencies.
The term domain awareness means the aggregate understanding of activities, actors, and conditions across the air, land, maritime, cyber, and space domains relevant to border security.
The term southern land border means the land border of the United States adjacent to Mexico.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall develop and submit to the congressional defense committees a plan for the Department of Defense to contribute to a common operating picture to improve domain awareness at the southern land border.
Not later than 60 days after developing the plan required by paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall transmit the plan to such interagency partners as the Secretary considers appropriate.
The plan required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A description of the proposed architecture, data sources (including Department of Defense and non-Department of Defense sensors), technical standards for interoperability, and cybersecurity and data protection measures for the common operating picture described in such paragraph.
A description of the procedures and authorities for data sharing.
A concept of operations describing how a common operating picture would support operational coordination, deconfliction, and information sharing among Federal, State, Tribal, local, and authorized international partners.
A phased implementation schedule with milestones and timelines for operationalizing the common operating picture at the southern land border, including benchmarks for capability deployment and full operational capability.
An identification of resource requirements, estimated costs, and funding sources, and a plan for inclusion of requirements for the common operating picture in the annual budget justification materials of the Department of Defense.
Plans for training, sustainment, and technical support for users across participating agencies.
Metrics and procedures for—
assessing effectiveness; and
periodic review and continuous improvement.
The plan required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex as necessary.
The Secretary of Defense may not implement any policy that alters the requirements for chaplains to display visible officer rank on military uniforms unless expressly authorized by an Act of Congress.
The Secretary of Defense shall require chaplains serving in the Armed Forces to display visible officer rank insignia on military uniforms in accordance with the requirements applicable to commissioned officers of the Armed Forces.
None of the funds authorized be appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be obligated or expended to implement, administer, or enforce any policy that removes or obscures the display of visible officer rank on the uniforms of chaplains serving in the Armed Forces.
Chapter 81 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense, under the sole and exclusive discretion of the Secretary, may establish the pay of prevailing rate employees located at any defense industrial base facility.
Pay established under subsection (a) shall be based on the Secretary’s assessment of—
pay rates of private industry for substantially similar work;
the cost of living in the geographic area of the defense industrial base facility concerned; and
whether additional compensation is necessary to incentivize recruitment and retention in a specific job at a particular defense industrial base facility.
In this section:
The term defense industrial base facility has the meaning given that term in section 2208(u)(3) of this title.
The term prevailing rate employee has the meaning given that term in section 5342 of title 5.
The table of sections at the beginning of chapter 81 of such title is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
Chapter 81 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense, under the sole and exclusive discretion of the Secretary, shall establish and maintain a job grading system for positions to which subchapter IV of chapter 53 of title 5 applies that are located at any defense industrial base facility.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall—
establish the basic occupational alignment and grade structure or structures for the job grading system;
establish and define individual occupations and the boundaries of each occupation;
establish job titles within occupations;
develop and publish job grading standards; and
provide a method to ensure consistency in the application of job standards.
In this section, the term defense industrial base facility has the meaning given that term in section 2208(u)(3) of this title.
The table of sections at the beginning of chapter 81 of such title is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
Section 1599f(i) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the subsection heading, by striking Three-year; and
by striking three years and inserting two years.
Section 1643(a)(1) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 10 U.S.C. 1599f note) is amended—
by striking, military departments and Defense Agencies concerned and inserting the Department of Defense; and
by striking in such military departments and Defense Agencies.
Section 143(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking (including Direct Support Activities of that Office and the Washington Headquarters Services of the Department of Defense).
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Defense may be used to—
carry out a hiring freeze at a public shipyard;
carry out a reduction in force at a public shipyard; or
delay without cause the filling of a vacant Federal civilian employee position at a public shipyard.
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Defense may be used to—
carry out a hiring freeze applicable to a covered entity;
carry out a reduction in force applicable to a covered entity; or
delay without cause the filling of a vacant Federal civilian employee position in a covered entity.
In this section, the term covered entity means any entity financed through a working-capital fund established under section 2208 of title 10, United States Code.
Not later than June 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretaries of the military departments, shall ensure that the disclosure of telework and remote work eligibility, and exemptions for return-to-in-person-work requirements, is considered for all announcements of vacant positions in the Department of Defense.
The Secretary of Defense shall encourage all agencies of the Department of Defense to consider, consistent with merit system principles and mission requirements, the use of telework and remote work flexibilities to support the employment of military spouses.
The Secretary of Defense shall brief the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives—
not later than July 1, 2027, on—
the implementation of this section; and
the data collection mechanisms to ensure successful tracking of such implementation; and
annually, for three years thereafter, on—
the implementation of this section; and
how many vacancy announcements include the disclosure described in subsection (a).
The Secretary of Defense may establish a pilot program under which the Secretary may award pay, bonus, or other incentives to civilian supervisors and managers in the Department of Defense, based on performance metrics established by the Secretary (in this section referred to as the pilot program).
The Secretary may carry out the pilot program during the five-year period beginning on the date on which the Secretary establishes the pilot program.
The Secretary—
shall identify the positions for which pay, bonus, or other incentives may be awarded under the pilot program; and
may award such pay, bonus, or other incentives for not more than 250 positions at any time.
If so designated by the President under section 5305(a)(1) of title 5, United States Code, the Secretary may establish a rate for special pay under such section for positions under the pilot program.
In carrying out the pilot program, the Secretary may use any pay, bonus, or incentive authority available to the Secretary for the recruitment, employment, and retention of civilian personnel within the Department of Defense.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that includes the following:
The number of personnel expected to participate in the pilot program.
The criteria used to determine which personnel will participate in the pilot program.
The performance metrics used to determine which personnel will receive pay, bonus, or other incentives.
One year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and each year thereafter until the pilot program terminates, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that includes the following:
An update on the information included in the report required by paragraph (1).
The pay rate used in carrying out the pilot program, in aggregate and per position.
The metrics by which the Secretary is evaluating the continued performance of the personnel participating in the pilot program.
In this subsection, the term appropriate congressional committees means—
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate; and
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the House of Representatives.
Section 1597 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Not later than 45 days before approving any change to the civilian workforce of the Department of Defense that will result in a loss of 50 or more full-time civilian employees of the Department at any facility, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees written notification of such proposed change.
Any notification submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A description of the impact that the proposed change will have on the ability to maintain the missions of the facility.
A detailed accounting of the costs of implementing the proposed change.
An assessment of the cost of, and time necessary for, restoration of any lost capability to meet future mission needs.
The Secretary of Defense is authorized to provide assistance (including training, equipment, logistics support, supplies, stipends, services, and sustainment) to the military forces associated with the Government of Jordan through December 31, 2027, for the following purposes:
Securing the territory of Jordan, including all international borders of Jordan.
Increasing stability in the Middle East region.
Countering and degrading regional threats, including threats posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, al-Qaeda and associated and successor organizations, the Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Iran, and Iranian-backed proxy groups.
Bolstering the capacity of the military forces associated with the Government of Jordan and increasing collaboration and interoperability among such military forces, the United States Armed Forces, and the military forces of allied and partner countries.
Not later than 15 days before the Secretary intends to exercise the authority to provide assistance under this section, the Secretary shall notify the congressional defense committees in writing of such intent.
Each notification required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
The amount, type, and purpose of assistance to be provided.
An identification of the units of the military forces associated with the Government of Jordan that would receive such assistance.
The goals and objectives of the provision of such assistance.
Section 332 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)(2), by inserting for the purposes specified in subsection (b)(1)(A) before the period;
in subsection (b)(1)(A)—
by redesignating clauses (iii) and (iv) as clauses (iv) and (v), respectively; and
by inserting after clause (ii) the following new clause (iii):
enhancing the legal capacity of the ministry or regional organization to undertake and carry out institutional functions and security missions—
in accordance with the law of armed conflict; and
in a manner that respects human rights and fundamental freedoms, the rule of law, and civilian control of the military;
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Funds made available to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency and any other funds made available to the Department of Defense for security cooperation programs and activities of the Department of Defense may be used to carry out activities under subsection (a) or (b).
Section 333(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
Disaster risk reduction or response operations.
Space domain awareness and space operations.
Foreign internal defense operations.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish an initiative to bolster defense cooperation between the United States and the militaries of covered countries, to be known as the United States-Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Initiative.
The Initiative shall be carried out pursuant to the authorities provided in title 10, United States Code.
The objectives of the Initiative shall include—
deterring aggression by Iran and proxies of Iran in the Middle East;
coordination with the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement; and
enhancing regional planning and cooperation among the military forces of covered countries, particularly with respect to long-term regional projects such as—
counter-unmanned aircraft systems capabilities;
ground-based air defenses;
theater ballistic missiles and cruise missiles;
intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance and tactical command and control;
special operations forces development;
joint air or naval military exercises; and
any other military capability the Secretary considers appropriate.
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report setting forth—
a strategy for achieving the objectives described in subsection (c); and
the amount of funding necessary to carry out the Initiative.
It is the sense of Congress that the Secretary should seek to require each participating covered country to contribute matching funds to the Initiative.
In this section:
The term Abraham Accords country means—
a country that is a signatory of the Abraham Accords Declaration, done at Washington September 15, 2020; and
any regional, Arab, or Muslim-majority country that has sought to normalize relations with the State of Israel since 2020.
The term Initiative means the United States-Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Initiative established under subsection (a).
Section 352 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the section heading, by striking Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School and inserting Special Boat Training Command;
in subsection (a)—
by striking Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School and inserting Special Boat Training Command; and
by striking the School and inserting the Command;
in subsection (c), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking School and inserting Command;
in subsection (d), by striking School and inserting Command;
in subsection (e), by striking School each place it appears and inserting Command; and
in subsection (f), by striking School and inserting Command.
Section 1212 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (10 U.S.C. 311 note) is amended—
in subsection (b), by striking December 31, 2027 and inserting December 31, 2032;
in subsection (d), by striking 2027 and inserting 2032; and
in subsection (g), in the first sentence, by striking 2027 and inserting 2032.
The Commander of the United States Southern Command shall conduct a study on the feasibility and advisability of establishing a program of recurring multinational jungle warfare exercises with partner countries in South America.
The study required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
An assessment of the feasibility and advisability of establishing such a program, with a focus on the following exercise purposes:
To enhance interoperability between the United States Armed Forces and the military forces of partner countries in jungle and dense terrain environments.
To improve combined capabilities in small-unit tactics, reconnaissance, logistics, medical support, and communications in austere jungle conditions.
To strengthen regional partnerships and build capacity among participating countries to counter transnational threats, including illicit trafficking and non-state armed groups.
To support the readiness of the United States Armed Forces for operations in tropical and jungle environments.
An identification of recommended invitees for such a program, including partner countries in South America and any additional ally or partner the Commander of the United States Southern Command considers appropriate.
Recommendations on locations within the area of responsibility of the United States Southern Command that should be considered for the conduct of exercises under such a program, including host-country training areas in South America, as agreed upon with participating countries.
The Commander of the United States Southern Command shall coordinate with the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of State, and the head of any other relevant Federal agency, as appropriate, to consider whether a program of exercises under this section would align with United States security cooperation objectives in the Western Hemisphere.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commander of the United States Southern Command shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the study required by subsection (a).
The Department of Defense regional center for security studies known as the Africa Center for Strategic Studies is hereby redesignated as the James M. Inhofe Center for Africa Security Studies.
Section 342(b)(2)(D) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking Africa Center for Strategic Studies and inserting James M. Inhofe Center for Africa Security Studies.
Section 2611(a)(2)(D) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking Africa Center for Strategic Studies and inserting James M. Inhofe Center for Africa Security Studies.
Section 1270A(b)(1) of the Sudan Democratic Transition, Accountability, and Fiscal Transparency Act of 2020 (22 U.S.C. 10010(b)(1)) is amended by striking Africa Center for Strategic Studies and inserting James M. Inhofe Center for Africa Security Studies.
Any reference to the Department of Defense Africa Center for Strategic Studies in any law, regulation, map, document, record, or other paper of the United States shall be deemed to be a reference to the James M. Inhofe Center for Africa Security Studies.
Not less than 120 days before decreasing the permanent or rotational United States Armed Forces presence in a North Atlantic Treaty Organization member country, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees an assessment of North Atlantic Treaty Organization deterrence efforts, including a description and evaluation of the following:
Current United States force posture in North Atlantic Treaty Organization member countries, and whether such force posture maintains an adequate level of deterrence for such countries.
Allied military force posture in each country on the eastern flank of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
The manner in which decreasing the United States Armed Forces presence, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, will change the overall deterrence posture of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
Consultations with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies regarding efforts to identify and backfill, or otherwise mitigate, the capability gap resulting from the proposed decrease in the permanent or rotational United States Armed Forces presence in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization member country concerned.
Subsection (a) shall not apply in the event that the President—
identifies a need for an immediate use of military force that necessitates decreasing the permanent or rotational United States Armed Forces presence in a North Atlantic Treaty Organization member country; and
delivers a War Powers Report to Congress as outlined in section 4(a) of the War Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1543(a)).
The Secretary of Defense is authorized to provide assistance for training, equipment, and sustainment to vetted divisions of the Lebanese Armed Forces for purposes of—
taking meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, al-Qaeda, the Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and all United States-designated terrorist organizations in the territory of Lebanon from carrying out any attacks, operations, or hostile activities against United States interests and the interests of allies and partners of the United States; and
bolstering the capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces to disarm Hezbollah completely.
In allocating the funds authorized to be appropriated for the provision of assistance under this section, the Secretary shall prioritize the training and equipping of appropriately vetted special operations units and associated enabling forces of the Lebanese Armed Forces.
The total amount of funds used to provide assistance under subsection (a) may not exceed $36,000,000.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated for the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip Fund, as specified in the funding table in section 4501, not more than five percent of such funds shall be obligated until the date on which the Secretary certifies to the congressional defense committees that—
the Government of Lebanon has declared Hezbollah’s military activities illegal;
the Lebanese Armed Forces are acting in accordance with the goal of disarming Hezbollah completely;
the Lebanese Armed Forces are actively denying efforts, including by the Government of Iran, to send weapons, supplies, and financial support to Hezbollah;
the Lebanese Armed Forces are acting to prevent Hezbollah from threatening or attacking the neighboring countries of Lebanon; and
the commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces is following and implementing directives of the Government of Lebanon regarding—
the establishment of a monopoly of force within Lebanon; and
the disarmament of Hezbollah.
Not later than March 31, 2027, and every 90 days thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that contains the following:
An explanation of the vetting process used by the Department of Defense to ensure the commitment of recipients of assistance under subsection (a) to the goals set forth in subsection (d).
An assessment of the willingness and capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces to confront and disarm Hezbollah.
An assessment of the willingness and capacity of special operations units of the Lebanese Armed Forces to confront and disarm Hezbollah.
An assessment of any significant gaps in the capability of special operations units of the Lebanese Armed Forces to confront and disarm Hezbollah, if any, and a plan to close any such gaps, including metrics over time and an identification of required training and equipment.
For the preceding quarter—
information on the number and type of weapons the Lebanese Armed Forces have seized from Hezbollah;
an assessment of the extent to which actions taken by the Lebanese Armed Forces against Hezbollah have degraded the capabilities of Hezbollah; and
an assessment of the extent to which Iran has been able to maintain its support for Hezbollah.
An assessment of the threat posed by Hezbollah to Israel and Syria, and whether such threat has increased or decreased, as compared to the preceding quarter.
The number of personnel of the Lebanese Armed Forces who have been deployed in the counter-Hezbollah mission, and an assessment of whether the Lebanese Armed Forces have deployed sufficient troops to support such mission.
The number of special forces personnel recruited into the Lebanese Armed Forces and the confessional religious makeup of such forces.
With respect to the provision of assistance under this section to such special forces personnel—
the type and amount of training provided;
a description of the equipment provided; and
the number of training exercises conducted.
Any other information the Secretary considers appropriate.
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may contain a classified annex.
If the Secretary determines, in any of the quarterly reports required by subsection (e), that the Lebanese Armed Forces has the capability to make progress in confronting and disarming Hezbollah, but is unwilling to do so, or that the Lebanese Armed Forces is not acting against Hezbollah commensurate with the capabilities of the Lebanese Armed Forces, the Secretary shall—
suspend the provision of Department of Defense support to the Lebanese Armed Forces; and
not later than five business days after making such a determination, notify the congressional defense committees of the determination.
A suspension under paragraph (1) shall not apply to assistance provided under section 333 of title 10, United States Code.
Nothing in this section may be construed to constitute a specific statutory authorization for the introduction of United States Armed Forces into hostilities or into situations in which hostilities are clearly indicated by the circumstances.
The authority to provide assistance under this section shall cease to have effect on December 31, 2027.
Section 1233 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (Public Law 110–181; 122 Stat. 393) is amended—
in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking beginning on October 1, 2025, and ending on December 31, 2026 and inserting beginning on October 1, 2026, and ending on December 31, 2028; and
in subsection (d)(1), by striking beginning on October 1, 2025, and ending on December 31, 2026 and inserting beginning on October 1, 2026, and ending on December 31, 2028.
Section 1209 of the Carl Levin and Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 (Public Law 113–291; 128 Stat. 3541) is amended—
in subsection (a)—
in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027; and
in paragraph (4), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking Islamic State of Iraq and Syria;
by redesignating subsections (b) through (n) as subsections (c) through (o), respectively;
by inserting after subsection (a) the following new subsection (b):
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section may be expended for cooperation with the Government of Syria until the date on which the Secretary of Defense certifies to the congressional defense committees that the Government of Syria has taken credible steps—
to remove all foreign fighters and jihadists from the military forces of Syria and from other services of the Government of Syria;
to disarm all foreign fighters and jihadists who remain in Syria;
to implement a system to monitor foreign fighters and jihadists so as to prevent attacks on the United States and allies and partners of the United States, including the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces;
with respect to individuals who pose a threat to the security of the United States or the security of allies and partners of the United States, to prohibit the issuance of visas, passports, travel permits, or other legal documents for purposes of entry into Syria;
to counter al-Qaeda and associated and successor groups;
to prevent members and leaders of al-Qaeda and associated and successor groups from entering or remaining in Syria, with the aim of preventing such individuals and organizations from launching external attacks on the United States and allies and partners of the United States;
to implement a system to fairly integrate into the military forces of Syria the Syrian Defense Forces, which have been long-time partners of the United States in countering the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria; and
to prevent attacks and violence against the Kurds and Druze of Syria.
in subsection (d), as redesignated, by striking subsection (b) and inserting subsection (c); and
in subsection (e)(2)(J), as redesignated, in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
Section 1236 of the Carl Levin and Howard P. “Buck” McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 (Public Law 113–291; 128 Stat. 3558) is amended—
in subsection (a)—
in the matter preceding paragraph (1)—
by inserting equipment and training to counter threats from unmanned aerial systems, after $6,000,000,; and
by striking December 31, 2026 and all that follows through Defending in paragraph (1) and inserting December 31, 2027 for defending; and
by striking paragraph (2);
by redesignating subsections (b), (c), and (e) through (o) as subsections (d), (e), and (f) through (p), respectively;
by inserting after subsection (a) the following new subsections (b) and (c):
Except as provided in paragraph (3), of the funds authorized to be appropriated under this section, not more than 25 percent of such funds may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of Defense certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Iraq has taken credible steps—
to prevent attacks by Iran, Iranian-linked proxy groups, and Iranian-backed Shia militia groups against—
United States forces, facilities, and interests in Iraq; and
allies and partners of the United States in Iraq, including such allies and partners in the Kurdistan region of Iraq;
to investigate and hold accountable any Iraqi who participates in such attacks; and
to gain further operational control over Iran-backed Shia militia groups under the control of the Iraqi Security Forces, with the Prime Minister of Iraq as the commander in chief, in order to end Iran's financial support to and control over such militia groups.
In the event that the Secretary of Defense is unable to make the certification described in paragraph (1) because the Government of Iraq has not taken credible steps with respect to an action described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (C) of that paragraph, the Secretary may—
submit to the appropriate congressional committees a plan to provide direct defensive support to Kurdish Peshmerga forces; and
not earlier than five business days after the date on which the appropriate congressional committees receive such plan, commence implementation of the plan.
The limitation on use of funds and the certification requirement under paragraph (1) shall not apply to funds authorized to be appropriated for the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service or Kurdish Peshmerga forces.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (a), not less than 50 percent of such funds shall be directed toward provision of assistance to Kurdish Peshmerga forces.
in subsection (e), as redesignated, in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking subsection (b)(1)(A) and inserting subsection (d)(1)(A);
in subsection (j), as redesignated—
in paragraph (1)(C)(i), by striking subsection (k)(2) and inserting subsection (l)(2);
by striking paragraph (2); and
by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2);
in subsection (l), as redesignated—
in paragraph (1), by striking subparagraph (D); and
in paragraph (2)—
in subparagraph (A)—
by striking and enhance and inserting or enhance; and
by striking supporting international coalition efforts and inserting defending;
in subparagraph (B)(ii), by striking subsection (i)(1)(C) and inserting subsection (j)(1)(C); and
in subparagraph (C), by striking subsection (j) and inserting subsection (k); and
in subsection (o)(6), as redesignated, by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2027.
Section 1279 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114–92; 22 U.S.C. 8606 note) is amended—
in the section heading, by striking anti-tunnel and inserting subterranean operations;
in subsection (a)—
in the subsection heading, by striking anti-tunnel and inserting subterranean operations; and
in paragraph (1), in the first sentence, by inserting and subterranean operations after anti-tunnel; and
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), in the first sentence, by inserting and subterranean operations after anti-tunnel;
in paragraph (3)(B), by inserting and subterranean operations after anti-tunnel; and
in paragraph (4), by striking $80,000,000 and inserting $100,000,000.
Section 1278(b)(4) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (22 U.S.C. 8606 note) is amended by striking $70,000,000 and inserting $100,000,000.
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Minister of Defense of Israel, shall establish a cooperative initiative, to be known as the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative, to expand and accelerate bilateral defense technology research, development, testing, evaluation, coordination, and industrial cooperation by—
identifying jointly developed or Israeli-origin technologies with operational utility for integration into United States systems and programs of record;
conducting collaborative research initiatives involving government, private sector, and academic institutions in the United States and Israel, in a manner that protects sensitive technology and information and the national security interests of the United States and Israel;
facilitating the transition of technologies from research and development into procurement and acquisition pathways;
establishing frameworks for joint ventures, licensing agreements, and United States-based co-production or manufacturing partnerships with Israeli industry;
coordinating with relevant Department of Defense components, including the Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate, capability development and innovation divisions, the Defense Innovation Unit, the United States-Israel Operations Technology Working Group, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Missile Defense Agency and United States Space Command, and the military services, to align efforts and avoid duplication; and
promoting joint training exercises and information-sharing mechanisms to enhance operational readiness to deploy jointly developed technologies.
The Initiative shall be carried out through cooperative efforts in domains such as the following:
Counter-Unmanned Systems including aerial, maritime, and ground platforms.
Anti-tunneling and subterranean threats.
Missile and air defense technologies, including Golden Dome for America.
Artificial intelligence, quantum, machine learning, and autonomous systems.
Directed energy and advanced sensing.
Cyber defense, electronic warfare, and digital resilience.
Biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and medical defense.
Network integration, data fusion, and contested logistics.
Defense industrial base cooperation, manufacturing, and co-production.
Other emerging technologies to address medium- or long-term threats as jointly agreed to by the United States and Israel.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees an interim briefing or written update describing—
steps taken to stand up the Initiative;
early coordination with Israeli counterparts;
initial technology areas identified for accelerated cooperation and technologies with operational utility for integration into United States systems and programs of record;
Department of Defense components designated to lead implementation;
any early transition, prototyping, or integration activities initiated during the period covered by the update; and
any co-production agreements successfully negotiated, including production locations and cost-sharing arrangements.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on implementation of the program established under this section. Each such report shall include—
a description of activities conducted under the program;
an assessment of progress made in advancing shared national security interests;
an assessment of the program’s collaboration with other relevant Department programs, including the United States-Israel operations-technology working group and United States-Israel cooperative programs run by the capability development and innovation division and the irregular warfare technical support directorate;
a description of technologies transitioned into United States acquisition programs or fielded systems;
a description of partnerships established with United States and Israeli industry, including production locations and cost-sharing arrangements; and
recommendations for future priorities and assessment of resource needs, including further authorities necessary to promote the long-term integration of joint capabilities between the United States and Israel.
Each report required under paragraph (2) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
The Secretary of Defense shall make available on a publicly accessible website of the Department of Defense periodic, unclassified updates, to the maximum extent practicable, on activities conducted under the Initiative, including a description of how these activities contribute to American technological and military supremacy and bolster the United States defense industrial base. Such updates shall be made in a manner that ensures that classified information or other information that would compromise operational security, export controls, or sensitive technology are not released.
Section 1245(a) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2847) is amended by striking ‘‘or 2026’’ and inserting 2026, or 2027.
Until the date that is 90 days after the date on which the Commander of the United States European Command and the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the heads of other relevant Federal departments and agencies, have each, independently, submitted to the congressional defense committees the certification described in subsection (b) and the applicable assessment described in subsection (c), none of the amounts authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 may be obligated or expended—
to reduce the total number of members of the Armed Forces permanently stationed in or deployed to the area of responsibility of the United States European Command to below 76,000 for longer than a 45-day period;
to divest, consolidate, or otherwise return to a host country any parcel of land or facility located on real property under the jurisdiction of the United States European Command as of June 1, 2025;
to divest, redeploy, withdraw, or otherwise permanently move out of the area of responsibility of the United States European Command any Department of Defense equipment or physical property with an initial purchase value of more than $500,000 and positioned in such area of responsibility as of June 1, 2025; or
to relinquish the role of the Commander of the United States European Command as North Atlantic Treaty Organization Supreme Allied Commander Europe.
The certification described in this subsection is a certification that a proposed action described in any of paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (a)—
is in the national security interest of the United States; and
is being undertaken only after appropriate consultations with all North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies and relevant non-NATO partners.
An assessment described in this subsection is the following:
In the case of a proposed action described in any of paragraphs (1) through (3) of subsection (a)—
an analysis of the impact of such an action on—
the security of the United States;
the ability of the Armed Forces to provide forward defense of the United States;
NATO’s defense and deterrent posture against current and future Russian aggression, as well as the security of NATO as a whole; and
the ability of the United States to meet national NATO capability targets, commitments to the NATO Force Model, regional and theater campaign plans, and other warfighting requirements;
an analysis of the impact of such an action on the ability of the Armed Forces to execute contingency plans of the Department of Defense, including those in the area of responsibility of United States European Command or in support of operations and crisis response in the areas of responsibility of the United States Central Command and the United States Africa Command;
a description of the specific requirements being prioritized that necessitate such an action;
a detailed analysis of the costs, as a result of such an action, for relocation of personnel, equipment, and associated infrastructure;
an analysis of the impact of such an action on military training and major military exercises, including on interoperability and joint activities with NATO allies and partners;
a description of consultations regarding such an action with each NATO ally and all relevant non-NATO partners;
an assessment of the impact of such an action on the credibility of United States extended deterrence commitments to NATO allies and the potential for nuclear proliferation in the European theater;
an assessment of the impact of such an action on transatlantic cooperation to deter potential threats from the People’s Republic of China; and
with respect to an assessment under this subparagraph relating to a proposed action described in subsection (a)(1), an articulation of the plan, generated in coordination with NATO allies, to ensure that other members of NATO have available capabilities and capacity to assume the roles and responsibilities of the United States Armed Forces to be withdrawn as a result of such action.
In the case of a proposed action described in paragraph (4) of subsection (a)—
an explanation of the role of United States nuclear weapons in supporting NATO operations and activities following such action, including changes to command and control relationships and adjustments to the United States nuclear posture;
a description of consultations regarding such action with all NATO allies and relevant non-NATO partners, including through the Nuclear Planning Group of NATO;
an assessment of the impact of such action on the effectiveness of NATO nuclear deterrence;
a risk assessment of—
the nuclear capabilities of NATO allies; and
the potential for nuclear proliferation in Europe; and
a risk assessment of—
the capability and capacity of nuclear-armed NATO allies to effectively deter and, if necessary, defeat likely adversaries in the nuclear domain absent a United States commander serving in the role of North Atlantic Treaty Organization Supreme Allied Commander Europe;
changes to be made to existing United States contingency plans if other NATO member countries with nuclear capabilities were to provide extended nuclear deterrence to NATO; and
the impact of such provision of extended nuclear deterrence on United States nuclear posture and deterrence planning requirements.
In independently conducting the assessments described in clauses (iv) and (v) of paragraph (1)(B) with respect to a proposed action described in subsection (a)(4), the Secretary of Defense shall coordinate such assessment—
with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, with respect to the independent risk assessment described in such clause (iv); and
with the Commander of the United States Strategic Command, with respect to the independent assessment described in such clause (v).
The certification described in subsection (b) shall be submitted in unclassified form.
The assessment described in subsection (c) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Any assessment required under this section shall be submitted to the congressional defense committees without modification or alteration.
The limitation under subsection (a) shall terminate on December 31, 2028.
The Secretary of Defense shall provide intelligence support, including information, intelligence, and imagery collection authorized under title 10, United States Code, to the Government of Ukraine for the purpose of supporting military operations of the Government of Ukraine that are intended to defend and retake the territory of Ukraine.
In this section, the term territory of Ukraine includes all territory internationally recognized to be the sovereign territory of Ukraine, including Crimea and the territory the Russian Federation claims to have annexed in Kherson Oblast, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Donetsk Oblast, and Luhansk Oblast.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, shall seek to engage with relevant stakeholders in Ukraine to establish a United States-Ukraine Strategic Defense Innovation Working Group (referred to in this section as the Working Group) to explore—
pathways for the co-development, co-production, acquisition, and transfer of covered systems;
the development of related mutual technology transfer frameworks; and
the mutual transmission of unmanned aerial systems expertise.
The Working Group shall be co-chaired by the following:
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment.
The Director of the Defense Innovation Unit.
The Director of the Joint Interagency Task Force 401.
The Working Group shall include participation by representatives of the following:
The Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.
The United States Special Operations Command.
Any other representative of the Department of Defense the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate.
The Secretary of Defense shall seek the participation in the Working Group of representatives of the following:
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
The military forces of Ukraine.
The Brave1 Defense Tech Cluster.
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training, and Education Center.
Any other entity mutually agreed upon by the Secretary of Defense and the Minister of Defense of Ukraine.
The co-chairs of the Working Group shall be responsible for engaging with the other participants in the Working Group—
to systematically analyze and apply lessons learned from the methodologies employed by the military forces of Ukraine and the domestic defense industrial base of Ukraine to accelerate the development, production, and fielding of covered systems;
to identify the Ukraine-designed covered systems that—
have demonstrated high operational utility in active combat; and
offer strategic capability enhancements for the United States Armed Forces;
to provide recommendations to expand and improve incorporation of Ukraine-designed covered systems into Department of Defense programs, including Blue UAS, the Drone Dominance Program, and service acquisition programs;
to develop defense trade foundational agreements between the United States and Ukraine, including—
a mutual technology transfer framework, which shall include—
mutual data exchange protocols to facilitate the secure sharing of relevant battlefield and military information, such as telemetry data and other electronic warfare signal profiles; and
joint intellectual property ownership frameworks that—
protect the background intellectual property of all participants; and
facilitate the co-development and co-production of Ukraine-designed covered systems; and
a memorandum of understanding on reciprocal defense procurement; and
to assess the feasibility of testing United States-manufactured covered systems in Ukraine, including by deploying United States-manufactured covered systems to operational units of Ukraine for evaluation and use in active combat scenarios.
The Working Group shall convene not less frequently than once every 120 days, with meeting frequency determined by the co-chairs, in consultation with the other participants in the Working Group.
The co-chairs of the Working Group shall prioritize the Ukraine-designed covered systems identified under subsection (b)(1)(B) for co-development, co-production, and acquisition, including by—
analyzing the extent to which Ukraine-designed covered systems meet existing statutory requirements with respect to fielding;
identifying authorities that may be used to accelerate the establishment and approval of joint ventures, cooperative production agreements, or licensed production agreements involving the Department of Defense and the military forces of Ukraine;
identifying authorities that may be used to accelerate procurement pathways for Ukraine-designed covered systems;
conducting a detailed supply chain assessment of the components and inputs that would be used in the co-production of Ukraine-designed covered systems;
identifying the costs associated with co-developing and co-producing Ukraine-designed covered systems in the United States; and
identifying the steps necessary to produce Ukraine-designed covered systems at scale in the United States.
In addition to co-development, co-production, and acquisition, the Working Group shall also focus on—
the mutual transmission of—
best practices for the rapid development, cost-effective production, and fielding of unmanned aerial systems and counter-unmanned aerial systems;
the tactics, techniques, and procedures that enable successful battlefield employment of offensive and defensive unmanned aerial systems; and
best practices with respect to force protection from unmanned aerial systems and the defense of fixed targets from unmanned aerial systems;
the transmission of lessons learned in Ukraine to the unmanned aerial systems and counter-unmanned aerial systems program of the Department of the Army; and
the transmission of lessons learned through the Joint Interagency Task Force 401 to the military forces of Ukraine.
With respect to Ukraine-designed covered systems identified under subsection (b)(1)(B) that do not meet existing statutory requirements with respect to fielding, the Working Group shall explore alternative pathways for the fielding of such covered systems, including through—
Army Drone Industrial Base Programs;
the UAS Marketplace; and
Drone Dominance.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Working Group shall provide the congressional defense committees with a briefing on the initial strategy for the co-development, co-production, and acquisition of Ukraine-designed covered systems.
Not later than 180 days after the date on which the briefing required by paragraph (1) is provided, and every 180 days thereafter until the date on which the Working Group terminates, the Working Group shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the progress of the Working Group.
Each report required by subparagraph (A) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, include, for the preceding 180-day period, the following:
A list of Ukraine-designed covered systems identified for prioritization, including the current status of such covered systems with respect to technical and legal evaluation, certification, and integration with existing United States force posture and operational needs.
A detailed list of specific fast-track acquisition or waiver authorities that may be used to accelerate the co-development, co-production, or acquisition of Ukraine-designed covered systems.
A supply chain analysis of the sourcing of inputs and component parts to eliminate dependence on countries of concern, such as the Russian Federation, the People's Republic of China, Iran, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
A comprehensive framework to facilitate the transition of prioritized Ukraine-designed covered systems from identification to co-development and co-production at scale, including an assessment of the feasibility of using the following for such purpose:
Joint ventures.
Cooperative production agreements.
Licensed production agreements.
A detailed description of intellectual property ownership frameworks that could be used to facilitate the co-development and co-production of prioritized Ukraine-designed covered systems.
A description of any specific regulatory, legal, or policy barriers that hinder the establishment of joint ventures, cooperative production agreements, or licensed production agreements.
A description of any regulatory, export-control, or certification barriers that impede the acquisition of Ukraine-designed covered systems.
Each report required by subparagraph (A) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Subject to paragraph (2), the Working Group shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
The Working Group may continue in effect until the date that is six years after the date of the enactment of this Act if the Secretary of Defense—
determines that a one-year extension is beneficial to United States security interests; and
submits to the congressional defense committees a written justification for such an extension.
In this section, the term covered system means—
an unmanned system that—
is designed for a limited number of missions;
is expendable in high-threat environments; and
is characterized by a low per-unit cost, relative to the value of the targets the unmanned system is designed to engage; and
includes—
the enabling software and hardware of such an unmanned system;
unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned underwater vehicles, and unmanned surface vehicles;
capabilities to counter unmanned systems, including early warning systems, jamming systems, and interceptors; and
command and control architecture, including software and hardware, to enable the integrated, secure, and resilient operation of unmanned systems and capabilities to counter unmanned systems.
Not later than seven days after the date on which the Secretary of Defense is made aware of any gray zone activities known or reasonably suspected to have been carried out by the Russian Federation against a North Atlantic Treaty Organization ally, the Secretary shall notify the appropriate committees of Congress of such activities.
In this section:
The term appropriate committees of Congress means—
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate; and
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives.
The term gray zone activities has the meaning given such term in the document of the National Intelligence Council entitled Updated IC Gray Zone Lexicon: Key Terms and Definitions, issued in July 2024 in response to section 825(c) of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (Public Law 117–30; 136 Stat. 1028; 50 U.S.C. 3316c note).
Section 1250 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114–92; 129 Stat. 1068) is amended—
in subsection (f)(12), by striking $400,000,000 and inserting $750,000,000;
in subsection (h), by striking December 31, 2029 and inserting December 31, 2030; and
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for fiscal year 2027 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Secretary of Defense may use contributions, including money, personal property, and services, from foreign governments or other entities to provide assistance under the authority of this section.
Such contributions shall be available to the Secretary of Defense, with the concurrence of the Secretary of State—
to provide additional assistance authorized under subsection (a);
for the replacement of any weapons or articles provided to entities described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (a)(1) from the inventory of the United States; and
to recover or dispose of equipment previously provided to such entities.
Use of such contributions for the replacement of weapons under subparagraph (A)(ii) shall be limited to the replacement of weapons or articles with respect to which initial notification was provided to Congress after July 14, 2025.
Not later than seven days before the date on which the authority provided by this section terminates, the Secretary of Defense shall report to the congressional defense committees any contribution originating from a foreign government or other entity intended to provide assistance under this section that is not expended for such purpose before such date of termination.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 180 days thereafter through 2034, the Commander of the United States European Command shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes the following:
An evaluation of allied progress toward meeting the target of spending 3.5 percent of gross domestic product on core defense-related priorities by 2035, as agreed to at the 2025 North Atlantic Treaty Organization Summit in The Hague.
A description of United States and allied forces available to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Force Model, including—
a description of—
any change made during the preceding year to the United States forces available to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe under such Force Model; and
any significant change in the security environment that may require changes to force requirements; and
an analysis of the risk any such change poses to the ability of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to fulfill deterrence and defense mission requirements.
A description of any change to the operational readiness of the United States and allied forces available to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, including a description of—
the criteria used to determine the readiness of a unit; and
the data underpinning the assessment of the Commander of the United States European Command with respect to the readiness of such forces.
A description of North Atlantic Treaty Organization exercises and the accompanying metrics used to validate the readiness of forces.
An evaluation of allied progress toward implementing North Atlantic Treaty Organization capability targets and a description of any priority capability shortfalls, including any change to such progress.
A list of critical capabilities required to execute the regional plans of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which capabilities are largely or wholly provided by the United States, and a description of any United States efforts to support and synchronize with fellow North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies to develop or procure such capabilities or similar capabilities, including any change to the availability of such capabilities.
In each subsequent report submitted under this subsection—
a description of any change to the United States forces available to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Force Model in the 90 days preceding the date on which the report is submitted; and
an analysis of the risk any such change poses to the ability of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to fulfill deterrence and defense mission requirements.
