The United States Senate has passed a far-reaching defence policy and spending package worth $901bn, shaping the framework for US military operations and priorities in the 2026 fiscal year.

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was approved on Wednesday by a decisive 77–20 vote, adopting legislation previously cleared by the House of Representatives. The bill now heads to President Donald Trump for final approval.

Congress Moves To Restrain Troop Drawdowns

A key objective of the legislation is to prevent abrupt reductions in US military presence overseas, particularly in Europe. Under the bill, the Pentagon must maintain a minimum force level of 76,000 US troops on the continent unless NATO allies are consulted and the administration formally concludes that any reduction serves US national interests.

The measure comes amid concerns among lawmakers that the Trump administration could seek to scale back US commitments to European security. A similar safeguard was included for the Korean Peninsula, barring troop levels in South Korea from falling below 28,500 personnel.

Ukraine Funding Locked In

Congress used the bill to send a clear signal of continued support for Ukraine, authorising $800m through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative over the next two years. In addition, lawmakers approved a further $400m annually to expand weapons production for Kyiv.

Supporters said the funding underscores Washington’s long-term commitment to European security, regardless of shifting political dynamics.

Asia Pacific Takes Centre Stage

Reflecting the Trump administration’s strategic focus, the NDAA places the Asia Pacific at the heart of US defence planning. The bill allocates $1bn to the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative, aimed at strengthening military coordination with Taipei as China expands its regional military footprint.

Lawmakers described the funding as critical to maintaining deterrence in a region increasingly defined by strategic competition.

Israel Aid Preserved

The legislation also authorises $600m in security assistance for Israel, including continued funding for joint missile defence systems such as the Iron Dome. The measure passed with strong bipartisan backing, consistent with longstanding congressional support for Israel’s defensive capabilities.

Expanded Oversight Of Military Operations

Democratic lawmakers, joined by several Republicans, succeeded in expanding congressional oversight of US military actions. The NDAA increases reporting requirements on operations targeting smuggling and trafficking networks in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.

The Department of Defense will be required to provide lawmakers with detailed briefings — including strike footage — related to operations against suspected drug-smuggling vessels near Venezuela. The provisions follow scrutiny of a September strike that resulted in civilian deaths and raised concerns about a lack of prior congressional notification.

Ending Outdated War Authorisations

In a significant shift, the bill repeals the 2003 authorisation for the Iraq war and the 1991 Gulf War authorisation. Lawmakers from both parties said removing outdated mandates reduces the risk of future military action without explicit congressional approval.

Sanctions Relief and America First Measures

The NDAA permanently lifts US sanctions imposed on Syria during the rule of former president Bashar al-Assad, building on earlier steps taken by the Trump administration to ease restrictions. Proponents argue the move will help facilitate Syria’s reconstruction following Assad’s removal from power last year.

At the same time, the bill advances core elements of the administration’s America First agenda. It eliminates diversity, equity and inclusion offices and training programmes within the Pentagon, a move lawmakers say will save roughly $40m.

The legislation also cuts $1.6bn from defence programmes linked to climate change. While the US military has previously warned that climate risks affect readiness and infrastructure, administration officials and Republican leaders argue defence spending should focus on immediate operational capability.