S. 4784

II  Calendar No. 436  119th CONGRESS  2d Session  S. 4784  [Report No. 119–127]  IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES   June 15, 2026   Mr. Wicker , from the  Committee on Armed Services , reported the following original bill; which was read twice and placed on the calendar   A BILL
To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2027 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes.
1.
Short title
This Act may be cited as the  National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 .
2.
Organization of Act into divisions; table of contents
(a)
Divisions
This Act is organized into four divisions as follows:
(1)
Division A—Department of Defense Authorizations.
(2)
Division B—Military Construction Authorizations.
(3)
Division C—Department of Energy National Security Authorizations and Other Authorizations.
(4)
Division D—Funding Tables.
(b)
Table of contents
The table of contents for this Act is as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Organization of Act into divisions; table of contents.
Sec. 3. Congressional defense committees.
Sec. 4. Budgetary effects of this Act.
DIVISION A—Department of Defense authorizations
TITLE I—Procurement
Subtitle A—Authorization of appropriations
Sec. 101. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle B—Army programs
Sec. 111. Multiyear procurement authority for Infantry Squad Vehicle program.
Sec. 112. Inclusion of Army National Guard in Army Arctic strategy and force structure.
Subtitle C—Navy programs
Sec. 121. Modification and extension of procurement authorities for certain amphibious shipbuilding programs.
Sec. 122. Funding for refueling and complex overhauls of the U.S.S. John C. Stennis and U.S.S. Harry S. Truman.
Sec. 123. Vessel construction manager and commercial design and construction requirements for cable laying and repair ships.
Sec. 124. Conveyance of F–14D Tomcat aircraft from the Navy to the U.S. Space and rocket center commission in Huntsville, Alabama.
Sec. 125. Prohibition on destruction or scrapping of World War II–era aircraft.
Sec. 126. Procurement authority for E–2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft program.
Subtitle D—Air Force programs
Sec. 131. Modification of inventory requirements for Air Force fighter aircraft.
Sec. 132. Multiyear procurement authority for F–35 aircraft.
Sec. 133. Multiyear procurement authority for F–15EX aircraft.
Sec. 134. MQ–9 aircraft.
Sec. 135. Airborne warning and control system aircraft.
Sec. 136. Limitation on availability of funds pending submission of report on acquisition strategy for Airborne Command Post capability.
Sec. 137. Mobility capabilities strategic plan.
Sec. 138. Extension of requirement and prohibition related to C–130 aircraft.
TITLE II—Research, development, test, and evaluation
Subtitle A—Authorization of appropriations
Sec. 201. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle B—Program requirements, restrictions, and limitations
Sec. 211. Improving the requirement for an alternative test and evaluation pathway for designated defense acquisition programs.
Sec. 212. Development, test, evaluation, demonstration, and transition to production of alternative low-cost weapon systems.
Sec. 213. Modification to the advisory role of the JASON scientific advisory group.
Sec. 214. Modified and streamlined process for developing, negotiating, and concluding certain international agreements.
Sec. 215. Repeal of authority relating to temporary hiring of students and university faculty.
Sec. 216. Limitation on availability of funds for Test Resource Management Center containerized instrumentation programs pending report on a common architecture for unmanned maritime test instrumentation.
Sec. 217. Limitation on availability of funds for Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering travel.
Sec. 218. Limitation on availability of funds for Integrated Combat Systems of the Department of the Navy.
Sec. 219. Limitation on the use of travel funds for the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
Sec. 220. Codification of Department of Defense Research Security Program.
Sec. 221. Codification of Department of Defense Science, Technology, and Innovation Board.
Sec. 222. Alternative programs to expand inventory of air defense interceptors.
Sec. 223. Improvements to personnel management authority to attract experts in science, engineering, and certain other disciplines at Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.
Sec. 224. Extension of limitation on availability of funds for fundamental research collaboration with certain academic institutions.
Subtitle C—Plans, reports, and other matters
Sec. 231. Assessment framework for future quantum computing programs.
Sec. 232. Execution of the Additive Manufacturing for Rocket Propellant systems.
Sec. 233. Report on emerging technology and cognitive warfare.
Sec. 234. Department of Defense electronics requirements study.
TITLE III—Operation and Maintenance
Subtitle A—Authorization of Appropriations
Sec. 301. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle B—Energy and Environment
Sec. 311. Modifications to Advanced Nuclear Transition Working Group.
Sec. 312. Prioritization of deployment of expeditionary solid waste disposal systems.
Sec. 313. Authorization of sustainable aviation fuel procurement.
Sec. 314. Grid resiliency and energy redundancy.
Sec. 315. Mandatory grid impact and infrastructure power requirements for enhanced use leases.
Sec. 316. Storage capacity enhancements.
Sec. 317. Revision of policy on use of open-air burn pits not controlled by Department of Defense.
Sec. 318. Assessment of energy supplied to installations and operational forces of the Department of Defense.
Sec. 319. Requirement of notice on updates to public dashboard on remediation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Sec. 320. Revisions to technical assistance for public participation in defense environmental restoration activities.
Sec. 320A. Study on contracting process of Department of Defense for remediation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Sec. 320B. Initiation of remedial actions with respect to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Subtitle C—Logistics and Sustainment
Sec. 321. Implementation of Comptroller General recommendations on exercises and wargames in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sec. 322. Integration of unmanned systems into the Installation Physical Security Program.
Sec. 323. Guidance regarding governance structure of organic industrial base of the Army.
Sec. 324. Extension of deadline for designation of roles and responsibilities relating to sustainment and readiness of certain naval surface vessels.
Sec. 325. Acquisition and sustainment strategy for spare parts for low mission capable aircraft.
Sec. 326. Helicopter support for Kwajalein Atoll and Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range, Marshall Islands.
Sec. 327. Capital expenditure write-offs for Department of Defense depots and arsenals.
Sec. 328. Modification of requirements relating to production in factories or arsenals owned by the United States.
Subtitle D—Reports
Sec. 341. Report on strategy to maintain and upgrade conventional munitions storage facilities.
Sec. 342. Risk assessment of air traffic control systems of Department of Defense.
Subtitle E—Other Matters
Sec. 351. Modification of depots for which minimum capital investment is required.
Sec. 352. Implementation of Department of Defense Inspector General recommendations relating to evaluation of management of canine welfare under military working dog program.
Sec. 353. Prohibition on operation of connected vehicles of concern on military installations and other property of the Department of Defense.
Sec. 354. Limitation on availability of funds for travel expenses of the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Sec. 355. Limitation on use of travel funds for Secretary of the Air Force until briefing on West Lab Project at Lincoln Laboratory.
Sec. 356. Naming of certain assets of the Department of Defense in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Sec. 357. Administrative requirements for Military Aviation and Installation Assurance Clearinghouse.
TITLE IV—Military personnel authorizations
Subtitle A—Active forces
Sec. 401. End strengths for active forces.
Subtitle B—Reserve forces
Sec. 411. End strengths for Selected Reserve.
Sec. 412. End strengths for Reserves on active duty in support of the Reserves.
Sec. 413. End strengths for military technicians (dual status).
Sec. 414. Maximum number of reserve personnel authorized to be on active duty for operational support.
Subtitle C—Authorization of appropriations
Sec. 421. Military personnel.
TITLE V—Military personnel policy
Subtitle A—Officer personnel policy
Sec. 501. Notification requirements for delayed promotions.
Sec. 502. Temporary withholding of officer nominations and promotion recommendations.
Sec. 503. Enhanced authority for early discharges.
Sec. 504. Officer retirement determinations.
Sec. 505. Retirement of regular Navy warrant officers and Marine Corps Marine Gunner warrant officers for years of service.
Sec. 506. Authority to improve retention for permanent professors of the United States Army War College.
Sec. 507. Congressional notification of relief or early departure of certain general and flag officers.
Subtitle B—Reserve component management
Sec. 511. Clarification on computation of total years of service.
Sec. 512. Authorized strengths for Navy Reserves and Marine Corps Reserves on full-time reserve component duty.
Sec. 513. National Guard military technician (dual status) conversions and phase-out.
Sec. 514. Study and analysis for enhanced maritime surge maintenance, repair, and production capacity.
Subtitle C—General Service Authorities and military records
Sec. 521. Remote personnel processing in the military departments.
Sec. 522. Repeal of sunset of authority relating to non-medical counseling services for military families.
Sec. 523. Guidance on public disclosure of personally identifiable information for certain members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 524. Prohibition on reduction in the number of personnel assigned to a service review agency.
Sec. 525. Reauthorization of temporary authority to develop and provide additional recruitment incentives.
Sec. 526. Relief for former service members requesting review of discharge or dismissal on the basis of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury related to combat or military sexual trauma.
Sec. 527. Modification of whistleblower protections.
Sec. 528. Authority for collection of personally identifiable information regarding prospective recruits.
Sec. 529. Modification of service obligations for cadets obtaining employment as professional athletes.
Sec. 529A. Requirement of equal opportunity, racial neutrality, and exclusive use of merit in military personnel actions.
Sec. 529B. Prohibition on participation of males in athletic programs or activities, and males entering privacy spaces, at the military service academies that are designated for women or girls.
Sec. 529C. Modification of provisions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Sec. 529D. Sex-neutral occupational performance standards.
Subtitle D—Military Justice and other legal matters
Sec. 531. Wrongful broadcast or distribution of intimate visual images.
