US House Passes $1.15 Trillion Defence Bill
The US House of Representatives has narrowly approved a record $1.15 trillion defence policy bill amid divisions over military spending, the Iran war and expanded security cooperation with Israel.
US House Passes Record Defence Bill
The House approved its version of the fiscal 2027 National Defense Authorization Act by 216 votes to 212. The vote largely followed party lines, with most Republicans supporting the measure and most Democrats opposing it.
The bill authorises spending and establishes military policy but does not itself provide every dollar. Separate appropriations legislation is required to release funding for many of the programmes covered by the measure.
Republicans said the legislation was necessary to replenish weapons stockpiles, strengthen the defence industrial base, develop new military systems and improve infrastructure for service personnel.
Troops Receive Higher Pay and Benefits
The legislation includes military pay increases of up to 7% and funding for barracks, family housing and other service-member benefits. It also supports investments in missile defence, drones, emerging technologies and advanced weapons.
Several provisions would expand US-Israel military cooperation, including funding for joint missile defence, counter-drone systems and emerging defence technologies.
Democratic lawmakers objected to the overall cost and argued that military spending was rising while the administration pursued reductions in domestic programmes.
Iran War Divides US Congress
Opponents also criticised the continuing US military campaign against Iran, which the Pentagon estimates has already cost $37.5 billion. Several lawmakers have questioned whether President Donald Trump obtained sufficient congressional authorisation for the conflict.
The bill now faces an uncertain path in the Senate, where lawmakers are considering a separate version. Both chambers must approve identical legislation before it can be sent to the president. Disputes over Iran, Israel, spending levels and proposed voting restrictions could complicate negotiations.
