What is the new NDAA bill? The House-passed defense package explained

The Republican-led US House passed the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in a 216-212 vote, with six Democrats supporting it.

The NDAA authorizes $1.1 trillion in military spending, covering military operations, troop pay, weapons procurement, and national security programs.

Speaker Mike Johnson hailed the vote as a major legislative victory before the House adjourned for summer recess.

The bill now heads to the Senate, where it faces uncertainty due to the need for 60 votes to overcome a filibuster.

Democrats criticized the bill for pairing defense spending with cuts to domestic programs and tax changes they oppose.