Sec. 532. Expansion of victim access to Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
Sec. 533. Technical amendment to completion of appellate review under article 57 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Sec. 534. Review of courts-martial records.
Sec. 535. Authority of special trial counsel to enter into pretrial agreements with respect to certain offenses occurring before effective date of military justice reforms.
Sec. 536. Clarification of court of criminal appeals review of sentencing.
Sec. 537. Updating subpoena authority for military investigations.
Sec. 538. Extension of Special Victims' Counsel services to domestic violence victims.
Sec. 539. Treatment of hazing under Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Sec. 539A. Notification of the issuance or termination of military protective orders to victims of domestic violence or sexual assault.
Sec. 539B. Military domestic violence emergent housing policy.
Sec. 539C. Annual report on findings of the Department-wide review of the military legal system.
Sec. 539D. Clarification of authority to order to active-duty certain persons subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice for matters relating to offenses during specified periods incident to inactive-duty training.
Sec. 539E. Inapplicability to retired members of punitive articles affecting political speech.
Subtitle E—Member education, training, and transition
Sec. 541. Limitation on authority to reorganize the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps.
Sec. 542. Discharge of midshipmen for unsatisfactory conduct or inaptitude.
Sec. 543. Modification to program on encouragement of postseparation public and community service.
Sec. 544. Limited authority to waive time-in-grade requirement for service academy graduates detailed as students at law schools.
Sec. 545. Elimination of the right of cadets to automatic reexamination.
Sec. 546. Revision to decision timeframe for expedited transfers at the military service academies.
Sec. 547. Establishment of program to promote participation of foreign students in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps.
Sec. 548. Designation of senior official for military-to-civilian transition.
Sec. 549. Payment of tuition for off-duty training or education.
Sec. 549A. Improvement of transition of medics in the Armed Forces to the civilian workforce in health care occupations.
Sec. 549B. Standards and requirements for institutions of higher learning seeking to participate in Department of Defense education programs.
Sec. 549C. Government copyright for work produced at Defense Security Cooperation University.
Sec. 549D. Promoting the use of standardized testing at military service academies and DoDEA schools.
Sec. 549E. Department of Defense-wide hate symbol policy and recruiter and workforce training requirement.
Subtitle F—Military family readiness and dependents' education
PART I—Dependents' education
Sec. 551. Certain assistance to local educational agencies that benefit dependents of military and civilian personnel.
Sec. 552. Educational technologists at Department of Defense Education Activity schools.
PART II—Child care and related matters
Sec. 555. Expansion of eligible child care providers for Department of Defense programs.
Sec. 556. Standardized reporting on Department of Defense child care readiness.
Sec. 557. Update to pay system for child and youth programs operated by nonappropriated fund instrumentalities.
PART III—Other matters
Sec. 561. Department of Defense Fellowship Program for Military Spouses.
Sec. 562. Consideration in member assignments process of colocation of members and civilian employee spouses.
Sec. 563. Review of Exceptional Family Member Program.
Sec. 564. Improved counseling and access to information relating to foster care for military families.
Sec. 565. Reporting on gaps between senior and junior enlisted security forces that could hinder effective oversight and leadership at Protection Level One locations.
Subtitle G—Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps
Sec. 571. Update of guidance and evaluation of Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps instructor pay scale.
Sec. 572. Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs in Department of Defense Education Activity schools.
Subtitle H—Decorations and other awards, miscellaneous reports, and other matters
Sec. 581. Authorization for award of the Distinguished-Service Cross to Isaac  Ike  Camacho for acts of valor in Vietnam.
Sec. 582. Authorization for award of the Distinguished-Service Cross for Joseph P. Lynch for acts of valor in the Republic of Vietnam.
Sec. 583. Submission to Congress of information for consideration of certain military awards.
Sec. 584. Medal of Honor review procedures and reconsideration and upgrade requirements.
Sec. 585. Time limitations.
Sec. 586. Production of award files.
TITLE VI—COMPENSATION AND OTHER PERSONNEL BENEFITS
Subtitle A—Pay and Allowances
Sec. 601. Modification of reimbursement of expenses relating to travel for inactive-duty training and muster duty.
Sec. 602. Fiscal year 2027 increase in military basic pay.
Sec. 603. Reimbursement of costs of long commutes for members assigned to remote or isolated installations in areas without affordable housing.
Subtitle B—Special and Incentive Pay
Sec. 611. One-year extension of certain expiring bonus and special pay authorities.
Sec. 612. Increase in maximum amount of aviation bonus.
Sec. 613. Authorization of board certification incentive pay for veterinary comparative medicine officers.
Sec. 614. Modification of bonus authority for Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadets and midshipmen.
Sec. 615. Increase in maximum amounts of hostile fire pay and imminent danger pay.
Sec. 616. Medical providers qualified to recertify catastrophic injuries or illnesses qualifying members for special compensation.
Subtitle C—Commissary and Exchange Benefits
Sec. 621. Authorized patrons of commissary and exchange stores.
Sec. 622. Modification of operating expenses of commissary stores.
Sec. 623. Pilot program on access of civilian employees to commissary stores.
Subtitle D—Other Matters
Sec. 631. Authority for shipment and storage of privately owned vehicles of members moving between authorized locations.
Sec. 632. Reimbursement of guardianship costs incurred as a result of relocations.
Sec. 633. Provision of counseling on housing for members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 634. Special priority travel authorization for personnel stationed at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Sec. 635. Program to assist members in obtaining personal driver’s licenses.
Sec. 636. Student loan relief for members of Selected Reserve.
Sec. 637. Enhancement of Air Force rated officer retention demonstration program.
Sec. 638. Pilot program on career intermissions for certain Air Force fighter aircrew.
TITLE VII—Health Care
Subtitle A—TRICARE and Other Health Care Benefits
Sec. 701. Digital system for beneficiary assistance at military medical treatment facilities and through managed care support contractors.
Sec. 702. Expansion of access to dental care for certain dependents.
Sec. 703. Expansion of eligibility for hearing aids to include children of retired members of the Uniformed Services enrolled in family coverage under TRICARE Select.
Sec. 704. Evaluation of inclusion of additional accrediting bodies for purposes of qualifications for licensure of mental health professionals under TRICARE Program.
Sec. 705. Improvement of provider directory accuracy for specialty care providers under the TRICARE program.
Sec. 706. Modification of requirement to provide start-up time for certain TRICARE contractors.
Sec. 707. Corrections to pilot program for supplemental coverage relating to cancer.
Sec. 708. Coverage of cranial orthotic devices for deformational plagiocephaly under TRICARE program.
Sec. 709. Technical amendments to the Public Health Service Act.
Sec. 710. Licensure of mental health professionals in TRICARE Program.
Sec. 711. Requirements relating to wellness checks for health and welfare of certain members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 712. Requirement to offer medical chaperones during sensitive medical examinations.
Sec. 713. Pilot program on reciprocal access to health care facilities, personnel, and services of Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs.
Sec. 714. Medical screening for members of the Armed Forces who served at data masked or classified locations.
Sec. 715. Medical testing and related services for firefighters of Department of Defense.
Subtitle B—Health Care Administration
Sec. 721. Development of capability prototype on secure access to health record for members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 722. Inventory and annual catchment area assessment of military-civilian health care partnerships.
Sec. 723. Requirement for review before actions to downsize, realign, or reduce scope of services at military medical treatment facilities.
Sec. 724. Policy on provider notification to commanders regarding imminent risk of suicide for members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 725. Authority over Defense Health Program.
Sec. 726. Enterprise Revenue Cycle Improvement Initiative.
Sec. 727. Notification to licensing and medical boards of States in case of investigation or misconduct.
Sec. 728. Additional review of disclosure requirements under processes and forms relating to health care provider credentialing and privileging of Department of Defense.
Sec. 729. Expansion of Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record.
Sec. 730. Pilot program on modernization of drug testing using voice-based risk assessment.
Subtitle C—Combat and Operational Health Support
Sec. 741. Establishment of Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System.
Sec. 742. Preservation of dedicated aeromedical evacuation capability of Medical Service Corps of the Army.
Sec. 743. Establishment of partnership program between United States, Indo-Pacific region, and Arctic region for military trauma care, disease and non-battle injury, health systems support, and research.
Sec. 744. Aerial transport and Department of Defense-wide capability for high-consequence infectious diseases.
Sec. 745. Requirement for annual large-scale combat casualty estimation report.
Sec. 746. Report on the organization, performance, and standardization of emergency medical services within the Department of Defense.
Sec. 747. Expansion of health care license portability for medical providers of the National Guard.
Sec. 748. Joint forces medical capabilities development and standardization.
Sec. 749. Expansion of authorities to enable interoperability among military health care professionals of the United States and partner countries.
Sec. 750. Task force on international agreements for Indo-Pacific medical partnerships.
Sec. 751. Pilot program for Indo-Pacific regional medical data sharing.
Subtitle D—Reports and Other Matters
Sec. 761. Review of chaperone policies within facilities of the Defense Health Agency.
Sec. 762. Unfunded priorities report of the Defense Health Agency.
Sec. 763. Evaluation of certain research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health.
Sec. 764. Notification of material failure at military medical treatment facilities affecting patient care.
Sec. 765. Study on military health system.
Sec. 766. Establishment of Warfighter Performance Optimization Initiative, Total Force Fitness.
Sec. 767. Military Family Limb Loss and Limb Difference Support Program.