In the case of any change described in accordance with paragraph (2) or (3), an assessment of whether Europe has the force structure, readiness levels, and enabling capabilities to assume responsibility for any decrease in United States forces available to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Force Model.
An assessment of the deterrence and defense posture of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization on the alliance’s eastern flank, including—
a description of United States military force posture in each country on the eastern flank, including any changes to United States forces in Europe during the 90-day period preceding the submission of the report;
a description of allied military force posture in each country on the eastern flank;
an evaluation of the capacity of United States and allied forces to reinforce the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's eastern flank in the event of a conflict;
an identification of any obstacle that could delay such reinforcement, including the status of pre-positioned United States materiel in Europe, and an evaluation of the manner in which such obstacles could undermine the deterrence and defense posture of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization; and
a description of efforts by the United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies to address the obstacles identified under subparagraph (D), including efforts to improve mobility, readiness, pre-positioning, infrastructure, and coordination mechanisms necessary to enable timely reinforcement of the eastern flank.
An assessment of North Atlantic Treaty Organization deterrence efforts in Romania, including a description and evaluation of—
the United States force posture in Romania, including any new rotations to Romania intended to enhance deterrence after the 2025 decision to end the rotational presence of a United States brigade;
consultations with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies regarding efforts to backfill or otherwise mitigate the capability gap resulting from the end of such rotational presence;
the readiness of North Atlantic Treaty Organization Forward Land Forces in Romania;
new or expanded bilateral and multilateral training activities and military exercises conducted to build capacity and improve interoperability among United States forces, Romanian forces, and other North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies; and
efforts undertaken by the United States, Romania, and other North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies to improve critical military infrastructure in Romania, including infrastructure necessary to support collective defense obligations of the alliance and to enable United States contingency operations.
Each report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State shall seek to engage with appropriate officials of Germany in a joint program for the purpose of enabling the co-development and co-production of air defense and air-to-air munitions capabilities, including the Patriot surface-to-air missile system, the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile, and the AIM–9 Sidewinder missile, for the Armed Forces of the United States and the Bundeswehr of Germany, consistent with applicable United States law and existing bilateral defense cooperation agreements.
In carrying out a joint program under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, may use the authorities under title 10, United States Code, and other applicable statutory authorities available to the Secretary of Defense.
In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, shall leverage the existing United States-Germany Reciprocal Defense Procurement Memorandum of Understanding to the maximum extent practicable to facilitate contracting arrangements, quality assurance, and supply chain integration.
The Secretary of Defense, with the concurrence of the Secretary of State, may enter into co-development agreements, co-production arrangements, and project agreements with Germany (in accordance with existing authorities for such agreements and arrangements) to carry out the joint program under subsection (a), including arrangements for—
joint research and development of next-generation variants of covered munitions systems;
the establishment of co-production facilities in the United States or Germany, or both;
technology transfer, consistent with applicable law, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations; and
specialization to optimize defense industrial strengths and avoid duplication.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter through 2030, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State shall provide the appropriate committees of Congress with a briefing on the joint program under subsection (a).
Each briefing required by paragraph (1) shall include, for the period covered by the briefing, the following:
A summary of engagements under subsection (a).
A description of activities undertaken by the United States and Germany to enable co-development and co-production of munitions systems described in subsection (a).
A description of progress made in finalizing defense trade foundational agreements between the United States and Germany, including—
implementation and use of the existing Reciprocal Defense Procurement Memorandum of Understanding;
a security of supply agreement for such munitions systems;
a general security of military information agreement; and
any cyber maturity model certification or equivalent industrial security arrangements.
A detailed assessment of the use of exemption and other authorities under, and any useful modifications that should be made to, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and related statutory authorities that would support the expansion of co-development and co-production of munitions systems with Germany, including—
an assessment of the feasibility and advisability of seeking a Treaty on Defense Trade Cooperation with Germany, or an equivalent bilateral framework, to streamline technology transfer approvals for such munitions systems; and
a description of any interagency coordination actions taken or planned to synchronize positions regarding technology transfer to Germany for such munitions systems.
An identification of the additional resources or authorities necessary to enable the fielding of munitions capabilities described in subsection (a).
Any other matter the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State consider appropriate.
The President is authorized to use the authorities provided in this section to encourage enhanced co-development and co-production with other European security partners of the United States.
In this section, the term appropriate committees of Congress means—
the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Appropriations, and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate; and
the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Appropriations, and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commander of the United States European Command shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes the risk assessment of the Commander with respect to United States force posture changes implemented after January 20, 2025, in the area of responsibility of the United States European Command.
The report required by paragraph (1) shall include an assessment of the following:
The ability of the United States to meet military campaign plans in the area of responsibility of the United States European Command.
The ability of the United States to meet the regional plans of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization adopted at the 2023 Vilnius Summit.
The ability of the United States to meet the defense and deterrence requirements of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
The report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Not later than 180 days after the submission of the report required by subsection (a), the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the congressional defense committees an independent assessment of—
the analytical framework, analysis of alternatives, wargaming activities and other operational assessments, intelligence assessments, and operational and strategic risk assessments used in conducting the review of global force posture undertaken during development of the national defense strategy most recently prepared pursuant to section 113(g) of title 10, United States Code, specifically as it pertains to the area of responsibility of the United States European Command;
the conclusions drawn from such review of global force posture; and
the extent to which such analytical framework, analysis of alternatives, wargaming activities and other operational assessments, intelligence assessments, and operational and strategic risk assessments informed and were consistent with changes to United States force posture in the area of responsibility of the United States European Command implemented after January 20, 2025.
The assessment required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
An evaluation of the completeness, rigor, and methodological validity of the analytical framework, assumptions, scenarios, intelligence inputs, and analysis of alternatives.
An assessment of the consistency between the analytical conclusions and actual posture decisions implemented after January 20, 2025.
A review of the sensitivity of conclusions to key assumptions and variables.
An identification of any gaps, limitations, or sources of analytical risk.
An evaluation of the implications of each such adjustment for United States national security interests, the deterrence and defense posture of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and execution of combatant commander campaign plans and North Atlantic Treaty Organization regional plans.
The Secretary of Defense shall provide the Comptroller General with timely access to all data, assumptions, models, briefings, analyses, memoranda, recommendations, dissenting views, decision memoranda, and other information necessary to carry out the assessment required under this subsection, including classified information, consistent with applicable law.
Section 1332 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (22 U.S.C. 10412) is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking a senior civilian and all that follows through who shall be and inserting the Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Armaments Cooperation as the senior civilian official of the Department of Defense;
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by striking 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act and inserting March 1, 2027, and semiannually thereafter; and
in paragraph (2)—
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking The plan and inserting Each plan;
by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (G) as subparagraphs (C) through (H), respectively; and
by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraph (B):
A description of the organization, roles, and objectives of all AUKUS implementation working groups.
in subsection (c)—
by striking the plan and inserting a plan; and
by striking 2029 and inserting 2032.
Subsection (c) of section 1251 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
by striking the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 and inserting the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027; and
by striking fiscal year 2026 and inserting fiscal year 2027.
Subsection (d) of such section is amended—
in paragraph (1)—
in subparagraph (A), in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking fiscal years 2027 and 2028 and inserting fiscal years 2028 and 2029; and
in subparagraph (B), by adding at the end the following new clause:
The independent assessment of the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command with respect to the activities and resources required for the subordinate unified commands of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, including United States Forces Korea and United States Forces Japan.
in paragraph (2), by striking fiscal years 2027 and 2028 each place it appears and inserting fiscal years 2028 and 2029.
Subsection (e) of such section is amended, in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking fiscal years 2027 and 2028 and inserting fiscal years 2028 and 2029.
Section 1323 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (22 U.S.C. 3302 note) is amended—
in the section heading, by striking Taiwan and inserting First Island Chain;
in subsection (a)—
in paragraph (1)—
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking Consistent and all that follows through Defense and inserting The Secretary of Defense;
in subparagraph (A)—
by inserting consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act (22 U.S.C. 3301 et seq.), before the military; and
by striking ; and and inserting a semicolon;
in subparagraph (B)—
by inserting consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act (22 U.S.C. 3301 et seq.), before civilian; and
by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and; and
by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
the national security forces of the Philippines.
in paragraph (2)—
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting and the Philippines after Taiwan; and
by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
The national security forces of the Government of the Philippines to defend against coercion and aggression.
in subsection (b)(1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting subparagraphs (A) and (C);
in subsection (d), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Defense, not more than $1,500,000,000 may be made available for the purposes of subsection (a).
in subsection (e)—
in paragraph (1), by inserting and the national security forces of the Philippines after Taiwan; and
in paragraph (2), by inserting or the national security forces of the Philippines after Taiwan; and
in subsection (h), by striking December 31, 2029 and inserting December 31, 2032.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan to identify, mitigate, and remove, as appropriate, procedures and regulations contained in the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual that unnecessarily constrain or impede government and industry from meeting the objectives of the partnership among Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (commonly known as AUKUS).
At a minimum, the plan required by subsection (a) shall address the following issues related to the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual:
International security requirements.
Clearance reciprocity.
Marking and classification.
Security training.
Subcontracting.
Foreign ownership, control, or influence.
Delegation and oversight by cognizant security agencies.
The plan required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
A timeline for updating the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual.
A plan for mitigating National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual procedures and regulations that unnecessarily constrain AUKUS participants.
Recommendations for any legislative action, as necessary, that would facilitate the AUKUS partnership.
Amounts authorized to be appropriated by this Act may not be obligated or expended to reduce the approximate total number of members of the Armed Forces that are permanently stationed in, or deployed to, the Republic of Korea to below 28,500, or to complete the transition of wartime operational control of the United States-Republic of Korea Combined Forces Command from United States-led command to Republic of Korea-led command, until the date that is 60 days after the date on which the certification described in subsection (b) and the applicable assessment described in subsection (c) are submitted to the appropriate committees of Congress.
The certification described in this subsection is a certification by the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Commander of United States Forces Korea, the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, the Secretary of State, and the Director of National Intelligence, to the appropriate committees of Congress that, as applicable, a reduction in the approximate total number of members of the Armed Forces that are permanently stationed in, or deployed to, the Republic of Korea to below 28,500 or the completion of the transition of wartime operational control of the United States-Republic of Korea Combined Forces Command from United States-led command—
is in the national security interest of the United States; and
is being undertaken only after appropriate consultations with allies of the United States, including the Republic of Korea, Japan, and any country that has sent military contributions to the United Nations Command.
An assessment described in this subsection is the following:
In the case of a reduction in the total number of members of the Armed Forces permanently stationed in or deployed to the Republic of Korea to below 28,500, an assessment by the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Commander of United States Forces Korea, the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, the Secretary of State, and the Director of National Intelligence that includes—
an analysis of the impact of such a reduction on—
the security of the United States;
the security of the Republic of Korea and Japan;
United States deterrence; and
the defense posture of the United States Indo-Pacific Command;
an analysis of the impact of such a reduction on the ability of the Armed Forces to execute contingency plans of the Department of Defense, including in support of operations beyond the Korean Peninsula;
an analysis of the additional costs for relocation of personnel, equipment, and associated infrastructure;
an analysis of the impact of such a reduction on military training and major military exercises, including on interoperability and joint activities with the Republic of Korea and Japan;
a description of consultations with the Republic of Korea, Japan, and countries that have sent military contributions to the United Nations Command;
an assessment of the impact of a substantial reduction in the number of members of the Armed Forces permanently stationed in or deployed to the Republic of Korea on the credibility of United States extended deterrence commitments to the Republic of Korea and Japan, the potential for nuclear proliferation in the Indo-Pacific region, and the ability of the remaining forces permanently stationed in, or deployed to, the Republic of Korea to support integrated air and missile defense operations in defense of the Republic of Korea and Japan; and
an independent risk assessment by the Commander of United States Forces Korea, the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of—
the impact of such a reduction on the security of the United States;
the ability of the Armed Forces to execute contingency plans of the Department of Defense, including in support of operations beyond the Korean Peninsula; and
the impact of such a reduction on military training and major military exercises, including on interoperability and joint activities with the Republic of Korea and Japan.
In the case of the completion of the transition of wartime operational control of the United States-Republic of Korea Combined Forces Command from United States-led command to Republic of Korea-led command, an assessment by the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Commander of United States Forces Korea, the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, the Secretary of State, and the Director of National Intelligence that includes—
an assessment of the extent to which the three conditions set forth in the bilaterally determined conditions-based Operational Control Transition Plan that was signed on October 31, 2018, will be satisfied prior to the completion of such transition;
a detailed description of the manner in which a Republic of Korea-led Combined Forces Command will report to national command authorities in the United States and the Republic of Korea;
a detailed description of the planned command relationship between a Republic of Korea-led Combined Forces Command and the United States-led United Nations Command;
a description of consultations with countries that have sent military contributions to the United Nations Command;
a description of the United States-Republic of Korea wartime operational control consultations with Japan, and an assessment of approaches for deconflicting military operations across the United States-Republic of Korea and the United States-Japan alliances;
an assessment of the effect, if any, of the completion of such transition on the potential for nuclear proliferation in the Indo-Pacific region; and
an independent military risk assessment by the Commander of United States Forces Korea, the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of such transition.
A certification described in subsection (b) shall be submitted in unclassified form.
An assessment described in subsection (c) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Not later than March 1, 2027, and every 90 days thereafter through 2030, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the Commander of United States Forces Korea, shall provide the appropriate committees of Congress with a report on the United States-Republic of Korea roadmap for implementation of the bilateral Conditions-based Operational Control Transition Plan, signed on October 31, 2018.
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
The current assessment of the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the Commander of United States Forces Korea with respect to the conditions that must be achieved before the Republic of Korea may responsibly assume wartime operational control, including an assessment of the extent to which—
the Republic of Korea has acquired and operationalized the military capabilities required to lead the combined defense;
comprehensive alliance response capabilities are sufficient to address nuclear and missile threats by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; and
the security environment on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific region is conducive to a stable transition of wartime operational control.
An articulation of the specific military capabilities, and associated numbers or levels of such capabilities, the Republic of Korea must acquire and operationalize in order for—
the Republic of Korea to be considered prepared to lead the combined defense; and
comprehensive alliance response capabilities to be considered sufficient to address nuclear and missile threats of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
An articulation of the specific military capabilities, and associated numbers or levels of such capabilities, the United States Armed Forces must acquire and operationalize in order for comprehensive alliance response capabilities to be considered sufficient to address nuclear and missile threats of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
Any other matter the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate.
In this section, the term appropriate committees of Congress means—
the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Appropriations, and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate; and
the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Appropriations, and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives.
Using lessons learned from the demonstration program carried out under section 842 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (10 U.S.C. 2341 note), the Secretary of Defense shall establish and maintain a regional sustainment framework in the area of responsibility of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, to be known as the Indo-Pacific Regional Sustainment Framework (referred to in this section as the Framework), to foster co-sustainment efforts focused on providing the logistics support, sustainment activities, and personnel services necessary to maintain defense platforms, systems, subsystems, and components.
The purposes of the Framework shall be—
to mitigate the risks associated with operations in a contested logistics environment;
to ensure military readiness and lethality;
to reduce strategic lift requirements;
to leverage the industrial base capabilities of allies and partners, including through co-sustainment and co-production relationships;
to collectively leverage the industrial base capabilities of the United States and its allies and partners to forge agreements, align logistics priorities, exchange best practices, strengthen supply chain resilience, and expand the defense industrial base through co-sustainment relationships, including through key bilateral and multilateral forums such as the Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience and the Five-Eyes Joint Sustainment & Supply Chain Forum;
to provide the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command with a range of flexible and pre-arranged options to meet in-theater sustainment requirements;
to integrate with and leverage regional sustainment frameworks and capabilities in other geographic combatant commands to support greater integration of global co-sustainment activities; and
to provide an integrated, responsive, and comprehensive forward sustainment capability that addresses critical gaps in force readiness.
As part of the Framework, the Secretary may establish product support arrangements with a covered product support provider to enable a rapid response in a contingency operation (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code) to the product support requirements of such contingency operation.
Such arrangement may include agreements with covered countries for maintenance, pre-positioning, storage of materials, or distribution.
In establishing and maintaining the Framework, the Secretary may use, in accordance with section 3 of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2753), the authorities under sections 2342, 2474, 3601, 4021, and 4022 of title 10, United States Code.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue guidance implementing the Framework.
The guidance required by paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, provisions that require—
the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in coordination with the Service Acquisition Executives and Life Cycle Managers, to develop and maintain a list of available regional sustainment capabilities as a reference catalog for product support opportunities, including a range of flexible and pre-arranged options for product support arrangements to meet in-theater sustainment requirements;
the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, in coordination with the applicable service component commands, to identify a prioritized list of requirements for in-theater sustainment of platforms, information and communication systems, subsystems, or components;
the Secretary of each military department to identify and prioritize projects to address such requirements, including with respect to the certification of repair processes, intermediate testing capabilities, and vendors; and
the integration of explosives safety and risk management principles for all activities relating to munitions sustainment.
Not later than March 1, 2028, and annually thereafter through 2031, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes—
any recommendations for additional resources or new authorities necessary for achieving the purposes under subsection (b) for the Framework or regional sustainment frameworks in the areas of responsibility of other combatant commands;
an assessment of the feasibility and advisability of establishing, or a description of progress in developing, regional sustainment hubs in covered countries to enhance forward readiness and coalition interoperability, including reviews of agreements and product support integration within the Framework to ensure effective long-term sustainment;
an assessment of the extent to which the options within the reference catalog developed under subsection (e)(2)(A) are being used; and
an assessment of measurable improvements in readiness for priority weapons and platforms resulting from the Framework.
In this section:
The term contested logistics environment has the meaning given such term in section 2926(h) of title 10, United States Code.
The term covered country means—
the Republic of Korea;
Japan;
Australia;
New Zealand;
the Philippines;
Singapore;
the United Kingdom;
Canada; and
any other country designated by the Secretary for purposes of the Framework.
The term covered product support provider means—
a product support provider that includes an entity within the government of a covered country;
a private sector product support provider; and
a product support integrator domiciled in the United States or a covered country.
The terms product support, product support integrator, and product support provider have the meanings given such terms in section 4324(d) of title 10, United States Code.
The term product support arrangement means a contract, task order, or any other type of agreement or arrangement, between the United States and a covered product support provider, for the performance of the functions described in subparagraph (B) with respect to—
a platform or information system operated by the United States and the covered country of such covered product support provider;
a subsystem or components of such a platform or information system; or
maintenance, pre-positioning, storage of materials, or distribution.
The functions described in this subparagraph, with respect to a platform, information system, subsystem, or component described in subparagraph (A), are the following:
Performance-based logistics.
Sustainment support.
Contractor logistics support.
Life-cycle product support.
Weapon system product support.
Section 1202(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended by striking January 31, 2027 and inserting January 31, 2032.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the head of any other appropriate Federal department or agency, shall develop a strategy for crisis management in the South China Sea that—
identifies the locations of the most likely flashpoints in the South China Sea that could lead to scenarios of crises short of war that would require heightened interagency and international coordination; and
outlines defense planning scenarios for responding to each such potential flashpoint, including sequenced response options and coordination with foreign partners.
The strategy required by subsection (a) shall be designed—
to deny the aim of the People’s Republic of China and deter further People’s Republic of China provocation or actions that expand the crisis;
to ensure the safety of United States citizens and residents in the region and in the United States;
to ensure the safety of members of the United States Armed Forces in the region, including safety from accidents;
to preserve United States economic interests in the region, including protecting key trade and commerce routes;
to uphold treaty obligations and protect allies and partners; and
to manage possible escalation into combat operations by taking opportunities for de-escalation and maintaining strategic stability.
Each defense planning scenario required by subsection (a)(2) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
A list of specific indicators that would elevate a scenario from a baseline of gray-zone conditions to the level of a crisis.
An articulation of clearly identified assumptions, phases, and potential evolutions of the crisis.
Anticipated decision points and potential response options, sequenced across all identified phases.
An evaluation of the potential risks and benefits of potential response options.
A list of possible options for de-escalating the crisis situation, including a description of indicators of such options and recommendations of options for the Secretary of Defense to take advantage of such options.
A plan for engagement with foreign partners, including an identification of any action to be pre-coordinated.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a progress report that—
details the list of locations and scenarios identified under subsection (a)(1);
provides a status update on the development of defense planning scenarios required by subsection (a)(2);
sets forth a plan for the completion of such planning scenarios by not later than one year after such date of enactment; and
details the process by which such planning scenarios will be reviewed, updated as necessary, and validated.
The interim report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that summarizes the strategy developed under subsection (a).
The report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a master plan outlining facility requirements to support a rotational presence of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines.
The master plan required by subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
An identification of enhanced defense cooperation sites, cooperative security locations, and other locations supporting rotational presence of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines.
For each location identified under paragraph (1), an identification of validated facility requirements necessary to support rotational forces.
A delineation of funding responsibilities between the Department of Defense and the Government of the Philippines for fulfilling such requirements.
A timeline for fulfilling such requirements.
Any other matter the Secretary considers appropriate.
Concurrently with the submission of the budget of the President to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, for each of fiscal years 2028 through 2033, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees an update to the master plan required by subsection (a).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a master plan outlining infrastructure requirements to support a rotational presence of the United States Armed Forces in Australia.
The master plan required by subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
An identification of cooperative security locations and other locations supporting a rotational presence of the United States Armed Forces in Australia, including Marine Rotational Force-Darwin and Submarine Rotational Force-West.
For each location identified under paragraph (1), an identification of validated infrastructure requirements necessary to support rotational forces.
A delineation of funding responsibilities between the Department of Defense and the Government of Australia for fulfilling such requirements.
A timeline for fulfilling such requirements.
Any other matter the Secretary considers appropriate.
Concurrently with the submission of the budget of the President to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, for each of fiscal years 2028 through 2033, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees an update to the master plan required by subsection (a).
Section 1261(e) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (10 U.S.C. 311 note) is amended by striking December 31, 2026 and inserting December 31, 2031.
Section 1256(e) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (10 U.S.C. 333 note) is amended by striking December 31, 2028 and inserting December 31, 2030.
Section 1253(b) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 134 Stat. 3955) is amended by striking fiscal year 2026 and inserting fiscal year 2027.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Operation and Maintenance, Defense-wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of Defense submits—
the multi-year plan to fulfill the defensive requirements of the military forces of Taiwan, also known as the Taiwan Security Assistance Roadmap, required by section 5506 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (22 U.S.C. 3355);
the annual progress report due on December 31, 2024, regarding implementation of the pilot program to improve cyber cooperation with covered foreign military partners in Southeast Asia required by section 1256(c)(2) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (10 U.S.C. 333 note);
briefings on revised program selection guidance and use of the total obligation authority withhold technique for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, as required by the Joint Explanatory Statement accompanying the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 718);
the briefing required by section 1266 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1120; 22 U.S.C. 3302 note) regarding the establishment of a joint program with Taiwan for the purpose of enabling the fielding of uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed systems capabilities;
the report required by section 1269 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1124) regarding enhancing the United States defense relationship with the Philippines;
the annual report required by section 1332 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (22 U.S.C. 10412) regarding Department of Defense activities to implement the AUKUS partnership; and
the annual report on Chinese military companies operating in the United States required by section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (10 U.S.C. 113 note).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report outlining Department of Defense efforts to support Japan in the fielding of an operational counterstrike capability.
The report required by subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
A description of the activities and objectives of the United States-Japan Roles, Missions, and Capabilities Working Group with respect to the fielding of an operational counterstrike capability by Japan.
A description of the operations, activities, and investments the Department is undertaking in collaboration with the Government of Japan, including—
a description of progress made by the United States and Japan in developing and deploying counterstrike capabilities, including in and across the First Island Chain;
a description of the counterstrike capabilities of Japan and a characterization of the potential for enhancement of such capabilities;
a description of the impediments to fielding a strengthened alliance strike posture, including—
domestic legal constraints;
regulatory restrictions, including technology and foreign disclosure constraints;
industrial base-driven capacity limitations; and
political impediments;
an articulation of the planning assumptions underpinning the assigned and anticipated roles, missions, and capabilities of the respective counterstrike capabilities of the United States and Japan;
a description of the manner in which the United States and Japan will coordinate and deconflict counterstrike operations; and
an assessment of potential alliance posture changes that would support an enhanced alliance counterstrike capability, including in the First Island Chain.
A description of the command and control mechanisms and information-sharing requirements needed to enable coordination and deconfliction of allied counterstrike operations, including—
the adoption of enhanced security protocols to ensure secure networks;
the technical means needed to facilitate integrated planning for counterstrike operations; and
the sharing of targeting information.
An identification of challenges to the implementation of the operations, activities, and investments described in paragraph (2), and any recommended legislative changes, resourcing requirements, bilateral agreements, or other measures that would facilitate the implementation of such operations, activities, and investments.
The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the Commander of the United States Cyber Command, shall develop, submit to the congressional defense committees, and commence implementation of a strategy to enhance and institutionalize cyber cooperation between the Department of Defense and allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
The strategy required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
An identification of the current and projected cyber cooperation requirements of the Department of Defense in the Indo-Pacific region through 2040, including requirements identified in theater security cooperation plans, relating to—
defensive cyberspace operations;
offensive cyber operations;
secure information sharing;
cyber training, exercises, and workforce development;
protection of critical infrastructure, communications networks, and defense industrial base networks;
joint planning and operational integration; and
command and control structures for joint cyber integration.
An identification of existing cyber cooperation activities, agreements, and capability gaps between the Department of Defense and allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
A strategic review of the cybersecurity capacity and cyber resilience of allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region that includes the following:
With respect to each such ally or partner—
an assessment of the extent to which the ally or partner has expressed interest or has participated in existing United States Government or Department programs to assist in the expansion of cybersecurity capacity across policies, technical architecture, and practices of the ally or partner, the results of any such participation, and an identification of any barriers to effective participation;
an assessment of the extent to which the responsibility for cybersecurity capabilities and any exposure resulting from gaps in such capabilities lie with the military, another government entity, or the commercial sector of the ally or partner, and an assessment of the manner in which the structure contributes to opportunities for, or risks to, collaboration with the United States Armed Forces;
an identification of the cybersecurity standards used by each ally or partner, and an assessment of the extent to which such standards overlap with United States cybersecurity standards; and
in the case of an ally or partner that does not have shared cybersecurity standards with the United States, a review of the differences between standards, the manner in which such differences may create barriers to interoperability and collaboration with the Department, existing Department mitigation measures to ensure collaboration, and recommendations for more permanent solutions.
An identification of additional resources or authorities required to help address gaps in the cybersecurity architecture or practices of such allies and partners, including with respect to the National Guard’s State Partnership Program and consultations provided by the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security.
An identification of any capability gaps of such allies and partners with respect to cybersecurity capacity and cyber resilience that the Department may be able to address through security cooperation initiatives.
An identification of—
actions necessary to strengthen cyber cooperation, interoperability, intelligence and information sharing, cyber defense and cybersecurity integration, and combined cyber planning with such allies and partners;
any authorities, force posture adjustments, organizational changes, or legislative actions required to improve cybersecurity in the Indo-Pacific region; and
opportunities—
to expand bilateral and multilateral cyber exercises, cyber workforce exchanges, cyber capacity-building initiatives, and operational collaboration with such allies and partners;
to leverage existing security cooperation mechanisms and multilateral partnerships to support the objectives of the strategy; and
to enhance collaboration between the Joint Staff, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Cyber Command, and the United States Indo-Pacific Command on cybersecurity cooperation with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the Commander of the United States Cyber Command, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes—
a plan for funding and resourcing the implementation of the strategy developed under subsection (a) across the period covered by the most recent future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code, as of the date of the report; and
an identification of any resource gaps that would impede implementation of such strategy.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shall provide the congressional defense committees with a briefing on the strategy required by subsection (a).
Not later than March 15, 2028, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the progress of the implementation of such strategy, including—
a description of actions taken to implement the strategy;
an assessment of remaining operational and capability gaps;
an identification of any barriers to implementation; and
recommendations for any additional authorities or resources required to carry out the strategy.
The strategy, briefing, and report required by this section shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Subsection (c) of section 1263 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (10 U.S.C. 333 note) is amended—
by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3); and
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph (2):
During the period ending on December 31, 2028, assistance provided under subsection (a)(1)(A) may also include the provision, in coordination with the Department of State, of the following:
Operational test and evaluation of uncrewed systems and asymmetric operational concepts as part of other assistance to the national military or other security forces described in subsection (a)(1)(A)(i) or the other national-level governmental organizations described in subsection (a)(1)(A)(ii).
Demonstration of uncrewed systems and asymmetric operational concepts as part of other assistance to the national military or other security forces described in subsection (a)(1)(A)(i) or the other national-level governmental organizations described in subsection (a)(1)(A)(ii).
Subsection (i)(1) of such section is amended—
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking calendar year and inserting fiscal year; and
in subparagraph (G), by striking calendar year and inserting fiscal year.
Such section is further amended—
by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (k); and
by inserting after subsection (i) the following new subsection (j):
Amounts available in fiscal year 2027 or any subsequent fiscal year to carry out the authority in subsection (a) may be used for programs under that authority that begin in such fiscal year and end not later than the end of the second fiscal year thereafter.
Subsection (k) of such section, as redesignated, is amended by striking December 31, 2027 and inserting December 31, 2031.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for a period of five years, the Director of the Defense Technology Security Administration shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an unclassified report, which may contain a classified annex, on the contribution of covered AI chips to the military capabilities of the People's Republic of China, including resulting threats to the artificial intelligence leadership and national security of the United States.
Each report required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
An estimate of the total compute installation base of the People's Republic of China.
An assessment of the methods through which the People's Republic of China is acquiring covered AI chips, including remote access.
An evaluation of the ability of the People's Republic of China to produce indigenous artificial intelligence chips at scale to replace covered AI chips.
An assessment of methods the People's Republic of China uses to acquire covered AI chips through unauthorized channels, covert or illicit networks, or other forms of illegal diversion.
An assessment of specific military capabilities of the People's Republic of China to which covered AI chips are directly contributing.
An assessment of threats to the artificial intelligence leadership of the United States posed by the access by the People's Republic of China to covered AI chips, including effects on development of frontier artificial intelligence and model diffusion.
A net assessment of the military advantage conferred upon the People’s Liberation Army by access to covered AI chips, including a comparison of artificial intelligence capabilities without such access.
Policy recommendations for improving the ability of the United States Government to assess the variables described in paragraphs (1) through (7), strengthening artificial intelligence leadership of the United States, and limiting the contribution of covered AI chips to the military capabilities of the People's Republic of China.
In this section, the term covered AI chip means any advanced integrated circuit, computer, or other product that—
is designed by or manufactured using technology originating in the United States, including items produced abroad using intellectual property, design software, or semiconductor manufacturing equipment originating in the United States; and
is classified or classifiable under Export Control Classification Number 3A090.z, 4A090, 5A002.z, related .z Export Control Classification Numbers, or any successor classification; or
is an item that is functionally equivalent to an item classified or classifiable as described in subparagraph (A).
Subsection (a) of section 1352 of the AUKUS Submarine Transfer Authorization Act (22 U.S.C. 10431) is amended—
by striking two and inserting three; and
by striking , and transfer not more than one additional Virginia Class submarine to the Government of Australia on a sale basis.
Such section is further amended—
in subsection (a)—
by striking Effective beginning on and all that follows through the President and inserting The President; and
by striking 20-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act and inserting 20-year period beginning on December 22, 2023; and
in subsection (i)(1)—
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking Not later than and all that follows through 15 years and inserting Not later than July 1 of each year through 2039; and
in subparagraph (D), by striking over the and all that follows through this Act and inserting through December 22, 2038.
Notwithstanding section 514 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2321h), the President may transfer to Taiwan any or all of the items described in subsection (b).
The items referred to in subsection (a) are humanitarian and medical supplies, armor, artillery, automatic weapons ammunition, missiles, and other munitions that—
are obsolete or surplus items;
are in the inventory of the Department of Defense;
are intended for use as reserve stocks for Taiwan; and
are located in a stockpile in Taiwan.
Not later than 30 days before making a transfer under the authority of this section, the President shall transmit a notification of the proposed transfer to the Committee on Foreign Relations and the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives. The notification shall identify the items to be transferred and the concessions to be received.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress summarizing items included in each transfer under this section, the concessions received, and timelines for delivery.
After the submission of the initial report under this subsection, the Secretary of State may combine the submission of the subsequent reports with the reporting requirements under the Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act (22 U.S.C. 3351 et seq.), as appropriate.
It is the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Defense should continue efforts that strengthen United States defense alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region so as to further the comparative advantage of the United States in strategic competition with the People's Republic of China, including by—
enhancing cooperation with Japan, consistent with the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security Between the United States of America and Japan, signed at Washington January 19, 1960 (11 UST 1632), including by enhancing deterrence and extended deterrence, developing advanced military capabilities, upgrading command and control relationships, fostering interoperability across all domains, improving sharing of information and intelligence, and fostering multilateral cooperation with the Republic of Korea, the Philippines, Australia, and other partners;
reinforcing the United States alliance with the Republic of Korea, including by maintaining the presence of approximately 28,500 members of the United States Armed Forces deployed to the Republic of Korea, enhancing mutual defense industrial base cooperation, responsibly implementing the conditions-based transition of wartime operational control, and affirming the United States extended deterrence commitment using the full range of United States defense capabilities, consistent with the Mutual Defense Treaty Between the United States and the Republic of Korea, signed at Washington October 1, 1953 (5 UST 2368), in support of the shared objective of a peaceful and stable Korean Peninsula;
fostering bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Australia, consistent with the Security Treaty Between Australia, New Zealand, and the United States of America, signed at San Francisco September 1, 1951 (3 UST 3420), and the United States-Australia Force Posture Initiatives, and through the defense trade partnership among Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (commonly known as the AUKUS partnership)—
to advance shared security objectives;
to accelerate the fielding of advanced military capabilities; and
to build the capacity of emerging partners;
bolstering security cooperation with the Philippines in accordance with the Mutual Defense Treaty Between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines, signed at Washington August 30, 1951 (3 UST 3947), including through the implementation of the United States-Philippines Security Sector Assistance Roadmap, and other enabling support necessary for the protection of Philippine sovereignty;
advancing United States partnerships with Thailand and other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to enhance maritime domain awareness, promote sovereignty and territorial integrity, leverage technology and promote innovation, and support an open, inclusive, and rules-based regional architecture;
broadening United States engagement with India, including through the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue—
to advance the shared objective of a free and open Indo-Pacific region through bilateral and multilateral engagements and participation in military exercises, expanded defense trade, and collaboration on humanitarian aid and disaster response; and
to enable greater cooperation on maritime security;
strengthening the United States partnership with Taiwan, consistent with the Three Communiques, the Taiwan Relations Act (Public Law 96–8; 22 U.S.C. 3301 et seq.), and the Six Assurances, with the goal of improving Taiwan's defensive capabilities, including through the continued provision of security assistance via Foreign Military Sales, authorities contained in chapter 16 of title 10, United States Code, and other authorities available to the Secretary, and promoting peaceful cross-strait relations;
reinforcing the status of Singapore as a Major Security Cooperation Partner of the United States and continuing to strengthen defense and security cooperation between the military forces of Singapore and the United States Armed Forces, including through participation in combined exercises and training;
engaging with the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, Palau, and other Pacific Island countries, with the goal of strengthening regional security and addressing issues of mutual concern, including protecting fisheries from illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing;
collaborating with Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and other members of the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to build connectivity and advance a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region that is principled, long-term, and anchored in democratic resilience; and
investing in enhanced military posture and capabilities in the area of responsibility of the United States Indo-Pacific Command and strengthening cooperation in bilateral relationships, multilateral partnerships, and other international fora to uphold global security and shared principles, with the goal of ensuring the maintenance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Director of National Intelligence, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Attorney General, shall develop and submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive strategy for advancing United States interests in the Western Hemisphere.
The strategy required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
An assessment of current and emerging threats to the national security of the United States in the Western Hemisphere, including regional threats and threats from countries of concern (within the meaning of the term covered nation under section 4872(f) of title 10, United States Code) across all domains (including the space and cyberspace domains).
An assessment of current security and economic security objectives of the United States in the Western Hemisphere.
A description of any current or proposed Department of Defense programs or activities to achieve such objectives.
A description of the roles and responsibilities of the Department in supporting broader United States Government objectives in the region.
A description of the role of allied and partner countries in achieving United States security objectives in the Western Hemisphere.
An evaluation of current security cooperation activities with partner countries, including capacity-building efforts, training exercises, and intelligence sharing, to achieve United States objectives in the Western Hemisphere.
A plan to strengthen partnerships with allied and partner countries in the Western Hemisphere to counter shared threats.
A description of the efforts of the Department to improve interagency coordination and unity of effort across the United States Government.
A plan for providing military support to the diplomatic, economic, and law enforcement functions of the United States Government to achieve the strategy.
An identification of capability gaps, resource constraints, and authorities required to effectively implement the strategy.
Any recommendations of the Secretary of Defense for additional capabilities, resources, and authorities needed for the purpose of implementing the strategy.
Metrics and benchmarks for assessing progress in achieving the objectives of the strategy.
The strategy required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may contain a classified annex.
Not later than 180 days after the date on which the strategy required by subsection (a) is submitted, the Secretary of Defense shall provide the congressional defense committees with a classified briefing on the strategy.
The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, shall formally invite the Kingdom of Denmark to designate and assign a permanent defense liaison officer to the headquarters of the United States Northern Command.
The responsibilities of a liaison officer of the Kingdom of Denmark assigned to the United States Northern Command under this section shall include—
facilitating daily coordination and information sharing between the Kingdom of Denmark and the United States Northern Command on security matters relating to the Arctic and North Atlantic regions; and
supporting planning, exercises, and operational integration relating to homeland defense and Arctic domain awareness.
Such a liaison officer shall be afforded the privileges and immunities customary for foreign liaison officers assigned to a United States combatant command, subject to all applicable United States laws and Department of Defense regulations.
Not later than 60 days after the date on which a liaison officer is assigned under this section, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a notification that—
describes the role and responsibilities of the liaison officer and the anticipated contributions of the liaison officer to United States and allied defense cooperation; and
includes a strategy to increase the integration of the liaison officer into command policy discussions and operational planning, as appropriate.
Not later than 30 days before entering into an agreement with the Kingdom of Denmark under this section, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress notice of the proposed agreement.
In this section, the term appropriate committees of Congress means—
the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Foreign Relations, and the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate; and
the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Director of National Intelligence, the Attorney General, and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the capabilities and illicit activities of the cartels specified in subsection (c), including the use of military-grade weaponry, technology, and training.
The report required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
A detailed assessment of the organizational structure, leadership hierarchy, and key operational figures of each cartel, including, with respect to any individuals affiliated with the cartel, the roles of such individuals in conducting organized military-style operations and illicit activities.
