House Republicans introduced legislation on Sunday that would increase Pentagon funding by $150 billion, pushing total U.S. defense spending above $1 trillion for the first time in history if the measure is approved.
The proposal, crafted by the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) and Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), earmarks an additional $1.3 billion for C-UAS projects, comprising:
- $500,000,000 for development, production, and integration of counter-unmanned aerial systems programs;
- $350,000,000 for development, production, and integration of non-kinetic counter-unmanned aerial systems programs;
- $250,000,000 for development, production, and integration of land-based counter-unmanned aerial systems programs;
- $200,000,000 for development, production, and integration of ship-based counter-unmanned aerial systems programs.
President Trump’s Iron Dome for America missile shield was the second-largest funding recipient, receiving $24.7 billion to launch the initiative, which will integrate existing programs with new development projects. As reported earlier this week, Pentagon leaders are considering whether to fold counter-UAS capabilities into the new architecture, according to the Director of the Joint Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office, Major General David Stewart.
The legislation is a key component of a broader Republican reconciliation package built around President Trump’s domestic and defense priorities. By using the budget reconciliation process, GOP leaders can sidestep a Democratic filibuster in the Senate and pass the measure with a simple majority.
HASC Chair Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) called the $150 billion proposal a “historic investment” in U.S. military strength.
“Our defense industrial base has weakened. America’s deterrence is failing, and without a generational investment in our national defense, we will lose the ability to defeat our adversaries,” Rogers said. “With this bill, we have the opportunity to restore our national security and global leadership.”
SASC Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) described the bill as a “generational upgrade,” aimed at securing long-term peace through increased military capability. “This is about building the future of American defense,” he said.
HASC is scheduled to begin markup proceedings on the bill today, providing an opportunity for Democrats to propose amendments before the legislation moves to the House Budget Committee. While SASC is not obligated to hold its own markup session, aides say a session is likely to ensure bipartisan input. The final reconciliation package will incorporate this defense funding with other components from various committees.
C-UAS Hub will provide further updates on the outcomes as they emerge.
Post Image Credit: Architect of the Capitol.