Sec. 768. Briefing on primary care provided at military medical treatment facilities on installations of the Air Force.
Sec. 769. Assessment of access, fairness, and transparency under TRICARE pharmacy benefits program.
Sec. 770. Comptroller General review of influenza vaccine requirements of Department of Defense.
TITLE VIII—Acquisition policy, acquisition management, and related matters
Subtitle A—Acquisition policy and management
Sec. 801. Multi-year procurement for certain munitions.
Sec. 802. Limitation on availability of funds pending report on and revisions of software acquisition pathway implementation.
Sec. 803. Report on multiyear procurement.
Sec. 804. Modifications to technical data rights.
Sec. 805. Accountability and training for defense acquisition.
Subtitle B—Amendments to general contracting authorities, procedures, and limitations
Sec. 811. Consolidation and rationalization of restrictions on procurement from certain foreign countries.
Sec. 812. Requirements for information relating to supply chain risk.
Sec. 813. Limitations on certain missile contracts or other agreements.
Sec. 814. Limitations on the centralized commercial item capability.
Sec. 815. Limitations relating to capital distributions for defense contractors.
Sec. 816. Prohibition of procurement of molybdenum, gallium, or germanium from non-allied foreign nations and authorization for production from recovered material.
Sec. 817. Other transaction authority reporting.
Sec. 818. Limitation on procurement of cut flowers and cut greens.
Sec. 819. Audit and mitigation of covered cellular modules in the Department of Defense systems and infrastructure.
Sec. 820. Improving transparency of foreign influence on Department of Defense contractors.
Sec. 821. Reporting of price increases.
Sec. 822. Late submission of cost and pricing data as invalid defense to contract price reductions for defective cost or pricing data.
Subtitle C—Industrial base matters
Sec. 831. Establishment of the Supply Chain Risk Management Integration Cell.
Sec. 832. Expansion of reverse engineering authority for prototype projects.
Sec. 833. Competition requirement for certain munitions.
Sec. 834. Analyses of certain activities for action to address sourcing and industrial capacity.
Sec. 835. Regulations applicable to wearing optional combat boots.
Sec. 836. Report on domestic nonavailability determinations granted for critical materials.
Sec. 837. Limitation on availability of funds pending information on the small unmanned aircraft system industrial base.
Sec. 838. Energetics industrial base roadmap.
Sec. 839. Supply chain, capability, and capacity study of high-demand items in the textile industrial base.
Sec. 840. Pilot program on providing subsidies for combat boots.
Sec. 841. Cross-functional team for the textile industrial base.
Sec. 842. Assessing and addressing risk related to adversarial capital.
Sec. 843. Modifications to requirement for public reporting of Chinese military companies operating in the United States.
Sec. 844. Amendments to requirements pertaining to printed circuit boards.
Sec. 845. Report on the feasibility and advisability of establishing a strategic partnership on defense industrial priorities between the United States and Israel.
Sec. 846. Prohibition on the use of Chinese-manufactured optical fiber by the Department of Defense.
Sec. 847. Promoting the United States drone industrial base.
Sec. 848. Pilot program for domestic antimony and copper production for defense applications.
Sec. 849. Full accountability for Chinese military companies.
Subtitle D—Small business matters
Sec. 861. Department of Defense Mentor-Protege Program.
Sec. 862. APEX Accelerator funding.
Sec. 863. Test program for negotiation of comprehensive small business subcontracting plans.
Sec. 864. Application of the bona fide place of business to certain contracts.
Subtitle E—Other matters
Sec. 871. Technical corrections related to National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 provisions.
Sec. 872. Limitation on availability of funds pending implementation of certain requirements relating to munitions.
Sec. 873. Repeal of amendments providing for submission by subcontract offeror of recent price history in satisfaction of cost or pricing data requirements.
Sec. 874. Competitive procedures for certain pharmaceutical contracts.
Sec. 875. Enhancement of defense supply chain resilience and secondary source qualification.
Sec. 876. Limitation pending Army conformance with portfolio acquisition executive requirements.
Sec. 877. Procurement of medical countermeasures for overseas personnel of the Department of Defense for acute radiation syndrome and thermal burns.
Sec. 878. Procurements on behalf of the Department of Defense by the Department of Veterans Affairs for planning, design, and construction projects.
Sec. 879. Leasing of vessels, aircraft, and combat vehicles.
Sec. 880. Prohibition on modems or routers acquisitions involving entities owned or controlled by China.
Sec. 881. Prohibition on television acquisitions involving entities owned or controlled by China.
Sec. 882. Prohibition for defense contractors providing sensitive information related to synthetic biology to foreign entities of concern.
Sec. 883. Reporting on contractor operations related to China.
Sec. 884. Ensuring Department of Defense contractor compliance with disability hiring goals.
TITLE IX—DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT
Subtitle A—Office of the Secretary of Defense and Related Matters
Sec. 901. Economic Defense Unit.
Sec. 902. Extension of pilot program on capital assistance of Office of Strategic Capital.
Sec. 903. Requirement for professional code of conduct for certain Department of Defense positions.
Sec. 904. Redesignation of Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness; reorganization of Assistant Secretaries of Defense.
Sec. 905. Responsibility for cyber matters in Office of Secretary of Defense.
Subtitle B—Combatant Commands
Sec. 911. Unified combatant command for Africa.
Sec. 912. Unified combatant command for the Middle East and Central Asia.
Sec. 913. Unified combatant command for Europe.
Sec. 914. Unified combatant command for North America.
Sec. 915. Unified combatant command for Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
Sec. 916. Unified combatant command for the Indo-Pacific Region.
Sec. 917. Establishment of United States Robotic and Autonomous Systems Command.
Subtitle C—Other Department of Defense Organization and Management Matters
Sec. 921. Organization of responsibilities relating to unmanned systems.
Sec. 922. Composition of cross-functional team for emerging threat relating to anomalous health incidents; reports.
Sec. 923. Comptroller General review of Anomalous Health Incidents Cross-Functional Team.
Sec. 924. Establishment of Center for the Study of the National Guard.
Sec. 925. Civil-Military Coordination Center.
Sec. 926. Modifications to unmanned aircraft system definitions for Joint Interagency Task Force 401.
Sec. 927. Maximizing funding efficiency for homeland defense.
Sec. 928. Prohibition on the reduction of funding for foreign language training for members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 929. Records retention requirement.
TITLE X—General Provisions
Subtitle A—Financial Matters
Sec. 1001. General transfer authority.
Sec. 1002. Department of Defense financial statement audit readiness, reporting relief, and related reforms.
Sec. 1003. Expansion of requirements for submittal to Congress of reports and justification books.
Sec. 1004. Financial statements: opening balances for audit purposes.
Sec. 1005. Prohibition on provision of support to Department of Homeland Security.
Subtitle B—Naval vessels
Sec. 1011. Design and construction of new Global-class auxiliary general oceanographic research ships.
Sec. 1012. Limitation on use of funds in the National Defense Sealift Fund to purchase certain used foreign constructed vessels.
Sec. 1013. Modifications to vessel construction managers for the construction of certain Navy vessels.
Sec. 1014. Development of industrial base for distributed submarine and surface vessel shipbuilding.
Sec. 1015. Report and briefing on submarine tender requirements and capacity.
Sec. 1016. Increase in minimum number of amphibious warfare ships.
Sec. 1017. Prohibition on retiring and decommissioning oceanographic research vessels of the Navy.
Sec. 1018. Supervisors of Shipbuilding, Conversion, and Repair.
Sec. 1019. Construction of vessels in foreign shipyards.
Sec. 1020. Limitation on authority of the Secretary of the Navy to change vessel names.
Subtitle C—Counterterrorism
Sec. 1021. Extension of prohibition on use of funds for transfer or release of individuals detained at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to the United States.
Sec. 1022. Extension of prohibition on use of funds to construct or modify facilities in the United States to house detainees transferred from United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Sec. 1023. Extension of prohibition on use of funds for transfer or release of individuals detained at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to certain countries.
Sec. 1024. Extension of prohibition on use of funds to close or relinquish control of United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Subtitle D—Miscellaneous Authorities and Limitations
Sec. 1031. Prohibition on use of funds to support entertainment projects with ties to the Government of the People’s Republic of China.
Sec. 1032. Waiver authority for limitation on live fire trauma training.
Sec. 1033. Prohibition on availability of funds for removal of Army prepositioned stocks from Europe.
Sec. 1034. Implementation of National Transportation Safety Board recommendations for Department of Defense.
Sec. 1035. Modification of support of special operations for irregular warfare.
Sec. 1036. Designation of southwest land border activities, support, and operations as named operation.
Subtitle E—Studies and reports
Sec. 1041. Threat assessment regarding unmanned aircraft systems at or near the international borders of the United States.
Sec. 1042. Extension of Afghanistan War Commission.
Sec. 1043. Extension of briefing requirement regarding civil authorities at the Southwest border.
Sec. 1044. Drone posture review.
Sec. 1045. Quarterly reports on unmanned aerial system incursions over military installations, sensitive sites, and the southern border.
Sec. 1046. Report on progress on implementation of Department of Defense Instruction on civilian harm mitigation and response.
Sec. 1047. Report on transfer of property by Department of Defense.
Sec. 1048. Oversight of Department of Defense rules of engagement.
Sec. 1049. Strategy to address intelligence-gathering shortcomings in area of responsibility of United States Africa command.