An evaluation of the capabilities of each cartel, including the size, structure, and sophistication of the cartel, including—
a description of the types and quantities of weapons, equipment, and technology (including drones, encrypted communications, and advanced surveillance systems) used by the cartel;
a description of where and how the cartel obtained weapons, equipment, and technology (including drones, encrypted communications, and advanced surveillance systems);
an assessment of the recruitment, training, and operational tactics of the cartel, including an identification of any cross-border operations and coordination with other criminal or terrorist organizations or any government; and
an assessment of how the capabilities of the cartel impact the security of the United States, the security of partner nations in the Western Hemisphere, and the security of the installations and personnel of the United States Armed Forces.
A comprehensive description and evaluation of the threat of the illicit activities of the cartels to the security of the United States, the security of partner nations in the Western Hemisphere, and the security of installations and personnel of the United States Armed Forces, including—
drug trafficking;
human trafficking and migrant smuggling;
weapons trafficking;
money laundering and illicit financial activities;
extortion and protection rackets;
kidnapping for ransom;
fuel theft, including hydrocarbon smuggling;
cyber-enabled illicit activities; and
theft and exploitation of natural resources, including illegal mining and illegal logging.
A description of the geographic areas, both within the United States and internationally, where the cartels operate or exert control of territory or influence, including control over border regions and smuggling routes.
An assessment of the direct and indirect threats posed by the cartels to the national security of the United States and its allies.
A summary of current efforts by the Armed Forces, law enforcement, and intelligence community of the United States to counter the activities of the cartels, including interagency coordination and cooperation with foreign governments.
Recommendations for additional authorities, resources, or strategies to enhance the efforts of the United States to disrupt and dismantle the capabilities of the cartels.
A cartel specified in this subsection is any entity that is engaged in the production and trafficking of narcotics that—
the Secretary of State has designated as a foreign terrorist organization pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189);
is subject to sanctions under Executive Order 13224 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; relating to blocking property and prohibiting transactions with persons who commit, threaten to commit, or support terrorism);
is subject to sanctions under Executive Order 14059 (relating to imposing sanctions on foreign persons involved in the global illicit drug trade); or
is a transnational criminal organization (as defined in section 3003 of the FEND Off Fentanyl Act (21 U.S.C. 2341)).
The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
The unclassified portion of the report required by subsection (a) shall be made publicly available on a website of the Department of Defense.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commander of the United States Africa Command shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that—
identifies and assesses the threats posed to United States interests by terrorist groups, armed non-state actors, and other military forces operating on the African continent, particularly in, but not limited to, coastal West Africa, Somalia, the Sahel, and Nigeria;
summarizes the actions that have been taken by the Secretary of Defense in response to such identified threats;
sets forth areas in which Department focus and investment could be further strengthened to address such threats;
details the current presence in Nigeria of the United States Armed Forces, the resource requirements relating to such presence, and the areas of focus for United States collaboration with Nigerian partners; and
identifies any additional resources, authorities, or policy modifications that would enable the Commander of the United States Africa Command to more effectively address the threats described in paragraph (1).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on United States defense integration with Canada and Nordic allies in the Arctic and High North.
The report required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
An assessment of the current United States defense cooperation and force presence across the Arctic and High North region.
An assessment of current efforts to work with Canada and Nordic allies to meet shared security interests, including in—
integrated air and missile defense;
training, exercises, and operations;
maritime domain awareness;
intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance;
logistics, pre-positioning, and sustainment; and
space and cyber defense cooperation.
An assessment of current infrastructure, access, and basing arrangements, and any recommendation with respect to modifications that would better enable Arctic and High North operations.
An identification of any gaps in existing United States bilateral defense agreements with Canada and Nordic allies that may limit effective defense integration.
Recommendations for strengthening coordination within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization relevant to the Arctic and High North.
An identification of any additional resources or authorities that would enable deeper integration to meet shared security objectives.
The report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the status of defense coordination and cooperation between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark with respect to Greenland.
The report required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A description of current United States military activities, posture, and access in Greenland.
A description of ongoing and planned activities with the Kingdom of Denmark related to air, missile, maritime, space, and domain awareness missions in and around Greenland.
An assessment of any recommended infrastructure resilience investments in Greenland to enhance United States and allied operations.
Recommendations for strengthening United States-Denmark defense cooperation in Greenland consistent with allied unity and High North security objectives.
The report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
In this section:
The term High North means the territories of Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, the Russian Federation, Sweden, and the United States located throughout the Arctic region within the Arctic Circle.
The term Nordic allies means—
the Kingdom of Denmark, including the territory of Greenland;
Finland;
Iceland;
Norway; and
Sweden.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the military and intelligence activities of Cuba in the Western Hemisphere.
The report required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
An overview of military and intelligence facilities and personnel of Cuba in other countries in the Western Hemisphere.
An analysis of the military and intelligence relationship between Cuba and each other country in the Western Hemisphere.
An assessment of the relationship between the military and intelligence networks of Cuba and any entity designated by the Secretary of State as a foreign terrorist organization pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189).
An analysis of any cooperation, within the Western Hemisphere, between the military and intelligence agencies of Cuba and the military and intelligence agencies of the People’s Republic of China.
An assessment of the threat posed to United States national security by military and intelligence activities of Cuba.
The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
The Secretary of Defense shall continue to support and carry out, through December 31, 2030, the activities and functions of JIATF–Counter Cartel, in coordination with appropriate Federal departments and agencies, consistent with applicable law.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law—
provide personnel, logistics, intelligence support, technical assistance, planning, funding, and any other functions necessary to support the activities and functions of JIATF–Counter Cartel; and
consult with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Director of National Intelligence, and heads of other United States departments and agencies on the provision of personnel, intelligence support, diplomatic support, technical assistance, and any other assistance necessary for execution of the JIATF–Counter Cartel mission.
On an annual basis, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes a summary of the activities of JIATF–Counter Cartel over the period covered by the report, including a description of—
the progress of JIATF–Counter Cartel in carrying out the requirements of its mission;
the metrics used to measure such progress; and
recommendations for congressional consideration.
In this section, the term JIATF–Counter Cartel means the Joint Interagency Task Force–Counter Cartel established to coordinate interagency efforts to counter transnational cartel activity under the direction of the United States Northern Command.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan to enhance United States defense cooperation with Morocco, consistent with the United States-Morocco Roadmap for Defense Cooperation for 2026 through 2036.
The plan required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
Options for establishing cooperative security locations in Morocco to promote regional stability and optimize joint readiness to respond to crises.
A roadmap to deepen collaborative counterterrorism cooperation to address threats to the United States homeland, Morocco, and the region.
A plan to optimize joint readiness, including—
a consideration of the feasibility and advisability of a cost-sharing plan to refurbish strategic air command runways formerly operated by the United States;
Morocco force modernization through the procurement of United States defense articles; and
the establishment of an all-domain range complex.
A plan to establish a drone center of excellence in Morocco for joint all-domain operations and as a model of tech-driven partnerships for the future of warfighting.
A review of options for increasing the scope and scale of bilateral and multilateral military exercises, such as African Lion, in order to ensure that such exercises include consideration of cybersecurity, drone operations and counter-drone capabilities, undersea technologies, countering hybrid warfare, protection of critical national infrastructure, logistics, mobility chains, and adaptation to adversarial use of artificial intelligence and autonomous warfighting capabilities.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the United States-Morocco Roadmap for Defense Cooperation for 2026 through 2036.
Section 1210E of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking September 30, 2027 and inserting September 30, 2029; and
in subsection (e), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 2025 and inserting 2029.
Section 1208 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (10 U.S.C. 301 note) is amended—
in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 2027 and inserting 2029; and
in subsection (b), by striking 2027 and inserting 2029.
Section 342(b)(1)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting operational simulation and analysis, after exchange of ideas,.
Of the $221,332,000 authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2027 in section 301 and made available by the funding table in division D for the Department of Defense Cooperative Threat Reduction Program established under section 1321 of the Department of Defense Cooperative Threat Reduction Act (50 U.S.C. 3711), the following amounts may be obligated for the purposes specified:
For transportation elimination disposition, $26,414,000.
For chemical security, $23,435,000.
For global nuclear security, $29,950,000.
For biological threat reduction, $66,524,000.
For proliferation prevention, $52,052,000.
For activities designated as Other Assessments/Administrative Costs, $22,957,000.
Funds appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 301 and made available by the funding table in division D for the Department of Defense Cooperative Threat Reduction Program shall be available for obligation for fiscal years 2027, 2028, and 2029.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the use of the Armed Forces and other activities and agencies of the Department of Defense for providing capital for working capital and revolving funds, as specified in the funding table in section 4501.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2027 for expenses, not otherwise provided for, for Chemical Agents and Munitions Destruction, Defense, as specified in the funding table in section 4501.
Amounts authorized to be appropriated under subsection (a) are authorized for the destruction of lethal chemical agents and munitions in accordance with section 1412 of the Department of Defense Authorization Act, 1986 ( 50 U.S.C. 1521).
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2027 for expenses, not otherwise provided for, for Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities, Defense-wide, as specified in the funding table in section 4501.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2027 for expenses, not otherwise provided for, for the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Defense, as specified in the funding table in section 4501.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the Defense Health Program for use of the Armed Forces and other activities and agencies of the Department of Defense for providing for the health of eligible beneficiaries, as specified in the funding table in section 4501.
The Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act (50 U.S.C. 98 et seq.) is amended—
in section 3 (50 U.S.C. 98b)—
in the section heading, by striking presidential;
in subsection (a), by striking President and inserting Secretary of Defense; and
in subsections (b) and (c), by striking President each place it appears and inserting Secretary;
in section 4(a)(4) (50 U.S.C. 98c(a)(4)), by striking 50 U.S.C. App. 2093 and inserting 50 U.S.C. 4533;
in section 5 (50 U.S.C. 98d)—
in subsection (a)—
in paragraph (1), by striking this section and inserting this subsection; and
in paragraph (2)—
by striking President proposes and inserting Secretary of Defense proposes; and
by striking President has submitted and inserting Secretary has submitted; and
in subsection (b), by striking (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code) both places it appears;
in section 6 (50 U.S.C. 98e)—
in subsection (a)(7), by striking (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code);
in subsection (c)—
in paragraph (1), by striking President and inserting Secretary of Defense; and
in paragraph (3), by striking President each place it appears and inserting Secretary;
in subsections (d) and (e), by striking President each place it appears and inserting Secretary;
in subsection (f)—
in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking President each place it appears and inserting Secretary; and
in paragraph (2), by striking (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code); and
in subsection (g)(2)(A), by striking (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code);
in section 8 (50 U.S.C. 98g)—
in subsection (a)(1)—
by striking President and inserting Secretary of Defense; and
by striking source (B) and inserting source, (B); and
in subsections (b), (c), and (d), by striking President each place it appears and inserting Secretary;
in section 10(b) (50 U.S.C. 98h–1(b))—
in paragraph (3), by striking of the Readiness and all that follows and inserting of the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives.; and
in paragraph (4), by striking of the Readiness and all that follows and inserting of the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate.;
in section 11(b) (50 U.S.C. 98h–2(b))—
in paragraph (1), by striking (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code); and
in paragraph (2), by striking this Act and inserting this Act.;
in section 12 (50 U.S.C. 98h–3), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The term congressional defense committees has the meaning given that term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
in section 14 (50 U.S.C. 98h–5)—
by striking subsection (e);
by redesignating subsection (f) as subsection (e); and
in paragraph (2)(F) of subsection (e), as so redesignated, by striking the semicolon and inserting a period; and
in section 16 (50 U.S.C. 98h–7)—
in subsection (a), by striking of the President; and
in subsection (c), by striking The President may delegate and all that follows through Executive order..
Not later than May 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, shall establish a pilot program under which the Department of Defense enters into public-private partnerships for the recycling of strategic and critical materials.
Public-private partnerships established under subsection (a) may include the recycling of strategic and critical materials contained in—
end-of-life equipment, particularly from night vision;
electronics; and
such other items as the Secretary considers appropriate.
The Assistant Secretary shall collaborate with the Secretaries of the military departments to ensure that end-of-life equipment can be properly maintained and disposed of under a public-private partnership entered into under subsection (a).
The authority to enter into public-private partnerships under subsection (a) shall terminate on January 1, 2035.
A public-private partnership entered into under subsection (a) before January 1, 2035, may continue on and after that date.
The Assistant Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives—
not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, on—
the establishment of the pilot program under subsection (a);
the parameters and metrics for success for the pilot program; and
the entities with which the Department of Defense intends to enter into public-private partnerships under subsection (a); and
not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the termination of the last public-private partnership entered into under subsection (a), on—
activities carried out under public-private partnerships entered into under that subsection; and
any costs associated with such activities.
The term strategic and critical materials has the meaning given that term in section 12 of the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act (50 U.S.C. 98h–3).
Section 14(b) of the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act (50 U.S.C. 98h–5(b)) is amended—
in paragraph (6), by inserting , for both essential civilian and defense purposes, after production;
by redesignating paragraph (7) as paragraph (8); and
by inserting after paragraph (6) the following new paragraph (7):
The extent to which expanded processing, recovery (including from old mines, industrial slags, fracking wastewater, and all types of e-waste), or recycling capacity in the commercial critical materials markets can assist with meeting defense needs.
The quantity of e-waste available domestically and the ability to utilize that e-waste to meet defense needs for strategic and critical materials.
Section 1704(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (Public Law 111–84; 123 Stat. 2573), as most recently amended by section 1421(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1136), is amended by striking September 30, 2027 and inserting September 30, 2028.
Section 8111(d)(3) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking September 30, 2026 and inserting September 30, 2027.
Section 1516 of the Armed Forces Retirement Home Act of 1991 (24 U.S.C. 416) is amended—
by striking Secretary of Defense each place it appears and inserting Chief Operating Officer;
in subsection (b), by striking paragraph (3);
in subsection (c)—
in paragraph (2), by striking , except that and all that follows through the individual;
in paragraph (3)—
by striking subparagraph (E); and
by redesignating subparagraphs (F) through (K) as subparagraphs (E) through (J), respectively; and
in subparagraph (E), as redesignated by clause (ii), by striking the Services’ Retiree Advisory Council and inserting a retiree council from one of the Armed Forces; and
by amending paragraph (4) to read as follows:
The Administrator and Chairperson of the Resident Advisory Committee of each facility of the Retirement Home shall be nonvoting members of the Advisory Council.
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
The Advisory Council shall not be subject to chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the Federal Advisory Committee Act) or section 552b of such title (commonly known as the Government in the Sunshine Act).
Section 2275d of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in the section heading, by striking space warfighting and control and inserting warfighting in and from space;
in subsection (a)—
by inserting , hold title to, after acquire; and
by striking space warfighting and control and inserting warfighting in and from space; and
in subsection (b), by striking space warfighting and control operations and inserting warfighting in and from space.
Section 2276a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking Secretary of a military department and inserting Secretary of the Air Force;
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), in the first sentence—
by striking Secretary of a military department and inserting Secretary of the Air Force; and
by striking a military installation under the jurisdiction of the Secretary and inserting a Department of the Air Force installation;
in paragraph (2)—
in subparagraph (A)—
by striking Secretary of a military department and inserting Secretary of the Air Force; and
by striking Department of Defense and inserting Department of the Air Force; and
in subparagraph (B)—
in the first sentence—
by striking Secretary of a military department and inserting Secretary of the Air Force; and
by striking Department of Defense and inserting Department of the Air Force; and
in the second sentence, by striking Secretary concerned and inserting Secretary; and
in paragraph (4), by striking Secretary of each of the military departments and inserting Secretary of the Air Force; and
in subsection (e), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking Secretary of a military department and inserting Secretary of the Air Force.
Section 2276a(e) of title 10, United States Code, is amended, in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 2024, 2025, and 2026 and inserting 2024 through 2031.
The Secretary of the Air Force may not require the Navy to transition from Space Launch Complex 46 to the replacement site known as Space Launch Complex 51 until the date on which the conditions set forth in the memorandum of agreement entitled Memorandum of Agreement Between Director of Strategic Systems Program and the United States Space Force for the Development and Acceptance of Replacement Facilities for Space Launch Complex 46 (SLC–46) dated April 2, 2026, are satisfied.
The Secretary of the Air Force shall ensure that space weather is integrated into Space Force space domain awareness doctrine and operations as a core component by—
integrating space weather data, modeling, and forecasting into operational space domain awareness systems and processes;
updating doctrine, operational concepts, and requirements to reflect the role of space weather in space domain awareness;
incorporating space weather considerations into the design, acquisition, and sustainment of space domain awareness capabilities; and
to the maximum extent practicable, leveraging existing capabilities and data from other Federal agencies and the commercial sector.
Not later than March 31, 2027, the Secretary of the Air Force shall provide the congressional defense committees with a briefing on the implementation of this section, including—
a description of the manner in which space weather is being incorporated into Space Force space domain awareness doctrine and operations;
an identification of capability gaps, planned investment, and leveraging of the commercial sector to achieve such incorporation; and
a description of roles and responsibilities within the Department of Defense with respect to the implementation of this section.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System is delivered not later than December 31, 2028.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an acquisition strategy for meeting the deadline under subsection (a).
Congress finds that robust competition in the space industrial base is essential to ensuring United States space superiority and the ability of the Space Force to provide national security mission-critical space warfighting systems and operations across the joint force.
Chapter 135 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The head of an agency shall, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure that—
space acquisitions employ procedures that maximize competition; and
mission-critical national security space-based systems that deliver space-based tactical data within a program and across the armed forces shall, to the greatest extent practicable, be procured from an open competition allowing for competition between multiple vendors, and the products of such vendors shall comply with interfaces and standards that maximize resilience and interoperability with Department of Defense systems.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force, in coordination with the Chief of Space Operations, the Commander of Space Systems Command, the Commander of Space Launch Delta 45, and the Commander of Space Launch Delta 30, shall conduct a comprehensive billet sufficiency review of the Space Launch Enterprise to determine whether current military end-strength authorizations are sufficient to support current and projected launch operations through fiscal year 2032.
The review shall include military billets assigned to—
Space Launch Delta 45;
Space Launch Delta 30;
launch range operations and maintenance organizations;
launch mission assurance and safety organizations;
spaceport operations, sustainment, and infrastructure support organizations;
cybersecurity and communications organizations supporting launch operations; and
any other organization the Secretary of the Air Force considers necessary to support the Space Launch Enterprise.
The review required by paragraph (1) shall assess the following:
The total number of military billets currently authorized throughout the Space Launch Enterprise, as compared to the number required to safely and effectively execute projected launch operations.
Specific functional areas experiencing personnel shortfalls, including launch operations, range safety, mission assurance, range instrumentation, radar operations, telemetry, communications, cybersecurity, meteorological support, flight termination systems, and infrastructure sustainment.
The extent to which automation, commercial services, and process streamlining have been implemented and the residual workforce gaps that remain after use of such measures.
The impact of current billet shortfalls on mission readiness, launch safety, operational risk, resiliency, and the ability to meet national security launch requirements.
Current and projected launch operations requirements at the Eastern and the Western Range through fiscal year 2032.
Options to realign, increase, or otherwise optimize military billet authorizations to meet mission requirements, including associated costs.
Any other matter the Secretary of the Air Force considers appropriate.
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees a billet alignment plan for the Space Launch Enterprise based on the findings of the review conducted under subsection (a).
The plan required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
Recommended increases or realignments in authorized military end-strength across the Space Launch Enterprise, if warranted by the review.
A phased timeline for implementing recommended billet adjustments.
The estimated cost of fully funding recommended billet increases or realignments.
A description of any legislative, budgetary, or policy actions necessary to implement the recommendations.
A separate assessment by the Commander of Space Systems Command regarding whether current billet authorization levels are sufficient to safely execute projected launch operations through fiscal year 2032.
In this section:
The term billet sufficiency review means a formal assessment of whether the number of authorized military positions is adequate to accomplish assigned missions at current and projected operational tempos.
The term Eastern Range means the space launch range operated by Space Launch Delta 45 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, and associated downrange assets.
The term Space Launch Enterprise means the organizations, personnel, infrastructure, and operational capabilities of the United States Space Force that support space launch activities, including Space Launch Delta 45, Space Launch Delta 30, the Eastern Range, the Western Range, and associated launch support organizations.
The term Western Range means the space launch range operated by Space Launch Delta 30 at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, and associated instrumentation and support assets.
Section 2273a of title 10, United States Code, is repealed.
Section 9087 of such title is repealed.
Section 4092 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)(8)—
by striking SDA.—The Director of the Space Development Agency and inserting Air Force.—The Secretary of the Air Force; and
by striking the Agency and inserting the Space Force;
in subsection (b)(1)(H)—
by striking the Space Development Agency and inserting the Space Force;
by striking 25 and inserting 50;
by striking in the Agency and inserting in the Space Force (in addition to any positions in the Space Force to which appointments are made under subparagraph (A)); and
by striking of the Agency and inserting of the Space Force; and
in subsection (c)(2), by striking the Space Development Agency and inserting the Space Force.
Section 9016(b)(6)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
by striking clause (iii) and (iv);
by redesignating clause (v) and (vi) as clauses (iii) and (iv), respectively;
in clause (iii), as so redesignated—
by striking Advise and synchronize and inserting Oversee and direct;
by inserting Department of the before Air Force; and
by striking , including and all that follows through Space Force Act; and
in clause (iv), as so redesignated, by striking Effective as of and all that follows through serve and inserting Serve.
Section 1609(c) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 U.S.C. 2273 note) is amended by striking , including the Space Rapid Capabilities Office.
Section 1608 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 10 U.S.C. 2271 note) is repealed.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Chief of Space Operations and the Commander of United States Northern Command, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a strategy to enhance secure, high-speed downlink capabilities and persistent connectivity in high-longitudinal and polar regions.
The strategy required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
A plan to winterize and protect existing and future ground-based downlink stations against extreme thermal variance and permafrost degradation.
An assessment of integrating commercial and military low-Earth orbit and highly elliptical orbit satellite constellations to ensure continuous broadband coverage above 65 degrees North latitude.
Provisions for redundant terrestrial fiber-optic or microwave backhaul links to prevent single-point-of-failure scenarios in remote Arctic installations of the Department of Defense.
A framework for data-sharing and downlink hand-offs between the Department of Defense, the Coast Guard, and allied countries in the Arctic region (including North Atlantic Treaty Organization partners).
The strategy required under subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Except as provided in subsection (b), none of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2027 may be obligated or expended for the following, and the Department may not otherwise take any action to do the following:
Reduce, or prepare to reduce, the responsiveness or alert level of the intercontinental ballistic missiles of the United States.
Reduce, or prepare to reduce, the quantity of deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles of the United States to a number less than that specified by section 9062(n) of title 10, United States Code.
The limitation under subsection (a) shall not apply to any of the following activities:
The maintenance or sustainment of intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Ensuring the safety, security, or reliability of intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Facilitating the transition from the LGM-30G Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile to the Sentinel LGM-35A intercontinental ballistic missile.
Section 2244a(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
The prohibition in subsection (a) does not apply to a modification of a nuclear missile for which the cost is less than $500,000 in base year 2027 dollars.
The Secretary of the Air Force and the Direct Reporting Program Manager for Critical Major Weapon Systems may enter into contracts for the life-of-type procurement of covered parts of intercontinental ballistic missiles, reentry vehicles, and associated equipment.
Notwithstanding section 1502(a) of title 31, United States Code, of the amount authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 by section 101 and available for Missile Procurement, Air Force as specified in the funding table in section 4101, $115,000,000 shall be available for the procurement of covered parts pursuant to contracts entered into under subsection (a).
In this section, the term covered part means a commercially available off-the-shelf item (as defined in section 104 of title 41, United States Code).
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, Air Force, and available to the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for travel expenses, not more than 85 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary submits to the congressional defense committees the strategy required by section 1641 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1190).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall develop an inventory of maintenance equipment unique to the LGM-30G weapon system that is used by maintenance groups at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Malmstrom Air Force Base, Minot Air Force Base, and Vandenberg Space Force Base.
Such inventory shall include—
guided missile maintenance platforms;
hydraulic actuators to open missile silo doors; and
such other unique maintenance equipment as the Secretary considers appropriate.
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall brief the congressional defense committees on the implementation of subsection (a).
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall include the equipment listed in the inventory required by subsection (a) as part of the LGM-30G weapon system and take such actions as necessary to ensure such equipment receives regular preventive maintenance or replacement by the LGM-30G Weapon System Program Office.
Beginning in fiscal year 2027, the Secretary of the Air Force (referred to in this section as the Secretary) and the Direct Reporting Program Manager for Critical Major Weapon Systems (referred to in this section as the Program Manager) may enter into one or more contracts for the procurement of not more than 125 arming and fuzing assemblies, 48 nuclear certified tractors and trailers, 116 arm/disarm switch replacements, and 13 test support equipment systems.
The Secretary and the Program Manager may enter into one or more contracts for advance procurement and material and equipment in economic order quantities associated with the procurement of the items for which contracts are authorized under subsection (a).
Any contract entered into under subsection (a) shall provide that—
any obligation of the United States to make a payment under the contract is subject to the availability of appropriations for that purpose; and
the total liability of the Federal Government for termination of any contract entered into shall be limited to the total amount of funding obligated to the contract at the time of termination.
Section 1641 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1190) is amended—
in subsection (a)—
in paragraph (1)—
by striking Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment determines and inserting Direct Reporting Program Manager for Critical Major Weapon Systems, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and the Commander of Air Force Global Strike Command jointly determine;
by striking with the Under Secretary and inserting with the Direct Reporting Program Manager, the Under Secretary, and the Commander; and
in paragraph (2)—
in subparagraph (A)—
in clause (i), by inserting , the Direct Reporting Program Manager, the Under Secretary, and the Commander after efforts of the Secretary; and
in clause (ii), by striking the Secretary intends and inserting such officials intend; and
in subparagraph (H), by striking such funding the Secretary and inserting such funding the Direct Reporting Program Manager; and
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by striking Under Secretary and inserting Commander; and
in paragraph (2)—
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking Under Secretary and inserting Commander; and
in subparagraph (C), by striking Under Secretary and inserting Commander.
Section 499c of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking, 2024, and inserting, 2027;
in subsection (c), by adding at the end a new paragraph (6):
The nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile program.
in subsection (d)—
in paragraph (3), by striking ; and and inserting a semicolon;
in paragraph (4), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and; and
by adding at the end the following:
the associated military, civilian, and contractor workforces.
Section 495 of title 10, United States Code, is repealed.
Section 494 of title 10, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
Not later than March 1 of each year, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the nuclear weapons stockpile of the United States that includes the following:
An accounting of the weapons in the stockpile as of the end of the fiscal year preceding the submission of the report that includes all weapons in the active and inactive stockpiles, both deployed and non-deployed, and all categories and readiness states of such weapons.
The planned force levels for each category of nuclear weapon over the course of the future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 for the fiscal year following the fiscal year in which the report is submitted.
If, during any year beginning after December 31, 2025, the President makes a proposal described in paragraph (2)—
the Commander of United States Strategic Command shall conduct a net assessment of the current and proposed nuclear forces of the United States and of other countries that possess nuclear weapons to determine whether the nuclear forces of the United States are anticipated to be capable of meeting the objectives of the United States with respect to nuclear deterrence, extended deterrence, assurance of allies, and defense;
the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives the assessment described in subparagraph (A), unchanged, together with the explanatory views of the Secretary, as the Secretary deems appropriate; and
the Administrator for Nuclear Security shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a report describing the current capacities of the United States nuclear weapons infrastructure to respond to a strategic development or technical problem in the United States nuclear weapons stockpile.
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), a proposal described in this paragraph is a proposal to reduce the number of nuclear weapons in the active or inactive stockpiles of the United States to a level that is lower than the level on December 31, 2025.
A proposal described in this paragraph does not include—
reductions that are a direct result of activities associated with routine stockpile stewardship, including stockpile surveillance, logistics, or maintenance; or
nuclear weapons retired or awaiting dismantlement on December 31, 2025.
During any year in which the President recommends to reduce the number of nuclear weapons in the active and inactive stockpiles of the United States or recommends a reduction in the nuclear force structure of the Department of Defense by a number that is greater than a de minimis reduction, the President shall certify in writing to the congressional defense committees whether such reductions will cause the number of nuclear weapons in such stockpiles to be fewer than the high-confidence assessment of the intelligence community (as defined in section 3(4) of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3003(4))) with respect to the number of nuclear weapons in the active and inactive stockpiles of the Russian Federation or will result in an imbalance in nuclear forces that could undermine continued deterrence of the Russian Federation or the People’s Republic of China, as appropriate.
If the President certifies under paragraph (1) that the recommended number of nuclear weapons in the active and inactive stockpiles of the United States is fewer than the high-confidence assessment of the intelligence community with respect to the number of nuclear weapons in the active and inactive stockpiles of the Russian Federation, or if a reduction in the nuclear force structure of the Department of Defense would result in an imbalance in nuclear forces that could undermine continued deterrence of the Russian Federation or the People’s Republic of China, the President shall transmit to the congressional defense committees a report by the Commander of the United States Strategic Command, without change, detailing whether the recommended reduction would create a strategic imbalance or degrade deterrence and extended deterrence. The President shall transmit such report by not later than 60 days before the date on which the President carries out any such recommended reductions.
The notification in paragraph (2) shall not apply to—
reductions made to ensure the safety, security, reliability, and credibility of the nuclear weapons stockpile and strategic delivery systems, including activities related to surveillance, assessment, certification, testing, and maintenance of nuclear warheads and strategic delivery systems; or
nuclear warheads that are retired or awaiting dismantlement on the date of the certification under paragraph (1).
On the date on which the President transmits to the congressional defense committees a report by the Commander of the United States Strategic Command under paragraph (2), the President may transmit to such committees a report by the President with respect to whether the recommended reductions covered by the report of the Commander will impact the deterrence or extended deterrence capabilities of the United States.
Section 492a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)—
in paragraph (1), by striking 2013 through 2029 and inserting through 2033;
by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) inserting the following:
Each report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A detailed description of any plans to—
enhance the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nuclear weapons stockpile of the United States;
sustain and modernize the nuclear weapons complex, including improving the safety of facilities and modernizing the infrastructure;
maintain, modernize, and replace delivery systems for nuclear weapons;
sustain, modernize, and replace the nuclear command, control, and communications system;
retire, dismantle, or eliminate any nuclear warheads or bombs, nuclear weapons delivery systems, or any platforms which carry such nuclear warheads, bombs, or delivery systems; and
maintain the key capabilities and competencies of military, civilian, and contractor workforce associated with the activities described in clauses (i) through (v).
A detailed estimate, including a description of the estimation methodology used, of the budget requirements associated with the activities described under subparagraph (A), over the duration of the Future Years Defense Program and the Future Years Nuclear Security Program following the date of the report, including the applicable and appropriate costs associated with the procurement, personnel, military construction, operation and maintenance, and research, development, test, and evaluation accounts of the Department of Defense. The Secretary may include information and data for a period beyond such period if the Secretary determines that such information and data is accurate and useful in understanding the long-term nuclear modernization plan.
A detailed description of the steps taken to implement the plan submitted in the previous report, including difficulties encountered in implementing the plan in the previous report.
by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (3);
in subsection (b)(1), by striking 10-year period and inserting duration of the Future Years Defense Program and the Future Years Nuclear Security Program; and
in subsection (c)(1), by striking paragraphs (2)(F) and (3) and inserting paragraph (2)(B).
Consistent with the requirements established under section 6120 of title 10, United States Code, and subject to the availability of appropriations or funds otherwise made available, the Secretary of Energy, acting through the Administrator for Nuclear Security, may establish not more than 2 programs for the research, development, and production of new or modified nuclear weapons, if—
one such weapon is primarily intended to be delivered by a surface-launched system; and
one such weapon is primarily intended to be delivered by an air-launched system.
Subject to the availability of appropriations or funds otherwise made available, the Secretary of Defense is authorized to direct one or more of the military departments to establish not more than two programs for the research, development, and production of new or modified nuclear weapons delivery systems, if—
one such weapon delivery system is primarily intended to be surface-launched; and
one such weapon is primarily intended to be air-launched.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Commander of United States Strategic Command, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on a revised strategy of the Department of Defense (referred to in this subsection as the Department) for deterring multiple nuclear-armed adversaries.
The report required under paragraph (1) shall include—
a comprehensive assessment of the implications of a multipolar nuclear environment for the deterrence strategy of the United States, including explicit assumptions used for force planning;
a detailed description of how the Department plans to adapt the nuclear forces, posture, and operational concepts of the United States to deter simultaneous or sequential coercion or aggression by multiple nuclear-armed adversaries;
a rigorous analysis of current and projected adversary nuclear force structures, doctrines, and targeting strategies, including implications for the sufficiency and survivability of the United States force;
a specific explanation of the methodology used by the Department to determine the quantity and types of adversary targets that must be held at risk, including how such requirements change under two-peer deterrence scenarios;
an identification of current and projected gaps in the nuclear capabilities of the United States, including theater-range systems, non-strategic nuclear options, and flexible response capabilities;
a plan, with associated timelines and resource requirements, to address identified capability gaps;
a detailed assessment of the role of the nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile and any additional theater nuclear capabilities in strengthening regional and extended deterrence;
an evaluation of the resilience, survivability, and adaptability of nuclear command, control, and communications systems under conditions of simultaneous peer conflict;
an assessment of the strategic and operational risks associated with maintaining a nuclear posture primarily optimized for a bipolar environment; and
recommendations for legislative, budgetary, or policy changes required to implement the strategy.
The report shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Not later than 90 days after the submission of the report required by subsection (b), and annually thereafter until September 30, 2032, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shall brief the congressional defense committees on their joint efforts to implement the conclusions and recommendations of the strategy described in subsection (b).
At a minimum, each briefing should address—
the adequacy and effectiveness of the strategy in deterring nuclear and non-nuclear strategic attacks against the Unites States and its allies;
progress in incorporating any adjustments to the role of nuclear forces in United States defense policies and military strategy;
current and projected nuclear force structure requirements for achieving national and military objectives;
completed and projected adjustments to the nuclear weapons stockpile necessary to achieve national and military objectives;
nuclear weapons development, production and sustainment capability and capacity requirements necessary to achieve and maintain desired nuclear weapons stockpile quantities and attributes;
ongoing or planned threat reduction activities contributing to the achievement of national and military objectives; and
other related activities or relevant topics, as determined necessary by the Under Secretaries or the Vice Chairman.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act for fiscal year 2027 for procurement, Defense-wide, and available for the Missile Defense Agency, not more than $20,000,000 may be provided to the Government of Israel to procure components for the Iron Dome short-range rocket defense system through co-production of such components in the United States by industry of the United States.
Funds described in paragraph (1) for the Iron Dome short-range rocket defense program shall be available subject to the terms and conditions in the Agreement Between the Department of Defense of the United States of America and the Ministry of Defense of the State of Israel Concerning Iron Dome Defense System Procurement, signed on March 5, 2014, as amended to include co-production for Tamir interceptors.
Not later than 30 days prior to the initial obligation of funds described in paragraph (1), the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees—
a certification that the amended bilateral international agreement specified in subparagraph (A) is being implemented as provided in such agreement;
an assessment detailing any risks relating to the implementation of such agreement; and
for system improvements resulting in modified Iron Dome components and Tamir interceptor sub-components, a certification that the Government of Israel has demonstrated successful completion of Production Readiness Reviews, including the validation of production lines, the verification of component conformance, and the verification of performance to specification as defined in the Iron Dome Defense System Procurement Agreement, as further amended.
Subject to paragraph (3), of the funds authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for procurement, Defense-wide, and available for the Missile Defense Agency not more than $30,000,000 may be provided to the Government of Israel to procure the David’s Sling Weapon System, including for co-production of parts and components in the United States by United States industry.
Provision of funds specified in paragraph (1) shall be subject to the terms and conditions in the bilateral co-production agreement, including—
a one-for-one cash match is made by Israel or in another matching amount that otherwise meets best efforts (as mutually agreed to by the United States and Israel); and
co-production of parts, components, and all-up rounds (if appropriate) in the United States by United States industry for the David’s Sling Weapon System is not less than 50 percent.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees—
a certification that the Government of Israel has demonstrated the successful completion of the knowledge points, technical milestones, and Production Readiness Reviews required by the research, development, and technology agreement and the bilateral co-production agreement for the David’s Sling Weapon System; and
an assessment detailing any risks relating to the implementation of such agreement.
Subject to paragraph (2), of the funds authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for procurement, Defense-wide, and available for the Missile Defense Agency not more than $150,000,000 may be provided to the Government of Israel for the Arrow 3 Upper Tier Interceptor Program, including for co-production of parts and components in the United States by United States industry.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a certification that—
the Government of Israel has demonstrated the successful completion of the knowledge points, technical milestones, and Production Readiness Reviews required by the research, development, and technology agreement for the Arrow 3 Upper Tier Interceptor Program;
funds specified in paragraph (1) will be provided on the basis of a one-for-one cash match made by Israel or in another matching amount that otherwise meets best efforts (as mutually agreed to by the United States and Israel);
the United States has entered into a bilateral international agreement with Israel that establishes, with respect to the use of such funds—
in accordance with subparagraph (D), the terms of co-production of parts and components on the basis of the greatest practicable co-production of parts, components, and all-up rounds (if appropriate) by United States industry and minimizes nonrecurring engineering and facilitization expenses to the costs needed for co-production;
complete transparency on the requirement of Israel for the number of interceptors and batteries that will be procured, including with respect to the procurement plans, acquisition strategy, and funding profiles of Israel;
technical milestones for co-production of parts and components and procurement;
a joint affordability working group to consider cost reduction initiatives; and
joint approval processes for third-party sales; and
the level of co-production described in subparagraph (C)(i) for the Arrow 3 Upper Tier Interceptor Program is not less than 50 percent.
In carrying out paragraph (2) of subsection (b) and paragraph (2) of subsection (c), the Under Secretary may submit—
one certification covering both the David’s Sling Weapon System and the Arrow 3 Upper Tier Interceptor Program; or
separate certifications for each respective system.
The Under Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees the certification and assessment under subsection (b)(3) and the certification under subsection (c)(2) not later than 30 days before the funds specified in paragraph (1) of subsections (b) and (c) for the respective system covered by the certification are provided to the Government of Israel.
In this section, the term appropriate congressional committees means the following:
The congressional defense committees.
The Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate.
The Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives.
Consistent with section 1660(b)(1) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263), the construction of the Guam Missile Defense System Command and Control Facility shall not be declared operational until such time as the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, as the senior official responsible for the missile defense of Guam, certifies to the congressional defense committees that there is a continuity of operations plan with appropriate backup operational facilities in lieu of the functional incapacitation or operational loss of the Command and Control Facility.
Not later than 45 days after the date on which the certification described in subsection (a) is submitted, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and the Commander of United States Indo-Pacific Command shall provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on the continuity plan described in such subsection, including a description of any included facilities or installations to be used.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide, and available to the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering for travel purposes, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of Defense submits the report required by section 1671(d) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31).
