House Advances $832B Defense Bill Amid Debates

The House of Representatives has advanced major defense legislation for fiscal year 2026, passing an $832 billion appropriations bill that includes a 3.8% pay raise for troops and increased research and development funding. Bipartisan support was seen in committee, though debates arose over Ukraine aid, environmental provisions, and the supply of cluster munitions. The House Armed Services Committee voted to increase the Pentagon’s end strength by 26,000 troops and prohibited reductions in U.S. military presence in Korea and Europe without congressional approval. Environmental and advanced nuclear energy initiatives are prominent in both House and Senate versions of the legislation. Negotiations are expected to focus on reconciling differences, especially on spending levels and Ukraine funding, with the Senate’s draft proposing a $879 billion base budget and the House adhering to a $847 billion plan. Defense bills have been enacted annually for over six decades, reflecting their ongoing importance despite partisan tensions.