Subtitle F—Equity Investments and Related Matters
Sec. 1051. Authority for equity investments by Office of Strategic Capital.
Sec. 1052. Ownership review for equity investments.
Sec. 1053. Notifications with respect to debt and equity investments.
Sec. 1054. Modifications to authorities of Industrial Base Fund.
Sec. 1055. Briefings on Economic Defense Unit; limitation on use of funds.
Sec. 1056. Approval authority for expenditures from Industrial Base Fund.
Sec. 1057. Quarterly briefings on Business Operators for National Defense (BOND) Program.
Subtitle G—Other Matters
Sec. 1061. Extension of admission to Guam, Wake Island, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands for certain H–2B nonimmigrants.
Sec. 1062. Notification to congressional defense committees of combat wounded in action.
Sec. 1063. Americas Defense Initiative.
Sec. 1064. Briefings on homeland defense.
Sec. 1065. Independence of Stars and Stripes.
Sec. 1066. Identification, assessment, and mitigation of critical defense sites.
Sec. 1067. Administrative support for commissions.
Sec. 1068. Requirement to assign conventional names to critical munitions.
Sec. 1069. Technical corrections to National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026.
Sec. 1070. Development of cognitive warfare strategy.
Sec. 1071. Notification requirements for sensitive military operations.
Sec. 1071A. Declassification guidance for Department of Defense original classification authorities.
Sec. 1072. Post-government employment restrictions applicable to certain senior military officers and senior civilian employees of the Department of Defense.
Sec. 1073. Repeals of existing reporting requirements.
Sec. 1074. Report and briefing on Worldwide Expeditionary Multiple Award Contract Territorial Integrity of the United States contract.
Sec. 1075. Documentation of verbal approval of requests for assistance.
Sec. 1076. Increase of the Working Capital Fund, Capital Investment Program threshold.
Sec. 1077. National Guard Rural Revival and Modernization Plan.
Sec. 1078. Redesignation of the Department of Defense as the Department of War.
Sec. 1079. Service-wide enterprise strategy for human performance.
Sec. 1080. Records preservation processes for certain at-risk Afghan allies.
Sec. 1081. Prohibition on covered transactions involving prediction market contracts.
Sec. 1082. Prohibition on use of prediction markets by personnel of the Department of Defense.
Sec. 1083. Ban on bets on military operations.
Sec. 1084. Universal guidance on remote and isolated installation designations.
Sec. 1085. Declassification of information concerning United States personnel classified as prisoner of war or missing in action during certain conflicts.
Sec. 1086. Requirement for markings on lethal military platforms.
Sec. 1087. Extension of National Defense Strategy Commission.
Sec. 1088. Prohibition on use of funds for transfer of individuals located at Camp As Sayliyah.
Sec. 1089. Analysis of force requirements for alternative warfighting scenarios.
Sec. 1090. Guidance on the treatment of claims under the HAVANA Act.
Sec. 1091. Assessment of Department of Defense phosphate supply chain vulnerabilities; related land exchange authorization.
Sec. 1092. Plan for domain awareness at the southern land border.
Sec. 1093. Prohibition on implementation of any policy that alters the requirements for chaplains to display visible officer rank on military uniforms.
TITLE XI—Civilian personnel matters
Sec. 1101. Prevailing rate determinations for defense industrial base.
Sec. 1102. Job grading system for prevailing rate employees at defense industrial base facilities.
Sec. 1103. Probationary period for civilian personnel of the United States Cyber Command.
Sec. 1104. Enhanced authority for transfers between cyber excepted service and competitive service.
Sec. 1105. Removal of Direct Support Activities from personnel limitation on the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Sec. 1106. Prohibition on the use of funds for carrying out a hiring freeze, reduction in force, or hiring delay without cause at a public shipyard.
Sec. 1107. Prohibition on the use of funds for carrying out certain hiring freezes, reductions in force, and hiring delays.
Sec. 1108. Disclosure of telework, remote work, and exemptions for return-to-in-person-work requirements in Department of Defense vacancy announcements.
Sec. 1109. Pilot program to retain high-performing supervisors and managers within the Department of Defense.
Sec. 1110. Congressional notification of certain changes to civilian workforce of Department of Defense.
TITLE XII—Matters relating to foreign nations
Subtitle A—Assistance and training
Sec. 1201. Authority to provide assistance to military forces of Jordan.
Sec. 1202. Modification of authority to provide defense institution capacity building for friendly foreign countries.
Sec. 1203. Modification of authority to build capacity.
Sec. 1204. Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Initiative.
Sec. 1205. Redesignation of Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School as Special Boat Training Command.
Sec. 1206. Extension of Defense Operational Resilience International Cooperation Pilot Program.
Sec. 1207. Feasibility report on multinational jungle warfare exercises in area of responsibility of United States Southern Command.
Sec. 1208. Redesignation of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies as the James M. Inhofe Center for Africa Security Studies.
Sec. 1209. Notification of intent to decrease United States Armed Forces presence in North Atlantic Treaty Organization member country.
Subtitle B—Matters relating to the Middle East
Sec. 1211. Assistance to Lebanese Armed Forces for countering Hezbollah and other terrorist groups.
Sec. 1212. Extension of authority for reimbursement of certain coalition nations for support provided to United States military operations.
Sec. 1213. Extension and modification of authority to provide assistance to vetted Syrian groups and individuals.
Sec. 1214. Extension and modification of authority to provide assistance to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
Sec. 1215. Modification of United States-Israel subterranean operations cooperation.
Sec. 1216. Modification of United States-Israel cooperation to counter unmanned systems in all warfighting domains.
Sec. 1217. United States-Israel Framework for Upgraded Technologies, Unified Research, and Enhanced Security (FUTURES) Act of 2026.
Subtitle C—Matters relating to Europe and the Russian Federation
Sec. 1221. Extension of prohibition on availability of funds relating to sovereignty of the Russian Federation over internationally recognized territory of Ukraine.
Sec. 1222. Oversight of United States military posture in Europe.
Sec. 1223. Intelligence support for Ukraine.
Sec. 1224. United States-Ukraine Strategic Defense Innovation Working Group.
Sec. 1225. Notification of gray zone activities by the Russian Federation against North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies.
Sec. 1226. Extension and modification of Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
Sec. 1227. Synchronization of defense readiness with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies.
Sec. 1228. Co-development and co-production program with Germany for certain munitions.
Sec. 1229. Report and assessment relating to United States force posture adjustments in Europe.
Subtitle D—Matters relating to the Indo-Pacific region
Sec. 1231. Extension and modification of designation of senior official for Department of Defense activities relating to, and implementation plan for, the AUKUS partnership.
Sec. 1232. Extension and modification of Pacific Deterrence Initiative.
Sec. 1233. Extension, modification, and redesignation of Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative.
Sec. 1234. Updates to National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual regarding AUKUS.
Sec. 1235. Oversight of United States military posture on the Korean Peninsula.
Sec. 1236. Indo-Pacific Regional Sustainment Framework.
Sec. 1237. Extension of annual report on military power of the People's Republic of China.
Sec. 1238. Strategy for crisis management in South China Sea.
Sec. 1239. Master plan for facility requirements to support rotational force presence in the Philippines.
Sec. 1240. Master plan for infrastructure requirements to support rotational force presence in Australia.
Sec. 1241. Extension of pilot program to develop young civilian defense leaders in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sec. 1242. Extension of pilot program to improve cyber cooperation with covered foreign military partners in Southeast Asia.
Sec. 1243. Extension of authority to transfer funds for Bien Hoa dioxin cleanup.
Sec. 1244. Limitation on availability of funds for travel expenses of the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Sec. 1245. Report on Japanese counterstrike capabilities.
Sec. 1246. Strategy for cyber cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sec. 1247. Extension and modification of Indo-Pacific Maritime Security Initiative.
Sec. 1248. Annual assessment of contribution of certain artificial intelligence chips to military capabilities of the People’s Republic of China.
Sec. 1249. Modification of authorization of sales to Australia of in-service Virginia Class submarines to provide for sale of additional in-service submarine in lieu of new construction submarine.
Sec. 1250. War Reserve Stock Program for Taiwan.
Sec. 1251. Sense of Congress on defense alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
Subtitle E—Other matters
Sec. 1261. Western Hemisphere strategy.
Sec. 1262. Enhanced cooperation in North Atlantic and Arctic regions.
Sec. 1263. Report on capabilities and illicit activities of cartels.
Sec. 1264. Report on threats to United States interests in Africa.
Sec. 1265. Reports on Arctic and High North defense integration.
Sec. 1266. Briefing on military and intelligence presence of Cuba in the Western Hemisphere.
Sec. 1267. Continuation of Joint Interagency Task Force–Counter Cartel.
Sec. 1268. Plan to enhance defense cooperation with Morocco.
Sec. 1269. Extension of Public Law 115–68 and related security cooperation programs.
Sec. 1270. Modification of requirements for Department of Defense Regional Centers for Security Studies.
TITLE XIII—COOPERATIVE THREAT REDUCTION
Sec. 1301. Cooperative Threat Reduction Funds.
TITLE XIV—Other authorizations
Subtitle A—Military programs
Sec. 1401. Working capital funds.
Sec. 1402. Chemical agents and munitions destruction, defense.
Sec. 1403. Drug interdiction and counter-drug activities, defense-wide.