Section 1652 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60) is amended—
by striking the Secretary of Defense each place it appears and inserting the Direct Reporting Program Manager for Golden Dome for America; and
by striking the Secretary each place it appears and inserting the Direct Reporting Program Manager.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Operation and Maintenance, Navy, and available to the Office of the Secretary of the Navy for travel expenses, not more than 90 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary provides the briefing required on page 278 of Senate Report 119–39, accompanying S.2296 of the 119th Congress.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and the Director of the Missile Defense Agency, and in coordination with the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the Army Portfolio Acquisition Executive-FIRES, shall take such administrative actions as are required to ensure full operational capability for the Aegis Guam System, which is defined to include no fewer than two AN/TPY–6 radar emplacements to ensure 360-degree sensor coverage of Guam.
The Secretary of Defense shall take such actions as are necessary, preferencing the use of existing equipment, to ensure the emplacement of a second AN/TPY–6 radar and its integration into the Aegis Guam System are completed by not later than September 30, 2030.
Section 232 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 (Public Law 112–81; 125 Stat. 1339), as most recently amended by section 1664 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 603), is repealed.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall, in consultation with the Secretary of State—
complete an assessment of United States Armed Forces and foreign specified partner air and missile defense systems and interceptors in the area of responsibility of the United States Central Command; and
submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the Secretary with respect to the assessment completed under subparagraph (A).
The report submitted pursuant to paragraph (1)(B) shall include the following:
A description of current air and missile defense systems and interceptors used by United States Central Command and foreign specified partners to defend against attacks.
An analysis of current inventories and production rates of air and missile defense systems and interceptors produced by the United States and foreign specified partners.
An assessment of the number of air and missile defense systems deployed and interceptors expended to defend against attacks within the area of responsibility of the United States Central Command since October 7, 2023, disaggregated by—
the United States; and
foreign specified partners.
An assessment of the air and missile defense systems within the area of the responsibility of the United States Central Command that have been damaged or destroyed in attacks since October 7, 2023.
An assessment of the air and missile defense systems and interceptors developed and produced by the United States for which the United States defense industry cannot fulfill the orders placed by foreign specified partners so as to necessitate acquisition from other sources.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall, in consultation with the Secretary of State, submit to the congressional defense committees a strategy to facilitate additional cooperation with foreign specified partners to further integrate air and missile defense systems and to implement an interceptor acquisition strategy to defend United States nationals and assets and foreign specified partners from attacks.
The strategy submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A description of current efforts by the Secretary of Defense to engage foreign specified partners to prioritize air and missile defense needs, including further coordination—
to replenish interceptor stock supplies;
to facilitate the transfer and delivery of air and missile defense systems from the United States to foreign specified partners; and
to increase air and missile defense system and interceptor supply bases located within the area of responsibility of United States Central Command.
An assessment of the feasibility and cost of creating an air and missile defense system and interceptor stockpile located within the area of responsibly of United States Central Command to be exclusively used by—
the United States; and
foreign specified partners.
An assessment of the feasibility of establishing joint ventures, licensing agreements, and co-production and manufacturing partnerships between the United States and foreign specified partners to accelerate the production of air and missile defense systems and interceptors.
An identification of steps that can be taken to accelerate the joint research, development, acquisition, and transfer of alternative or lower-cost interceptor solutions, and complementary air and missile defense capabilities between the United States and foreign specified partners, and the co-production of interceptors in the United States, where feasible.
An analysis of the legal, economic, and defense policy aspects of a closer air and missile defense acquisition partnership between the United States and foreign specified partners.
An analysis of lessons learned from air defense efforts in regional theaters, including Ukraine, the Middle East and North Africa, the Caucasus, and the Horn of Africa.
The strategy and plan submitted under paragraph (1) shall provide that any activity carried out pursuant to the strategy and plan is conducted in a manner that is consistent with protection of intelligence sources and methods and appropriately protects sensitive information and the national security interests of the United States.
The strategy submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
In this section:
The term air and missile defense systems means air and missile defense articles, unmanned aerial defense articles, rocket defense articles, and non-kinetic articles, and all of their component parts, including command and control centers, sensors, radars, and launchers.
The term attacks means missile, manned and unmanned aerial system, and rocket attacks from Iran and armed groups linked to Iran.
The term foreign specified partners means allies and partners in the area of responsibility of the United States Central Command.
The term interceptors means air and missile, unmanned aerial, non-kinetic payloads, and rocket defense articles designed to detect, track, and destroy incoming missiles, manned and unmanned aerial systems, and rockets.
It is the Sense of the Senate that—
Department of Defense test, evaluation, and space situational awareness capabilities residing on Kwajalein Atoll and supporting the missions of the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range are of paramount importance to the defense of the United States and the maintenance of the military capabilities required to achieve this goal;
the persistent inability of the Army to adequately maintain Department of Defense facilities and infrastructure on the Kwajalein Atoll belies the clear importance of this installation and represents a continuing failure of leadership at all levels of the Army;
this failure presents an ongoing health and safety risk to the military, civilian, and contractor workforce supporting Department of Defense activities on the atoll;
the Test Resource Management Center, at congressional direction, determined that the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range is functionally incapable of fully executing nearly every mission it has been charged with supporting for several years;
inadequate support and prioritization for sustainment and modernization activities, particularly with regard to the unique testing capabilities resident across the atoll, has placed tens of billions of dollars in critical investments in the modernization of the nuclear deterrent and ballistic missile defense capabilities of the United States at extreme risk due to the inability of the installation to fully support weapon system testing requirements;
such risks will only be magnified as the Department of Defense works to develop the Golden Dome for America integrated air and missile defense system, long-range hypersonic strike systems, and the suite of mass-producible, low-cost munitions envisioned by the Munitions Acceleration Council of the Deputy Secretary of Defense; and
continued failures to rectify these systemic sustainment issues is antithetical to the stated priorities of the Department of Defense to restore lethality to the Joint Force and undermines efforts of the United States to ensure United States warfighters are equipped with the tools needed to effectively compete against rapidly expanding Chinese, Russian, and North Korean capabilities and deter their aggressive intentions now and in the coming decades.
Commencing not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act and concluding not later than 150 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Inspector General of the Department of Defense shall conduct a comprehensive review of—
the status of United States facilities and capabilities located on the islands comprising the Kwajalein Atoll, as well as any associated capabilities supporting the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range not residing on the atoll;
the effectiveness of previous, ongoing, and planned Army sustainment and modernization plans for maintaining the infrastructure and capabilities required to perform the missions assigned to United States Army Kwajalein Atoll and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range and support Joint Force weapon system testing needs;
the adequacy of previous, current, and planned funding to achieve the objectives of the sustainment and modernization plans of the Army for maintaining the infrastructure and capabilities required to perform the missions assigned to United States Army Kwajalein Atoll and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range and support Joint Force weapon system testing needs;
the analytical and decisionmaking processes within the Army and the Department of Defense generally that have contributed to the current status of United States facilities and capabilities on the atoll; and
the effectiveness of the Army in providing health and welfare services to military, civilian, and contractor personnel assigned to the atoll at a level commensurate to such services provided at other Army installations outside the continental United States, including the determinations and decisionmaking processes that led to the absence of Department of Defense Education Activity, Defense Commissary Agency, and Defense Health Agency support for resident personnel and families.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the completion of the review required by subsection (b), the Deputy Secretary of Defense shall, in coordination with the Secretary of the Army, the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, the Direct Reporting Program Manager for Critical Major Weapon Systems, the Direct Reporting Program Manager for Golden Dome for America, the Commander of United States Strategic Command, and the Commander of United States Space Command, complete an initial plan for restoring and remediating—
the full range of test and evaluation capabilities required to support weapon system program development efforts requiring the use of the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range; and
any supporting Department of Defense infrastructure deficiencies on Kwajalein Atoll required to fully enable Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range operations, and any other deficiencies identified by the Inspector General as part of the review described in subsection (b).
In parallel to the development of the plan required by (1), the Secretary of the Army shall, in coordination with the Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation, prepare an initial cost estimate for—
fully remediating not fewer than 75 percent of all identified deficiencies across the fiscal years 2028 to 2032 Future Years Defense Program; and
fully remediating all deficiencies in mission critical testing capabilities as determined jointly by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, and the Direct Reporting Program Managers for Golden Dome for America and Critical Major Weapon Systems.
The plan required by paragraph (1) and the cost estimate required by paragraph (2) shall be annually updated by the Secretary of the Army and submitted through the Director of the Test Resource Management Center to the Deputy Secretary of Defense as part of the Program Objective Memoranda request of the Army for the upcoming fiscal year, along with an independent evaluation by the Director of the sufficiency of the proposed resourcing of the Army to achieve the plan objectives.
No later than 45 days after the receipt of the plan required by paragraph (1), The Deputy Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees an unedited copy of the plan described required by paragraph (1), along with any comments, planned follow-up activities, or recommendations for congressional action.
Commencing not later than April 1, 2027, and not less frequently than once each year thereafter until December 31, 2032, the Comptroller General of the United States shall—
conduct a review of the condition of Department of Defense facilities and capabilities located on Kwajalein Atoll; and
submit to the congressional defense committees—
an assessment of the efforts of the Department of Defense to restore and remediate the capabilities described in subparagraph (A); and
such recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve the efforts described in clause (i) as the Comptroller General considers appropriate.
Not later than August 1 of each year, the Comptroller General shall provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on the findings of the Comptroller General with respect to the most recent review conducted pursuant to paragraph (1)(A).
Funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Defense for activities at the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range or United States Army Garrison Kwajalein Atoll may be obligated or expended only for the purposes for which such funds are authorized and appropriated or otherwise made available.
Except as expressly authorized by law, the Secretary of Defense, the heads of the military departments, and the Combatant Commanders may not realign, transfer, reprogram, or otherwise reallocate funds described in subsection (a) for purposes other than those specifically authorized and appropriated or otherwise made available as described in such subsection, and may not authorize any other individual to do so.
Not later than 30 days after the Department of Defense initiates any activity relating to studying the relocation of Department systems out of bands of electromagnetic spectrum that are assigned to a non-Federal entity, the Chief Information Officer of the Department shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a notification with respect to the initiation of the activity that includes—
a list of the spectrum frequencies being studied; and
a list of systems of the Department that reside within those frequencies.
After each notification submitted under subsection (a) with respect to an activity described in that subsection, the Chief Information Officer shall—
not later than 60 days after the date of such submittal—
complete an assessment of—
the costs associated with the activity; and
any change to current operational readiness of systems described in subsection (a) expected as a result of such activity; and
provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on the findings of the Chief Information Officer with respect to the assessment completed under subparagraph (A); and
not later than 90 days after the date of such submittal, submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the Chief Information Officer with respect to the assessment completed under paragraph (1)(A).
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended to relocate a system as described in subsection (a) until the Chief Information Officer has—
provided the briefing required by paragraph (1)(B) of subsection (b) for such system; and
submitted the report required by paragraph (2) of such subsection.
No later than the first March 31 occurring after the date of the enactment of this Act and March 31 of each calendar year thereafter through 2031, the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and in consultation with the Chiefs of each of the Armed Forces, provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on actions taken by the Department Defense in the previous calendar year with respect to preparations for or participation by the Department in the International Telecommunication Union World Radio Conference.
Each briefing provided under subsection (a) shall cover the following:
The composition and representation of delegates of the Department participating in World Radio Conference preparatory meetings, including Conference Preparatory Meetings and relevant regional bodies.
The direct participation of the Department in International Telecommunication Union Radiocommunication Sector Study Groups and Working Parties between World Radio Conferences.
Adoption of studies by the World Radio Conference.
Testing and evaluation activities undertaken to assess the vulnerability of Department systems to proposed spectrum changes under consideration at the World Radio Conference, and the outcomes of such activities.
Development of potential recommendations affecting the readiness of the Department, including studies that could be adopted by World Radio Conference.
Potential cost and readiness implications of matters covered by paragraphs (3) through (5).
Such other matters as the Chief Information Officer and the Chairman may consider important to the congressional defense committees.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the heads of such other Federal agencies as the Secretary considers appropriate, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on efforts of the Department of Defense to counter espionage and intellectual property theft by the People’s Republic of China targeting Department of Defense installations, research institutions, and the defense industrial base.
The report required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
A description of threats posed by the People’s Republic of China to Department of Defense installations, federally funded research and development centers, universities conducting defense-related research, and entities within the defense industrial base, including efforts to obtain sensitive information, technology, or intellectual property.
An assessment of trends in espionage and intellectual property theft targeting such entities, including the role of nontraditional collectors such as researchers, students, and commercial entities.
A description of activities undertaken by the Department, in coordination with interagency partners, to detect, deter, and mitigate such threats.
An accounting of resources dedicated by the Department to counter such threats, including personnel, funding, and programs, and an assessment of the effectiveness of such efforts.
A description of policies, procedures, and safeguards in place to protect civil liberties, academic freedom, and the privacy rights of United States persons in the course of such activities.
An assessment of vulnerabilities within Department installations, research environments, and the defense industrial base, including supply chain risks and insider threat considerations.
A description of coordination mechanisms between the Department and interagency partners to address such threats, including information sharing and joint operational efforts.
Recommendations for legislative, policy, or resource changes necessary to improve the ability of the Department and interagency partners to counter such threats.
The report required under subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Chapter 25 of title 10, United States Code is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
Not later than March 31, 2027, the Secretary of the Air Force shall develop an integrated electronic warfare capabilities roadmap for air and space operations.
The Secretary of the Air Force shall update the plan developed under paragraph (1) not less frequently than once every year ending in an odd number.
The roadmap as developed every other year shall be updated on the threat assessment that is ten years later than the date of production of the roadmap.
The roadmap developed under subsection (a) shall detail an integrated plan for capabilities that are—
already in effect;
under development; and
require a future material acquisition.
In the roadmap developed under subsection (a), the Secretary shall outline the force structure requirements in terms of—
size of personnel;
types of occupational specialty; and
expected training requirements.
As part the roadmap required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall, to the greatest extent possible, detail synergistic cooperation with respect to—
waveform transport between threat emitters and weapon systems;
targeting, including physics-based modeling of different electronic warfare effects;
battle damage assessment; and
and such other areas as the Secretary considers appropriate.
The Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Executive Committee established by section 500 of this title shall review the roadmap required by paragraph (1) of subsection (a) and each update under paragraph (2) of such subsection.
Not later than April 30, 2027, and not less frequently than once every year that ends in an odd number, the Secretary shall, in consultation with the Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Executive Committee, provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on the findings of the Committee with respect to the latest review conducted under subsection (f).
The Secretary of Defense shall, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, direct the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security and the Director of the National Security Agency to approve, direct, and enable the direct and immediate dissemination of all operational electronic intelligence data collected on high-value and potentially hostile military systems in the United States Indo-Pacific Command and European Command areas of responsibility to military command and control nodes and engagement systems and platforms for the purpose of establishing targeting quality tracks of such systems and platforms as an essential component of constructing, fielding, and exercising multi-sensor, cross-domain, long-range kill chains under the operational concept and strategy for combined, joint all-domain command and control.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall—
issue a directive applicable to all components of the Department of Defense to enable the Under Secretary and the Director of the National Security Agency to carry out the direction of the Secretary under subsection (a); and
conduct a demonstration of at least one kill chain of a high-value target set using the data generated by national operational electronic intelligence collection systems that are currently operationally deployed and under the delegated tasking authority of the Director of the National Security Agency as the national functional manager for signals intelligence.
The Director of the National Security Agency, the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, and the Director for Operations of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shall—
consult with the congressional defense committees prior to the development of the directive and the demonstration required by subsection (b); and
provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the substance of the directive and the results and lessons learned of the demonstration.
In this section:
The term direct dissemination means direct downlinking or communicating of the minimum collected data needed to support target identification and engagement to systems and entities directly responsible for engaging military targets, including the Family of Integrated Targeting Cells developed by the Department of the Army, the Department of the Navy, and the Department of the Air Force, without impacting timeliness and the achievable scale of target engagements.
The term kill chain means the highly automated, long-range, rapid, and large-scale process of detecting, identifying, locating, tracking, and engaging high-value adversary targets using assets and resources spanning multiple ground, air, sea, space, and cyber operational domains.
The term operational electronic intelligence (OPELINT) means the detection, location, identification, and tracking of adversary military emitters of radio frequency electronic signals to support military operations, specifically including the peacetime construction and exercising and wartime execution of rapid-response targeting and engagement operations reflected in kill chains against moving and moveable objects enabled by the direct and immediate dissemination of data regarding such detection, location, identification, and tracking to engagement systems and platforms.
The term targeting-quality track means a location and tracking product that is accurate, sustained, and timely enough to support striking a target with a long-range weapons system.
The Secretary of Defense shall seek to enter into an agreement with a federally funded research and development center or other independent entity to perform the services covered by this section.
The Secretary shall seek to enter into the agreement described in paragraph (1) not later than March 1, 2027.
Under an agreement between the Secretary and a center or entity under subsection (a), the center or entity shall conduct a study on the roles, responsibilities, authorities, organizational constructs, and resourcing of the Principal Cyber Advisors of the military departments.
In conducting the study under paragraph (1), the center or entity shall conduct an assessment of, and develop recommendations on—
the extent to which the responsibilities of the Principal Cyber Advisors of the military departments are clearly delineated from, duplicative of, or ambiguous with respect to, those of the Chief Information Officers of the military departments and the commands or organizations within the Army, the Navy, the Marine Corps, the Air Force, and the Space Force responsible for network and security operations, including recommendations for any changes to statute, policy, or organizational guidance necessary to resolve identified ambiguities or overlaps;
the degree to which the authorities prescribed under section 392a(c) of title 10, United States Code, are sufficient to enable the Principal Cyber Advisors of the military departments to execute their statutory and implied responsibilities, including specific recommendations for legislative action to resolve ambiguities or overlaps with the authorities of related positions within the Army, the Navy, the Marine Corps, the Air Force, and the Space Force;
the extent to which the current organizational placement of each Principal Cyber Advisor enables effective integration of cyber considerations across departmental activities, including acquisition, operations, personnel, and policy, including recommendations on the optimal organizational construct for each position and the advisability of elevating the position to the level of Assistant Secretary or Under Secretary of the military department; and
the extent to which current staffing, funding, and administrative support under each organizational construct enables or hinders execution of statutory and implied responsibilities, including a comparative assessment of resourcing models across the military departments and specific recommendations on the appropriate staffing levels, personnel numbers, assigned tasks, and funding required to enable effective execution of those responsibilities.
In conducting the study required under subsection (b), the center or entity shall consult with—
the Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of Defense;
the Principal Cyber Advisors of each of the military departments;
the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense;
the Chief Information Officers of each of the military departments;
the senior officer or civilian of each of the Army, the Navy, the Marine Corps, the Air Force, and the Space Force responsible for command, control, communications, and information technology;
the senior officer or civilian of each of the Army, the Navy, the Marine Corps, the Air Force, and the Space Force responsible for the operations and employment of cyber capabilities;
the senior officer or civilian of each of the Army, the Navy, the Marine Corps, the Air Force, and the Space Force responsible for military and civilian cyber workforce career field management;
the Director of the Defense Information Systems Agency and Commander of the Department of Defense Cyber Defense Command; and
such other officials and stakeholders as the entity considers appropriate.
Not later than January 1, 2028, the center or entity that conducted the study under subsection (b) shall submit to the Secretary of Defense and the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the center or entity with respect to study.
Not later than January 15, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the findings of the center or entity that conducted the study under subsection (b) with respect to such study, which may be incorporated into existing annual or budgetary briefings provided to the congressional defense committees.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the use of the Armed Forces and other activities and agencies of the Department of Defense for operation and maintenance, up to $5,000,000 may be obligated or expended by the Commander of United States Cyber Command to carry out cyberspace operations and cyberspace support activities requiring specialized activities by members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces, including the National Guard, in support of cyber-peculiar operations.
Nothing in subsection (a) shall be construed to authorize deviation from established personnel and training procedures applicable to members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces, including applicable provisions of titles 10 and 32, United States Code, governing the order, administration, and training of reserve components of the Armed Forces.
Not later than 15 days after the total amount obligated or expended pursuant to subsection (a) exceeds $500,000, and not later than 15 days after each additional $500,000 increment is obligated or expended thereafter, the Commander of United States Cyber Command shall submit to the congressional defense committees notification of the obligations and expenditures giving rise to each such threshold being crossed.
Each notification submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
The total amount obligated or expended pursuant to subsection (a) during the fiscal year as of the date of the notification.
The total number of members of the reserve components, including the National Guard, ordered to duty under title 10, United States Code, pursuant to subsection (a) during the fiscal year as of the date of the notification.
A disaggregation of the number included under subparagraph (B) of such members by component of the Armed Forces.
A disaggregation of such members by the specific authority under title 10, United States Code, under which each member was ordered to duty.
Not later than December 31, 2027, the Commander of United States Cyber Command shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on obligations and expenditures made pursuant to the authority provided for in subsection (a).
The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A full description and evaluation of each cyberspace operation or cyberspace support activity that is the subject of each such obligation or expenditure.
The number and component affiliation of members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces, including the National Guard, who participated in such activities.
The extent to which such activities aligned with established personnel and training procedures for members of the reserve components.
Definitions and standards applied to determine cyber-peculiar requirements for participation by reserve components of the Armed Forces, including the National Guard.
Such other matters as the Commander considers appropriate.
Section 391a of title 10, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
Not later than March 1, 2027, and annually thereafter, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy and Principal Cyber Advisor for the Department of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the readiness and efforts of the military departments to provide support for cyber operations.
Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include an unclassified summary suitable for public release.
In preparing each report required by subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary and Principal Cyber Advisor shall consult with each Secretary of the military departments and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
For each report submitted under subsection (a), the Commander of United States Cyber Command shall act as a contributor to the report, providing data, assessments, and requirements relating to the operational readiness of the Cyber Mission Force and other assigned forces.
Each report submitted under subsection (a) shall include, for the period covered by the report, the following:
A description and assessment of the efforts of each military department to support joint and armed force-specific cyber missions.
An assessment of the sufficiency of the support provided by each military department to meet the operational requirements of United States Cyber Command, including with respect to readiness, training, and equipping the Cyber Mission Force teams.
A description of any capability or readiness gaps identified by the Commander of United States Cyber Command, and the steps being taken by the Secretaries of the military departments to address them.
An assessment of progress made on mitigation plans for identified readiness shortfalls or challenges from previous years.
Standardized metrics and definitions for readiness, capability gaps, and mitigation plans, as developed by the Assistant Secretary and Principal Cyber Advisor in consultation with the Commander of United States Cyber Command.
As appropriate, the principal cyber advisors from each of the military departments shall also provide amplifying information, data, analysis or recommendations relating to any of the elements in paragraphs (1) through (4) within their purview.
Such other matters as the Assistant Secretary and Principal Cyber Advisor determines appropriate.
In order to carry out the pilot program in subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense may enter into a contract with a private sector entity to conduct a cyber operation for the sole purpose of access generation and maintenance using contractor owned, contractor operated means, under the operational authority of the Commander of United States Cyber Command.
Activities carried out under subsection (a) shall—
only be conducted under direct Federal Government oversight of a civilian employee of the Federal Government or a member of the Armed Forces, with cleared civilian employees of the Department of Defense or cleared members of the Armed Forces present at all times; and
when feasible, conducted in facilities of the Federal Government.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary may establish a pilot program under the operational authority of the Commander of United States Cyber Command, to assess the feasibility and advisability of conducting cyber operations limited to access generation and maintenance through contractor owned, contractor operated means, subject to the limitations in subsection (b).
The pilot program authorized by paragraph (1) and the authority provided under subsection (a) shall terminate on or before December 31, 2030.
Not later than 10 days after entering into any contractual arrangement under subsection (a), the Secretary shall notify the congressional defense committees of the following:
The date the contractual arrangement was signed.
Identification of the private sector party to the contractual arrangement.
A description of the scope and terms of the contractual arrangement.
Not later than 48 hours after the commencement and subsequent conclusion of any cyber operation conducted under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall notify the congressional defense committees of the following:
The target and nature of the access developed or maintained.
The identity of the cleared civilian employee of the Department or member of the Armed Forces who conducted oversight of the operation.
The contractor who conducted the operation.
The duration and current status of the operation.
The Secretary shall include a discussion of activities carried out under this section in the quarterly cyber operations briefings provided to the congressional defense committees pursuant to section 484 of title 10, United States Code.
Not later than 90 days after the termination of the pilot program required by subsection (c), the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the following:
An assessment of the feasibility and advisability of entering into contracts under subsection (a) on a continuing basis.
What constraints were applied in contracts executed under the pilot program.
What capabilities were acquired through contractor owned, contractor operated means.
An assessment of how the pilot program impacted the development of the internal access and management capabilities and talent development of the Armed Forces.
Recommendations for legislative or administrative action to support or modify operations carried out under subsection (a).
Not later than March 1, 2027, and not less frequently than once each year thereafter until December 31, 2030, the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Commander of United States Cyber Command and the Commander of the Department of Defense Cyber Defense Command, submit to the congressional defense committees an annual report on the implementation of the Cyber Operational Readiness Assessment (CORA) program of the Department of Defense Information Network and the findings from such program.
Each report required under subsection (a) shall include, for the period covered by the report, the following:
An overview of the implementation status of the Cyber Operational Readiness Assessment program, including scope, methodology, team certification status, and assessment cadence across the military departments and the defense agencies and Department of Defense field activities.
Aggregate and component-level findings on remediation efforts during the Cyber Operational Readiness Assessment, and component level trend analysis of such efforts.
Aggregate findings on risks, recurring deficiencies, and trends affecting mission assurance.
A progress report on the planned updates to the Inspection Analysis Tool of the Department of Defense Information Network to include root cause analysis and records of actions taken or planned to address material risks identified through the program, including timelines, responsible organizations, and any resource constraints.
An initial plan, and subsequent progress reports, for incorporating operational technology environments into assessments carried out under the program to ensure a comprehensive operational readiness evaluation of mission-critical systems, weapon platforms, industrial control systems, and supporting infrastructure.
An assessment of how assessments under the program will incorporate and operationalize the pilot Critical Infrastructure Discovery and Evaluation (CIDE) activities conducted by the Department of Defense Cyber Defense Command on operational technology networks, including alignment of scope, methodology, data collection, reporting, and resourcing to ensure unity of effort and avoid duplication.
A description of any policy, authority, or resourcing gaps that inhibit full execution of the program as an operational readiness assessment.
The Secretary of Defense shall seek to enter into an agreement with a federally funded research and development center or other independent entity to perform the services covered by this section.
The Secretary shall seek to enter into the agreement described in paragraph (1) not later than March 1, 2027.
Under an agreement between the Secretary and a center or entity under subsection (a), the center or entity shall conduct a study on the organizational constructs and resourcing of the United States Cyber Command.
The study conducted under paragraph (1) shall be limited to the headquarters element of United States Cyber Command and the personnel, positions, and resources directly assigned to the Command. The study shall not address the organization or resourcing of cyber operations forces assigned to or retained by the military departments or other combatant commands.
In conducting the study under paragraph (1), the center or entity shall conduct an assessment of—
the applicability of the doctrinal organizational construct of a unified combatant command to the unique operational and technological requirements of the cyber domain, including—
the ability of the current organizational construct to support the operational responsibilities of United States Cyber Command as a combatant command under section 164 of title 10, United States Code;
the ability of the current organizational construct to support the responsibilities of United States Cyber Command under section 167b of title 10, United States Code, including the functions of a service-like combatant command with respect to cyber operations forces; and
the ability of the current organizational construct to support the acquisition responsibilities of United States Cyber Command, including the program executive office for the Joint Cyber Warfighting Architecture established pursuant to section 1509 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 167b note);
the organizational structure and resourcing of United States Special Operations Command as a comparative model for a service-like combatant command operating across military departments; and
the personnel, workforce development, recruitment and retention, facilities, and infrastructure required to meet the operational and statutory demands of United States Cyber Command.
In conducting the study required under subsection (b), the center or entity shall consult with—
military and civilian personnel assigned to the headquarters element of United States Cyber Command;
commanders and senior leaders of the military departments responsible for generating cyber forces;
the Joint Staff, including relevant directorates with responsibility for cyber operations planning and resourcing; and
such other officials and stakeholders as the entity considers appropriate.
Under the agreement described in subsection (b)(1) between the Secretary and a center or entity, the center or entity shall, based on the study conducted under such subsection, develop not fewer than two alternative models for the organization and resourcing of the headquarters of United States Cyber Command, with analysis of the costs, benefits, and implementation considerations of each model.
Not later than December 31, 2027, the independent entity shall present the models developed under subsection (d) to the Secretary of Defense. Not later than 30 days after receiving such presentation, the Secretary shall—
select a preferred organizational model; and
notify the congressional defense committees of the preferred model selected and the alternatives considered.
Not later than April 30, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees an implementation plan for the preferred model selected under subsection (e)(1), including—
a detailed description of organizational changes required;
associated resourcing requirements, including any legislative changes necessary to carry out the plan; and
a proposed schedule for implementation.
Section 484 of title 10, United States, is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking Under Secretary of Defense for Policy and inserting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy; and
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by inserting , including how each such operations contributes to objectives for campaign plans, competition, or shaping for conflict in support of such command before the period at the end; and
by amending paragraph (3) to read as follows:
A description of the campaign plans for each geographic and functional command, including specific objectives, targets, and goals for the campaign and supporting operations and anticipated resources to meet campaign objectives.
Section 1640 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92) is repealed.
Not later than January 15, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Director of the Test Resource Management Center and in coordination with the Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of Defense, the executive agent for cyber test ranges, the executive agent for cyber training ranges, and the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, submit to the congressional defense committees a strategy for integrating National Guard physical ranges with cyber-peculiar or cyber-peculiar test and evaluation capabilities into Department of Defense cyber test and evaluation activities, including within the National Cyber Range Complex.
The strategy required under paragraph (1) shall include—
an assessment of National Guard physical ranges with unique infrastructure relevant to testing cyber capabilities against physical systems;
an identification of existing interoperability between such ranges and cyber test and training platforms and any gaps therein;
an inventory of skills and subject-matter expertise within National Guard units supporting such ranges relevant to cyber, operational technology, and test and evaluation;
an assessment of current utilization of such ranges by the Department of Defense and the military departments for cyber test and evaluation, including frequency, scope, and activity types;
a projection of demand for such ranges during the five-year period beginning on the date of the submission of the strategy under paragraph (1); and
a programming and budgeting approach for utilization of such ranges, including estimated costs disaggregated by fiscal year for the five-year period covered by the strategy based on the demand projections in subparagraph (E).
Not later than January 15, 2028, and concurrent with submittal of the strategy under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Director of the Test Resource Management Center and in coordination with the Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of Defense and the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, submit to the congressional defense committees an evaluation of the adequacy of funding models under Volume 11A of the Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation (DoD 7000.14–R) for resourcing National Guard physical ranges with cyber-peculiar capabilities or cyber-peculiar test and evaluation requirements.
The evaluation required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
An analysis of the suitability for testing cyber effects on physical systems of the current funding models for such ranges.
An identification of barriers within each such model impeding consistent access to and resourcing of such ranges, including impact of fall outside the Major Range and Test Facility Base designation.
A determination of whether any funding model in effect is sufficient, as currently structured, to ensure sustained resourcing of such ranges.
Recommendations for modifications to the Financial Management Regulation or alternative funding mechanisms not currently available thereunder, including any legislative changes required.
Not later than January 1, 2028, the Commander of United States Cyber Command shall, in coordination with the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy and the Principal Cyber Advisors of the military departments, develop and implement an updated methodology for reporting cyber force readiness.
In developing the updated methodology required by subsection (a), the Commander shall include considerations of the following:
Measurement of mastery level for cyber forces, as defined under the Department of Defense Revised Cyber Force Generation Model.
Extension of readiness reporting to all levels of the cyber operations forces, including cybersecurity service providers, service-specific cyber elements, and reserve component forces.
Standardization of unit organizational elements that input readiness data into the Joint Cyber Command and Control Readiness system.
Interoperability with the Defense Readiness Reporting System, or any successor system.
Ensure readiness reporting metrics account for—
shortfalls in available forces, as well as in on-hand forces that are not fully trained; and
forces at various stages in the training pipeline.
Identification of bottlenecks in the readiness system, including training backlogs, trainer shortages, and shortages in personnel available to certify teams.
Assessment and evaluation of the capabilities of the cyber warfighting architecture, including the systems, tools, and infrastructure required to conduct cyber operations, using defined evaluation metrics for each component, including—
operational availability and mission suitability of systems;
capacity to support assigned cyber missions and force requirements; and
integration and interoperability of systems across the cyber warfighting architecture.
Periodic spot-check auditing by the Inspector General of the Department of Defense to ensure the accuracy of cyber readiness reporting.
Not later than January 29, 2027, the Commander of United States Cyber Command shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the development and implementation of the updated methodology pursuant to subsection (a), including timelines for full implementation and any legal or policy constraints impacting such timelines.
Section 1508 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 2224 note) is amended—
in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking information technology and cybersecurity; and
in subsection (b)—
in paragraph (1), by striking March 1, 2026 and inserting March 1, 2031; and
in paragraph (2)—
by redesignating subparagraph (E) as subparagraph (F); and
by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following:
A description of the sectors and types of entities prioritized by the Commander in carrying out subsection (a) and the reasons for that priority.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall, in coordination with the Chief Information Officers of the military departments, update Department of Defense-wide policy and guidance to establish the following minimum standards for personnel accounts of members of the reserve components on unclassified and classified networks:
Accounts shall be disabled after no less than 180 days of inactivity.
Accounts shall be deleted after no less than 270 days of inactivity.
Not later than July 1, 2027, the commanders responsible for information network operations of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force shall implement all technical configurations and group policy objects required to enforce the standards established under subsection (a).
Commencing not later than July 1, 2027, the Inspector General of the Department of Defense shall conduct a 365-day audit of the implementation of subsections (a) and (b), which shall assess—
the extent to which applicable policies and technical configurations have been updated and implemented as required;
the rate at which personnel of reserve components were required to reactivate or rebuild accounts on unclassified and classified networks following implementation; and
whether the policy and technical changes required under this section have demonstrably reduced account reactivation and rebuild burdens for personnel of the reserve components.
Not later than September 1, 2028, the Inspector General of the Department of Defense shall transmit to the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and the Chief Information Officers of the military departments the findings of the Inspector General with respect to the audit conducted under subsection (c).
Not later than October 1, 2028, the Inspector General of the Department of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the findings of the Inspector General with respect to the audit conducted under subsection (c).
In this section:
The term classified network means any Department of Defense network authorized to process or transmit information classified at the Secret level.
The term reserve component has the meaning given that term in section 101(c) of title 10, United States Code.
Not later than October 1, 2027, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall issue or update Department of Defense-wide policy guidance relating to standardized risk management framework procedures applicable to all programs and systems of the Department.
The policy required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A unified, standardized set of procedures with clearly defined steps by which all programs and systems of the Department shall progress through the risk management framework process.
A mandatory, enumerated list of documentation required from vendors and system owners at each step of the risk management framework process as defined in subparagraph (A), which—
shall be submitted in machine-readable formats; and
may be submitted in a format other than machine-readable only if the vendor provides written justification that machine-readable delivery is not technically feasible, and such justification is approved in writing by the authorizing official prior to the initiation of any risk management framework activity.
Not later than December 1, 2027, the Chief Information Officer of each military department shall publish implementing guidance subordinate to and consistent with the guidance issued under paragraph (1).
The Chief Information Officer of a military department may not impose requirements beyond those in the guidance issued under paragraph (1) without written approval of the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense.
Not later than October 1, 2028, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall modernize or replace the current enterprise application for hosting approvals and documentation for programs and systems of the Department, and ensure that this Department-wide platform used to support the risk management framework process—
is capable of ingesting, assessing, and retrieving machine-readable security data submitted in accordance with subsection (a);
supports real-time progress tracking for all programs and systems engaged in or that have completed the risk management framework process as established in updated or new guidance required under subsection (a);
serves as the authoritative repository for all risk management framework documentation required under subsection (a); and
is accessible to authorizing officials, program offices, and mission owners across the Department and the military departments, including to support reciprocity determinations under section 1522 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 2223 note).
It shall be the policy of the Department that use of available inherited controls shall be required as the default for all programs and systems of the Department, with exceptions to such policy to be approved by the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense.
Not later than October 1, 2027, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall update all applicable Department of Defense directives, instructions, guidance, and associated handbooks to establish the inheritance of applicable security controls from authoritative providers as the default approach for all programs and systems of the Department.
The directives, instructions, guidance, and handbooks updated under subparagraph (A) shall—
establish the inheritance of applicable security controls from authoritative providers as the default approach for all programs and systems of the Department of Defense; and
require that an authorizing official who declines to use available inherited controls document in writing the specific technical or mission justification for that decision prior to initiating an independent assessment of those controls.
Not later than April 1, 2027, and annually thereafter through April 1, 2032, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the following:
The status of administration of subsections (a) through (c).
Measurable changes in average risk management framework cycle times before and after implementation of the directive required under subsection (a).
Such recommendations as the Chief Information Officer may have for legislative or administrative action to further reduce administrative burden without reducing security outcomes.
In this section:
The term authorizing official has the meaning given that term in Department of Defense Instruction 8510.01 (relating to Risk Management Framework for DoD Systems), or successor instruction.
The term machine-readable has the meaning given that term in section 3502 of title 44, United States Code.
The term risk management framework means the cybersecurity risk management framework established by the National Institute of Standards and Technology and implemented by the Department of Defense pursuant to Department of Defense Instruction 8510.01 (relating to Risk Management Framework for DoD Systems) for the assessment and authorization of information systems.
Not later than February 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall direct the Science, Technology, and Innovation Board to conduct a study on enabling commercial software-as-a-service offerings on classified networks of the Department of Defense.
The study required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
An assessment of the strategic and operational benefits of commercial software-as-a-service offerings on classified networks, including the extent to which such offerings could advance the innovation objectives of the Department.
An evaluation of the existing framework by which commercial vendors seek, are authorized, and subsequently given appropriate network and account access to build, certify, procure, and sustain software-as-a-service capabilities on classified networks, including the following:
Technical requirements, including physical facility requirements, compute and networking infrastructure, and mechanisms for vendor access to customer data across classified network enclaves.
Security requirements applicable to offerings serving multiple military departments or components as well as Defense Intelligence Enterprise organizations simultaneously, including authority to operate processes and the feasibility of a reciprocal or common authorization framework.
Contractual and regulatory requirements, including whether the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement and the Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation adequately support such procurements.
Barriers to entry for small businesses and nontraditional defense contractors, and constructs that would enable such entities to effectively compete their offerings.
