National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026
Latest action (18 Dec 2025): Became Public Law No: 119-60.
What this bill does
This bill, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, sets policies and authorizes activities for the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy's national security programs, the State Department, the Coast Guard, and the Intelligence Community for the upcoming fiscal year. It covers a wide range of areas, including the procurement of military equipment like aircraft and ships, personnel strength levels for active and reserve forces, and policies related to military healthcare and compensation. The bill also addresses matters of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and international defense cooperation.
The legislation directly affects members of the armed forces by establishing personnel strengths and policies for compensation and healthcare. It also impacts contractors and government agencies involved in defense procurement, research, and national security programs. Additionally, it includes provisions for the State Department's workforce, the Coast Guard's operations and personnel, and the Intelligence Community's use of advanced technologies.
This bill has been enacted, meaning it has been signed by the President. This signifies that the policies and authorities outlined within it are now law and will guide the operations of the mentioned government departments and agencies for Fiscal Year 2026.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026
This bill sets forth policies and authorities for FY2026 for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, military construction, and the national security programs of the Department of Energy (DOE). The bill also sets forth policies and authorities for the Department of State, the Coast Guard, and the Intelligence Community (IC).
Among other elements, the bill
• authorizes the procurement of various items, including aircraft, ships, and missiles;
• sets active duty and reserve component personnel strength levels;
• sets policy regarding various aspects of military health care and military compensation;
• sets policy regarding DOD acquisitions and acquisition management, including contracting authorities and domestic sourcing;
• sets policy for various matters related to DOD interactions with foreign nations, including matters concerning Israel, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific;
Timeline
18 Dec 2025
Became Public Law No: 119-60.
Common questions
- What does S. 1071 do?
- This bill, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, sets policies and authorizes activities for the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy's national security programs, the State Department, the Coast Guard, and the Intelligence Community for the upcoming fiscal year. It covers a wide range of areas, including the procurement of military equipment like aircraft and ships, personnel strength levels for active and reserve forces, and policies related to military healthcare and compensation. The bill also addresses matters of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and international defense cooperation. The legislation directly affects members of the armed forces by establishing personnel strengths and policies for compensation and healthcare. It also impacts contractors and government agencies involved in defense procurement, research, and national security programs. Additionally, it includes provisions for the State Department's workforce, the Coast Guard's operations and personnel, and the Intelligence Community's use of advanced technologies. This bill has been enacted, meaning it has been signed by the President. This signifies that the policies and authorities outlined within it are now law and will guide the operations of the mentioned government departments and agencies for Fiscal Year 2026.
- Has S. 1071 become law?
- Yes. S. 1071 has been enacted. Status last updated 18 Dec 2025.
- Who sponsored S. 1071?
- S. 1071 was sponsored by Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX] (R-TX), with 1 cosponsor.
- What's the latest action on S. 1071?
- Became Public Law No: 119-60. (18 Dec 2025).
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