Sec. 1404. Defense Inspector General.
Sec. 1405. Defense Health Program.
Subtitle B—National Defense Stockpile
Sec. 1411. Amendments to Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act.
Sec. 1412. Pilot program on public-private partnerships for recycling strategic and critical materials.
Sec. 1413. Inclusion of recovery and recycling of strategic and critical materials in national emergency planning assumptions for National Defense Stockpile.
Subtitle C—Other matters
Sec. 1431. Extension of authority for Joint Department of Defense–Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Demonstration Fund.
Sec. 1432. Extension of Department of Defense-Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Sharing Incentive Fund.
Sec. 1433. Modifications to Advisory Council.
TITLE XV—Space activities, strategic programs, and intelligence matters
Subtitle A—Space activities
Sec. 1501. Modification of acquisition and operation of space systems for space warfighting and control.
Sec. 1502. Modification of special authority for provision of space launch support services to increase space launch capacity.
Sec. 1503. Extension of indirect cost limitations and reporting requirements for space launch activities on a military installation.
Sec. 1504. Replacement of Space Launch Complex 46 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Sec. 1505. Integration of space weather into space domain awareness and operations.
Sec. 1506. Delivery of Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System.
Sec. 1507. Acquisition of space-based tactical data capability.
Sec. 1508. Space Launch Enterprise billet sufficiency review and alignment plan.
Sec. 1509. Flexibility for Department of Air Force to implement acquisition structure for optimal support of new portfolio acquisition executive system within Space Force.
Sec. 1510. Arctic connectivity and downlink resiliency initiative.
Subtitle B—Nuclear forces
Sec. 1511. Prohibition on reduction of intercontinental ballistic missiles of the United States.
Sec. 1512. Exception for below-threshold modifications of nuclear missiles to limitation on modification of major items of equipment scheduled for retirement or disposal.
Sec. 1513. Procurement authority for certain parts of intercontinental ballistic missiles, reentry vehicles, and associated equipment.
Sec. 1514. Limitation on availability of funds pending submission of the strategy to sustain the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile and maximize end of life margin.
Sec. 1515. Integration of ICBM maintenance equipment into the LGM-30G weapon system designation.
Sec. 1516. Contract authority for intercontinental ballistic missiles, replacement equipment, and reentry vehicle test equipment and components.
Sec. 1517. Modification to strategy to sustain Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile and maximize end-of-life margin.
Sec. 1518. Modifications to portfolio management framework for nuclear forces.
Sec. 1519. Modifications to reports on nuclear force reductions.
Sec. 1520. Modifications to biennial report on the plan for the nuclear weapons stockpile, nuclear weapons complex, nuclear weapons delivery systems, and nuclear weapons command and control system.
Sec. 1521. Multipolar nuclear deterrence strategy and theater-range nuclear capabilities.
Subtitle C—Missile defense
Sec. 1531. Iron Dome short-range rocket defense system and Israeli cooperative missile defense program co-development and co-production.
Sec. 1532. Enduring operational capability for the Guam Defense System Command and Control Facility.
Sec. 1533. Further limitation on availability of funds pending independent analysis of space-based missile defense capability.
Sec. 1534. Modification of Golden Dome missile defense system annual reporting.
Sec. 1535. Limitation on availability of funds pending submission of the briefing on sea-based launch platforms for ballistic missile defense targets.
Sec. 1536. Comprehensive integrated air and missile defense sensor coverage of Guam.
Sec. 1537. Repeal of requirement for Government Accountability Office to review and assess missile defense acquisition programs.
Sec. 1538. Improvements to air and missile defense acquisition.
Subtitle D—Other matters
Sec. 1541. Sense of the Senate, Inspector General review, and restoration and remediation plans for United States Army, Kwajalein Atoll, and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range.
Sec. 1542. Limitation on the reallocation of funds for the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range and United States Army Garrison Kwajalein Atoll.
Sec. 1543. Notifications with respect to relocating Department of Defense systems out of certain spectrum frequencies.
Sec. 1544. Annual briefing on Department of Defense activities associated with participation in the International Telecommunication Union World Radio Conference.
Sec. 1545. Report on efforts to counter foreign espionage and intellectual property theft targeting defense assets.
Sec. 1546. Department of the Air Force electronic warfare roadmap.
Sec. 1547. Using operational electronic intelligence assets to engage high-value targets.
TITLE XVI—Cyberspace-related matters
Subtitle A—Matters relating to cyber operations and cyber forces
Sec. 1601. Independent study on the authorities and organizational structure of the principal cyber advisors.
Sec. 1602. Funding for reserve component support to cyber-peculiar operations.
Sec. 1603. Amendment of annual reporting requirements on support for United States Cyber Command.
Sec. 1604. Scaling cyberspace access generation and maintenance capabilities.
Sec. 1605. Cyber operational readiness assessments of the Department of Defense information network.
Sec. 1606. Independent study on United States Cyber Command organization and resourcing.
Sec. 1607. Modification to quarterly reporting for cyber operations.
Sec. 1608. Repeal of authority to use operations and maintenance funds for cyber-peculiar development.
Sec. 1609. Strategy for integration of National Guard physical range capabilities into cyber testing activities.
Sec. 1610. Updated cyber readiness reporting methodology.
Sec. 1611. Expansion of entities included in coordination between United States Cyber Command and private sector.
Subtitle B—Matters relating to Department of Defense cybersecurity and information technology
Sec. 1621. Improving reserve component network account continuity.
Sec. 1622. Reducing administrative burden in the Department of Defense risk management framework implementation.
Sec. 1623. Science, Technology, and Innovation Board study on software-as-a-service in classified networks.
Sec. 1624. Streamlining Department of Defense governance process for cross-domain solution approvals.
Sec. 1625. Data center infrastructure strategy and roadmap for military installations.
Sec. 1626. Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification assessment grants for small businesses and new entrants.
Sec. 1627. Harmonization of Department of Defense security boundaries to enable reciprocity.
Sec. 1628. Expansion of cyber scholarship program to include operational technology.
Sec. 1629. Limitation on availability of funds for Alpha-1 Development Activities.
Sec. 1630. Limitation on the use of funds for information systems development.
Sec. 1631. Post-quantum cryptography adoption.
Sec. 1632. Improvements to high-performance computing roadmap.
Sec. 1633. Pilot program on Department of Defense partnerships with institutions of higher education recognized in the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity program for Cyber Research.
Sec. 1634. Insider threat reporting and voluntary guidance for large artificial intelligence contractors.
Sec. 1635. Requirement for memoranda of agreement regarding vulnerability disclosure and prohibition on procurement from IT providers who share cyber vulnerabilities with countries of concern.
Sec. 1636. Strategy for artificial intelligence-accelerated vulnerability discovery and remediation.
Sec. 1637. Ensuring competition in artificial intelligence procurement.
Sec. 1638. Phishing resistant authentication for defense.
Subtitle C—Data and artificial intelligence
Sec. 1641. Establishing an ecosystem for use of artificial intelligence agents at scale and speed.
Sec. 1642. Security standards and framework for Department of Defense agents.
Sec. 1643. Assessment of generative artificial intelligence platform impact on workforce acumen.
Sec. 1644. Demand forecast model for artificial intelligence.
Sec. 1645. Strategy and governance for adversarial artificial intelligence.
Sec. 1646. Inclusion of alternative models in Department of Defense generative artificial intelligence platform.
Sec. 1647. Policy and guidance related to autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities acquisition.
Sec. 1648. Update to the Department of Defense data strategy and implementation plan.
Sec. 1649. Assessment of artificial intelligence effects on warfighter skill retention and operational readiness.
Sec. 1650. Derived sourcing requirements for artificial intelligence outputs.
Sec. 1651. Improvements regarding guidance and prohibition on use of certain artificial intelligence.
Sec. 1652. Artificial intelligence functional bill of materials.
Sec. 1653. Requirements for human oversight of use of force by the Department of Defense.
Sec. 1654. Biosecurity procurement requirements for covered artificial intelligence models.
Sec. 1655. Prototyping secure artificial intelligence data centers.
DIVISION B—Military Construction Authorizations
Sec. 2001. Short title.
Sec. 2002. Expiration of authorizations and amounts required to be specified by law.
Sec. 2003. Effective date.
TITLE XXI—Army Military Construction
Sec. 2101. Authorized Army construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2102. Family housing.
Sec. 2103. Authorization of appropriations, Army.
Sec. 2104. Extension of authority to carry out fiscal year 2021 project at Fort Gillem, Georgia.
Sec. 2105. Extension and modification of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2022 projects.
Sec. 2106. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2023 projects.
Sec. 2107. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2024 projects.
Sec. 2108. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2025 project at Grafenwoehr, Germany.
Sec. 2109. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2026 project at Joint Region Marianas, Guam.
TITLE XXII—Navy Military Construction
Sec. 2201. Authorized Navy construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2202. Family housing.
Sec. 2203. Authorization of appropriations, Navy.
Sec. 2204. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2023 projects.
Sec. 2205. Extension and modification of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2024 projects.
Sec. 2206. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2026 project at Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sands, Hawaii.
TITLE XXIII—Air Force Military Construction
Sec. 2301. Authorized Air Force construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2302. Family housing.
Sec. 2303. Authorization of appropriations, Air Force.
Sec. 2304. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2019 projects.
Sec. 2305. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2020 projects.
Sec. 2306. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2023 projects.