Recommendations for resolving the barriers identified under paragraph (2)(D), including the organizational roles and responsibilities, resources, authorities, and legislative or administrative action required to establish and sustain the growth of commercial software-as-a-service offerings.
In conducting the study required under subsection (a), the Science, Technology, and Innovation Board shall—
consult with appropriate officials of the Department of Defense and the Defense Intelligence Enterprise; and
to the extent practicable, seek input from representatives of the commercial software industry, including small businesses and nontraditional defense contractors.
Not later than August 1, 2027, the Science, Technology, and Innovation Board shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the status of the study required under subsection (a), including any preliminary findings or recommendations.
Not later than January 15, 2028, the Science, Technology, and Innovation Board shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report containing the findings and recommendations of the Science, Technology, and Innovation Board with respect to the study required under subsection (a).
The report required under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Not later than January 31, 2028, the Chair of the Science, Technology, and Innovation Board shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the findings and recommendations contained in the report submitted under subsection (e).
In this section:
The term classified networks means a national security system, as defined in section 3552(b) of title 44, United States Code, that is authorized to process, store, or transmit classified national security information.
The term nontraditional defense contractor has the meaning given that term in section 3014 of title 10, United States Code.
The term software-as-a-service means a cloud computing service model in which the capability provided to the consumer is to use the provider’s applications running on a cloud infrastructure, accessible from various client devices through a thin client interface such as a web browser or a program interface, in which the consumer does not manage or control the underlying cloud infrastructure, including network, servers, operating systems, storage, or individual application capabilities.
The Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall, in consultation with the Chief Information Officers of the military departments, reduce approval timelines and expand secured capabilities for cross-domain solutions through the elimination of unnecessary procedural steps and governance body involvement that does not contribute a priority security benefit.
Not later than December 15, 2027, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall, in consultation with the Chief Information Officers of the military departments, submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes the following:
An assessment of current approval timelines, organizational constructs, resource requirements, and operational limitations imposed by current cross-domain solution governance processes, including the frequency, structure, and consensus-based decision requirements of each governance body in the approval chain and whether full governance body review is required for every modification regardless of risk level.
A comparison of Department of Defense cross-domain solution approval timelines, approved file types, file sizes, and bulk and streaming data capabilities with those of other Federal departments and agencies.
An assessment of barriers to full utilization of reciprocity authorities under Department of Defense Instruction 8540.01 (relating to Cross Domain Policy), or successor instruction, and recommendations to remove such barriers.
A plan to carry out subsection (a) that—
reduces approval timelines to be commensurate with the risk level of the requested modification and achieves parity with comparable Federal department and agency processes;
identifies and eliminates governance body involvement that does not contribute a distinct security benefit, including evaluation of whether full board review is warranted for every modification request regardless of risk level;
fully employs available reciprocity authorities to achieve parity of approved capabilities across all enterprise cross-domain solutions;
establishes a risk-tiered review framework that distinguishes high-risk changes requiring full governance body review from lower-risk modifications eligible for expedited technical review;
evaluates a model where the approval of a cross-domain solutions includes a set of pre-authorized parameters, such that any modifications to that cross-domain solution that are within those parameters do not require full re-approval; and
assesses the feasibility of a common tracking and workflow tool to enable asynchronous and continuous review of modification requests in lieu of periodic consensus-based governance meetings, including proposed metrics to measure implementation effectiveness.
Not later than March 1, 2028, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on the status of the implementation of subsection (a) and an assessment of performance with respect to each of subparagraphs (A) through (F) of subsection (b)(4).
In this section, the term cross-domain solution has the meaning given such term in Department of Defense Instruction 8540.01 (relating to Cross Domain Policy), or successor instruction.
Not later than January 15, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment, develop and submit to the congressional defense committees a data center infrastructure strategy and associated roadmap for the build-out of private data centers on military installations.
In developing the strategy and roadmap required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall act in consultation with the following:
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
The Secretaries of the military departments and the respective chiefs of the Armed Forces and relevant headquarters elements.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff.
The Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security.
Such other officials and organizations as the Secretary considers appropriate.
The strategy and roadmap required by subsection (a) shall include an analysis of the following:
The current data center capacity of the Department of Defense across all classification fabrics and network types, including partner networks and available cloud capacity.
Existing and projected future requirements across such classification fabrics and network types.
The gap, if any, between current capacity and existing requirements, and an estimated investment required to close that gap and meet projected future demand.
An assessment of data center configurations and form factors required to meet current and future requirements, including permanent fixed facilities, tactical and mobile capabilities, and emerging concepts and capabilities, including orbital data centers.
A framework, developed in coordination with the Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation, for evaluating future demand signals and requirements on an ongoing basis.
As part of the development of the strategy required under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment shall conduct a study that includes the following:
Development of a framework for evaluating future investments required to support proposed private data center build-out on military installations, including potential contracts or agreements with external vendors for the construction or operation of data centers on military installations that may not be servicing Department of Defense information processing needs.
An assessment of installation-level requirements associated with such contracts or agreements, including the following:
Physical security requirements.
Personnel vetting standards.
Power capacity requirements.
Any impacts to utility rates to installations and the surrounding areas.
Supporting infrastructure requirements.
Contractual arrangements to utilize excess data storage or power generation capacity in the event of an emergency, including requirements or liabilities open to the installation in the event such arrangements are utilized.
Contingency plans to address any extreme power fluctuations for the prevention of power outages.
Any market research that has identified data center companies’ record of ransomware attacks, or cyberattacks, and any violations of air quality regulations.
An analysis of the current and future data center plans of each military department for private data centers located on military installations.
An analysis by the Department of Defense Clearinghouse to understand the operational impacts of current and future private data center plans based on the analysis in paragraph (3).
The strategy and roadmap submitted under subsection (a) shall—
identify specific military installations designated or planned for private data center capacity, the basis for those designations, and the demand or capacity gap each installation is intended to address;
outline the authorities, frameworks, and terms governing contracts or agreements with external vendors for private data center construction or operation on military installations, including requirements relating to base infrastructure, power, and physical security;
identify the investments required to execute the roadmap, disaggregated by installation and by fiscal year;
describe how the Department will meet projected future demand based on the framework developed under subsection (c)(5); and
include a governance structure as a standalone annex for negotiating for land use rights and related agreements with external vendors, which shall—
designate a lead negotiator for each military department;
require each such lead negotiator to operate within the guidance established by the official designated under subsection (f); and
establish consistent negotiation guidance to ensure standardized terms across agreements and to protect the interests of the Department.
Not later than February 1, 2027, the Secretary shall designate a senior official within the Office of the Secretary of Defense to serve as the lead official responsible for overseeing and coordinating all activities of the Department relating to private data center build-out on military installations, including the development of the strategy and roadmap required under subsection (a) and all associated negotiations with external vendors.
The official designated under paragraph (1) shall—
have principal responsibility and accountability for the administration of implementation of the strategy and roadmap required under subsection (e);
establish the terms, frameworks, and negotiating guidance within which the military departments shall operate; and
ensure consistency and coordination across the military departments in the implementation of the strategy and roadmap.
The Secretary shall direct the Secretaries of the military departments to conduct all activities under this section in coordination with and through the official designated under paragraph (1).
The strategy and roadmap required under subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
In this section, the term military installations has the meaning given that term in section 2801(c) of title 10, United States Code.
Not later than July 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and in coordination with the Director of the Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs, establish a program to award grants to small businesses and new entrants to the defense industrial base to offset the costs of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification assessments conducted by Certified Third-Party Assessment Organizations.
The program established under paragraph (1) shall be known as the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Assessment Grant Program (in this section the Program).
Under the Program, the Secretary shall award one-time grants to eligible entities described in paragraph (2) to offset costs they incur for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification assessments conducted by Certified Third-Party Assessment Organizations.
An eligible entity described in this paragraph is a small business concern or a nontraditional defense contractor that—
holds or is actively seeking a Department of Defense contract or subcontract requiring Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification at Level 2 from a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization; and
has not previously received a Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification at the applicable level from a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization.
The maximum amount of a grant awarded under the Program to an eligible entity described in paragraph (2) is $100,000.
The total amount of all grants awarded under the Program shall not exceed $50,000,000.
In awarding grants to eligible entities described in subsection (b)(2) under the Program, the Secretary shall give priority to eligible entities that have not previously held a Department of Defense prime contract or subcontract.
A recipient of a grant awarded under the Program shall use the amount of the grant only to offset direct costs associated with Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification at Level 2 from a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization.
In carrying out the Program, the Secretary of Defense shall—
establish an application process that minimizes administrative burden on eligible entities described in subsection (b)(2);
ensure that recipients of grants awarded under the Program demonstrate a good-faith effort toward achieving Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification within one year of receiving an award;
coordinate with the Office of Small Business Programs of the Department of Defense to leverage existing small business support infrastructure, including APEX Accelerators and the Mentor-Protege Program of the Department, to provide technical assistance to grant recipients; and
ensure that the Program does not duplicate or conflict with any other Department of Defense cybersecurity support initiative.
Not later than July 1, 2028, and annually thereafter until December 31, 2031, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees an annual report on the activities carried out under the Program.
Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include, for the period covered by the report, the following:
The number of grants awarded under the Program, disaggregated by industrial base sectors of the recipients of the grants.
The total amount of funds expended under the Program.
The number of recipients of grants awarded under the Program that successfully achieved Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification at the applicable level following receipt of a grant.
An assessment of the extent to which the Program has reduced barriers to entry for small businesses and nontraditional defense contractors in the defense industrial base.
Subject to the availability of funds appropriated for operation and maintenance, Department-wide, the Secretary shall carry out the Program in a fiscal year using amounts appropriated or otherwise made available for such fiscal year for operation and maintenance, Department-wide.
In this section:
The term Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization has the meaning given such term in part 170 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations.
The term nontraditional defense contractor has the meaning given such term in section 3014 of title 10, United States Code.
The term small business concern has the meaning given such term in section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).
The Secretary of Defense shall standardize security boundaries across the Department of Defense to maximize the potential for security control inheritance and reduce duplicative security assessments through the application of reciprocity.
Not later than October 1, 2027, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense shall update all applicable Department of Defense policy and guidance governing security boundaries—
to establish consistent and uniform standards for security boundary determinations across the Department and the military departments; and
to define the conditions under which systems sharing common boundaries or infrastructure are eligible for security control inheritance.
Not later than December 1, 2027, the Chief Information Officer of each military department shall publish implementing guidance subordinate to and consistent with the guidance updated under subsection (a)(2).
Not later than October 1, 2030, each Secretary of a military department shall bring all programs and systems within their respective portfolios into compliance with the guidance updated under subsection (a)(2), using authority to operate renewal events as the primary mechanism for transitioning systems to updated security boundary constructs.
Not later than 30 days after the publication of guidance under subsection (a), the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and the Chief Information Officer of the military department, as applicable, shall notify the congressional defense committees of the following:
The specific changes made to applicable policy and guidance.
The directives, instructions, guidance documents, and handbooks that were updated or issued.
Not later than April 1, 2027, and not less frequently than once each year thereafter until April 1, 2031, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and the Chief Information Officer of each military department shall jointly provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the following:
The status of implementation of subsections (a) and (b) by the Department of Defense and each military department.
The extent to which updated security boundary constructs have expanded opportunities for security control inheritance.
Such recommendations as the Chief Information Officers may have for legislative or administrative action to further enable security control inheritance or reduce duplicative security assessments.
In this section:
The term authorizing official has the meaning given that term in Department of Defense Instruction 8510.01 (relating to Risk Management Framework for DoD Systems), or successor instruction.
The term security control inheritance has the meaning given that term in such instruction, or successor.
Section 2200(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking computer and network and inserting computer, network, and operational technology.
Section 2200e(1)(D) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting , including operational technology, after Any other information technology.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 by section 201 for research, development, test, and evaluation and available for Alpha-1 Development Activities (PE 0604133D8Z) as specified in the funding table in section 4201, not more than 85 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer of the Department of Defense (CDAO) provides to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives the briefing described in subsection (b).
The briefing described in this subsection is a briefing that includes the following:
A description of the comprehensive application integration strategy for the War Data Platform (formerly known as Advancing Analytics or ADVANA) that covers the following:
Establishment of objective criteria for evaluating and prioritizing applications to be onboarded based on—
operational mission impact;
data sensitivity classification requirements;
technical compatibility with existing architecture; and
overall value to the data ecosystem of the Department of Defense.
A definition of standardized reimbursable funding mechanisms or other cost-sharing models, including potential service-level agreements or other appropriate cost-sharing models, between the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer and requesting the Department of Defense components.
Assessment of performance metrics to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of the onboarding and offboarding process.
Alignment with data governance policies and enterprise digital transformation initiatives of the Department that were in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act.
A plan for competing out aspects of the program, both for enterprise support of the overall functionality, as well as for specific applications or capabilities to be hosted within the War Data Platform.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 by section 201 for research, development, test, and evaluation and available for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) Information Technology Development Initiative (PE 0605027D8Z) as specified in the funding table in section 4201, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Director of the Defense Finance and Accounting Service and the program managers for the Armed Forces pay and personnel systems, provides to the congressional defense committees the briefing required in subsection (b).
The Secretary shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing that includes the following:
The plan by the Defense Finance Accounting Service to update and modernize the pay systems for the Department and the Armed Forces, including projected funding levels across the future years defense plan, milestones for deliveries of capabilities, and measures of performance to assess the delivery of capabilities.
A description of how the plan described in paragraph (1) differs from the cancelled Defense Integrated Human Resource Management System and steps to ensure that an enterprise solution will not repeat the mistakes of past programs.
A description of how the plan described in paragraph (1) will leverage prior investments made in cancelled Armed Forces integrated pay and personnel systems, including—
identification of software components, data architectures, interface designs, or other technical artifacts from cancelled programs that will be incorporated or adapted for use in the modernization effort; and
documentation of lessons learned from cancelled programs, including findings from program post-mortems, independent reviews, and audits, and how those findings have informed the requirements, acquisition strategy, and program management approach for the plan described in paragraph (1).
A description of how the modernization efforts described in paragraph (1) will integrate with each Armed Forces pay and personnel systems, the Defense Enrollment Eligibility System, Defense Manpower Data Center systems, and other authoritative Department data systems that support member identification, duty status, benefits eligibility, retirement, separation, and financial management, including—
the systems of record that are intended to remain service-specific; and
the data elements that will be exchanged between such systems and the enterprise pay modernization effort.
A comparison of the current projected timelines under the plan in paragraph (1) with the previous Armed Forces programs scheduled for their integrated pay and personnel systems.
Resources programmed for or needed across the future years defense program for service integrated pay and personnel systems to modernize to the plan described in paragraph (1).
Identification of resources needed to sustain or modernize legacy systems now that Armed Forces integrated pay and personnel systems have been cancelled.
Articulation of the desired end state for pay and personnel systems across the Department of Defense and the military departments.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure the cryptographic solutions of the Department of Defense use asymmetric post-quantum cryptography algorithms approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology—
for key establishment by not later than December 31, 2030; and
for digital signatures by not later than December 31, 2031.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall phase out and replace—
except as provided in paragraph (2), symmetric key establishment protocols, symmetric key agreement protocols, and symmetric key distribution protocols by not later than December 31, 2030; and
any solution certified as a classified commercial solution by the National Security Agency by not later than December 31, 2031.
Subsections (a) and (b) shall not apply to a key that is generated and distributed by the National Security Agency for use in a cryptographic device for the protection of classified and sensitive national security information or with respect to symmetric key distribution protocols in use prior to January 1, 2010.
Section 1532(c) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (10 U.S.C. 4001 note), as amended by section 1531 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60), is further amended—
in paragraph (2)(C)—
in the matter before clause (i)—
by inserting supporting operations of the Department, including data centers before to be built;
by striking triennial and inserting annual; and
by striking additional resource usage resulting from building or expanding and inserting annual resource usage of;
in clause (iii), by inserting the local community or after adverse effects on; and
in clause (iv), by striking in which the military installation resides and in which the data center is being built and inserting in which the data center is located or is being built; and
in paragraph (3)—
in the paragraph heading, by striking Triennial and inserting Annual; and
by striking third.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a pilot program under the Defense Cyber Workforce Framework to assess the feasibility of partnering advanced cyberspace operations and information aggressor units of the Department of Defense with institutions of higher education recognized in the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity program for Cyber Research (CAE–R), Cyber Defense (CAE–CD), or Cyber Operations (CAE–CO) by the National Security Agency—
to improve the cyber workforce pipeline of the United States;
to enhance military cyber training through academic collaboration, research, cyber range exercises, and create direct pathways for students into Federal cybersecurity careers;
to leverage existing scholarship and fellowship opportunities, such as the Cyber Service Academy, the Science, Mathematics and Research for Transformation, and other cyber scholarship for service programs; and
to improve coordination, guidance, and counseling for participating students seeking to pursue careers in cybersecurity or cyber operations in the Department of Defense or elsewhere in the Federal Government.
The pilot program established under subsection (a) shall terminate on September 30, 2031.
The pilot program required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
Establishment of a research cell supporting aggressor operations through open-source intelligence, emerging threat analysis, and development of adversary emulation playbooks.
Assessment framework for determining the impact of the program, including a cost-benefit analysis for partnering students with operational units, that—
determines the time to clear students for participation in the program; and
determines the time and cost necessary to get students access to networks required to provide operational support to military cyber operators.
Assessment of the curricula for participating students to determine if such coursework is relevant and impactful in preparing such students to directly support operational military cyber operators.
Tracking students participating in the program to determine how the pilot impacts potential future employment with the Department of Defense or the Federal Government.
In this section, the term covered artificial intelligence contractor means a contractor that—
has entered, or seeks to enter into, one or more contracts, with a total value of not less than $100,000,000, with the Department of Defense for an artificial intelligence system or services that use an artificial intelligence system; and
has incurred, during the 3-year period preceding the date on which any such contract was entered into, not less than $1,000,000,000 in artificial intelligence-related research and development expenditures, measured on a rolling basis and aggregated with any other person that controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with such contractor; or
uses or proposes to use, in the performance of such contract or contracts, an artificial intelligence model developed or controlled by a person that meets the expenditure criteria described in subparagraph (A).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue regulations establishing reporting requirements for covered artificial intelligence contractors to support the protection of Department of Defense systems, missions, personnel, operations, and supply chains from counterintelligence, security, and other national security risks arising from the security practices of such contractors.
The regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall require, at a minimum, that a covered artificial intelligence contractor reports to the Secretary—
all policies, practices, and security measures relating to—
personnel vetting;
insider threat mitigation;
access controls, including the circumstances under which contractors, subcontractors, cloud providers, and other third parties are granted access to any artificial intelligence model, model weights, training infrastructure, or other sensitive assets, and the material security controls governing such access;
supply chain security; and
the prevention of theft, tampering, sabotage, or any other unauthorized transfer or modification of any artificial intelligence model or model weights; and
any known or suspected material incident affecting the security, integrity, or availability of any artificial intelligence model or model weights developed or used, including any incident in which a person compromises or exploits any artificial intelligence model or model weights in a manner that could materially affect the performance of a Department contract, national security, or the operations, security, or mission effectiveness of the Department, including through—
espionage;
unauthorized access;
theft;
exfiltration;
sabotage;
manipulation;
a compromise of the software, hardware, cloud, data, or other supply chain component used to develop, train, fine-tune, evaluate, secure, or deploy any such model or model weights;
the poisoning, corruption, manipulation, or unauthorized alteration of training data, fine-tuning data, retrieval corpora, model checkpoints, system prompts, safety filters, monitoring systems, evaluation pipelines, or model-update mechanisms;
the discovery of a material vulnerability, exploit, backdoor, or failure of access controls that could permit unauthorized modification, extraction, degradation, or misuse of any such model or model weights; or
any other effort;
the defense-relevant and national security-relevant capabilities, access pathways, and material misuse risks, as determined by the Secretary, of the most powerful artificial intelligence models developed, controlled, or used by such contractor in the performance of a contract with the Department;
any materially concerning model behavior, including materially increased capability for a cyber offense, evasion of safeguards, deceptive behavior, unauthorized autonomous action, or other behavior that could materially affect national security, the performance of a Department contract, or the operations, security, or mission effectiveness of the Department;
any attempt to obtain unauthorized access to, acquire, influence, or exfiltrate sensitive information, systems, or intellectual property relating to any artificial intelligence model developed, controlled, or used by the contractor; and
any other known or suspected acute national security risk relating to the compromise, misuse, loss, exfiltration, misalignment, or exploitation of artificial intelligence models developed, controlled, or used by the contractor that could materially affect national security, the performance of a Department contract, or the operations, security, or mission effectiveness of the Department.
The required matters described in subparagraph (A) apply to a covered artificial intelligence contractor, including with respect to any artificial intelligence model developed or controlled by another person and used, or proposed for use, by the covered artificial intelligence contractor in the performance of a contract with the Department. The Secretary may require the covered artificial intelligence contractor to obtain from the person who developed or controls such model any information the Secretary determines necessary to carry out this section.
A covered artificial intelligence contractor shall submit to the Secretary of Defense the required matters described in subparagraph (A) as part of any offer, proposal, bid, or other response to a solicitation for a contract.
Not less frequently than once every 90 days, the covered artificial intelligence contractor shall certify to the Secretary of Defense that the information submitted under clause (i) remains accurate and complete in all material respects.
The regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall require that not later than 72 hours after becoming aware of any information, incident, or development that presents an acute national security risk to the United States, the covered artificial intelligence contractor shall—
notify the Secretary of Defense of the nature of national security risk, including any risk relating to model weight security as described in subparagraph (A)(ii), any risk described in clauses (iv), (v), and (vi) or subparagraph (A), and any other category of risk the Secretary may specify; and
include in such notification, to the extent known at the time of the notification—
a description of the information, incident, or development;
the date or approximate period of occurrence and discovery;
the affected model or deployment environment;
the actual or suspected means of compromise;
whether any model weights, training data, system prompts, source code, evaluation data, safety systems, or software dependencies were accessed, altered, degraded, poisoned, exfiltrated, or otherwise compromised;
an assessment of the actual or potential impact on Department of Defense missions, users, systems, operations, or decision-making;
any actions taken to contain, mitigate, remediate, or investigate the information, incident, or development;
whether the information, incident, or development has been reported to any other Federal department or agency, and
such other information as the Secretary determines appropriate.
If the Secretary of Defense receives a notification under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall promptly transmit such notification to the contracting officer for the relevant contract, the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, the Artificial Intelligence Security Center of the National Security Agency, the Commander of the United States Cyber Command, and the head of any other component of the Department or Federal department or agency the Secretary determines appropriate.
If the Secretary of Defense receives a notification under subparagraph (A) or discovery an incident that would be reportable under such clause, the Secretary shall—
not later than 7 days after the date on which the notification was received, submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives notice of the information, incident, or development that includes—
a summary description,
the date or approximate period of occurrence and discovery,
the affected model or deployment environment,
the actual or suspected means of compromise, exfiltration, manipulation, degradation, or misuse,
an initial assessment of actual or potential impact on Department missions, users, systems, or operations, and
any action taken or planned to contain, mitigate, remediate, or investigate the matter; and
provide the committees with additional briefings or updates on the information, incident, or development as material information becomes available; and
In the regulations issued under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall include procedures for the submission of notifications under this paragraph, including procedures to protect—
classified information;
proprietary information;
trade secrets;
security-sensitive information; and
information regarding vulnerabilities that, if disclosed publicly, could reasonably be expected to harm national security.
Nothing in this paragraph may be construed—
to require public disclosure of information in a manner inconsistent with applicable protections for classified or otherwise protected information; or
to limit any other reporting obligation imposed by statute, regulation, or contract.
In the regulations issued pursuant to paragraph (1), the Secretary shall provide clear requirements with respect to the scope, timing, form, and manner of the reporting, including—
the appropriate protections the Department will take to prevent unauthorized disclosure of classified information, proprietary information, and controlled unclassified information;
any differentiated reporting requirements based on—
the sensitivity of the contract;
the capabilities of the relevant models;
the degree of access of the contractor or third parties to artificial intelligence models or model weights; and
the significance of the risk to Department missions or national security; and
procedures to ensure that, if a covered artificial intelligence contractor uses, or proposes to use, in the performance of a contract with the Department an artificial intelligence model developed or controlled by another person, any information required under this section is obtained from that person.
In developing the regulations under paragraph (1), the Secretary may consult with—
covered artificial intelligence contractors;
the head of any Federal agency;
industry participants; and
any official of the Department that the Secretary considers relevant, including acquisition, counterintelligence, digital modernization, and operational officials of the Department.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue voluntary guidance for covered artificial intelligence contractors to reduce insider threat, espionage, and other personnel-related security risks to sensitive artificial intelligence assets of such contractors, with a focus on threats from highly capable nation-state adversaries that possess significant resources and the capability to conduct sophisticated espionage or related operations.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall—
complete an assessment of the risks described in paragraph (1); and
updated the guidance issued under such paragraph based on the findings of that assessment.
The guidance required under paragraph (1), including any updated guidance issued under paragraph (2)(B), shall, at a minimum—
identify categories of roles, responsibilities, functions, systems, and access that may provide material access to model weights, model internals, training infrastructure, sensitive research information, or other sensitive assets of the covered artificial intelligence contractor, the compromise of which could present a significant risk to Department missions or national security;
establish a tiered framework based on the degree of access, sensitivity, and national security risk involved, under which the most sensitive roles, systems, and categories of access are associated with the most stringent suggested security measures;
assess the practices, and if appropriate suggest preferred practices, relating to personnel vetting, role-based access controls, compartmentation, audit logging, anomaly detection, continuous monitoring, incident escalation, and protection against espionage, theft, sabotage, or unauthorized transfer, including practices designed to address threats from nation-state adversaries;
address, for especially sensitive roles or access, what personnel security measures, access restrictions, or other safeguards are appropriate to reduce heightened risks from nation-state adversaries; and
address such other measures as the Secretary determines appropriate to protect Department missions and national security from insider threat and espionage risks arising from the security practices of covered artificial intelligence contractors.
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to require a covered artificial intelligence contractor to adopt any measure, practice, personnel policy, access restriction, or other safeguard described in the guidance issued under paragraph (1).
In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may consult with covered artificial intelligence contractors, the intelligence community, counterintelligence officials, appropriate elements of the Department of Defense, the heads of other Federal agencies, Federally funded research and development centers, and other relevant experts, as determined appropriate by the Secretary.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees an unclassified report, which may include a classified annex, on the implementation of this section.
The report required by paragraph (1) shall include—
a summary of the progress made in developing and implementing the reporting requirements under subsection (b)(1);
a summary of the progress made in issuing the voluntary guidance under paragraph (1) of subsection (c), including the initial guidance and any updated guidance issued under paragraph (2) of such subsection;
an assessment of any challenges, gaps, or limitations identified by the Secretary in carrying out this section; and
any additional steps, authorities, resources, or policy recommendations the Secretary determines would be useful to advance the purposes of this section.
Beginning 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall not enter into or renew a contract for information technology with any entity which makes such technology commercially available to customers in a country of concern or has operations, subsidiaries, or personnel located in a country of concern unless such entity has entered into a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Defense in accordance with subsection (b).
the Secretary of Defense shall require an entity covered under subsection (a) to agree to a memorandum of agreement under which the entity shall—
disclose all security vulnerabilities affecting procured products or services to the Department of Defense prior to disclosure to any other person or entity, including through a trusted partners program; and
not provide advance disclosure of such vulnerabilities to any procured company or entity subject to the control of, or organized under the laws of, a country of concern.
In this section:
The term advanced disclosure means any action that preemptively and privately discloses information pertaining to security vulnerabilities to a select number of entities before publicly making such information available to the general public, including through a trusted partners program.
The term control means the power, direct or indirect, whether or not exercised, to determine, direct, dictate, or decide important matters affecting an entity, including through—
the ownership of at least 20 percent of the total outstanding voting interest in an entity;
board representation;
the ability to appoint or discharge any board members, officers, directors, employees, or contractors;
proxy voting, a special share, contractual arrangements, legal obligations, formal or informal arrangements to act in concert; or
other means.
The term country of concern has the meaning given the term covered nation in section 4872(f) of title 10, United States Code.
The term covered companies means—
any entity owned or operated in whole or in part by a country of concern, or subject to the control of such country of concern, and any subsidiary or parent of such person; or
any entity organized under the laws of a country of concern, or having its principal place of business in a country of concern, and any subsidiary of any such person.
The term information technology has the meaning given the term in section 11101 of title 40.
The term owned or operated in whole or in part means that a foreign country of concern—
for a person that is a publicly traded company, has the ability to control the company, has access to any material nonpublic technical information in the possession of the company, or has any other rights or involvement in directing, dictating, controlling, or participating in the decision-making of the company beyond those available to a retail investor holding an equivalent share of ownership; and
for a person that is a privately held company, has any share of ownership of such company.
The term security vulnerability has the meaning given the term in section 2200 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6U.S.C. 650).
The term trusted partners program means any initiative or program run by an information technology provider to provide advanced warnings of security vulnerabilities to defensive security providers for the purpose of helping such providers proactively develop defenses against such vulnerabilities.
The Secretary of Defense may waive the requirement under subsection (a) on a case-by-case basis if the Secretary certifies, in writing, to the congressional defense committees that the procurement action is required in the national interest of the United States.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall develop a strategy to address risks and opportunities arising from the use of advanced artificial intelligence systems to discover, validate, exploit, remediate, or reverse engineer vulnerabilities in software, firmware, weapon systems, operational technology, and information systems used by the Department of Defense.
The strategy required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
An assessment of how advanced artificial intelligence systems are likely to affect the volume, speed, severity, and exploitability of vulnerabilities affecting Department systems, including an updated definition of vulnerability that accounts for artificial intelligence-specific behavioral flaws (such as prompt injection and data poisoning) and the remediation requirements for model retraining.
A risk-based framework for machine-speed vulnerability discoveries, and for prioritizing vulnerability remediation and mitigation, including consideration of mission impact, exploitability, exposure, system criticality, availability of compensating controls, and risks associated with insufficiently tested patches.
A plan to improve the speed, reliability, and safety of patch testing, approval, and deployment, including through automated testing, representative test environments, staged deployment, reciprocity of cybersecurity testing, and emergency mitigation procedures, as appropriate. This includes an assessment of the impacts of machine-speed vulnerability discovery on the Vulnerability Equities Process (VEP) and other interagency coordination processes, with recommendations for adapting these processes to a near-zero decision timeframe.
Guidance for the use of compensating controls when immediate patching is not feasible.
Policies for the responsible use of artificial intelligence systems by the Department to support vulnerability discovery, exploitability analysis, patch development, patch validation, and prioritization of remediation,
Recommendations for acquisition, contracting, vendor notification, and information-sharing requirements needed to improve timely remediation of vulnerabilities affecting Department systems.
A plan to address vulnerabilities in legacy systems, mission-critical systems, weapon systems, and operational technology for which patching may be operationally difficult.
Metrics to assess implementation of the strategy, including the timeliness of vulnerability validation, mitigation, testing, and remediation.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for three years, the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy shall jointly provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on the strategy required under subsection (a), including implementation progress, barriers to implementation, and any additional authorities or resources required to implement the strategy.
In this section, the term advanced artificial intelligence system means an artificial intelligence system, including a frontier model, cyber-specialized model, agentic system, or automated cyber reasoning system, that is capable of materially assisting in vulnerability discovery, exploit generation, reverse engineering, patch development, or patch validation.
In this section:
The term advanced computing system has the meaning given the term high-end computing in section 4 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5503).
The term advanced computing system provider means any person engaged in the provision, sale, or licensing of any advanced computing system to customers, including individuals and businesses.
The terms artificial intelligence has the meaning given the term in section 238(g) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. note prec. 4061).
The term artificial intelligence application means any software or hardware application, product, program, device, equipment, or service that utilizes artificial intelligence.
The term artificial intelligence application provider means any person engaged in the provision, sale, or licensing of artificial intelligence applications to customers, including individuals or businesses.
The term cloud computing has the meaning given the term in Special Publication 800–145 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, or any successor document.
The term cloud provider means any company engaged in the provision, sale, or licensing of cloud computing to customers, including individuals and businesses.
The term congressional defense committees has the meaning given the term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
The term covered provider means any advanced computing system provider, artificial intelligence application provider, cloud provider, data infrastructure provider, or foundation model provider.
The term data infrastructure means the underlying computer, network, and software systems that enable the collection, storage, processing, and analysis of data, including the ability to record, transmit, transform, categorize, integrate, and otherwise process data generated by digital data systems.
The term data infrastructure provider means any person engaged in the provision, sale, or licensing of data infrastructure to customers, including individuals and businesses.
The term foundation model means an artificial intelligence model that—
generally uses self-supervision;
contains at least 1,000,000,000 parameters; and
is applicable across a wide range of contexts.
The term foundation model provider means any person engaged in the provision, sale, or licensing of foundation models to customers, including individuals and businesses.
The term multi-vendor technology means architecture and services that allow for data, model, application, workload, and program portability, usability, and interoperability including for the purpose of avoiding excessive dependence on any individual vendor, across—
multiple covered providers; and
public, private, and edge computing environments.
The Secretary of Defense shall, in contracting with covered providers—
require a competitive process for each procurement of advanced computing systems, artificial intelligence applications, cloud computing, data infrastructures, or foundation models;
ensure that the Government maintains exclusive rights to access and use of all Government data;
ensure that the competitive process described in paragraph (1)—
prioritizes the appropriate role for the Government with respect to intellectual property, data rights and security, and auditability requirements;
requires interoperability based on open standards for all user-facing software, data, and interfaces;
includes modular open systems approaches and appropriate work allocation and technical boundaries;
mitigates barriers to entry faced by small businesses and nontraditional contractors;
prioritizes multi-vendor technology unless doing so is infeasible or presents a substantial danger to national security; and
includes protections against vendor lock-in to ensure the Government can, without unreasonable technical, contractual, or financial barriers, move data, models, applications, workloads, and programs between covered providers; and
require that covered providers follow the same competitive process described in paragraph (1) in selecting subcontractors involved in providing advanced computing systems, artificial intelligence applications, cloud computing, data infrastructures, or foundation models to the Department of Defense.
The Secretary of Defense shall direct the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office to update or promulgate provisions of the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to ensure that—
Government-furnished data, provided for purposes of development and operation of artificial intelligence products and services to the Department of Defense, is not disclosed or used without proper authorization by the Department of Defense, including that such data cannot be used to train or improve the functionality of commercial products or services offered by a covered provider without express authorization by the Department of Defense;
Government-furnished data stored on vendor systems, provided for purposes of development and operation of artificial intelligence products and services to the Department of Defense, is appropriately protected from other data on such systems, and is treated in accordance with Department of Defense data decrees, Modular Open System Architectures (MOSA), and Open Data and Applications Government-owned Interoperable Repositories (Open DAGIR) principles;
a covered provider shall certify compliance with paragraphs (1) and (2), and violation of these provisions or false compliance shall be subject to specific penalties, including fines and contract termination; and
component acquisition executives may issue exemptions upon—
determining that issuing an exemption is necessary for national security; and
notifying the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer of the specific provisions exempted, the vendor and program being issued the exemption, and the justification for the exemption.
Not later than January 15, 2028, and annually thereafter for four years, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report assessing competition, innovation, barriers to entry, and concentrations of market power or market share in the artificial intelligence space for each period covered by the report. The report shall also include recommendations of appropriate legislative and administrative action.
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, shall ensure that the report is made available to the public by—
posting a publicly releasable version of the report on a website of the Department of Defense; and
upon request, transmitting the report by other means, as long as such transmission is at no cost to the Department.
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall take such actions as may be necessary to ensure that only phishing-resistant authentication is used by all personnel across the Department of Defense, with an exception process for applications where the use of a phishing-resistant authenticator may not be feasible or practicable.
In this section, the term phishing resistance has the meaning given such term in National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication 800–63B–4 (relating to Digital Identity Guidelines), or any successor publication.
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer (CDAO), establish a unified, Department of Defense-wide technical and procedural ecosystem to align activities and investments across the Department on the employment of agents and to enable the discovery, deployment, and enterprise use of agentic artificial intelligence systems at scale and speed across the Department of Defense.
This ecosystem required by paragraph (1) shall be comprised of shared technical services, enterprise capabilities and platforms, and procedures and technical governance structures for engaging with and collectively building upon those services and capabilities.
The governance structures required by subsection (a)(2) shall include, at minimum, the following:
An agile governance structure capable of evolving with the pace of agentic artificial intelligence system development while maintaining appropriate accountability and oversight.
Standardized best practices, community of practice forums, and operational guidance for developing, deploying, and managing agentic systems, including the development and sharing of tactics, techniques, and procedures for use.
A process for engaging with and incorporating advancements and lessons learned from industry into Department agentic artificial intelligence system practices, governance, training, and policy.
The enterprise capabilities and platforms required by subsection (a)(2) shall include the following:
Hosting and management of approved agentic artificial intelligence systems available for Department-wide discovery and use.
A lifecycle management capability of agentic artificial intelligence systems governing the full continuum of development, testing and evaluation, versioning, deployment, monitoring, updating, and deprecation of agentic artificial intelligence systems, including standards for evaluating agentic artificial intelligence system performance and behavior prior to and following deployment, and user feedback mechanisms to inform ongoing performance assessment and improvement.
A developer credentialing and access framework establishing which personnel and entities are authorized to develop, publish, and modify agentic artificial intelligence system within the ecosystem, including appropriate privilege tiers.
Minimum interoperability standards enabling agentic artificial intelligence systems to operate across Department environments, connect to Department data sources and systems, and interact with other agentic artificial intelligence systems regardless of development environment or security classification level.
Application of lessons learned from pace-setting projects identified under the Department of Defense Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
The shared technical services required by subsection (a)(2) shall include the following:
A structured agentic artificial intelligence system registry enabling Department-wide discoverability, searchability, and reuse of approved agentic artificial intelligence systems across multi-cloud and multi-security environments.
A usage tracking and demand analytics capability to monitor agentic artificial intelligence system registration and utilization, identify high-demand use cases, and inform prioritization of agentic artificial intelligence system development and resource investment.
Cost and pricing frameworks, including chargeback models for cost recovery and attribution when agentic artificial intelligence systems are accessed or deployed, including integration with Department-operated large language model infrastructure.
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, consult with the following:
The Chief Information Officers of the military departments and the Joint Staff.
The Chief Artificial Intelligence and Data Officers of the military departments and the Joint Staff.
The Chief Information Officers of the Defense Intelligence Enterprise.
The Chief Artificial Intelligence and Data Officers of the Defense Intelligence Enterprise.
Such other officials and organizations as the Secretary determines appropriate.
Not later than January 15, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a roadmap for implementation of the ecosystem required under subsection (a).
The roadmap submitted under paragraph (1) shall address the following:
Each component required under subsections (b) through (d).
Any additional components the Secretary determines necessary.
Projected timelines and resource requirements for implementation.
Not later than January 15, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the roadmap required under subsection (f).
