US Lawmakers Unveil $839B Defense Spending Compromise Bill

In a recent development, U.S. lawmakers have unveiled a defense spending compromise bill amounting to $839 billion for the fiscal year 2026. This bill aims to enhance military capabilities significantly, restoring crucial funding for various advanced aircraft programs.

Key Highlights of the $839 Billion Defense Spending Bill

• Navy F/A-XX Funding: The bill allocates $972 million for the Navy’s next-generation F/A-XX fighter jet.
• Air Force F-47 Investment: A substantial $3 billion is designated for the Air Force’s F-47, a sixth-generation fighter set to replace the F-22 Raptor.
• Aircraft Program Support: The bill secures $1.1 billion for the E-7 Wedgetail program, aiming to replace the older E-3 Sentry aircraft.
• F-35 Joint Strike Fighters: It includes $7.6 billion for 47 F-35s, reducing the anticipated purchase from 75 to 47 units.

Increased Funding for Advanced Aircraft

The compromise bill represents a notable increase compared to the Pentagon’s initial budget proposal last summer. For instance, the initial request only specified $2.6 billion for the F-47 and a mere $74 million for the F/A-XX. The enhancements in funding demonstrate the lawmakers’ commitment to modernizing the U.S. military’s capabilities.

Strategic Aircraft and Capabilities

The F-47, known as the Next Generation Air Dominance fighter, will feature enhanced stealth and advanced operational capabilities. Designed to operate alongside collaborative combat aircraft, it aims to provide a significant upgrade over existing platforms.

F-35 Program Adjustments

The $839 billion defense spending compromise reflects ongoing adjustments in the F-35 program. Although the Pentagon previously planned to redirect funds towards sustainment, the bill maintains a focus on critical upgrades. The F-35 Block 4 upgrades are intended to enhance the fighter’s weaponry, electronic warfare capabilities, and overall performance, albeit they face delays and budget overruns.

Support for Naval Assets

• Shipbuilding Allocation: The bill provides $27.2 billion for the Navy to construct 17 new ships.
• Submarine Funding: It includes significant investments in Columbia-class and Virginia-class submarines, with an increase of $5.9 billion.

Further Developments

Additional allocations include $474 million for the EA-37B Compass Call electronic warfare aircraft and $1.9 billion for the B-21 Raider stealth bomber. These investments underline a broader strategy to enhance both aerial and naval capabilities in line with current defense priorities.

This $839 billion defense spending compromise bill reflects a comprehensive approach to modernizing the U.S. military while responding to evolving threats. Lawmakers’ commitment is evident in the restored funding for key aircraft and naval programs, ensuring the military remains adequately equipped for future challenges.