Sec. 2307. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2024 projects.
Sec. 2308. Authority to carry out family housing improvement projects.
Sec. 2309. Authority to carry out project at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.
TITLE XXIV—Defense Agencies Military Construction
Sec. 2401. Authorized Defense agencies construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2402. Authorized Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program projects.
Sec. 2403. Authorization of appropriations, Defense Agencies.
Sec. 2404. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2023 projects.
Sec. 2405. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2024 projects.
TITLE XXV—International Programs
Subtitle A—North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program
Sec. 2501. Authorized NATO construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2502. Authorization of appropriations, NATO.
Subtitle B—Host Country In-kind Contributions
Sec. 2511. Republic of Korea funded construction projects.
Sec. 2512. Republic of Poland funded construction projects.
TITLE XXVI—Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities
Sec. 2601. Authorized Army National Guard construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2602. Authorized Army Reserve construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2603. Authorized Navy Reserve and Marine Corps Reserve construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2604. Authorized Air National Guard construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2605. Authorized Air Force Reserve construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2606. Authorization of appropriations, National Guard and Reserve.
Sec. 2607. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2023 projects.
Sec. 2608. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2024 projects.
Sec. 2609. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2026 project at Colonie, New York.
TITLE XXVII—Base Realignment and Closure Activities
Sec. 2701. Authorization of appropriations for base realignment and closure activities funded through Department of Defense Base Closure Account.
TITLE XXVIII—Military Construction General Provisions
Subtitle A—Military Construction Program
Sec. 2801. Modification of master plans for major military installations.
Sec. 2802. Prohibition on use of repair projects to expand footprint of existing facilities or infrastructure.
Sec. 2803. Increase of authority for Indo-Pacific posture unspecified military construction projects.
Sec. 2804. Use of certain amounts for electrical or infrastructure upgrades on Barbers Point, Hawaii.
Sec. 2805. Temporary adjustment of unspecified minor military construction requirements.
Sec. 2806. Modification of authority for transactions other than contracts and grants for purposes of facility construction or repair.
Subtitle B—Military Housing
Sec. 2821. Exclusion of window opening control devices from requirement for window fall prevention devices in military family housing units.
Sec. 2822. Health and safety requirements for military housing.
Sec. 2823. Expansion of protection from reprisal or retaliation against tenants of privatized military housing units who report housing-related issues.
Sec. 2824. Transparency and strategic planning for housing.
Sec. 2825. Development and implementation of minimum health and safety standards for military family housing.
Sec. 2826. Treatment of nondisclosure agreements with respect to privatized military housing.
Sec. 2827. Improvement of privatized military housing complaint database.
Sec. 2828. Requirement relating to any reprogramming request relating to funding for housing or facilities of Department of Defense.
Subtitle C—Land Conveyances
Sec. 2841. Land conveyance, Milan Army Ammunition Plant, Tennessee.
Sec. 2842. Land conveyance, Army Reserve Center, Opelika, Alabama.
Sec. 2843. Report on land withdrawal at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona.
Sec. 2844. Report on necessary modifications to military land withdrawal of Fallon Range Training Complex, Nevada.
Sec. 2845. Land exchange, Camp Pike and Camp Joseph T. Robinson, Arkansas.
Sec. 2846. Removal of conditions on use of certain land conveyed to the State of Indiana.
Sec. 2847. Review and report on conveyance of Lambert St. Louis International Airport.
Sec. 2848. Review and report on conveyance of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Anchorage, Alaska.
Subtitle D—Other Matters
Sec. 2861. Authority of combatant commands to recover and reinvest operational energy cost savings.
Sec. 2862. Energy control requirements for electrical infrastructure upgrades.
Sec. 2863. Modification of calculation of minimum capital investment for facilities sustainment, restoration, and modernization.
Sec. 2864. Requirements relating to leasing of land in Hawaii.
Sec. 2865. Department of Defense Laboratory Facility Investment Program.
Sec. 2866. Consideration of modular construction methods for military construction projects with protective design elements.
Sec. 2867. Standardized methodology for basing decisions for the Air Force.
Sec. 2868. Pilot program on replacement of substandard chillers or facilities that support subsistence resiliency.
Sec. 2869. Department of Defense pilot program for development and use of online real estate inventory tool.
Sec. 2870. Transfer of amounts for development of Ford Island, Hawaii, and electrical upgrades and Barbers Point, Hawaii.
Sec. 2871. Expansion of defense community infrastructure pilot program to include installations of the Coast Guard.
Sec. 2872. Plan on remediation of certain equipment and computational facilities owned or controlled by a foreign adversary.
DIVISION C—Department of Energy national security authorizations and other authorizations
TITLE XXXI—Department of Energy national security programs
Subtitle A—National security programs and authorizations
Sec. 3101. National Nuclear Security Administration.
Sec. 3102. Defense environmental cleanup.
Sec. 3103. Other defense activities.
Sec. 3104. Nuclear energy.
Subtitle B—Program authorizations, restrictions, and limitations
Sec. 3111. Delegation of authorities to Administrator for Nuclear Security.
Sec. 3112. Protection of Office of Secure Transportation vehicles and equipment from unmanned aircraft.
Sec. 3113. Authorization to establish public-private partnerships for nuclear effects testing.
Sec. 3114. Limitation on availability of funds pending submission of report on restoration of a domestic uranium enrichment capability.
Sec. 3115. Briefing on activities by the Director for Cost Estimating and Program Evaluation.
Sec. 3116. Modification to selected acquisition reports requirement.
Sec. 3117. Modification to the program for acceleration of replacement of cesium blood irradiation sources.
Sec. 3118. Briefings on nuclear-related autonomous or remotely-piloted aircraft incursions.
Sec. 3119. Conceptual and construction design.
Sec. 3120. Annual public workshops and Nuclear Science Advisory Committee reviews.
Sec. 3121. Limitation on use of funds until certain criteria are met.
Sec. 3122. Continuation of National Nuclear Security Administration pay and performance system.
Subtitle C—Other matters
TITLE XXXII—Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board
Sec. 3201. Authorization.
DIVISION D—Funding tables
Sec. 4001. Authorization of amounts in funding tables.
TITLE XLI—PROCUREMENT
Sec. 4101. PROCUREMENT.
TITLE XLII—RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND EVALUATION
Sec. 4201. RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND EVALUATION.
TITLE XLIII—OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
Sec. 4301. OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE.
TITLE XLIV—MILITARY PERSONNEL
Sec. 4401. MILITARY PERSONNEL.
TITLE XLV—OTHER AUTHORIZATIONS
Sec. 4501. OTHER AUTHORIZATIONS.
TITLE XLVI—MILITARY CONSTRUCTION
Sec. 4601. MILITARY CONSTRUCTION.
TITLE XLVII—DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY NATIONAL SECURITY PROGRAMS
Sec. 4701. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY NATIONAL SECURITY PROGRAMS.
3.
Congressional defense committees
In this Act, the term  congressional defense committees  has the meaning given that term in section 101(a)(16) of title 10, United States Code.
4.
Budgetary effects of this Act
The budgetary effects of this Act, for the purposes of complying with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010, shall be determined by reference to the latest statement titled  Budgetary Effects of PAYGO Legislation  for this Act, jointly submitted for printing in the Congressional Record by the Chairmen of the House and Senate Budget Committees, provided that such statement has been submitted prior to the vote on passage in the House acting first on the conference report or amendment between the Houses.
A
Department of Defense authorizations
I
Procurement
A
Authorization of appropriations
101.
Authorization of appropriations
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for procurement for the Army, the Navy and the Marine Corps, the Air Force and the Space Force, and Defense-wide activities, as specified in the funding table in section 4101.
B
Army programs
111.
Multiyear procurement authority for Infantry Squad Vehicle program
(a)
Authority for multiyear procurement
Subject to section 3501 of title 10, United States Code, the Secretary of the Army may enter into one or more multiyear contracts, beginning with fiscal year 2027, for the procurement of Infantry Squad Vehicles (ISV), including associated components, spare parts, and support equipment.
(b)
Conditions
(1)
In general
The Secretary shall ensure that any contract entered into under subsection (a)—
(A)
provides for savings compared to annual procurement;
(B)
includes appropriate termination provisions to protect the interests of the United States; and
(C)
complies with all requirements of section 3501 of title 10, United States Code.
(2)
Duration
A contract entered into under subsection (a) shall cover a period of not more than five fiscal years.
(c)
Advance procurement
The Secretary may include in a contract entered into under subsection (a) provisions for economic order quantity purchases of long-lead items to achieve cost efficiencies.
112.
Inclusion of Army National Guard in Army Arctic strategy and force structure
(a)
Inclusion in strategic planning
The Secretary of the Army shall ensure that the Army National Guard is fully integrated into the implementation and future iterations of the document entitled  Regaining Arctic Dominance: The U.S. Army in the Arctic  (or any successor strategy).
(b)
Requirements
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of the Army shall carry out the following activities:
(1)
Identify specific Army National Guard units with existing cold-weather capabilities or geographical proximity to the Arctic Circle to be designated as Arctic-capable or Arctic-focused.
(2)
Establish a modernization roadmap to ensure that Army National Guard units designated for Arctic missions are suitably equipped with mission-critical equipment such as Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) gear, over-snow vehicles, and specialized communication equipment.