In this section:
The term agentic artificial intelligence system means an artificial intelligence system capable of autonomous or semi-autonomous planning, decision making, and execution of multi-step tasks with limited human intervention.
The term artificial intelligence has the meaning given that term in section 238(g) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115—232; 10 U.S.C. note prec. 4061).
The term military departments has the meaning given that term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
Not later than December 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and in coordination with the officials specified in subsection (c), develop and issue authoritative security standards and guidance for agents across the Department.
The standards and guidance developed and issued under paragraph (1) shall address the following:
A risk management framework consistent with applicable standards of the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Deployment and operation of agents across multi-cloud and multi-level security environments.
Permissions governing the actions agents are authorized to take, the data and systems they may access, and the conditions under which permissions may be modified or revoked.
Continuous monitoring of the security posture and operational behavior of deployed agents, including reporting, assessment, and remediation of observed anomalous behaviors.
Integration of agents into the Zero Trust Architecture and Identity, Credential, and Access Management framework of the Department.
Security boundaries governing agent operation at and beyond Department network boundaries.
Incident response, including procedures for detecting, containing, and recovering from compromise, anomalous behavior, or unauthorized action by an agent.
The standards developed and issued under subsection (a) shall be binding on the Department and shall include a transition timeline for achieving compliance.
Not later than March 15, 2028, the Secretary of each military department shall issue implementing guidance for the standards and guidance issued under subsection (a), including a transition timeline for achieving compliance that is consistent with the timeline included under paragraph (1).
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall, acting through the Chief Information Officer, coordinate with—
the Chief Information Officers of the military departments and the Joint Staff;
the Chief Artificial Intelligence and Data Officers of the military departments and the Joint Staff;
the Defense Intelligence Enterprise; and
such other officials and organizations as the Secretary determines appropriate.
Not later than January 15, 2028, the Secretary shall provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on the standards and guidance developed and issued under subsection (a).
Not later than April 15, 2028, the Secretary shall provide the congressional defense committees a briefing on the status of the implementation of the standards and guidance issued under this section as they pertain to all elements of the Department, including the military departments.
In this section:
The term agent means an artificial intelligence system capable of autonomously planning, deciding, and executing multi-step tasks, including using tools, automated protocols, or other systems, with limited human intervention to achieve a specified goal.
The term artificial intelligence has the meaning given that term in section 238(g) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. note prec. 4061).
The term military departments has the meaning given that term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
Not later than April 1, 2027, and annually thereafter through April 1, 2029, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the utilization of the Department of Defense generative artificial intelligence platform (commonly referred to as GenAI.mil) and what that utilization reflects about the state of artificial intelligence adoption and acumen of the general workforce of the Department.
Each briefing required under subsection (a) regarding the platform described in such subsection shall include, with respect to the period covered by the briefing, the following:
The total number of personnel registered to use the platform and the number of new registrants added during the reporting period.
The number of personnel who logged into and actively used the platform on a given day, reported as both a peak count and a daily average over the reporting period.
The share of platform sessions in which each available artificial intelligence model was selected by the user, as a measure of relative model preference across the user population.
The average length, measured in tokens, of inputs (commonly referred to as prompts), submitted by users and the corresponding average length, measured in tokens, of responses generated by the platform, as a general indicator of the depth and complexity of platform interactions.
An analysis of the sophistication of user-submitted inputs through analysis of prompts, including the share of inputs that reflect basic informational queries, multi-turn task-oriented exchanges, and structured prompting techniques that demonstrate deliberate use of the platform's capabilities.
The average number of times per session that a user submits a follow-up or refined input after receiving an initial response, as an indicator of whether users are engaging with the platform in an iterative and sophisticated manner or limiting use to single one-off queries.
The categories of outputs generated through platform interactions, including drafted documents, code, analytical summaries, and information synthesis.
The distribution of platform sessions across functional mission areas, including administrative, analytical, planning, acquisition, and training functions.
The distribution of the number of times registered users returned to use the platform over a 30-day period, as a measure of sustained interest in and reliance on the platform beyond initial or incidental use.
For each training module available through the platform, the rate of completion, the average time spent on the module, and the rate at which users returned to the module after an initial session, disaggregated by Armed Force, military department, and civilian Department of Defense personnel.
An assessment of observed trends in workforce artificial intelligence adoption and acumen over the reporting period and a description of how the Department is using such trends to inform platform development and training priorities.
A description of planned platform capability enhancements for the subsequent reporting period and an assessment of how such enhancements are expected to improve workforce artificial intelligence adoption and acumen.
Such other metrics and assessments as the Secretary considers appropriate.
In this section, the term military department has the meaning given that term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, develop a unified, Department-wide demand forecast model and methodology for consolidating and assessing artificial intelligence demand data across the Department of Defense, including data from Department-wide generative artificial intelligence platforms and applications and artificial intelligence capabilities fielded or operated by the military departments and defense agencies.
In carrying out subsection (a), the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer shall—
establish an automated process for collecting and aggregating artificial intelligence program and budget data from the military departments and defense agencies, using the artificial intelligence activities data elements and guidance issued in response to section 1533 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 221 note);
develop a demand-based forecasting model for artificial intelligence requirements that incorporates metrics, including token consumption, compute utilization, throughput, response latency, user and transaction volume, and such other metrics as the Secretary determines appropriate to assess artificial intelligence demand;
update applicable policy guidance and instructions for use by all elements of the Department elements and military departments on the requirements for the demand forecasting, associated data collection, and analysis; and
provide the Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation direct access to all artificial intelligence demand data, the forecasting model required under paragraph (2), and all underlying raw data and supporting metrics used to develop and update that model, at a cadence sufficient to support annual budget submissions and future years defense program development.
Not later than September 15, 2027, the Secretary, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, and the Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation shall jointly provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on—
the methodology used to consolidate artificial intelligence demand data and the metrics used to quantify that demand;
the policies and processes established to provide the Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation direct access to artificial intelligence demand data and the demand-based forecasting model pursuant to subsection (b)(3); and
the status of the demand-based forecasting model, including any gaps in data availability or quality affecting budget forecasting for artificial intelligence requirements across the future years defense program.
Concurrent with the delivery of budget materials to Congress under section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, for each of fiscal years 2028 through 2031, the Secretary, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on current artificial intelligence demand data across the Department and forecasted artificial intelligence demand for each fiscal year of the then-current future years defense program.
In this section:
The term future years defense program means the program a program submitted under section 221(a) of title 10, United States Code.
The term token means the basic unit of text or data processed by a generative artificial intelligence model, used as the basis for measuring computational usage and associated costs.
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall designate a senior official within the Office of the Secretary of Defense to act as the lead for the Department of Defense on matters relating to adversarial artificial intelligence.
The senior official designated pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be responsible for coordinating all Department activities, programs, and investments as they pertain to adversarial artificial intelligence.
Not later than 30 days after the date on which the Secretary designates a senior official pursuant to paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees notice regarding the designation.
Not later than January 15, 2028, the Secretary shall, acting through the official designated under subsection (a)(1), establish—
a strategy for adversarial artificial intelligence that identifies capability gaps, prioritizes investments, and establishes metrics and milestones for implementation; and
a governance structure, chaired by the designated official, that meets not less frequently than quarterly and includes an industry information-sharing mechanism utilizing authorities under section 2224 of title 10, United States Code, and the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity program under subpart 236 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act.
Not later than March 1, 2028, and annually thereafter until December 31, 2030, the Secretary shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing, at the appropriate level of classification, on administration of this section, including the extent to which the strategy and governance structure established under subsection (b) address the ability of the Department to continuously monitor, in real time, artificial intelligence and machine learning systems in operational use for signs of adversarial manipulation, malfunction, or other unintended behavior.
In this section:
The term adversarial artificial intelligence means techniques by which an actor deliberately manipulates, deceives, or exploits artificial intelligence or machine learning systems, including through attacks described in the report National Institute of Standards and Technology Trustworthy and Responsible Artificial Intelligence 100–2e2025 (relating to Adversarial Machine Learning), such as data poisoning, model evasion, model inversion, or supply chain compromise, to cause malfunction or unintended behavior.
The term artificial intelligence has the meaning given in section 238(g) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. note prec. 4061).
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, expand the number and diversity of models and applications available on the enterprise generative artificial intelligence platform of the Department of Defense known as GenAI.mil (or any successor platform), including models and applications, including multi-modle interface platforms, that support language translation, coding assistance, data analysis, and other mission-relevant capabilities, with particular attention to removing barriers to participation by small business concerns.
Not later than September 15, 2027, the Secretary shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer and in coordination with the Directors of the Office of Small Business Programs of the Department of Defense and the military departments and the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers of each of the military departments, develop and submit to the congressional defense committees a four-year strategy to carry out subsection (a).
The strategy submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
Specific annual goals for models and applications, including multi-modle interface platforms, to be added to the platform described in subsection (a), disaggregated by large providers and small business providers, including—
the intended composition of models, standalone applications, and multi-model interface platforms on the platform; and
the rationale for prioritizing certain categories over others in a given year.
The governance structure the Department will use to identify and onboard models and applications.
The framework the Department will use to evaluate and approve models and applications for inclusion, including applicable security, performance, and interoperability standards.
The acquisition pathways and competitive procedures the Department will use to onboard and offboard providers, including through the use of other transaction agreements, commercial solutions openings, and other competitive mechanisms.
The coordination mechanisms between the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer and the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense and the Chief Information Officers of the military departments to ensure adequate infrastructure support for platform expansion over time.
A plan for participation by a small business concerns that identifies—
resolution to technical, security, and contractual barriers to participation by small business concerns on the platform;
specific annual goals for small business providers, both in numbers of contracts as well as goals for contract funding; and
metrics and milestones to assess progress of expanding participation by small business concerns.
Not later than April 1, 2027, and not less frequently than once each fiscal year thereafter until December 31, 2030, the Secretary shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on an annual roadmap outlining the Secretary’s 24-month plan to add to or remove from the platform described in subsection (a).
Each roadmap briefed under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
The models and applications planned for addition or removal and the rationale for each.
The anticipated onboarding timeline for each addition to the platform described in subsection (a).
The criteria used to evaluate and prioritize models and applications for inclusion in such platform.
The contracting approach for acquiring new capabilities for such platform.
Not later than 30 days after any addition or removal of an application or model to a roadmap briefed under paragraph (1), the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer shall notify the congressional defense committees of the change and the rationale therefor.
In this section:
The term small business concern has the meaning given such term under section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).
The term small business provider means a provider that is a small business concern.
Chapter 345 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
It is the policy of the Department of Defense to maximize uses of autonomy and artificial intelligence capabilities to the extent practicable, while ensuring and maintaining that implementation of such autonomy and artificial intelligence capabilities provides appropriate human oversight, to ensure that operations are conducted in accordance with the law of war, applicable treaties, weapon system safety rules, applicable rules of engagement, and long-standing frameworks protecting the privacy and civil liberties of United States persons.
In accordance with the policy set forth in subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall—
ensure personnel exercise appropriate levels of human judgment and consistently monitor any deployed artificial intelligence-enabled autonomous weapon systems, while remaining responsible for the development, deployment, and use of autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities;
take deliberate steps to ensure accuracy in autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities;
develop and deploy autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities in a manner that promotes an appropriate understanding of the technology, their development processes, and operational methods applicable to autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities;
subject prototype and deployed autonomy and artificial intelligence capabilities to routine testing and information assurance across their entire life cycles to ensure that capabilities meet defined safety, security, and effectiveness parameters; and
design and engineer autonomy and artificial intelligence capabilities to fulfill their intended functions, and deploy these capabilities such that human operators retain—
the ability to detect and avoid unintended consequences or behaviors; and
a means for human intervention to disengage or deactivate deployed systems that demonstrate unintended or illegal behavior.
The Secretary shall ensure that any autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability to be utilized by the Department, except as exempted by subsection (c)—
is designed and employed in a manner that enables commanders and operators to exercise ultimate human responsibility over the use of force; and
is categorized by the appropriate level of human judgment required to mitigate risks to life, safety and health of Department personnel or noncombatant civilian harm.
For purposes of subparagraph (A), appropriate levels of human judgment for an autonomous weapon system shall consist of two levels as follows:
Level 1, which means that the weapon system poses little to no risk to human life or safety should the system fail to act as designed.
Level 2, which means that the weapon system poses moderate to high risk to human life or safety should the system fail to act as designed.
Appropriate levels of human judgment for an artificial intelligence capability shall consist of two levels as follows:
Level 1, which means that the artificial intelligence capability poses little to no risk as a result of compromise of data integrity or operational support should the system fail to act as designed.
Level 2, which means that the artificial intelligence capability—
uses data protected by section 552a of title 5 (commonly known as the Privacy Act of 1974) or regulations promulgated under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–191); or
poses a risk such that the failure of the artificial intelligence system to act as designed would severely affect the ability of the Department to perform the designated mission of the artificial intelligence capability.
To meet the requirements under subparagraph (A), the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that any autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability described in such subsection, to the maximum extent practicable—
allows human operators to supervise the operation of the weapon system during mission execution when appropriate given system design;
includes mechanisms that allow commanders or operators to intervene in or terminate the use of force by the weapon system at all stages during mission execution when appropriate given system design;
includes fail-safe mechanisms to enable manual control when autonomous systems are degraded, jammed, spoofed, or under adversarial attack when appropriate given system design;
provides sufficient information regarding weapon system status and decision logic to enable operators to understand, oversee, and exercise functional control over system behavior;
maintains records of target selection data, decision logic, and human operator actions sufficient to enable post-engagement review of compliance with the requirements under subsection (a); and
operates consistent with applicable United States law and international law, rules of engagement, the law of armed conflict, applicable treaties, and Department of Defense policy.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish procedures to ensure that commanders and operators are rigorously trained to provide appropriate levels of human judgment to supervise autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities in operational environments, including regular proficiency assessments in manual target identification, threat assessment, and engagement procedures to ensure operators can effectively execute missions using other capabilities when autonomous systems are unavailable or unreliable.
Such procedures shall include a mechanism for operators to report, without fear of reprisal, concerns regarding weapon system reliability or the adequacy of human-machine interfaces.
Subject to subsection (d), for any autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability under development or being fielded by the Department, the Secretary shall ensure that such autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability requires—
before a decision to enter prototyping or formal development, review and verification by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering or a designee of the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that—
the system design incorporates the necessary capabilities to allow commanders, operators, and analysts to exercise appropriate levels of human judgment over the use of force in the envisioned planning and employment processes for the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability in such a way that it can accommodate varying levels of human oversight without requiring redesign;
the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability is designed to complete engagements within a timeframe and geographic area, as well as other applicable environmental and operational parameters, consistent with commander and operator intentions; or
if not designed as described in subclause (I), the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability will terminate engagements or obtain additional operator input before continuing the engagement;
the combination of the design and concept of employment of the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability, such as its target selection and engagement logic and other relevant processes or measures, accounts for risks to nontargets, consistent with commander and operator intent and the laws of war;
the design of the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability, including system safety, anti-tamper mechanisms, and the cybersecurity of the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability, in accordance with Department of Defense Instruction 8500.01 (relating to cybersecurity), or successor instruction, addresses and minimizes the probability and consequences of failures;
plans are in place for verification and validation and test and evaluation to establish the reliability, effectiveness, and suitability of the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability under realistic conditions, including possible adversary actions, to a sufficient standard consistent with the potential consequences of an unintended engagement or unauthorized parties interfering with the operation of the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability prior to fielding; and
a preliminary legal review of the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability has been completed—
in coordination with the General Counsel of the Department of Defense; and
in accordance with Department of Defense Directive 5000.01 (relating to Defense Acquisition System), or successor directive, Department of Defense Directive 2311.01 (relating to Department of Defense Law of War Program), or successor directive, and, where applicable, Department of Defense Directive 3000.03E (relating to Department of Defense Agent for Non-Lethal Weapons and Non-Lethal Weapon Policy), or successor directive; and
before fielding, review and verification by the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering or a designee of the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that, with respect to the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability—
system capabilities, human-machine interfaces, doctrine, tactics, techniques and procedures, and training have been demonstrated to allow commanders and operators to exercise appropriate levels of human judgment over the use of force and to employ systems with appropriate care and in accordance with the law of war, applicable treaties, weapon system safety rules, and definable rules of engagement that are applicable or reasonably expected to be applicable;
relevant system safety, anti-tamper mechanisms, cyber survivability, operational resilience, and cybersecurity capabilities have been implemented to minimize the probability and consequences of failures;
for autonomous weapon systems or artificial intelligence capabilities that are being fielded that may have gone through the development pipeline and verified under subparagraph (A), an updated legal review of the weapon system or artificial intelligence capability has been completed—
in coordination with the General Counsel of the Department of Defense; and
in accordance with Department of Defense Directive 5000.01 (relating to Defense Acquisition System), or successor directive, Department of Defense Directive 2311.01 (relating to Department of Defense Law of War Program), or successor directive, and, where applicable, Department of Defense Directive 3000.03E (relating to Department of Defense Agent for Non-Lethal Weapons and Non-Lethal Weapon Policy), or successor directive; and
a monitoring regime is in place to identify and address changes in operational environment, data inputs, and use that could contribute to failure of the system or capability to act in a manner consistent with the intent for the system or capability.
The Secretary shall treat each verification under paragraph (2) or paragraph (4) as valid for a period of three years.
An autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability that is a substantially similar variant of another autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability that is verified under paragraph (2) or paragraph (4) shall also be treated as verified.
For any autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability that was previously verified under paragraph (2)(A) or exempted under any predecessor review process under Department of Defense Directive 3000.09 (relating to Autonomy in Weapon Systems), that does not currently have a valid verification pursuant to paragraph (3), the Secretary shall ensure that it undergoes subsequent review and verification under such paragraph.
For any autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability that was previously verified under paragraph (2)(B) or exempted under any predecessor review process under Department of Defense Directive 3000.09 (relating to Autonomy in Weapon Systems) that does not currently have a valid verification pursuant to paragraph (3), the Secretary shall ensure that it undergoes subsequent review and verification under such paragraph as if it had not been deployed.
For each artificial intelligence capability classified under subsection (c)(1)(C)(ii), the Secretary ensure that a privacy impact assessment is conducted by the Director for Privacy, Civil Liberties and Transparency.
In carrying out a privacy impact assessment under subparagraph (A), the Director may consult with such technical and policy experts in the Department of Defense or elsewhere in the Federal Government as the Director considers appropriate.
The following categories of autonomous weapon systems are not subject to the policy set forth in subsection (a) or the requirements of subsection (b) and (c):
Operator-supervised autonomous weapon systems used to select and engage materiel targets to intercept attempted time-critical or saturation attacks.
Operator-supervised autonomous weapon systems used to select and engage materiel targets for defending operationally deployed remotely piloted or autonomous vehicles or vessels.
Autonomous or semi-autonomous cyberspace capabilities, reasonably judged to be non-lethal in nature.
Unarmed platforms, whether remotely operated or operated by onboard personnel, and whether autonomous or semi-autonomous.
Unguided munitions.
Munitions manually guided by the operator.
Mines.
Unexploded explosive ordnance.
Autonomous or semi-autonomous systems that are not weapon systems.
Weapon systems employing autonomous terminal guidance to acquire and track a target individually designated by a human operator prior to or at the time of launch, where the system's autonomous function does not involve discrimination among potential targets.
Except as may be provided in another statute, the Secretary may not use autonomy or an artificial intelligence capability for any of the following use cases:
For the decision to initiate the launch or detonation of a nuclear weapon.
For the monitoring, tracking, profiling, or targeting of an individual or group of individuals reasonably believed to be in the United States or the collection, querying, or analysis of information about the same not otherwise permissible under the Constitution of the United States, regardless of the origin of the data used, except for activities conducted in accordance with applicable provisions of law.
In the employment of lethal force by autonomous weapon without incorporation of appropriate levels of human judgment.
For each autonomy and artificial intelligence system that is covered by the policy set forth in subsection (a), regardless of the acquisition pathway or test and evaluation oversight status for an autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability, the Director for Operational Test and Evaluation, or the Director’s designee, shall ensure the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability functions as anticipated in realistic operational environments against adaptive adversaries and are sufficiently robust to minimize failures, including by ensuring—
such autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability goes through rigorous hardware and software verification and validation and realistic system developmental and operational test and evaluation, including analysis of unanticipated emergent behavior to assess system performance, capability, reliability, effectiveness, and suitability under realistic conditions, including possible adversary actions, consistent with the potential consequences of unintended engagement or unauthorized parties interfering with the operation of the system or capability;
hardware and software verification and validation include iterative cyber test and evaluation in accordance with Department of Defense Instruction 5000.89 (relating to Test and Evaluation), or successor instruction, to verify that the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability is resilient and survivable in contested cyberspace, if relevant to the purpose and mission of the system or capability;
systems incorporating autonomy or artificial intelligence capabilities go through rigorous developmental and operational test and evaluation to verify and validate that the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability is robust according to design requirements;
test and evaluation of systems incorporating autonomy or artificial intelligence capabilities include testing to confirm that their autonomy or artificial intelligence algorithms can be rapidly reprogrammed on new input data to enable timely correction of any unintended system behaviors that may be observed or discovered during future system operations;
adequate training, tactics, techniques, procedures, and doctrine are available, periodically reviewed, and used by system operators and commanders to understand the functioning, capabilities, and limitations of the system’s autonomy or artificial intelligence in realistic operational conditions;
system design and human-machine interfaces are readily understandable to trained operators, with clear ability to activate and deactivate system functions;
after initial operational testing and evaluation, as directed by the Director, system data is collected and any further changes to the system undergo appropriate verification, validation, test, and evaluation to ensure that critical safety features have not been degraded;
system software is tested using the best means and methods available to the Department to validate that critical safety features have not been degraded;
automated testing tools, such as modeling and simulation, are used whenever feasible;
testing identifies any new operating states and other relevant changes in the autonomous weapon system or artificial intelligence capability;
as directed by the Director—
each new or substantially revised operating state undergoes appropriate and tailored additional test and evaluation to characterize the system behavior in that new operating state; and
whole system follow-on operational test and evaluation when required due to changes to the state transition matrix; and
in coordination with the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering and Director, the owning component of the Department provides for monitoring to identify and address when changes to the system design or operational environment require additional testing and evaluation to provide sufficient confidence that the system will continue to avoid unintended engagements and resist interference by unauthorized parties.
For systems and capabilities assigned Level 1 under subsection (c)(1)(A)(ii), the requirements of subparagraphs (A) through (L) of paragraph (1) shall apply only to the extent relevant to the system's authorized functions and intended operational environment.
For systems and capabilities assigned Level 2 under subsection (c)(1)(A)(ii), the requirements of subparagraphs (A) through (L) of paragraph (1) shall apply in full.
The Secretary shall establish and charter a working group for the purposes set forth in paragraph (2).
The working group established under subparagraph (A) shall be known as the Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence Working Group.
The purposes set forth in this paragraph are as follows:
To support the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, and the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in considering the full range of relevant Department interests during the review of autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities before formal development.
To support the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in considering the full range of relevant Department interests during the review of autonomous weapon systems before deployment.
When requested by appropriate representatives of the secretaries of the military departments, the Commander of United States Special Operations Command, or, when applicable, a director of a defense agency or a Department of Defense Field Activity—
to advise whether a given weapon system requires senior-level approval in accordance with this section; and
to help identify and advise on addressing potential issues presented by a given weapon system during a potential senior-level review in accordance with this section.
To develop and issue safety standards for use of autonomy and artificial intelligence capabilities in evaluation of such capabilities.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish and maintain a centralized repository for reporting, collecting, and analyzing incidents involving autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities used by the Department of Defense—
to document operational incidents, weapon system failures, unintended weapon system behaviors, or near-miss events involving autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities;
to enable the Department to identify systemic risks, software errors, or operational vulnerabilities associated with such weapon systems and capabilities; and
to promote institutional learning and continuous improvement in the design, testing, and operational employment of autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities.
The Secretary shall establish procedures requiring the reporting of incidents described in paragraph (1), including—
operational malfunctions affecting the use of force;
unintended or anomalous weapon system behavior;
instances in which autonomous weapon systems or artificial intelligence capabilities selected or engaged targets inconsistent with commander intent or rules of engagement, regardless of whether engagement was ultimately executed;
human-machine interaction failures affecting command or operator control; and
other safety-related events determined appropriate by the Secretary.
In establishing the repository under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall, to the extent practicable, model reporting practices on aviation safety reporting systems used to identify and mitigate systemic risks in complex operational environments.
The Secretary shall ensure that information collected through the repository established under paragraph (1) is analyzed to identify trends and lessons learned, and that appropriate findings are disseminated across the Department of Defense to improve system design, training, and operational procedures.
Information contained in the repository established under paragraph (1) shall be handled in accordance with applicable classification, operational security, and national security requirements.
Not later than January 31 of each year until January 31, 2037, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees an annual report on the administration of this section.
The requirements of this section apply to—
lethal autonomous weapon systems; and
artificial intelligence capabilities used in lethal targeting engagements that support the validation of a target, the decision to engage a target, the acquisition of a target during the weapons engagement process, and development of engagement parameters for a designated target.
Systems and capabilities not described in paragraph (1) are not subject to the requirements of this section.
Nothing in this section shall be construed as preventing the lawful use of military capabilities and platforms or preventing the rapid development and deployment of military capabilities and platforms that rely upon or leverage artificial intelligence in a national security crisis, miliary conflict, or war. This section is intended to be temporary in nature until the governed technologies mature to the point of requiring less direct oversight in their development and employment.
In this section:
The term artificial intelligence has the meaning given the term section 5002 of the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020 (15 U.S.C. 9401).
The term autonomous weapon systems means a weapon system that, once activated, can select and engage targets without further intervention by an operator. Such term includes operator-supervised autonomous weapon systems that are designed to allow operators to override operation of the weapon system but can select and engage targets without further operator input after activation.
Such term does not include a weapon system solely because it employs autonomous terminal guidance to acquire and track a target class designated by a human operator prior to or at the time of launch.
The term autonomy means a capability (or set of capabilities) that enables a particular action of a system to be automatic or, within specified boundaries self-governing with minimal human oversight.
The term decision to engage means the determination by a human official with weapons release authority to authorize lethal or non-lethal force against a validated target.
The term development of engagement parameters means the calculation of the conditions, geometry, timing, and constraints under which a designated target will be engaged, consistent with rules of engagement and collateral effect limitations
The term target acquisition means the process by which a system locates, identifies, and tracks a designated target in preparation for engagement.
The term target validation means the process of confirming that a potential target meets criteria for engagement under applicable law and rules of engagement, including verification of target identity and status.
The term ultimate human responsibility, with respect to a weapon system, means the ability of a human commander or operator to exercise informed human agency—
to understand the operational context of the weapon system through continuous training, capacity building, and integration of design and testing features that strengthen human understanding and effective oversight;
to supervise, intervene in, or terminate the use of force by the system, thereby guaranteeing human responsibility, when appropriate given system design; and
to ensure compliance with all applicable United States law and international law, including applicable treaties, weapon system safety rules, the law of armed conflict, and rules of engagement.
Not later than September 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer as the Chief Data Officer of the Department of Defense, publish an update to the 2020 Department of Defense Data Strategy (in this section referred to as the Strategy) that serves as the authoritative guiding document for how the Department of Defense hosts, manages, and makes discoverable Department data in support of data sharing and artificial intelligence readiness across the military departments, combatant commands, defense agencies, and the defense intelligence enterprise.
In developing the updated Strategy under paragraph (1), the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer acting in their role as the Chief Data Officer of the Department of Defense shall consult with—
the Chief Data Officer of each military department;
the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense;
the Chief Information Officer of each military department;
the Chief Data Officer of the Joint Staff; and
the Chief Data Officer of the Director of National Intelligence.
The Strategy shall include the following:
A framework for data ontologies, including how the Department will define, structure, and govern data relationships to advance data-centric approaches and enable federated and scalable access to and discoverability of Department data, informed by the findings and outputs of the Data Ontology Governance Working Group established under section 1504 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. note prec. 391).
An identification of existing Department of Defense applications and program offices supporting data-centric approaches and a plan for how such programs will be leveraged, consolidated, or evolved in furtherance of the Strategy.
A plan for ensuring integration with the defense intelligence enterprise for the sharing and exploitation of data in support of national security missions.
Requirements for compliance with global, consensus-based data ontology specifications, including standards that treat the absence of a data assertion as unknown rather than false, to ensure that data can be consistently shared, interpreted, and transferred across Department and commercial systems without loss of meaning or context.
An approach for ensuring data availability, discoverability, and interoperability across all appropriate classification levels.
A plan for streamlining data labeling across the Department, including an evaluation of existing data labeling platforms in use across the Department and the defense intelligence enterprise to assess suitability for enterprise-wide adoption.
Not later than December 15, 2027, the Secretary shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer as the Chief Data Officer of the Department of Defense, develop and submit to the congressional defense committees a plan for implementation of the Strategy across the future years defense program.
In this section:
The term artificial intelligence has the meaning given in section 238(g) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232).
The term combatant command has the meaning given that term in section 161(c) of title 10, United States Code.
The term data-centric means an environment where data is the primary and permanent asset separated from systems and applications making data available to a broad range of tools and analytics within and across security domains for enrichment and discovery.
The term data ontology has the meaning given that term in section 1504(h) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. note prec. 391).
The term military department has the meaning given that term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
Commencing not later than August 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct a comprehensive assessment of the effects on human performance of the adoption of artificial intelligence systems by personnel of the Department of Defense on the maintenance and retention of essential warfighter skills.
The Secretary of Defense shall designate a senior official—
to coordinate the assessment and research activities required by this section;
to oversee the integration of findings under this section into the policies of the Department, with the objective of maximizing both artificial intelligence-enabled performance and proficiency in critical, hard to recover skills; and
who is authorized to coordinate among the military departments and relevant defense agencies for purposes of carrying out this section.
The assessment required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
Identification of military occupational specialties and operational roles where structured proficiency management will be most critical to sustaining readiness alongside artificial intelligence adoption based on the susceptibility to skill atrophy resulting from reliance on artificial intelligence-enabled systems as well as speed and investments to recover such skill.
Evaluation of the conditions under which artificial intelligence-enabled systems augment warfighter capability and the conditions that call for deliberate proficiency sustainment measures to preserve independent judgment and awareness based on the cognitive, operational, and manual skills decline among personnel who regularly use artificial intelligence-enabled systems compared to personnel performing equivalent tasks without such systems.
Identification of measurable indicators that distinguish beneficial skill augmentation from conditions requiring proficiency intervention.
Assessment of how current training and certification programs can be structured to build and sustain critical, hard-to-recover proficiency based on a review of the conditions under which reliance on artificial intelligence systems may contribute to overreliance, miscalibrated confidence in system outputs, diminished trust in independent human judgment, or reduced situation awareness.
Evaluation of whether current training programs and certification standards adequately preserve critical warfighter proficiency for degraded-mode, denied, or contested operational environments, including the adequacy of primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency planning frameworks.
Recommendations for policies, training protocols, doctrine, acquisition requirements, talent management strategies, or readiness metrics to ensure that artificial intelligence adoption strengthens operational readiness.
The official designated under subsection (b) shall carry out research activities to support the assessment required under subsection (a), which may include controlled experiments or high-fidelity simulations comparing performance with and without artificial intelligence-enabled systems, longitudinal studies measuring skill retention trajectories, full-spectrum performance, and recovery timelines, assessment of operator confidence and decisionmaking accuracy under simulated contested conditions, and development of standardized skill sustainment metrics applicable across the Armed Forces.
In carrying out the research activities under paragraph (1), the official designated under subsection (b) shall coordinate with the following entities, as appropriate:
The Army Research Institute for Behavioral and Social Sciences.
The Office of Naval Research.
The Air Force Research Laboratory Human Effectiveness Directorate.
The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office.
The military departments.
Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness.
Such other research entities and operational commands as the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate.
Research conducted under this subsection shall—
establish baseline measurements of task performance and cognitive capabilities prior to artificial intelligence system use;
assess performance changes during routine artificial intelligence-assisted operations;
evaluate skill sustainment when artificial intelligence systems are removed or unavailable;
measure recovery timelines to baseline proficiency after extended artificial intelligence-assisted operations; and
identify factors that accelerate or support skill sustainment.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the assessment required under subsection (a).
The report required under subparagraph (A) shall include the following:
An identification of military occupational specialties and operational roles where proficiency sustainment will be most critical based on which are most vulnerable to hard-to-recover skill atrophy.
Preliminary findings from controlled operational experiments and the design of longitudinal studies under subsection (d)(1).
An assessment of opportunities to strengthen readiness based on identification of high-level risks to proficiency based on current or planned artificial intelligence deployment practices.
Recommended changes to policies, training, doctrine, or acquisition requirements to optimize human and artificial intelligence integration.
Recommendations for updates, identified as near- or long-term in nature, to existing training programs, certification standards, and operational doctrine to build and sustain critical and hard-to-recover proficiencies and identification of the Department of Defense component or office best positioned to implement each such recommendation.
An identification of any additional authorities, resources, research partnerships with academic institutions or federally funded research and development centers, or technical expertise needed to conduct the research activities described in subsection (d).
Not later than three years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report containing the findings of the longitudinal studies conducted under subsection (d)(1)(B).
The report required under subparagraph (A) shall include the following:
An identification of measured rates of retention and atrophy of hard-to-recover skills across different military occupational specialties and operational contexts.
An assessment of skill recovery trajectories and the time required to restore baseline proficiency.
An evaluation of degraded-mode performance outcomes under simulated contested conditions.
Updated recommendations for policies, training protocols, doctrine, acquisition requirements, or readiness metrics based on research findings.
Any update to the recommendations made under paragraph (1)(B)(v).
Not later than 90 days after the submittal of the initial report under subsection (e)(1), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the findings and recommendations contained in such report.
Not later than 90 days after the submittal of the longitudinal study report under subsection (e)(2), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the findings and recommendations contained in such report.
The Secretary of Defense shall assess whether existing training programs, certification standards, and operational doctrine adequately account for the effects of artificial intelligence-enabled systems on skill retention and degraded-mode performance and shall include in the reports required under subsection (e)—
recommendations for updates, as appropriate, identified as near-term or longer-term in nature; and
identification of the Department of Defense component or office best positioned to consider implementation of each such recommendation.
In this section:
The term artificial intelligence system has the meaning given the term artificial intelligence in section 238(g) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. 4061 note prec.).
The term artificial intelligence-enabled system means any weapons system, decision support tool, or operational capability that incorporates or relies on an artificial intelligence system.
The term degraded-mode operations means military operations conducted when artificial intelligence systems or supporting infrastructure are unavailable, partially functional, compromised, or under adversarial attack.
The term primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency planning means a framework for ensuring continuity of operations when primary systems become unavailable, requiring personnel to employ alternate approaches, contingency plans, or emergency procedures.
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer and in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, require that any vendor providing artificial intelligence capabilities to the Department of Defense implement, as a condition of contract award or continued performance, a sourcing mechanism that affixes clearly cited sources within any output generated by such capabilities and delivered to the Department, in a form approved by the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, indicating, at a minimum—
any source that they originate from or are attributable to; and
any foreign adversary propaganda source and identifying the foreign adversary covered nation associated with that source.
The sourcing requirement under paragraph (1) shall apply to any artificial intelligence capability used by the Department of Defense to generate, summarize, synthesize, translate, or otherwise produce informational text- or image-based outputs.
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed—
to restrict the sources upon which an artificial intelligence model may draw; or
to prohibit a vendor from training, fine-tuning, retrieval-augmenting, or otherwise incorporating into an artificial intelligence model data or content originating from any source.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer shall establish standards for the sourcing requirement under subsection (a), including—
the form and content of required sourcing;
the form, content, and placement of sourcing to highlight foreign adversary propaganda sources;
the methodology by which vendors shall identify outputs derived from foreign adversary propaganda sources, including provenance tracking and source attribution requirements; and
thresholds for materiality, including when partial derivation from a foreign adversary propaganda source triggers the sourcing requirement.
Each vendor subject to the requirements of subsection (a) shall submit to the Secretary of Defense, through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, documentation describing the technical mechanism by which the vendor identifies and labels sources in outputs and highlights those sources derived from foreign adversary propaganda sources.
Not later than the date on which the sourcing standards required under subsection (b)(1) are established, the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report detailing the implementation plans for such standards.
In this section:
The term artificial intelligence has the meaning given that term in section 5002 of the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020 (15 U.S.C. 9401).
The term artificial intelligence capability means any artificial intelligence model, system, tool, application, service, or component thereof that is provided to, procured by, developed for, or used by the Department of Defense, whether as a standalone product, an embedded feature, or a service accessed via application programming interface or other means.
The term foreign adversary covered nation—
has the meaning given the term covered nation in section 4872(f) of title 10, United States Code;
includes any foreign terrorist organization designated by the Secretary of State under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189); and
includes any media organization affiliated with an entity on the list of specially designated nationals and blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury (commonly known as the SDN list).
The term foreign adversary propaganda source means any media organization, publication, website, social media account, broadcast outlet, or other information channel that—
is owned, operated, controlled, funded, or editorially directed, in whole or in part, by the government of a foreign adversary covered nation, or by an entity acting on behalf of such government; or
is engaged in foreign malign influence activities (as defined in section 119C(f) of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3059(f))) on behalf of, or in coordination with, a foreign adversary covered nation.
The term vendor means any contractor, subcontractor, or other person who provides an artificial intelligence capability to the Department of Defense under a contract (as described in section 6303 of title 31, United States Code), a subcontract, a grant or cooperative agreement, or any similar instrument.
Section 1532 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2224 note) is amended—
in subsection (a)—
in paragraph (2)—
in the paragraph heading, by striking Consideration of guidance and inserting Guidance; and
by striking consider issuing and inserting issue; and
in paragraph (3)(B) by striking if and inserting after the date that is 90 days after the date on which;
in subsection (c)—
in paragraph (2)—
in subparagraph (A), by striking ; or and inserting a semicolon;
in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and
by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Baidu;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Zhipu AI;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Moonshot AI;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company 01.AI;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Mistral-rival Minimax;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Alibaba;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Tencent;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Huawei;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Bytedance;
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, developed by the Chinese company Xiaomi; or
any artificial intelligence, or successor artificial intelligence, that is a derivative model derived from artificial intelligence identified by subparagraphs (A) through (L).
by amending paragraph (4) to read as follows:
The term covered artificial intelligence company means—
an entity that—
produces or provides artificial intelligence models or applications; and
is included on—
the Consolidated Screening List maintained by the International Trade Administration of the Department of Commerce; or
the civil-military fusion list maintained under section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note);
is domiciled in a covered nation; or
is subject to unmitigated foreign ownership, control, or influence by a covered nation, as determined by the Secretary of Defense in accordance with the National Industrial Security Program or any successor to such program; or
an entity that produces or provides artificial intelligence models or applications that are derivative models that are derived from artificial models or applications produced or provided by an entity described in subparagraph (A).
by adding at the end the following:
The term derivative model means an artificial intelligence model with weights, parameters, or training outputs that are derived in whole or in material part from another artificial intelligence model, including through fine-tuning, quantization, distillation, merging, or any other adaptation technique.
