SE Nebraska News

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, has secured key provisions in the Senate's Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation, which aims to improve service member quality of life, strengthen America's nuclear deterrent, and protect defense spectrum, passed out of committee and is now awaiting consideration on the Senate floor.

"During this time of global unrest – where we see Iran edging closer to obtaining a nuclear weapon, China accelerating its military buildup in the Indo-Pacific, and Russia continuing its war against Ukraine – it is more important than ever that we invest in our service members, protect defense spectrum, drive innovation, and strengthen our missile defense systems. I’m proud the FY 2026 NDAA meets this moment with key provisions I pushed for to modernize our nuclear deterrent and strengthen our national defense," Fischer said.

The provisions include authorizing $19 million above the president’s budget request for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) to recover and identify remains of fallen servicemembers from past conflicts. It also directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to assess a program modeled after Fischer’s CHIP IN For Veterans Act for healthcare facility development.

In terms of nuclear deterrence modernization, an annual independent assessment will be established for NNSA infrastructure progress. Other measures include extending combatant command innovation authority and requiring fielding progress for the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile program by September 30, 2033.

The act also focuses on protecting defense spectrum by prohibiting modifications to DoD systems without joint certification from top defense officials. Additionally, STRATCOM's Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations office is designated as lead for testing Dynamic Spectrum Sharing technologies.

Further strategic preparedness enhancements are included such as reviewing NDMS pilot implementation progress and modernizing capabilities at the 557th Weather Wing.

Finally, divestment from adversaries includes blocking funding for entertainment projects linked to China's Communist Party or government.