MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-South Dakota, says the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 will strengthen America’s military while supporting service members and key defense missions in South Dakota.
Speaking on the Senate floor, Thune said the NDAA, now before the Senate, reflects a bipartisan effort for the 65th consecutive year and is designed to prepare the U.S. military for both current and future threats.
Thune highlighted provisions aimed at expanding the Navy fleet, increasing munitions production, and advancing missile defense, including construction of the Golden Dome missile defense system. He also emphasized investments in next-generation air power, including full authorization of the B-21 Raider stealth bomber program.
The B-21 Raider is scheduled to be based at Ellsworth Air Force Base near Rapid City, along with supporting military construction projects.
Thune also pointed to measures supporting service members, including a 3.8% pay raise, investments in housing, child care, education, and the first increase in active-duty end strength in several years.
In addition to funding, Thune said the bill includes significant Pentagon reforms to streamline procurement, reduce regulatory burdens, and expand opportunities for small businesses and startups to support national defense.
Thune said the NDAA builds on recent defense investments and is intended to ensure U.S. forces remain prepared in what he described as a dangerous global environment.
A video of Thune’s remarks and the full text of his speech were released by his office.