The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, and the Chief Information Officer shall revise the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to prohibit the Department of Defense from entering into, renewing, or extending a contract for the procurement of goods or services that utilize artificial intelligence, unless the contractor—
submits to the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer an artificial intelligence functional bill of materials prior to the award, renewal, or extension of the contract; and
maintains the bill of materials such that the contractor can deliver an updated bill of materials to the relevant component of the Department of Defense within 48 hours of a request for such bill of materials.
A functional bill of materials described under subsection (a) shall—
include details related to the software, data, and hardware underpinning systems utilizing artificial intelligence in accordance with paragraphs (2), (3) and (4) of this subsection.
be machine-readable; and
disclose sufficient detail to enable a timely assessment by the Department of Defense of the impact of—
newly identified vulnerabilities;
security risks;
integrity concerns affecting software, models, or data; and
other newly available risk-relevant information affecting components incorporated into or relied upon by the artificial intelligence system.
The software section of the artificial intelligence functional bill of materials required under subsection (a) shall include the following minimum elements:
A description of all models of the artificial intelligence, including—
pre-trained foundation models;
fine-tuned models customized for specific Department of Defense use cases through transfer learning or additional training;
internally trained models, including custom architectures and algorithms for the Department of Defense;
other model versions and configurations deployed in production, along with their hyperparameters and deployment context; and
for each models described in clauses (i) through (iv)—
the model name;
the model identifiers;
the model version or release identifier;
the model supplier;
the model origin;
the model lineage;
the model license;
the integrity reference;
a description of any self-hosted or custom models across containers or virtual machines;
any model source registries and versions; and
a description of artificial intelligence agents and their functional boundaries (abilities to read, write, and execute).
A description of the dependencies of the artificial intelligence, including—
the machine-learning frameworks used to build and run the artificial intelligence;
the developer-level artificial intelligence technologies and software development kits, including integrated development environment extensions;
any third-party packages, including supporting libraries and open-source components that models of the artificial intelligence depend on;
the runtime dependencies necessary for training, serving, or orchestrating artificial intelligence models in production; and
any direct and nested transitive relationships.
The security and governance of the artificial intelligence, including—
identity verification and access, including service accounts, roles, permissions, and credentials the artificial intelligence system uses;
access paths, including external application programming interfaces;
security controls, such as policies, classifiers, and validation mechanisms that apply to the artificial intelligence components;
guardrail safety configurations and filters; and
model context protocol server tool configurations.
Any access history and permissions granted by the artificial intelligence, including—
a description of the ownership of and access to the artificial intelligence system by the Department of Defense;
the change history, including audit trails that show who modified components, when, and why; and
a description of the approval workflows, including processes that govern how artificial intelligence components move through development, testing, and production.
The performance metrics and model updates, including—
use cases, prioritizing high-impact use cases; and
performance metrics, such as accuracy and latency.
The data section of the artificial intelligence functional bill of materials required under subsection (a) shall include the following minimum elements:
The training data, including datasets used to train or fine-tune models of the artificial intelligence, including their origin, licensing, and any applied preprocessing.
The inference-time data, such as data sources any model of the artificial intelligence accessed during production, including real-time APIs, feature stores, or data warehouses.
Data storage, including the underlying storage systems, such as cloud storage, databases, or vector databases, that hold artificial intelligence-related data.
Metadata on components’ name, precise version, file paths, open-source licenses, package managers, and unique identifiers such as purl or cryptographic hashes.
For each dataset described in subparagraphs (A) through (D)—
the dataset name;
the dataset version or date of creation or last update, whichever is more recent;
the dataset location;
the integrity reference;
the sensitivity of the data;
the license to use such data;
the data supplier;
the creator of the data contained in the dataset;
the data origin;
the data lineage;
the country of origin; and
the data processing history.
The hardware section of the artificial intelligence functional bill of materials required under subsection (a) shall include relevant information of the physical infrastructure that the artificial intelligence runs on, including the following minimum elements:
Compute resources, including graphics processing units, tensor processing units, and other acceleration hardware artificial intelligence workloads use.
Any storage and networking that supports the artificial intelligence, including the cloud infrastructure supporting artificial intelligence operations and other network paths between components.
Cloud environments, including accounts, regions, and deployment boundaries on which artificial intelligence workloads run.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, and the Chief Information Officer shall develop regulations, guidance, and policies to ensure that current policies, regulations, and guidance relating to the use, submission, or maintenance of a software bill of materials shall apply to the software that underpins artificial intelligence systems used, developed, or procured by the Department of Defense.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report on—
the status of the implementation of the regulations, guidance, and policies developed under paragraph (1), including any challenges, recommendations, and legislative or regulatory action needed to enhance the effectiveness of such implementation;
the feasibility and necessity of updating Department of Defense Instruction 5000.87, Operation of the Software Acquisition Pathway (October 2, 2020) and the software acquisition pathway established under section 3603 of title 10, United States Code, with requirements for—
an artificial intelligence software bill of materials; and
a more detailed software bill of materials in the procurement of software, hardware, artificial intelligence technologies, and cryptographic technologies; and
the estimated costs of implementing the requirements described in subparagraph (B).
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Defense Systems Agency and Chief Information Officer shall issue guidance on to procuring agencies on appropriate storage of any bill of material submitted under subsection (a) to align with the cybersecurity requirements of the Department of Defense.
The guidance issued under paragraph (1) shall include—
strict access controls;
digital signing and hashing;
secure sharing mechanisms; and
centralized repositories to prevent tampering and unauthorized access.
In this section:
The terms artificial intelligence have the meanings given such terms, respectively, in section 5001 of the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020 (15 U.S.C. 9401).
The term software bill of materials means the records kept in the normal course of business that identify each component, library, and dependency comprising a software application.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue regulations to ensure that—
the use of force by the Armed Forces of the United States remains subject to a clear, accountable, and identifiable human chain of command and control;
decisions to authorize, initiate, or terminate the use of force are attributable to human commanders and operators acting within established legal authorities;
the employment of any weapon system, whether unguided, autonomous, semi-autonomous, or otherwise enabled by advanced technologies, shall not eliminate human responsibility for the use of force;
all weapon systems shall be designed, fielded, and employed in a manner that preserves human accountability consistent with the law of armed conflict and any applicable law of the United States; and
any weapon system developed or employed by the Department of Defense that incorporates autonomous or artificial intelligence–enabled functions—
is designed and fielded consistent with Department of Defense Directive 3000.09 (relating to Autonomy in Weapon Systems), or any successor directive, including the requirement that all individuals in the human chain of command may exercise control over such system to exercise appropriate levels of human judgment over the use of force;
includes operational plans, rules of engagement, doctrine, and training manuals that clearly specify the roles and responsibilities of commanders and operators in—
authorizing and supervising the use of force by the system; and
executing manned-unmanned teaming concepts by semi-autonomous and fully autonomous formations;
is subject to exercises, simulations, trainings of relevant personnel, and concepts of employment that assess the risk of automation bias and evaluate the ability of commanders and operators to appropriately question, override, or disengage the system outputs during decisions involving the use of force as appropriate given the design of the system;
is subject to verification, validation, testing, and evaluation processes that assess—
system performance to ensure that the system is sufficiently robust and functions as anticipated in realistic operational environments; and
the clarity of the human-command relationship and decision authorities; and
has mechanisms in place to ensure that after-action review processes can identify responsible human decision-makers within the chain of command for any employment of force involving the system.
The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall develop a joint doctrine for autonomous warfare.
The doctrine developed under paragraph (1) shall—
establish fundamental principles across the Joint Force that focus on manned-unmanned blended units and fully autonomous units, in which human and machine platforms conduct multi-domain operations;
consider new operational concepts, new command-and-control structures and processes, new training and military education, and new organizational reforms that integrate autonomy into warfighting; and
include the manner by which the Joint Force will incorporate new warfighting technologies, such as artificial intelligence, autonomous platforms and organizational units, and drone swarms, into existing joint doctrine.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a report that includes—
a description of the measures taken to ensure compliance with the requirements of subsection (a);
any identified risks of accountability gaps associated with new weapon systems or emerging technologies; and
any legislative action required to strengthen compliance with the requirements of subsection (a).
The annual report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
The Secretary of Defense shall develop a framework for the implementation of biosecurity evaluation standards and best practices relating to covered artificial intelligence models to mitigate biosecurity risks to the Department of Defense from the use of such models, including any risk presented by a malicious actor gaining unauthorized access to such models.
The framework developed under paragraph (1) shall cover all aspects of biosecurity risks posed by and to covered artificial intelligence models, including the following:
Evaluation of the potential for misuse, including the capability of covered artificial intelligence models to materially enable, meaningfully facilitate, or significantly lower barriers to the design, acquisition, production, or dissemination of biological agents, toxins, or other biological threats.
Evaluation of model behaviors and failure modes relevant to biosecurity, including the propensity to provide actionable assistance for harmful biological activities, including through prompt-based elicitation, fine-tuning, tool use, or other methods of adaptation.
Biosecurity red-teaming and testing requirements, including the use of qualified subject-matter experts and test protocols designed to simulate realistic misuse attempts.
Mitigation measures and safeguards, including the deployment of technical and operational controls to reduce biosecurity risks, such as access controls, monitoring, logging, usage restrictions, capability gating, safe completion techniques, and limitations on high-risk functionality.
Risks relating to the unintended exposure, theft, or release of covered artificial intelligence models (including model weights, parameters, system prompts, fine-tuning data, or other sensitive model artifacts) and the biosecurity implications of such unauthorized access.
Supply chain and third-party risks relevant to biosecurity, including the risks posed by integration of covered artificial intelligence models into other systems and the risk that downstream deployments or failure by contractors to implement required biosecurity controls.
Processes for re-evaluation over time, including triggers for reassessment based on material changes to a model (including capability improvements, new tooling, fine-tuning, or deployment changes) and updated threat information.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the framework developed under paragraph (1)—
prioritizes the covered artificial intelligence models that present the greatest potential biosecurity risk, based on threat reporting, risk assessments, and model capability evaluations;
establishes security and evaluation levels that scale to the biosecurity risk posed by a covered artificial intelligence model, taking into account the sensitivity of the mission context and the potential consequences of misuse; and
is designed to be practicable for acquisition and implementation, including through the use of tiered requirements and appropriate tailoring to the type of technology and deployment.
In developing the framework under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense may consult with—
such officials as the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate; and
any relevant industry, academic, and civil society experts with demonstrated biosecurity expertise.
Beginning on the date that is 18 months after the date on which the Secretary of Defense issues implementing guidance under paragraph (2), the Department of Defense may not procure, obtain, renew, or extend the use of a covered artificial intelligence model (including through a contract for cloud-hosted model access) unless the covered artificial intelligence model has undergone biosecurity testing and evaluation consistent with the framework developed under subsection (a) and the Secretary determines that appropriate mitigation measures and safeguards have been implemented commensurate with the risk.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue implementing guidance to carry out the requirements of this section. The Secretary may amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to incorporate requirements consistent with such guidance, including requirements applicable to contractors that develop, deploy, store, host, fine-tune, integrate, or provide access to covered artificial intelligence models for the Department of Defense.
The implementing guidance under paragraph (2) shall include contractor assurance and documentation requirements sufficient for the Department to verify compliance, which may include—
summaries of testing protocols and results, including biosecurity red-teaming results, limitations, and remediation actions;
descriptions of mitigation measures implemented and evidence of their operation;
supply chain and access-control information relevant to the risk of unauthorized access to the model; and
such additional information as the Secretary determines necessary to evaluate biosecurity risk and compliance, consistent with protection of classified information and proprietary business information.
The Secretary of Defense may waive the requirements of paragraph (1) with respect to a specific procurement or use if the Secretary determines that exigent circumstances or overriding national security needs require such waiver. Any waiver under this paragraph shall be—
in writing;
time-limited;
accompanied by a description of compensating controls to manage biosecurity risk to the maximum extent practicable; and
provided to the congressional defense committees not later than 30 days after the waiver is issued.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for 3 years, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report describing—
the framework developed under subsection (a) and the status of implementation under subsection (b);
the categories of covered artificial intelligence models subject to the framework and any updates to the scope of coverage;
the extent to which the Department has incorporated biosecurity evaluation requirements into procurement processes and contract instruments;
challenges and resource needs for implementing biosecurity evaluations and mitigations; and
any recommendations for additional authorities or legislative actions.
In this section:
The terms artificial intelligence and machine learning have the meanings given such terms in section 5001 of the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020 ( 15 U.S.C. 9401).
The term biosecurity evaluation means testing, assessment, and analysis conducted to identify and characterize biosecurity-relevant capabilities, misuse potential, and failure modes of a covered artificial intelligence model, including through red-teaming, and the evaluation of mitigation measures to reduce such risks.
The term covered artificial intelligence model means an artificial intelligence model, or class of artificial intelligence models, designated by the Secretary of Defense for purposes of this section based on an assessment that the model’s biological or life-sciences-related capabilities, scale, access patterns, or deployment context could present a material biosecurity risk to the Department of Defense if misused or accessed by unauthorized persons.
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and in consultation with the Director of the National Security Agency and the head of the Center for Artificial Intelligence Standards and Innovation at the Department of Commerce, carry out a program to construct, retrofit, prototype, and perform testing and evaluation on highly secure data centers uniquely built for artificial intelligence workloads and capable of—
resisting attacks by nation-state adversaries;
addressing threats from autonomous artificial intelligence agents; and
securing the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of artificial intelligence models and inference pipelines.
The program required by subsection (a) shall be focused on—
building or retrofitting prototype technologies and security controls needed to protect artificial intelligence data centers from attacks by nation-state adversaries;
building or prototyping crucial components, such as cross-domain solutions, to address specific security needs of artificial intelligence data centers;
protecting model weights and other sensitive assets stored in advanced artificial intelligence data centers from theft, sabotage, unauthorized access, or manipulation by nation-state adversaries;
addressing new challenges associated with highly autonomous artificial intelligence systems, including attempts to autonomously exploit vulnerabilities, evade monitoring, or exfiltrate sensitive assets;
identifying technologies not yet commercially available or sufficiently mature to achieve the elements of the focus set out in this subsection, including hardware tamper resistance, secure and confidential computing at scale, and supply chain verification tools, and recommending research and development investments needed to advance such technologies;
assessing relevant physical security, cybersecurity, supply chain security, insider threat, access control, monitoring, compartmentation, secure compute environment, and incident response requirements for such facilities; and
developing detailed plans, budgets, and cost estimates and recommended courses of action, for constructing or retrofitting facilities to achieve the goals of this subsection.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on progress made under the program required by subsection (a), including key findings from prototype activities, threats, vulnerabilities, capability gaps, and resourcing requirements.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the results of the program required by subsection (a), including—
prototype results, technologies, or operational measures needed to improve the security of secure artificial intelligence data centers; and
recommendations for further investments to address threats from nation-state adversaries and autonomous artificial intelligence agents.
This division may be cited as the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027.
Except as provided in subsection (b), all authorizations contained in titles XXI through XXVII for military construction projects, land acquisition, facilities sustainment, family housing projects and facilities, and contributions to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program (and authorizations of appropriations therefor) shall expire on the later of—
October 1, 2029; or
the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2030.
Subsection (a) shall not apply to authorizations for military construction projects, land acquisition, facilities sustainment, family housing projects and facilities, and contributions to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program (and authorizations of appropriations therefor), for which appropriated funds have been obligated before the later of—
October 1, 2029; or
the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for fiscal year 2030 for military construction projects, land acquisition, facilities sustainment, family housing projects and facilities, or contributions to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program.
Titles XXI through XXVII shall take effect on the later of—
October 1, 2026; or
the date of the enactment of this Act.
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2103(a) and available for military construction projects inside the United States as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Army may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the installations or locations inside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2103(a) and available for military construction projects outside the United States as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Army may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the installations or locations outside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2103(a) and available for military family housing functions as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Army may construct or acquire family housing units (including land acquisition and supporting facilities) at the installations or locations, in the number of units, and in the amounts set forth in the following table:
Subject to section 2825 of title 10, United States Code, and using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2103(a) and available for military family housing functions as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Army may improve existing military family housing units in an amount not to exceed $194,006,000.
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2103(a) and available for military family housing functions as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Army may carry out architectural and engineering services and construction design activities with respect to the construction or improvement of family housing units in an amount not to exceed $90,557,000.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2026, for military construction, land acquisition, facilities sustainment, and military family housing functions of the Department of the Army as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding the cost variations authorized by section 2853 of title 10, United States Code, and any other cost variation authorized by law, the total cost of all projects carried out under sections 2101 and 2102 of this Act may not exceed the total amount authorized to be appropriated under subsection (a), as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (division B of Public Law 116–283; 134 Stat. 4294), the authorization set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in section 2101(a) of that Act (134 Stat. 4295) and most recently extended by section 2104 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1266), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (division B of Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 2161), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (c), as provided in section 2101 of that Act (135 Stat. 2163) and most recently extended by section 2105 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1267), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
In the case of the authorization set forth in the table in subsection (c), as provided in section 2101 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (division B of Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 2161), for Fort Stewart, Georgia, for construction of a barracks, the Secretary of the Army may construct a facility of 193,347 square feet.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (division B of Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2970), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in section 2101 of that Act (136 Stat. 2971), and extended by section 2106 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1267), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (division B of Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 709), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in section 2101 of that Act (137 Stat. 710), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
In the case of the authorization contained in the table in section 2101 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (division B of Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 2212) for U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, Germany, for construction of an operational readiness training complex underground electric line as specified in the funding table in section 4601 of such Act, the Secretary of the Army may construct an operational readiness training complex underground electric line at Grafenwoehr, Germany.
In the case of the authorization contained in the table in section 2101 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1265) for Joint Region Marianas, Guam, for construction of PDI: Guam Defense System, EIAMD, Phase 2 (Inc), at that location, the Secretary of the Army may construct a 2,496-square-foot pump house and 648,000-gallon non-portable water storage tank.
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2203(a) and available for military construction projects inside the United States as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Navy may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the installations or locations inside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2203(a) and available for military construction projects outside the United States as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Navy may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the installations or locations outside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Subject to section 2825 of title 10, United States Code, and using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2203(a) and available for military family housing functions as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Navy may improve existing military family housing units in an amount not to exceed $511,837,000.
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2203(a) and available for military family housing functions as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Navy may carry out architectural and engineering services and construction design activities with respect to the construction or improvement of family housing units in an amount not to exceed $57,371,000.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2026, for military construction, land acquisition, facilities sustainment, and military family housing functions of the Department of the Navy, as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding the cost variations authorized by section 2853 of title 10, United States Code, and any other cost variation authorized by law, the total cost of all projects carried out under sections 2201 and 2202 may not exceed the total amount authorized to be appropriated under subsection (a), as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (division B of Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2970), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in section 2201 of that Act (136 Stat. 2975) and extended by section 2206 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1271), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (division B of Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 709), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (c), as provided in section 2201 of that Act (137 Stat. 714), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
In the case of the authorization set forth in the table in subsection (c), as provided in section 2201 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (division B of Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 714) for construction of a Water Treatment Plant at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, the Secretary of the Navy may construct 20,000 linear feet of water supply lines, three pump houses (non-occupied), and one 2,300-square foot pump station/multi-purpose building (occupied) in lieu of a water treatment plant at the installation.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
In the case of the authorization contained in the table in section 2201 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1268) for construction of PDI: Airfield Pavement Upgrades at Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sands, Hawaii, the Secretary of the Navy may expand airfield pavement areas to 280,000 square meters to mitigate the risk of aircraft hydroplane.
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2303(a) and available for military construction projects inside the United States as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Air Force may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the installations or locations inside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2303(a) and available for military construction projects outside the United States as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Air Force may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the installations or locations outside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2303(a) and available for military family housing functions as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Air Force may construct or acquire family housing units (including land acquisition and supporting facilities) at the installation or location, in the number of units, and in the amount set forth in the following table:
Subject to section 2825 of title 10, United States Code, and using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2303(a) and available for military family housing functions as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Air Force may improve existing military family housing units in an amount not to exceed $329,064,000.
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2303(a) and available for military family housing functions as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Air Force may carry out architectural and engineering services and construction design activities with respect to the construction or improvement of family housing units in an amount not to exceed $125,854,000.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2026, for military construction, land acquisition, facilities sustainment, and military family housing functions of the Department of the Air Force, as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding the cost variations authorized by section 2853 of title 10, United States Code, and any other cost variation authorized by law, the total cost of all projects carried out under sections 2301 and 2302 may not exceed the total amount authorized to be appropriated under subsection (a), as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (division B of Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 2240), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in section 2903 of that Act (132 Stat. 2287) and most recently extended by section 2305 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1274), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (division B of Public Law 116–92; 133 Stat. 1862), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in sections 2301(a) and 2912(a) of that Act (133 Stat. 1867, 1913), and most recently extended by section 2306 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1275), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (division B of Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2970), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in section 2301 of that Act (136 Stat. 2978), and extended by section 2308 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1276), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (division B of Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 709), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in sections 2301 and 2302 of that Act (136 Stat. 719), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
The Secretary of the Air Force may carry out family housing improvement projects to restructure agreements under the Military Housing Privatization Initiative under subchapter IV of chapter 169 of title 10, United States Code, at—
Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, in the amount of $25,000,000;
Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, in the amount of $150,685,000;
Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, in the amount of $52,000,000; and
Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, in the amount of $50,000,000.
The Secretary of the Air Force may carry out a military construction project to construct a 6,934 square meter Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) and Air Battle Management Systems (ABMS) Test Facility at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, in the amount of $87,800,000 using amounts available to the Secretary for research, development, test, and evaluation.
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2403(a) and available for military construction projects inside the United States as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of Defense may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the installations or locations inside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2403(a) and available for military construction projects outside the United States as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of Defense may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the installations or locations outside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2403(a) and available for the Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of Defense may carry out energy resilience and conservation projects under chapter 173 of title 10, United States Code, for the installations or locations inside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2403(a) and available for the Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of Defense may carry out energy resilience and conservation projects under chapter 173 of title 10, United States Code, for the installations or locations outside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
In the case of a utility system that is conveyed under section 2688 of title 10, United States Code, and that only provides utility services to a military installation, notwithstanding subchapters I and III of chapter 169 and chapters 221 and 223 of title 10, United States Code, the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of a military department may authorize a contract with the conveyee of the utility system to carry out the military construction projects set forth in the following table:
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2026, for military construction, land acquisition, facilities sustainment, and military family housing functions of the Department of Defense (other than the military departments), as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding the cost variations authorized by section 2853 of title 10, United States Code, and any other cost variation authorized by law, the total cost of all projects carried out under sections 2401 and 2402 of this Act may not exceed the total amount authorized to be appropriated under subsection (a), as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (division B of Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2970), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in section 2402(a) of that Act (136 Stat. 2983) and most recently extended by section 2406 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119-60; 139 Stat. 1281), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (division B of Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 709), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in sections 2401 and 2402 of that Act (137 Stat. 726, 727), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
The Secretary of Defense may make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program as provided in section 2806 of title 10, United States Code, in an amount not to exceed the sum of the amount collected from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization as a result of construction previously financed by the United States and the amount set forth in the following table:
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2026, for contributions by the Secretary of Defense under section 2806 of title 10, United States Code, for the share of the United States of the cost of projects for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program authorized by section 2501 as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Pursuant to agreement with the Republic of Korea for required in-kind contributions, the Secretary of Defense may accept military construction projects for the installations or locations in the Republic of Korea, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Pursuant to agreement with the Republic of Poland for required in-kind contributions, the Secretary of Defense may accept military construction projects for the installations or locations in the Republic of Poland, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2606 and available for the National Guard and Reserve as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Army may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the Army National Guard locations inside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2606 and available for the National Guard and Reserve as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Army may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the Army Reserve locations inside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2606 and available for the National Guard and Reserve as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Navy may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the Navy Reserve and Marine Corps Reserve location inside the United States, and in the amount, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2606 and available for the National Guard and Reserve as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Air Force may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the Air National Guard locations inside the United States, and in the amounts, set forth in the following table:
Using amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in section 2606 and available for the National Guard and Reserve as specified in the funding table in section 4601, the Secretary of the Air Force may acquire real property and carry out military construction projects for the Air Force Reserve location inside the United States, and in the amount, set forth in the following table:
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2026, for the costs of acquisition, architectural and engineering services, facilities sustainment, and construction of facilities for the Guard and Reserve Forces, and for contributions therefor, under chapter 1803 of title 10, United States Code (including the cost of acquisition of land for those facilities), as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (division B of Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2970), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in sections 2601, 2602, 2603 and 2604 of that Act (136 Stat. 2986, 2987) and extended by section 2607 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1287), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
Notwithstanding section 2002 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (division B of Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 709), the authorizations set forth in the table in subsection (b), as provided in sections 2601, 2602, 2604, and 2605 of that Act (137 Stat. 735–737), shall remain in effect until October 1, 2027, or the date of the enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for fiscal year 2028, whichever is later.
The table referred to in subsection (a) is as follows:
In the case of the authorization contained in the table in section 2601 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (division B of Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1285) for Albany, New York, for construction of a readiness center as specified in the funding table in section 4601 of such Act, the Secretary of the Army may construct a readiness center at Colonie, New York.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2026, for base realignment and closure activities, including real property acquisition and military construction projects, as authorized by the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (part A of title XXIX of Public Law 101–510; 10 U.S.C. 2687 note) and funded through the Department of Defense Base Closure Account established by section 2906 of such Act, as specified in the funding table in section 4601.
Section 2864 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)—
in paragraph (1), by inserting emergency management, after military installation resilience,; and
in paragraph (2)—
in subparagraph (D), by striking ; and and inserting a semicolon;
in subparagraph (E), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and; and
by adding at the end the following:
risk reduction and mitigation aspects of installation emergency management planning.
in subsection (b)(2), by inserting before the period at the end the following: and to ensure the resilience of those systems to extreme weather and other hazards;
in subsection (c)—
in paragraph (1), by inserting energy or water disruptions, human-induced hazards with respect to the environment, after flooding,;
in paragraph (3), by inserting or human-induced hazards with respect to the environment after extreme weather events;
in paragraph (5), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking and energy and inserting emergency response facilities, and energy or water; and
in paragraph (8), by inserting or other measures after any project;
by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) as subsections (e) and (f), respectively; and
by inserting after subsection (c) the following:
Each installation master plan under this section shall include consideration of and be consistent with the following:
Installation natural resource management plans.
Military construction projects for energy resilience, energy security, and energy conservation.
Energy and water resilience and energy and water security measures.
Installation emergency managements plans.
Section 2811 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (c), by inserting , expansion of the footprint of existing facilities or infrastructure, before or additions; and
in subsection (e)(1), by striking functional purpose; or and inserting “functional purpose, except that any such restoration to a facility, system, or component may not include—
subject to subparagraph (B), increasing the outside envelope of the facility, system, or component beyond its pre-existing external dimensions, except in the case of the addition of exterior stairwells, balconies, or similar features if added for safety purposes or the placement of equipment at ground level such as for heating, ventilation, or air conditioning; or
in the case of a facility that is primarily horizontal, such as a parking area or runway, increasing the footprint of such facility by greater than five percent of its original surface area; or
Section 2810(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 10 U.S.C. 2805 note) is amended by striking $30,000,000 and inserting $35,000,000.
Section 2814(i)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
To make electrical or infrastructure upgrades on any parcel of land located on Barbers Point, Hawaii, over which the Secretary of Defense has jurisdiction.
Section 2805 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)—
in paragraph (2)—
by inserting laboratory project, after land acquisition,;
by striking cost equal and inserting “cost—
except as provided in subparagraph (B), equal
by striking the period at the end and inserting ; or; and
by adding at the end the following:
for a project commencing during the five-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, equal to or less than $15,000,000.
by striking paragraph (3);
by striking subsections (c) and (d) and inserting the following:
The Secretary concerned may spend from appropriations available for operation and maintenance amounts necessary to carry out an unspecified minor military construction project under this section.
In carrying out an unspecified minor military construction project under this section for a laboratory, the Secretary concerned may, in addition to amounts under paragraph (1), use—
appropriations available to the Secretary concerned for military construction not otherwise authorized by law; or
amounts authorized to be made available under section 4123(a) of this title.
In carrying out an unspecified minor military construction project under this section for a demolition project, the Secretary concerned may, in addition to amounts under paragraph (1), use amounts authorized pursuant to another law or regulation.
by redesignating subsections (e) and (f) as subsections (f) and (g), respectively;
in subsection (g), as redesignated by paragraph (3)—
in paragraph (1), by striking $14,000,000 and inserting $20,000,000; and
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
During the five-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, paragraph (1) shall not apply to unspecified minor military construction projects in Alaska, Hawaii, or the Indo-Pacific region.
by adding at the end the following:
In this section, the term laboratory includes—
a research, engineering, and development center; and
a test and evaluation activity.
Section 2808a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)—
by striking Subject to the requirements of section 2853 of this title, the and inserting The; and
by inserting before the period at the end the following: , as otherwise authorized by law for such projects, notwithstanding chapters 221 and 223 and section 2851(a) of this title;
by striking subsection (b); and
by redesignating subsections (c) through (e) as subsections (b) through (d), respectively.
Section 2857(a)(3) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting before the period at the end the following: and does not include a device that is solely a window opening control device.
The Secretary of each military department shall ensure that all housing project agreements and renewals for privatized military housing under the jurisdiction of the Secretary concerned entered into on or after the date of the enactment of this Act are compliant with the appropriate environmental health and safety standards established by the Department of Defense.
For all housing project agreements and renewals for privatized military housing entered into on or after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall incorporate enforceable provisions related to environmental hazard response and enforceable environmental health and safety clauses.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that all maintenance personnel, contracted mold assessors, indoor environmental professionals, and mold remediators responsible for assessing or remediating mold and water damage in covered housing shall possess and maintain current certifications issued by a nationally recognized, third-party, nonprofit certifying body.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue guidance with respect to the implementation of this section.
In this section:
The term covered housing means any military family housing owned, leased, or managed by the Department of Defense, including privatized military housing.
The term mold means any form of multi-cellular fungi found in water-damaged indoor environments and building materials, including, cladosporium, penicillium, alternaria, aspergillus, fusarium, chaetomium, trichoderma, memnoniella, mucor, stachybotrys chartarum, streptomyces, and epicoccumoften.
The term privatized military housing means military housing under subchapter IV of chapter 169 of title 10, United States Code.
Section 2890(e) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (1), by striking relating to a housing unit. and inserting “relating to a housing unit to any of the following:
The landlord.
The chain of command.
The applicable housing management office.
The Chief Housing Officer of the Department of Defense.
An inspector general.
A Member of Congress.
in paragraph (2)—
by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as subparagraphs (B) and (C), respectively;
by inserting before subparagraph (B), as so redesignated, the following new subparagraph (A):
provide notification of that determination to the Secretary of the military department concerned;
in subparagraph (C), as so redesignated, by striking the Inspector General has taken final action and inserting the Secretary of the military department concerned has notified the Inspector General that the Secretary has taken final action.
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that any enhanced-use lease executed, extended, or renewed under section 2662 or 2667 of title 10, United States Code, for the purpose of housing shall consider the following:
A range of total housing units required to accommodate sudden or phased influxes of personnel within a defined operational range, including—
targeted projections for incoming members of the Armed Forces, civilian employees of the Department of Defense, and dependents of such members and employees; and
a timeline of anticipated infrastructure and capacity needs.
A formalized schedule of community engagement events, such as industry days or roundtables, which may be held in person or virtually, to solicit community and vendor input.
The identification and maintenance of a designated local representative point of contact located within the affected geographic area who can be directly reached by local stakeholders.
Not later than February 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees on the plan of the Department of Defense to ensure adequate housing is available in geographic locations where the area cost factor is at least 1.5.
The briefing required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A summary of current area cost factors and a comparative analysis of infrastructure premiums paid to the specific locality versus other regional baselines.
An assessment of the utilization by the Department of Defense of enhanced-use lease authorities under sections 2662 and 2667 of title 10, United States Code, including specific tracking of how such leases are leveraged for dual-use infrastructure that serves both military and community housing needs.
An overview of local construction workforce utilization and market availability in affected regions.
An assessment of potential alternative acquisition strategies, including the consolidation of infrastructure requirements, designed to incentivize broader contractor competition, leverage economies of scale, and meet critical production timelines of the Department of Defense.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue interim guidance for acceptable levels of relative humidity, ventilation, dampness, and water intrusion to be applied at all covered housing.
Interim guidance issued under subparagraph (A) shall remain in effect until final standards are published under paragraph (2).
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue final standards for acceptable levels of relative humidity, ventilation, dampness, and water intrusion to be applied at all covered housing, which shall include—
acceptable levels of relative humidity indoors;
required ventilation and moisture control measures;
environmental inspection and testing methods; and
the standard of care for mold remediation adopted under subsection (f).
The final standards established under paragraph (2) shall require results of environmental inspection and testing methods under subparagraph (C) of such paragraph to be reported to the Secretary of Defense and made available to tenants of affected housing units not later than 10 days after sample collection.
Not less frequently than annually, each housing office of the Department shall certify to Congress that the housing office is in compliance with health and safety standards for covered housing required under this section.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that each installation of the Department of Defense conducts, using independent certified third-party inspectors, mold and environmental health inspections for all covered housing that is privatized military housing—
upon receipt of any tenant complaint regarding safety and habitability of a housing unit; and
following any remediation effort, structural repair, or response to an identified environmental hazard at a housing unit.
Inspections conducted under paragraph (1) shall include, at minimum—
evaluation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, plumbing, electrical systems, and structural integrity;
inspection for signs of water intrusion, dampness, humidity, visible or non-visible mold, microbial growth, and other indoor air quality concerns;
review of current and past work order records and completion timelines; and
review of contractor compliance with privatized military housing contract requirements and housing regulations of the Department of Defense.
All findings of inspections conducted under paragraph (1) shall be—
recorded in a standardized Federal Government inspection record;
certified by the inspector with a clear pass or fail status;
maintained in an accessible, historical housing record for each housing unit; and
made available to the relevant installation commander and military housing office.
The commander of each installation of the Department shall—
document results of inspections conducted under paragraph (1); and
submit the results of such inspections to—
the Secretary;
the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Defense; and
the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Inspection reports certified under paragraph (3)(B) and housing history records required under paragraph (3)(C) shall be—
provided in full to current tenants of the inspected unit;
made available upon request to any incoming tenants; and
maintained in a secure portal accessible to staff of the relevant military housing office, the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives, and military family advocacy personnel.
In the case of a housing unit failing inspection conducted under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure that the unit is remediated or the tenants of such unit are relocated not later than 30 days after such failed inspection, if such tenants wish to be relocated.
The Secretary of each military department shall ensure that all housing project agreements and renewals for privatized military housing under the jurisdiction of the Secretary concerned entered into on or after the date of the enactment of this Act are compliant with the appropriate environmental health and safety standards established by the Department of Defense.
For all housing project agreements and renewals for privatized military housing entered into on or after the date of the enactment of this Act, and to the extent practicable for agreements in place as of such date of enactment, not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall incorporate enforceable provisions related to environmental hazard response, inspection, and tenant relocation protections which shall include—
enforceable environmental health and safety clauses; and
requirements that providers of privatized military housing bear full financial responsibility for—
required third-party inspections;
maintenance;
mold remediation;
all relocation expenses for military families forced to vacate uninhabitable units;
property loss; and
refunding any amounts paid through a basic allowance for housing under section 403 of title 37, United States Code, for military families forced to vacate uninhabitable units.
The Secretary shall ensure that all maintenance personnel, contracted mold assessors, indoor environmental professionals, and mold remediators responsible for assessing or remediating mold and water damage in covered housing shall possess and maintain current certifications issued by a nationally recognized, third-party, nonprofit certifying body, which may include the following:
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.
The National Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors.
The American Council for Accredited Certification.
All mold remediation activities conducted in covered housing shall comply with the American National Standards Institute and Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification S520 Standard for Professional Mold Remediation, Fourth Edition, or any subsequent edition published by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification or successor organization.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall—
issue guidance with respect to the implementation of this section; and
provide written notification to all providers of privatized military housing regarding the requirements of this section.
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, shall establish procedures to allow a tenant living in a unit of privatized military housing that receives a failed inspection result under this section to withhold or abate payment of the basic allowance for housing under section 403 of title 37, United States Code, for such unit.
The Secretary of Defense shall permit withholding or abatement under paragraph (1) of payment of the basic allowance for housing under section 403 of title 37, United States Code, for a unit of privatized military housing during any period in which the unit maintains a failed inspection and until the violations are remedied.
Amounts withheld or abated under paragraph (1) with respect to a unit of privatized military housing shall be released if—
all violations are remediated; and
an independent inspector provides a written certification to the Secretary of the military department concerned verifying such remediation and the compliance of such unit with the requirements under this section.
If deficiencies in compliance with the requirements under this section are not corrected within a 30-day period—
the owner or operator of the affected unit of privatized military housing shall not have a right to receive current, future, withheld, or abated payments;
amounts withheld or abated under paragraph (1) may be returned to the tenant; and
the Secretary concerned shall—
pursue additional contractual remedies, including termination of the authority of the owner or operator of the affected unit to provide privatized military housing; and
ensure that ongoing violations with respect to such unit are disclosed to any prospective tenant before they enter into a rental agreement for such unit.
An owner of a unit of privatized military housing may not terminate the tenancy of any tenant because of the withholding or abatement of payment pursuant to paragraph (1).
During the period that payment is withheld or abated pursuant to paragraph (1) for a unit of privatized military housing, the tenant of such unit may terminate the tenancy by notifying the owner of such unit.
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, shall administer this subsection by conducting or authorizing inspections, certifying clearance inspections, administering withholding and abatement functions, and enforcing payment conditions in a manner similar to that used by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under section 8(o) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437f(o)).
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall publish on a publicly available website of the Department of Defense, with respect to covered housing—
the number of mold complaints received, disaggregated by installation of the Department;
the results of inspections under this section and compliance rates;
remediation timelines and costs; and
the number of relocations made.
In this section:
The term acceptable levels of relative humidity, with respect to an area, means an area with humidity levels that are less than 50 percent.
The term covered housing means any military family housing owned, leased, or managed by the Department of Defense, including privatized military housing.
The term environmental inspection and testing methods means detailed visual inspection substantiated by mold testing measures that include air sampling, tape lifts, swabs, and carpet samples, and official laboratory analysis of such samples.
The term mold means any form of multi-cellular fungi found in water-damaged indoor environments and building materials, including, cladosporium, penicillium, alternaria, aspergillus, fusarium, chaetomium, trichoderma, memnoniella, mucor, stachybotrys chartarum, streptomyces, and epicoccumoften.