(3)
Expand participation of Army National Guard units in multi-component Arctic exercises, including Northern Edge and Arctic Edge, to validate interoperability, as possible.
(c)
Report required
Not later than June 30, 2027, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the specific roles, missions, and resource requirements identified for the Army National Guard within the Army's Arctic strategy.
C
Navy programs
121.
Modification and extension of procurement authorities for certain amphibious shipbuilding programs
(a)
In general
Section 129 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2448), as most recently amended by section 121 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 1804), is further amended—
(1)
in subsection (a)(1), by striking  up to five ;
(2)
in subsection (c)—
(A)
by inserting  , advance construction, or economic order quantities  after  advance procurement across programs ; and
(B)
by inserting  , spare parts, and major shore-based spares  after  systems and subsystems ; and
(3)
in subsection (f), by striking  September 30, 2026  and inserting  September 30, 2030 .
(b)
Technical amendment
Subsection (g)(2) of such section 129 is amended by striking  section 4251(d)  and inserting  section 4251(e) .
122.
Funding for refueling and complex overhauls of the U.S.S. John C. Stennis and U.S.S. Harry S. Truman
Section 123(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 133 Stat. 1234) is amended by striking  six years  and inserting  eight years .
123.
Vessel construction manager and commercial design and construction requirements for cable laying and repair ships
(a)
Vessel construction manager
If the Secretary of the Navy seeks to acquire one or more cable laying and repair ships, the Secretary shall seek to enter into an agreement with an appropriate vessel construction manager pursuant to which the vessel construction manager shall seek to enter into a contract for the construction of such ships.
(b)
Design standards and construction practices
The Secretary of the Navy shall ensure that ships procured under subsection (a)—
(1)
use a design based on nondevelopmental vessels with commercial design standards; and
(2)
to the maximum extent practicable, are constructed using commercial construction practices.
124.
Conveyance of F–14D Tomcat aircraft from the Navy to the U.S. Space and rocket center commission in Huntsville, Alabama
(a)
Authority
The Secretary of the Navy (in this section referred to as the  Secretary ) may convey, without consideration, to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama (in this section referred to as the  Commission ), all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to 3 surplus F–14D Tomcat aircraft, (Bureau Numbers 164341, 164602, 159437), which are excess to the operational requirements of the Navy.
(b)
Form of conveyance
The conveyance under subsection (a) shall be made by means of a conditional deed of gift.
(c)
Condition of aircraft
The aircraft being conveyed under subsection (a) do not have any capability for use as a platform for launching or releasing munitions or any other combat capability that it was designed to have.
(d)
Conditions
The Secretary shall include in the instrument of conveyance of the aircraft under subsection (a)—
(1)
a condition that the Secretary is not required to repair or alter the condition of the aircraft before conveying ownership of the aircraft;
(2)
a condition that the Secretary shall provide any maintenance and operations manuals that—
(A)
are specific to the F–14D aircraft; and
(B)
the Secretary has sufficient intellectual property rights to convey;
(3)
a condition that the Secretary shall provide excess spare parts to make one of the F–14D aircraft flyable or able to complete a static display, provided that any part transferred is from existing Navy stock, with no items being procured on behalf of the Commission; and
(4)
a condition that the Secretary will not be responsible for transferring any additional parts or providing any additional support beyond what is stated in this section, during or after the conveyance of the aircraft.
(e)
Agreements for restoration and operation
The Secretary may—
(1)
authorize the Commission to enter into agreements with qualified nonprofit organizations for the purpose of restoring and operating the aircraft transferred under subsection (a) for public display, airshows, and commemorative events to preserve naval aviation heritage; and
(2)
if the Secretary authorizes any such agreement, require such additional terms and conditions in the instrument of conveyance as appropriate to protect the interests of the United States.
(f)
Reverter upon breach of conditions
The Secretary shall include in the instrument of conveyance of the aircraft under subsection (a)—
(1)
a condition that the Commission shall operate and maintain the aircraft in compliance with all applicable limitations and maintenance requirements imposed by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration; and
(2)
a condition that the Commission shall not convey any ownership interest in, or transfer possession of , the aircraft to another party without the prior approval of the Secretary; and
(3)
a condition that if the Secretary determines at any time that the Commission has failed to comply with the conditions set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2), all right, title, and interest in and to the aircraft, including any repair or alteration of the aircraft, shall revert to the United States, and the United States shall have the right of immediate possession of the aircraft.
(g)
Conveyance at no cost to the United States
The conveyance of an aircraft under subsection (a) shall be made at no cost to the United States. Any costs associated with such conveyance, costs of determining compliance with terms of the conveyance, and costs of operation and maintenance of the aircraft conveyed shall be borne by the Commission.
(h)
Clarification of liability
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, upon the conveyance of ownership of the aircraft under subsection (a), the United States shall not be liable for any death, injury, loss, or damage that results from any use of such aircraft by any person other than the United States.
(i)
Applicable law
The transfer and use of the aircraft under subsection (a) is subject to all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations, including—
(1)
the Arms Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2751 et seq.);
(2)
the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4811 et seq.);
(3)
International Traffic in Arms Regulations (22 C.F.R. 120 et seq.);
(4)
Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. 730 et seq.);
(5)
Foreign Assets Control Regulations (31 C.F.R. 500 et seq.); and
(6)
chapter 37 of title 18, United States Code (commonly known as the  Espionage Act ).
125.
Prohibition on destruction or scrapping of World War II–era aircraft
(a)
Prohibition
The Secretary of Defense may not destroy, dismantle, scrap, cannibalize, or otherwise render permanently inoperable any aircraft that—
(1)
was manufactured prior to December 31, 1945; and
(2)
is in the custody or administrative control of the Department of the Navy as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
(b)
Authorized dispositions
Aircraft described in subsection (a) may only be—
(1)
retained in the inventory of the Department of the Navy;
(2)
transferred to an eligible entity; or
(3)
deaccessioned under a plan approved by the Secretary of Defense that supports the long-term preservation of such aircraft, consistent with guidelines described in the committee report accompanying this Act.
(c)
Waiver authority
The Secretary of Defense may waive the prohibition under subsection (a) on a case-by-case basis only if—
(1)
the aircraft is determined by qualified personnel of the Department of the Navy or another eligible entity to be beyond practical restoration or preservation;
(2)
no eligible entity expresses interest in accepting the aircraft during the one-year period following the publication of public notice of the availability of the aircraft for transfer;
(3)
the Secretary submits to the congressional defense committees written notification and justification of the waiver; and
(4)
a period of 30 days has elapsed following the date of such submission.
(d)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Aircraft
The term  aircraft  includes fixed-wing and rotary-wing manned aircraft.
(2)
Eligible entity
The term  eligible entity  means—
(A)
the National Naval Aviation Museum, the National Museum of the Marine Corps, or another official Department of Defense museum; or
(B)
a Federal department or agency, nonprofit institution, or museum, with demonstrated indoor preservation and public display capabilities.
126.
Procurement authority for E–2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft program
(a)
Authority for block buy contract
Subject to the availability of appropriations for such purposes, the Secretary of the Navy may procure twelve or more E–2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft during fiscal years 2027 through 2029 by entering into one block buy contract.
(b)
Advance procurement and economic order quantities
The Secretary of the Navy may enter into one or more contracts, beginning in fiscal year 2027, for advance procurement and economic order quantities of components and material associated with the aircraft for which authorization to enter into a block buy contract is provided under subsection (a).
(c)
Liability
Any contract entered into under subsection (a) shall provide that—
(1)
any obligation of the United States to make a payment under the contract is subject to the availability of appropriations for that purpose; and
(2)
the total liability of the Federal Government for termination of the contract shall be limited to the total amount of funding obligated to the contract at the time of termination.
D
Air Force programs
131.
Modification of inventory requirements for Air Force fighter aircraft
(a)
In general
Subsection (i) of section 9062 of title 10, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
(i)
(1)
The Secretary of the Air Force shall—
(A)
during the period beginning on October 1, 2026, and ending on October 1, 2035, maintain a total aircraft inventory of fighter aircraft of not less than 1,800 aircraft; and
(B)
maintain a total aircraft inventory of combat-coded fighter aircraft of not less than 1,369 aircraft by December 31, 2030.
(2)
In this subsection:
(A)
The term  attrition reserve  means aircraft procured and held specifically to replace anticipated aircraft losses resulting from peacetime accidents (mishaps) or wartime attrition.
(B)
The term  backup aircraft inventory  means aircraft authorized in addition to the primary mission aircraft inventory to allow for scheduled and unscheduled depot-level maintenance, modifications, inspections, and repair without reducing the combat-ready fleet.
(C)
The term  combat-coded  with respect to an aircraft means an aircraft that is—
(i)
assigned to a combat-designated operational squadron or unit for the performance of its wartime mission;
(ii)
formally categorized within the Department of the Air Force inventory management system as primary mission aircraft inventory, backup aircraft inventory, or attrition reserve; and
(iii)
resourced and maintained to provide immediate operational capacity and the necessary organic depth required to sustain combat mission effectiveness through modernization cycles, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, and combat attrition.
(D)
The term  fighter aircraft —
(i)
means an aircraft that—
(I)
is designated by a mission design series prefix of F– or A–;
(II)
is manned by one or two crewmembers; and
(III)
executes single-role or multi-role missions, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attack, air interdiction, suppression or destruction of enemy air defenses, close air support, strike control and reconnaissance, combat search and rescue support, or airborne forward air control; and
(ii)
does not include collaborative combat aircraft.