The term privatized military housing means military housing under subchapter IV of chapter 169 of title 10, United States Code.
Section 2890(f) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in paragraph (1), in the first sentence—
by striking A tenant or prospective tenant of a housing unit may not be required to sign and inserting A landlord may not request that a tenant, former tenant, or prospective tenant of a housing unit sign; and
by inserting or in connection with the provision of services related to the housing unit before the period; and
by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) and inserting the following:
The prohibition under paragraph (1) shall apply to all housing units, including accompanied family housing and military unaccompanied housing.
In this subsection, the term tenant includes any party (other than a landlord) to a lease for a housing unit.
Section 2894a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (d), by striking subparagraphs (B) and (C) and inserting the following new subparagraphs:
The name of the landlord responsible for the covered dwelling unit, including the ultimate parent company and any entity with direct or indirect ownership or control over such landlord, regardless of the legal structure or intermediary entities used.
A description of the nature of the complaint, disaggregated by complaint type.
by redesignating subsection (f) as subsection (i); and
by inserting after subsection (e) the following new subsections:
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of each military department shall develop policies to ensure that complaints filed by tenants under this section cannot be arbitrarily altered, deleted, or suppressed.
The Secretary shall—
ensure tenants are protected from retaliation; and
develop and implement policies to prevent violations of whistleblower protections under section 1034 of this title.
The Secretary shall ensure that any agreement with a tenant for a covered dwelling unit includes a standardized notice outlining—
the right to submit complaints regarding covered dwelling units to the database under this section;
how to submit feedback; and
anti-retaliation protections.
Each military housing office of the Department shall—
display signage regarding the database under this section; and
provide onboarding education during in-processing at a new duty station for new tenants of covered dwelling units regarding such database.
In any instance in which the Secretary of Defense requests approval from the congressional defense committees to reprogram funding authorized or appropriated by Congress or requests funding in the President's budget for accompanied housing, unaccompanied housing, or any other facility of the Department of Defense, including funding under the Facilities Sustainment, Restoration and Modernization account, the Secretary shall include with such request documentation of the following:
Any assessment of the condition of the facility from which the funding is proposed to be reprogrammed that were completed within the past five years.
The number of outstanding maintenance requests at such facility and the average wait time for maintenance requests to be resolved at such facility.
The level of funding required to address all outstanding maintenance requests, facility upgrades, and any other modifications needed to fully improve the conditions of such facility.
The number of members of the Armed Forces and family members of such members, as applicable, living at or working at such facility.
With respect to an unaccompanied housing facility, the number of barracks managers at such facility, including an identification of whether those managers work in a full-time or part-time capacity, as of the date of the request and each year within the past five years.
Any anticipated impacts to military readiness or morale due to the reprogramming of funding.
An analysis by the Department or the military departments on why the determination was made to reprogram such funding.
The Secretary of the Army may convey, without consideration, to the University of Tennessee System (in this section referred to as the University) all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to parcels of real property, including any improvements thereon, at Milan Army Ammunition Plant, Tennessee, that consist of a total of approximately 5,000 acres for the purpose of permitting the University to use the parcels for education research.
If the Secretary of the Army determines at any time that the property conveyed to the University under subsection (a) is not being used in accordance with the purpose of the conveyance specified in such subsection, all right, title, and interest in and to the conveyed property, including any improvements thereon, shall, at the option of the Secretary, revert to and become the property of the United States, and the United States shall have the right of immediate entry onto the property.
A determination by the Secretary of the Army under subparagraph (A) shall be made on the record after an opportunity for a hearing.
In lieu of exercising the reversionary interest retained under paragraph (1), the Secretary of the Army may accept an offer by the University to pay to the Secretary an amount equal to the fair market value of the property conveyed under subsection (a), excluding the value of any improvements on the conveyed property constructed without Federal funds after the date the conveyance is completed, as determined by the Secretary.
The Secretary of the Army shall require the University to pay costs (except costs for environmental remediation of the property) to be incurred by the Secretary, or to reimburse the Secretary for such costs incurred by the Secretary, to carry out the conveyance authorized under subsection (a), including survey costs, appraisal costs, costs for environmental documentation related to the conveyance, and any other administrative costs related to the conveyance.
Amounts received as reimbursement under subsection (c) or as alternative consideration under subsection (b)(2) shall be credited to the fund or account that was used to pay the costs incurred by the Secretary of the Army in carrying out the conveyance under subsection (a) or, if the period of availability of obligation for appropriations to that fund or account has expired, to the fund or account that is currently available to the Secretary for the same purpose.
Amounts credited to a fund or account under paragraph (1) shall be merged with amounts in such fund or account and shall be available for the same purposes, and subject to the same conditions and limitations, as amounts in such fund or account.
The exact acreage and legal description of the parcels of real property to be conveyed under subsection (a) shall be determined by a survey satisfactory to the Secretary of the Army.
The Secretary of the Army may require such additional terms and conditions in connection with the conveyance authorized by subsection (a) as the Secretary considers appropriate to protect the interests of the United States.
The Secretary of the Army (in this section referred to as the Secretary) may convey to the City of Opelika, Alabama (in this section referred to as the City), all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to a parcel of real property, including any improvements thereon, containing an Army Reserve Center and consisting of approximately 4.5 acres, located within the City, for the purpose of meeting increased health care demands.
The conveyance of the property under paragraph (1) shall be subject to any easement, restriction, or covenant of record applicable to the property and in existence on the date of the enactment of this Act.
As consideration for the conveyance of property under subsection (a), the City shall provide the United States, whether by cash payment, in-kind consideration described in section 2667(c) of title 10, United States Code, or a combination thereof, an amount that is not less than the fair market value of the conveyed property, as determined pursuant to an appraisal acceptable to the Secretary.
If the Secretary determines at any time that the property conveyed under subsection (a) is not being used in accordance with the purpose of the conveyance specified in such subsection, all right, title, and interest in and to the property, including any improvements thereto, may, at the option of the Secretary, revert to and become the property of the United States, and the United States may have the right of immediate entry onto such property.
A determination by the Secretary under paragraph (1) may be made on the record after an opportunity for a hearing.
The Secretary may require the City to cover all costs (except costs for environmental remediation of the property) to be incurred by the Secretary, or to reimburse the Secretary for costs incurred by the Secretary, to carry out the conveyance under subsection (a), including costs for environmental and real estate due diligence and any other administrative costs related to the conveyance.
If amounts are collected from the City under paragraph (1) in advance of the Secretary incurring the actual costs, and the amount collected exceeds the costs actually incurred by the Secretary to carry out the conveyance under subsection (a), the Secretary shall refund the excess amount to the City.
The City may not use Federal funds to cover any portion of the costs required to be paid by the City under this section.
The exact acreage and legal description of the property to be conveyed under subsection (a) shall be determined by a survey satisfactory to the Secretary.
The Secretary may require such additional terms and conditions in connection with the conveyance under subsection (a) as the Secretary considers appropriate to protect the interests of the United States.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report describing all land withdrawal actions that are necessary to support the training of Armed Forces at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on any modifications that the Secretary determines are necessary to the military land withdrawal of Fallon Range Training Complex, Nevada, under subtitle G of the Military Land Withdrawals Act of 2013 (title XXIX of Public Law 113–66), as added by section 2901 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (division B of Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 3015), regarding the management of withdrawn and reserved land, road reconstruction and treatment of existing roads and rights-of-way, reconstruction and relocation requirements, and treatment of livestock grazing permits.
The Secretary of the Army (referred to in this section as the Secretary) may convey to the State of Arkansas all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to a parcel of real property, including any improvements thereon, consisting of approximately 16.02 acres at Camp Pike, North Little Rock, Arkansas, containing the facility commonly known as the 90th Readiness Division Headquarters and such additional real property north of Arkansas Avenue as determined by the survey conducted under subsection (e)(1), which shall be used by the Arkansas National Guard for administration, training, and operational purposes.
As consideration for the conveyance under subsection (a), the State of Arkansas shall convey to the United States all right, title, and interest of the State of Arkansas in and to a parcel of real property, including any improvements thereon, consisting of approximately 68.16 acres at Camp Joseph T. Robinson, North Little Rock, Arkansas, containing the facility commonly known as the Chappell Armory and such additional adjoining lands as determined by the survey conducted under subsection (e)(1).
The exchange of real property under this section shall be for parcels of approximately equal value, as determined by the Secretary through an appraisal acceptable to the Secretary.
Pursuant to section 18240 of title 10, United States Code, no monetary consideration may be provided or accepted by either party to equalize the value of the properties exchanged under this section.
If the Secretary determines at any time that the real property conveyed under subsection (a) is not being used in accordance with the purpose of the conveyance specified in such subsection, all right, title, and interest in and to the property, including any improvements thereto, may, at the option of the Secretary, revert to and become the property of the United States, and the United States may have the right of immediate entry onto such property.
A determination by the Secretary under paragraph (1) shall be made on the record after an opportunity for a hearing
In connection with the exchange authorized by this section, the Secretary shall extinguish the reversionary interest of the United States created by the Act entitled An Act authorizing the transfer of part of Camp Joseph T. Robinson to the State of Arkansas, approved June 30, 1950 (64 Stat. 310, chapter 429), applicable to the property to be conveyed by the State of Arkansas under subsection (b).
The exact acreage and legal descriptions of the real property to be exchanged under this section shall be determined by surveys satisfactory to the Secretary.
The State of Arkansas shall be responsible for all costs associated with the exchange of real property under this section, including the costs of surveys, appraisals, and any other administrative or environmental documentation required to complete the exchange.
The Secretary may require such additional terms and conditions in connection with the conveyances under this section as the Secretary considers appropriate to protect the interests of the United States.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect or limit the application of, or any requirement for, environmental remediation under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) or any other law.
Section 2858 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 (division B of Public Law 104–106; 110 Stat. 571), as amended by section 2838 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 (division B of Public Law 105–85; 111 Stat. 2006) and section 2843(i) of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 (division B of Public Law 105–261; 112 Stat. 2217), is further amended—
in subsection (b), by striking The conveyances and inserting Except as provided in subsection (d), the conveyances; and
by striking subsection (d) and inserting the following:
On the condition that the State convey approximately 80 acres of prior park property to the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant Reuse Authority, the Reuse Authority convey approximately 100 acres of prior industrial use property to the State, and the use of that 100 acres will be restricted by covenant to recreational purposes, the Secretary may release the covenant that requires the 80 acres of prior park property to be used for recreational purposes.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct a comprehensive review of, and submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on, the feasibility and advisability of conveying to the City of St. Louis, Missouri, all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to Lambert St. Louis International Airport, located in St. Louis County, Missouri (in this section referred to as Lambert Airport).
The review required by subsection (a) shall address, at a minimum, each of the following:
The current and anticipated military utility of Lambert Airport, including its value to the Department of Defense for airlift, training, contingency operations, and strategic access.
The operational impact of any conveyance under such subsection on the Missouri Army National Guard and Missouri Air National Guard units currently based at or using Lambert Airport, including the 131st Bomb Wing and any associated tenant units.
The operational impact of any such conveyance on units of the Navy Reserve and Marine Corps Reserve currently stationed at or using Lambert Airport.
The benefits to the Department of Defense of such a conveyance, including any expected reduction in maintenance costs, real property obligations, and administrative burdens associated with continued ownership by the Federal Government.
The legal authorities required to effectuate such a conveyance, including any required congressional action, environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), and compliance with the base realignment and closure process, if applicable.
The terms and conditions, including any reversionary interests, use restrictions, or Federal Government access rights, that should be incorporated into any instrument of conveyance to protect the interests of the Department of Defense.
The estimated fair market value of the Federal Government interest in Lambert Airport and whether any compensation to the United States would be required or appropriate as a condition of conveyance.
As part of the review required by subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall identify and evaluate alternative locations within the State of Missouri to which units of the reserve components of the Armed Forces currently assigned, stationed, or regularly operating at Lambert Airport could be relocated in the event of a conveyance described in subsection (a).
The evaluation required under paragraph (1) shall include, with respect to each alternative location identified, each of the following:
The suitability of such location to support the mission requirements, equipment, personnel, and readiness posture of the affected units.
The estimated costs of construction, facility modification, or infrastructure development necessary to accommodate relocated units at each such alternative location.
The anticipated impact of relocation on unit recruitment, retention, and civilian employment, with particular attention to the economic effects on the communities currently served by Lambert Airport.
The timeline required to achieve full operational capability at any such alternative location.
The availability and sufficiency of airfield, runway, hangar, maintenance, armory, and administrative facilities at each such alternative location.
In conducting the review required by subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall consult with each of the following:
The Governor of Missouri.
The Adjutant General of Missouri.
The Mayor of the City of St. Louis, Missouri.
The Secretary of the Air Force, the Secretary of the Army, and the Secretary of the Navy.
The Chief of the National Guard Bureau.
The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the conveyance of Lambert Airport or any other Federal Government property, or to waive any otherwise applicable requirement of law.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct a comprehensive review of, and submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on, the feasibility and advisability of conveying to the municipality of Anchorage, Alaska (in this section referred to as the Municipality), all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to approximately 50 acres of land located on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska (in this section referred to as the parcel).
The review required by subsection (a) shall address, at a minimum, each of the following:
The current and anticipated utility of the parcel to the Department of Defense and the value of the parcel to the Municipality.
The operational impact to the Department of the conveyance under such subsection.
The benefits to the Department of such conveyance, including any expected reduction in maintenance costs, real property obligations, and administrative burdens associate with continued ownership of the parcel.
The legal authorities required to effectuate such conveyance, including any required congressional action, environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), and compliance with the base realignment and closure process, if applicable.
The terms and conditions, including any reversionary interests, use restrictions, or Federal Government access rights, that should be incorporated into any instrument of conveyance of the parcel to protect the interests of the Department.
The estimated fair market value of the Federal Government interest in the parcel.
The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the conveyance of the parcel or any other Federal Government property, or to waive any otherwise applicable requirement of law.
Section 2912 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (b)(1), by inserting combatant command, after agency,; and
in subsection (c)(3), by inserting combatant command, after agency,.
The purpose of this section is to ensure that electrical systems within facilities of the Department of Defense are capable of supporting distributed energy resources and microgrid operations, thereby enhancing energy resilience, security, and operational continuity.
Any project described in subsection (c) shall include the installation of energy management and control systems that enable the following:
The capability to—
operate in islanded mode during grid outages;
integrate distributed energy resources, including renewable generation and energy storage; and
provide automated load management and demand response.
Interoperability with existing and future supervisory control and data acquisition systems.
Compliance with cybersecurity standards established by the Department of Defense.
A project described in this subsection is a project involving the replacement, upgrade, or major modification of—
electrical panels, switchgear, or associated distribution equipment of the Department of Defense; or
systems serving mission critical or essential operations within facilities of the Department.
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue technical standards and implementation guidance to carry out this section, including the following:
Minimum functional requirements for energy management and control systems to be installed under this section.
Certification criteria for infrastructure that has the capability described in subsection (b)(1).
Approved technologies and protocols for interoperability under subsection (b)(2).
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report summarizing compliance by the Department of Defense with this section and identifying barriers to implementation of this section.
This section shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Section 2680 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a)(1)—
by striking subsection (b) and inserting subsection (b)(1); and
by inserting , including amounts obligated under eligible performance-based contracts, after facilities;
in subsection (b)—
by striking In making and inserting (1) In making; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
For purposes of the minimum investment required under paragraph (2) of subsection (a), only amounts obligated for execution during the relevant fiscal year, not any planned, projected, or anticipated obligations, may be credited toward such requirement.
in subsection (e)—
by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3); and
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph (2):
The term eligible performance-based contract means an energy savings performance contract, utility energy savings contract, or other performance-based arrangement under which—
the contract or arrangement is fully executed;
all private financing associated with such contract or arrangement is secured and obligated; and
the Department of Defense is legally committed to payments under the contract or arrangement.
The Secretary of the Army shall—
seek from the State of Hawaii on terms acceptable to both the Department of the Army and the State of Hawaii a renewal of the relevant leases entered into pursuant to section 2667 of title 10, United States Code, relating to the 19,700 acres of the Pohakuloa Training Area and 450 acres of the Kahuku Training Area identified in the environmental impact statement preferred by the Department of the Army;
not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, resubmit a new environmental impact statement for additional review by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources that responds to and addresses any deficiencies identified by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources; and
not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, submit to the congressional defense committees a report describing the specific steps and proposals the Secretary has made to promote lease renewals pursuant to this section.
Subchapter I of chapter 169 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
The Secretary of Defense shall establish and carry out a program to be known as the Department of Defense Laboratory Facility Investment Program (in this section referred to as the Program) to fund military construction projects that improve, modernize, or recapitalize the physical infrastructure of covered defense laboratories in support of research, development, test, and evaluation missions critical to national security.
The Program shall be administered by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (in this section referred to as the Under Secretary).
In carrying out the Program, the Under Secretary shall—
establish policies, criteria, and procedures for the submission, evaluation, and prioritization of project proposals under the Program;
coordinate with the Secretaries of the military departments, the heads of defense agencies, and the commanders of combatant commands to identify and prioritize infrastructure requirements for covered defense laboratories;
evaluate project proposals using criteria that include—
the mission criticality of the laboratory and affected facilities;
the degree of facility degradation, obsolescence, or inadequacy relative to current and projected research requirements;
the potential impact on the ability of the Department of Defense to develop, test, or evaluate technologies essential to national defense, including critical and emerging technologies designated under the national security strategy submitted under section 4811 of this title;
the cost-effectiveness of the proposed construction relative to the projected useful service life and research workload of the laboratory; and
consistency with the long-term strategic plan of the Department for science and technology infrastructure; and
issue annual program guidance to components of the Department not later than 90 days before the date on which project submissions for the Program are due each fiscal year.
A military construction project is eligible for funding under the Program if the project—
is located at, or directly supports the mission of, a covered defense laboratory;
involves the construction, expansion, replacement, or modernization of a facility or facility system used principally for research, development, test, or evaluation activities;
has an estimated cost of not less than $2,000,000; and
has been designed to not less than the 35-percent design stage before submission to Congress as part of a budget request unless progressive design build is being utilized.
The following activities are not eligible for funding under the Program:
New mission construction not tied to existing research activities at a covered defense laboratory.
Routine maintenance, repair, or sustainment activities that are properly funded through a facilities sustainment, restoration, and modernization account.
Projects that duplicate capabilities available under other military construction authorities, including those available under sections 2805, 2811, and 2854 of this title, unless the Under Secretary determines that use of such authorities is impracticable.
There is authorized to be appropriated to the Under Secretary for each fiscal year $250,000,000 to carry out the Program.
Amounts authorized under subparagraph (A) for the Program shall be available for obligation for a period of three fiscal years.
Amounts for the Program shall be authorized to a separate budget line item within the Military Construction, Defense-Wide account under the heading Department of Defense Laboratory Facility Investment Program.
The Secretary of Defense may carry out a military construction project under the Program only if the project has been specifically authorized by law.
The Secretary of Defense may use amounts available under the Program for planning and design activities associated with projects proposed for inclusion in a subsequent budget request. Planning and design costs shall be reported separately in the annual budget justification documents for the Program.
As part of the budget justification materials submitted to Congress in connection with the budget of the Department of Defense for a fiscal year (as submitted with the budget of the President under section 1105(a) of title 31), the Secretary of Defense shall include, for each military construction project proposed for funding under the Program in such fiscal year, a completed Department of Defense Form 1391 (or successor form) that includes—
the name and location of the covered defense laboratory for which the project is intended;
a description of the project, the scope of work, and the estimated cost;
a description of the research, development, test, or evaluation mission supported by the project and the consequences of deferred investment;
the current facility condition rating and an assessment of the suitability of the facility to support the assigned missions of the laboratory without the proposed investment;
the status of design completion and the anticipated award date for construction;
an economic analysis consistent with the procedures under Department of Defense Instruction 7041.03 (relating to economic analysis for decision-making) or successor instruction; and
any other information the Under Secretary determines appropriate to facilitate congressional review.
Not later than March 1 of each year, the Under Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the Program for the preceding fiscal year that includes—
a summary of all projects funded under the Program, including the name of the covered defense laboratory, the project description, the amount obligated, and the construction status;
an assessment of the overall condition of covered defense laboratory facilities, including an estimate of the total unfunded facility investment requirement across the defense laboratory enterprise;
a description of projects proposed for inclusion in the next annual budget request; and
any recommended changes to policies, criteria, or funding levels for the Program.
Any changes to the cost or scope of a project authorized under the Program shall be subject to the requirements of section 2853 of this title.
The Under Secretary shall notify the congressional defense committees not later than 14 days after deciding to cancel a project authorized under the Program.
The Program shall complement, but not replace, other authorities available to components of the Department of Defense for laboratory facility investment, including—
the authority to use funds available to the Department for research, development, test, and evaluation for laboratory facility construction under section 4093 of this title;
the authority for unspecified minor military construction under section 2805 of this title; and
the authority for restoration or replacement of damaged or destroyed facilities under section 2854 of this title.
A component of the Department of Defense may use the Program for projects that are not adequately addressed by the authorities described in paragraph (1).
In this section, the term covered defense laboratory means any laboratory, research center, test and evaluation facility, or warfare center of the Department of Defense designated as a science and technology reinvention laboratory under section 4121 of this title, or any other facility of the Department determined by the Under Secretary to perform research, development, test, or evaluation activities as a primary mission.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering shall issue initial program guidance for the Department of Defense Laboratory Facility Investment Program established under section 2820a of title 10, United States Code (as added by subsection (a)), including criteria for project submission, evaluation methodology, and the annual timeline for project proposals and congressional budget submissions.
The Secretary of Defense shall include proposed projects under the Department of Defense Laboratory Facility Investment Program established under section 2820a of title 10, United States Code (as added by subsection (a)), in the budget materials submitted to Congress for fiscal year 2029, which shall be the first fiscal year for which projects under the Program may be authorized.
In determining the requirements for a proposed military construction project with protective design elements, the Secretary of Defense shall consider the use of modular construction methods along with other construction methods to determine the most effective method for such military construction project to meet mission needs.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the use of modular construction methods as described in subsection (a).
The report required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:
A summary of current policy and guidance of the Department of Defense governing the use of modular construction for military construction projects, including modular construction methodologies with protective design elements.
A cost-benefit analysis that—
compares modular construction methods to other construction methods for military construction projects; and
describes the effect of modular construction methods on construction timelines and life-cycle costs.
An identification of potential use cases for modular construction methods and any limitations or constraints on the use of such methods.
In this section:
The term modular construction means a construction process in which components of a construction project are prefabricated off-site under controlled conditions and then transported to the site of such project for assembly.
The term protective design elements means, with respect to a military construction project, that such project requires use of materials that have been blast hardened or ballistic hardened, or requires incorporation of measures intended to mitigate blast or ballistic threats, including minimum standoff distance requirements, berms, or barriers as identified in the security or antiterrorism design criteria for the project.
The Secretary of the Air Force shall ensure that all basing decisions for aircraft of the Air Force made on or after the date of the enactment of this Act are conducted using a standardized methodology that—
incorporates lifecycle cost estimates for the aircraft over a period of not less than 10 years;
uses current and validated infrastructure, readiness, and aircraft condition data;
includes transparent weighing of evaluation criteria; and
accounts for operational mission requirements, including projected demand from the combatant commands.
The Secretary concerned may, in accordance with this section, carry out a pilot program under which the Secretary concerned may replace a chiller or chiller-related facility that supports subsistence resiliency with a new such chiller or facility not otherwise authorized by law.
The Secretary may carry out the pilot program under subsection (a) at a facility of the Department of Defense within the area of responsibility of the Indo Pacific Command that is deemed to be a remote and isolated facility.
A new chiller or facility replaced under subsection (a)—
must be replacing a chiller or facility that is in a substandard condition, as determined by the Secretary concerned;
must be designed and utilized for the same purpose as the chiller or facility being replaced;
must be located on the same installation as the chiller or facility being replaced;
must be designed to meet, at a minimum, current standards for construction, utilization, and force protection; and
may not be more than 125 percent of the footprint of the chiller or facility being replaced unless—
justification is provided under subsection (d) indicating that an increased operational presence is expected within the next five years; or
multiple chillers or facilities are being consolidated to improve efficiency.
The Secretary concerned, in using the authority under this section, may spend amounts available to the Secretary concerned for operation and maintenance or unspecified military construction.
When a decision is made to carry out a replacement project under this section with an estimated cost in excess of $15,000,000, the Secretary concerned shall submit, in an electronic medium pursuant to section 480 of title 10, United States Code, to the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing—
the justification for the replacement project and the current estimate of the cost of the project; and
a description of the elements of military construction, including the elements specified in section 2802(b) of such title, incorporated into the project.
In this section:
The terms appropriate committees of Congress, facility, and Secretary concerned have the meanings given those terms in section 2801 of title 10, United States Code.
The term substandard condition, with respect to a chiller or facility, means the chiller or facility, as the case may be, can no longer meet the requirements of current standards without repair that would cost more than 75 percent of the replacement cost.
The authority under this section shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Section 2866 of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (division B of Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 7771 note prec.) is amended to read as follows:
The Secretary of Defense shall establish a pilot program for the development of an online real estate tool to identify the existing inventory of space available at the installations of the Department of Defense selected by the Secretary under paragraph (2) for the purposes specified in subsection (b) (in this section referred to as the pilot program).
The Secretary shall evaluate the online inventory tool developed under the pilot program at installations of the Department selected by the Secretary as appropriate locations for evaluation of the online inventory tool, which shall include—
not less than five, but not more than 10, installations of the Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Space Force; and
all installations selected by the Secretary of the Army under this section as of the day before the date of the enactment of this Act.
The Secretary shall establish the pilot program and develop the online inventory tool under the pilot program in consultation with the Administrator of General Services and each Secretary of a military department.
The purposes of the online inventory tool developed under the pilot program are—
to achieve efficiencies in real estate property management consistent with the goal under the national defense strategy under section 113(g) of title 10, United States Code, of finding greater efficiencies within operations of the Department and leveraging commercial off-the-shelf technologies to better support members of the Armed Forces; and
to provide a means to better quantify existing space available at installations of the Department and how it is utilized for current missions and requirements.
To establish the pilot program, the Secretary shall—
consider innovative approaches, including the use of other transaction authorities consistent with section 4021 of title 10, United States Code, and the use of commercial off-the-shelf technologies;
develop appropriate protections of sensitive or classified information from being included with the online inventory tool developed under the pilot program;
develop appropriate levels of access for private sector users of the online inventory tool; and
in developing the online inventory tool and the protections, levels of access, and other considerations under this subsection, include lessons learned from the Secretary of the Army on the development of the pilot program under this section before the date of the enactment of this Act.
In connection with the development of the online inventory tool under the pilot program, the Secretary of Defense shall develop policy requiring the use of the online inventory tool at all installations of the Department selected under subsection (a)(2) to query for existing inventory at such installations before any military construction or off-post leases are agreed to for such installations.
The Secretary shall prescribe guidelines to be implemented by each Secretary of a military department in using the online inventory tool under the pilot program.
The Secretary shall ensure that all relevant notifications to the congressional defense committees include a certification that the online inventory tool developed under the pilot program was used.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect the application of title V of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11411 et seq.).
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report evaluating the success of the pilot program in achieving the purposes specified in subsection (b).
At a minimum, the report required under paragraph (1) shall identify and contain the following:
An identification of the installations selected under subsection (a)(2) to participate in the pilot program broken out by respective military department.
The number of real estate agreements entered into by each Secretary of a military department that were facilitated by use of the online inventory tool developed under the pilot program, including for each agreement the installation, amount of space, value, and purpose of the agreement.
An evaluation of the extent to which use of the online inventory tool reduced the need for military construction or off-post leases.
An evaluation of any impediments to efficient use of the online inventory tool.
The recommendations of the Secretary regarding whether the pilot program should be extended, expanded, or made permanent.
In this section, the term online inventory tool means the online real estate tool developed under the pilot program to identify existing inventory of space available at installations of the Department of Defense selected to participate in the pilot program.
The authority of the Secretary of Defense to conduct the pilot program shall expire on September 30, 2031.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall transfer all amounts contained in an account associated with the Ford Island Master Development Agreement to the Ford Island Improvement Account.
Amounts transferred under subsection (a) may be used—
pursuant to section 2814 of title 10, United States Code—
to carry out improvements of property or facilities at Ford Island, Hawaii; and
to obtain property support services for property or facilities at Ford Island; and
to make electrical upgrades at Barbers Point, Hawaii.
Section 2391 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (d)—
in paragraph (1)(B), in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting , in consultation with the Commandant of the Coast Guard, after The Secretary; and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
In considering grants, agreements, or other funding under paragraph (1)(A) with respect to community infrastructure supportive of a military installation of the Coast Guard, the Secretary of Defense shall consult with the Commandant of the Coast Guard to assess the selection and prioritization of the project concerned.
in subsection (e)(1), by adding at the end the following new sentence: For purposes of subsection (d), the term military installation includes an installation of the Coast Guard under the jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security..
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Northern Command and the Secretaries of the military departments and in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan to identify, prioritize, and remediate, to the standards established under sections 394, 2815, and 2920 of title 10, United States Code, the presence of covered equipment and covered computational facilities owned or controlled by a foreign adversary in the electric grid of the United States.
The plan required under subsection (a) shall include—
an assessment of the risks to the national defense and security of the United States posed by covered equipment owned or controlled by a foreign adversary, components, systems, and technologies related to such equipment, and covered computational facilities owned or controlled by a foreign adversary, including risks to—
military installations and defense critical electric infrastructure (as defined in section 215A of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824o–1));
continuity of operations for critical missions of the Department of Defense; and
the reliability and resilience of the bulk-power system;
criteria for prioritizing remediation actions based on risk to military operations, including proximity to covered military installations and entities of the defense industrial base, and the criticality of affected infrastructure;
a remediation strategy, coordinated with relevant State governments—
to remove, replace, or otherwise mitigate, to the standards established under sections 2815 and 2920 of title 10, United States Code, covered equipment, components, systems, and technologies related to such equipment, and computational facilities;
to incorporate secure and trusted alternatives to such equipment, components, systems, technologies, and facilities, including weapons protection, standard manufactured components, and software; and
to minimize disruption to grid operations; and
such other information and plans as the Secretary determines relevant.
The plan required under subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
Beginning in the fiscal year 2028 budget cycle, and annually thereafter, the Commander of the United States Northern Command shall submit to the Secretary and the congressional defense committees an annual budget estimating the funding required to execute the plan submitted under subsection (a).
In this section:
The term control has the meaning given that term in section 800.208 of title 31, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor regulations.
Subject to subparagraph (B), the term covered computational facility means a facility used to operate computing equipment in support of continuous, automated computational operations.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Commander of the United States Northern Command, shall issue guidance to further define the term covered computational facility for purposes of this section.
Not less frequently than annually, the Secretary, in consultation with the Commander of the United States Northern Command, shall, as appropriate, update guidance under clause (i) in response to technical developments, legal, regulatory, and institutional barriers, and newly identified threats and risks.
The term covered equipment means any equipment that—
is capable of connecting to the internet, a local area network, a wide area network, or any other communications network, whether through wired or wireless means, regardless of ownership or operational control by the government or private industry;
contains software, firmware, or hardware that is remotely updatable or remotely accessible;
is otherwise susceptible to unauthorized access, exploitation, or manipulation through a network-connected vector, including through embedded components, supply chain vulnerabilities, or third-party software dependencies; and
is directly connected to the grid, the electric distribution system of a military installation or entity of the defense industrial base, or connected to the grid through a transformer, and can be accessed or communicated with via power line or other communication, or that can be physically accessed.
The term foreign adversary has the meaning given the term covered nation in section 4872(f) of title 10, United States Code.
The term Secretary means the Secretary of Defense.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Energy for fiscal year 2027 for the activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration in carrying out programs as specified in the funding table in section 4701.
From funds referred to in subsection (a) that are available for carrying out plant projects, the Secretary of Energy may carry out new plant projects for the National Nuclear Security Administration as follows:
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Energy for fiscal year 2027 for defense environmental cleanup activities in carrying out programs as specified in the funding table in section 4701.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Energy for fiscal year 2027 for other defense activities in carrying out programs as specified in the funding table in section 4701.
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Energy for fiscal year 2027 for nuclear energy as specified in the funding table in section 4701.
The Secretary of Energy shall delegate to the Administrator for Nuclear Security the approval authority under DOE Order 413.3B with respect to the evaluation and approval for projects of the National Nuclear Security Administration.
Section 6227 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
in subsection (a), by striking or asset and inserting , asset, or equipment; and
in subsection (e)(1)—
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking or asset each place it appears and inserting , asset, or equipment; and
in subparagraph (C), by striking or uses and inserting, , uses, or transports.
The Administrator for Nuclear Security, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, may establish one or more public-private partnerships to provide nuclear effects testing capabilities in support of the mission requirements of the National Nuclear Security Administration and the Department of Defense.
The purpose of the public-private partnership authorized under subsection (a) is—
to expand the availability and throughput of nuclear effects testing capabilities, including the use of pulsed power, radiation, and high-energy plasma physics to generate radiation environments relevant to modern threat systems;
to reduce cost, schedule, and technical risk associated with developing and sustaining advanced nuclear effects testing infrastructure;
to enable milestone-based development and demonstration of capabilities aligned with requirements of the Department of Defense and the National Nuclear Security Administration; and
to complement, rather than replace, existing Federal Government-owned and Federal Government-operated nuclear effects testing facilities.
A public-private partnership established under this section shall include—
commercially owned and operated entities that have operational hardware with validated data that meet the needs of threat environments and can support the nuclear, conventional, missile defense, space, and nuclear command, control, and communications missions of the Department of Defense;
milestone-based agreements, cooperative research and development agreements, leases, service-based arrangements, or other appropriate contractual mechanisms;
cost-sharing arrangements that leverage private capital investment alongside Federal funding; and
provisions for Federal Government access to testing capabilities, data, diagnostics, and results necessary to meet mission requirements.
Not later than 180 days after the establishment of a public-private partnership under this section, the Administrator for Nuclear Security, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes—
a description of the partnership structure and selected contractual mechanisms;
an assessment of how the partnership supports nuclear effects testing requirements of the National Nuclear Security Administration and the Department of Defense;
a summary of anticipated cost, schedule, and risk reduction benefits relative to traditional Federal Government-only approaches;
a description of safeguards implemented to protect safety, security, and sensitive information;
an assessment of intellectual property and data rights considerations associated with the partnership, including anticipated data rights, Federal Government purpose rights, or access provisions required to enable reuse, validation, or replication of testing results, and any legal, policy, or regulatory challenges related to data ownership or use; and
any recommendations for additional authorities needed to expand or sustain such partnerships.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Federal Salaries and Expenses and available to the National Nuclear Security Administration for travel purposes, not more than 80 percent may be obligated or expended until the Administrator for Nuclear Security submits the report required by section 3123 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 2301).
Section 3221(g) of the National Nuclear Security Administration Act (50 U.S.C. 2411) is amended in the matter preceding paragraph (1)—
by striking submit to Congress and inserting brief the congressional defense committees; and
by striking of fiscal years 2015 through 2018, a report that includes and inserting fiscal year through 2031, activities including.
Section 6125(a)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking At the end of the first quarter of each fiscal year, and inserting Not later than 30 days after the date on which the President submits to Congress the budget of the President for a fiscal year pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code,.
Section 6156(b)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 50 percent of the and inserting the full.
Beginning not later than September 1, 2026, and occurring not less than once every 90 days thereafter, the Administrator for Nuclear Security, in coordination with the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical and Biological Defense Policy and Programs, shall brief the congressional defense committees on all instances occurring over the previous calendar year of remotely-piloted or autonomous system incursions into secured areas or airspace in or around—
facilities, installations, or transportation equipment owned by the National Nuclear Security Administration;
facilities, installations, or transportation equipment leased by or operated pursuant to contracts with the National Nuclear Security Administration;
facilities or installations owned by the Department of Defense that support operational missions assigned to United States Strategic Command;
facilities or installations leased by, or operated pursuant to contracts with, the Department of Defense that support operational missions assigned to United States Strategic Command; and
facilities or installations leased by, or operated pursuant to contracts with, the Department of Defense that support military department programs or activities conducted as part or in support of nuclear force operations, nuclear force program sustainment activities, or nuclear force modernization programs.
Completion of the annual and semiannual reporting requirements of the Secretary of Defense described in subsections (h) and (i) of section 130i of Title 10, United States Code, may be used to fulfill any two of the briefings required by paragraphs (3), (4), or (5) of subsection (a) in any calendar year.
The briefing requirement described by subsection (a) shall terminate on August 31, 2031.
Section 6277(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking $5,000,000 each place it appears and inserting $10,000,000 in fiscal year 2026 dollars.
Section 3173(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 (42 U.S.C. 2065(a)) is amended by striking paragraph(4).
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Federal Salaries and Expenses and available to the Office of the Administrator for Nuclear Security for travel purposes, not more than—
50 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Administrator notifies the congressional defense committees that site selection has been completed and site preparation has commenced for covered projects;
80 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Administrator notifies the congressional defense committees that initial long-lead component, equipment, and commodity requirements have been identified for covered projects; and
90 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Administrator notifies the congressional defense committees that orders for not less than 25 percent of the value of the items described in paragraph (2) have been submitted to vendors for covered projects.
In this section, the term covered project means—
21-D-510, the High Explosive Synthesis Formulation and Production Facility, Pantex Plant, Amarillo, Texas; and
18-D-650 Tritium Finishing Facility, Savannah River Site, Aiken, South Carolina.
Section 3116(a)(1) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law 115–91; 50 U.S.C. 2441 note prec.) is amended by striking , until and all that follows through this Act.
There are authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027, $45,000,000 for the operation of the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board under chapter 21 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. 2286 et seq.).
Whenever a funding table in this division specifies a dollar amount authorized for a project, program, or activity, the obligation and expenditure of the specified dollar amount for the project, program, or activity is hereby authorized, subject to the availability of appropriations.
A decision to commit, obligate, or expend funds with or to a specific entity on the basis of a dollar amount authorized pursuant to subsection (a) shall—
be based on merit-based selection procedures in accordance with the requirements of sections 3201 and 4024 of title 10, United States Code, or on competitive procedures; and
comply with other applicable provisions of law.
An amount specified in the funding tables in this division may be transferred or reprogrammed under a transfer or reprogramming authority provided by another provision of this Act or by other law. The transfer or reprogramming of an amount specified in such funding tables shall not count against a ceiling on such transfers or reprogrammings under section 1001 of this Act or any other provision of law, unless such transfer or reprogramming would move funds between appropriation accounts.
This section applies to any classified annex that accompanies this Act.
No oral or written communication concerning any amount specified in the funding tables in this division shall supersede the requirements of this section.