(E)
The term  primary mission aircraft inventory  means aircraft assigned to meet the primary aircraft authorization to a unit for the performance of its wartime mission.
 .
(b)
Effective date
The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect on October 1, 2026.
132.
Multiyear procurement authority for F–35 aircraft
(a)
Multiyear procurement authority
Subject to section 3501 of title 10, United States Code, except as provided in this section, the Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more multiyear contracts for the procurement of F–35A, F–35B, and F–35C aircraft.
(b)
Findings requirements
(1)
In general
A contract described in subsection (a) is deemed to meet the requirements of section 3501(a) of such title.
(2)
Request
Section 3501(i)(2) of such title shall not apply for purposes of this section.
(3)
Report
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report with respect to contracts described in subsection (a) containing preliminary findings of the agency head described in paragraphs (1) through (6) of section 3501(a) of such title, together with the basis for such findings.
(c)
Advance procurement
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more contracts for advance procurement of key components of F–35A, F–35B, and F–35C aircraft in economic order quantities.
(2)
Certification
The Secretary of Defense shall include in any certification submitted under section 3501(i)(3) of such title a description of the specific components the Secretary intends to procure under the authority provided by paragraph (1).
133.
Multiyear procurement authority for F–15EX aircraft
(a)
Multiyear procurement authority
Subject to section 3501 of title 10, United States Code, except as provided in this section, the Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more multiyear contracts for the procurement of F–15EX aircraft.
(b)
Findings requirements
(1)
In general
A contract described in subsection (a) is deemed to meet the requirements of section 3501(a) of such title.
(2)
Request
Section 3501(i)(2) of such title shall not apply for purposes of this section.
(3)
Report
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report with respect to contracts described in subsection (a) containing preliminary findings of the agency head described in paragraphs (1) through (6) of section 3501(a) of such title, together with the basis for such findings.
(c)
Certification
The Secretary of Defense may not exercise the authority provided by subsection (a) until the Secretary submits to Congress a certification that the contractor concerned has the ability to increase production to achieve the objective inventory goal of not less than 268 F–15EX aircraft by 2035.
(d)
Advance procurement
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more contracts for advance procurement of key components of F–15EX aircraft in economic order quantities.
(2)
Certification
The Secretary of Defense shall include in any certification submitted under section 3501(i)(3) of such title a description of the specific components the Secretary intends to procure under the authority provided by paragraph (1).
134.
MQ–9 aircraft
(a)
Limitation on divestment
(1)
In general
Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Air Force may not divest, retire, or otherwise reduce the inventory of MQ–9 aircraft below the baseline inventory level until September 30, 2031.
(2)
Exception
(A)
In general
Any reduction in the inventory of MQ–9 aircraft resulting from combat loss, attrition, or other unplanned damage shall not be considered divestment or other reduction for purposes of paragraph (1).
(B)
Restoration
The Secretary of the Air Force shall, to the maximum extent practicable, take actions to restore the inventory of MQ–9 aircraft to the baseline inventory level following any reduction in inventory described in subparagraph (A).
(C)
Notification
Not later than 30 days after any reduction in inventory described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees a notification that includes the following:
(i)
A description of the circumstances resulting in the combat loss, attrition, or other unplanned damage of the aircraft.
(ii)
An assessment of the impact of such reduction in inventory on operational capability.
(iii)
A plan, if any, to replace the aircraft or otherwise mitigate the reduction in inventory.
(3)
Baseline inventory level defined
In this subsection, the term  baseline inventory level  means the total number of MQ–9 primary mission aircraft in the inventory of the Air Force as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
(b)
Minimum inventory requirement
(1)
In general
The Secretary of the Air Force shall ensure that the total inventory of MQ–9 aircraft is not fewer than 180 aircraft on and after October 1, 2028.
(2)
Inclusions
The total inventory described in paragraph (1) may include a mix of all variants of MQ–9 aircraft.
(c)
Analysis of alternatives
(1)
In general
The Secretary of the Air Force shall, in consultation with the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, conduct an analysis of alternatives for a medium-altitude intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capability to replace the MQ–9 aircraft.
(2)
Evaluation
The analysis required by paragraph (1) shall evaluate options that meet or exceed the operational capabilities provided by the MQ–9 aircraft as of the date of the analysis, including endurance, survivability, sensor capability, and mission flexibility.
(d)
Report and briefing
Not later than December 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Air Force shall—
(1)
submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the results of the analysis required by subsection (c); and
(2)
provide a briefing to such committees on such results.
135.
Airborne warning and control system aircraft
Section 9062 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(o)
(1)
(A)
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the Secretary of the Air Force may not retire, prepare to retire, or place in storage or in backup aircraft inventory any E–3 aircraft if such actions would reduce the total aircraft inventory for such aircraft below 16.
(B)
If the Secretary of the Air Force procures enough E–7 Wedgetail aircraft to accomplish the required mission load, the prohibition under subparagraph (A) shall not apply to actions taken to reduce the total aircraft inventory for E–3 aircraft to below 16 after the date on which such E–7 Wedgetail aircraft are delivered.
(2)
The Secretary of the Air Force may not pause, cancel, or terminate the E–7 Wedgetail aircraft program or prepare to pause, cancel, or terminate such program.
 .
136.
Limitation on availability of funds pending submission of report on acquisition strategy for Airborne Command Post capability
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, Air Force, and available to the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for travel expenses, not more than 60 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of the Air Force submits to the congressional defense committees the report required by section 154 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 767).
137.
Mobility capabilities strategic plan
(a)
In general
Not later than January 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Air Force, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Transportation Command and in consultation with the commanders of the geographic combatant commands, shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report that includes a comprehensive and detailed strategic plan for the development, acquisition, modernization, and integration of total force mobility capabilities of the Department of Defense through fiscal year 2047.
(b)
Elements
The plan required by subsection (a) shall include each of the following:
(1)
An assessment of—
(A)
contested operations across all domains over great distances;
(B)
contested lines of communication extending from the United States to operational theaters;
(C)
adversary capabilities designed to target United States mobility forces, mobility infrastructure, and logistics networks; and
(D)
the requirement for mobility forces to operate in degraded, contested, and highly contested environments, including austere locations, battle-damaged airfields, degraded runways, ramps, taxiways, and other runway-agnostic operating environments.
(2)
An assessment of the current mobility force, including—
(A)
the ability of Air Mobility Command to support the requirements of all of the Armed Forces in competition, crisis, and conflict;
(B)
the ability of Air Mobility Command to support agility concepts for all of the Armed Forces simultaneously in conflict, including agile combat employment, multi-domain task force operations, expeditionary advanced base operations, and distributed maritime operations;
(C)
the vulnerability of mobility forces, mobility infrastructure, and global logistics networks in contested environments; and
(D)
the degree to which existing mobility capability and capacity meet homeland defense priorities, nuclear mission obligations, and simultaneous global operational demands.
(3)
An identification of the attributes required of future mobility forces, including—
(A)
secure beyond line-of-sight connectivity with—
(i)
service and joint data links;
(ii)
service and joint battle management networks; and
(iii)
service and joint command and control networks;
(B)
automation and autonomous aviation capabilities;
(C)
the ability to operate across the full spectrum of threat environments;
(D)
flexibility across the full scale of mobility missions, including—
(i)
small and distributed missions;
(ii)
tactical, operational, and strategic missions; and
(iii)
oversized and large-volume movements;
(E)
the ability to operate from runway-agnostic and degraded operating locations;
(F)
fuel-resilient aviation concepts, including aircraft capable of operating on traditional fuels and emerging propulsion systems, such as electric, hybrid-electric, and hydrogen;
(G)
consideration of aircraft designed with open architecture enabling rapid integration of mission systems, including palletized effects, electronic warfare, battle management, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities; and
(H)
signature management capabilities that enable mobility aircraft to operate globally while maintaining operational security, including the ability to comply with international aviation safety requirements while limiting exposure of aircraft identity, position, and mission information through publicly accessible tracking systems or other unclassified means.
(4)
An evaluation of future tanker capabilities, including—
(A)
collaborative tanker aircraft supporting collaborative, distant, and distributed refueling operations in contested environments;
(B)
penetrating low-observable tanker aircraft capable of operating in highly contested environments;
(C)
low-signature tanker concepts, including blended-wing body tanker aircraft;
(D)
tactical tanker aircraft capable of supporting distributed tanker and airlift operations;
(E)
modernization of legacy tanker aircraft through connectivity and full automation;
(F)
tanker aircraft designed with open architecture and multi-role capability enabling complementary missions, including electronic warfare, battle management, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities;
(G)
opportunities to expand tanker capacity through commercial tanker constructs, including Government-owned, contractor-operated models; and
(H)
the establishment of a Civil Reserve Air Fleet tanker capability that would enable the commercial operation of tanker aircraft to provide immediate and dependable augmentation of United States tanker capacity.
(5)
An evaluation of future airlift capabilities across mission scales, including—
(A)
autonomous airlift platforms supporting small and tactical missions;
(B)
the establishment of a distributed maneuver pool composed of autonomous and highly automated mobility platforms capable of supporting maneuvering units and distributed operations, with mobility capabilities owned or controlled by lower-echelon multi-service operational units and integrated into the broader mobility enterprise;
(C)
improved and automated tactical and operational airlift capabilities supporting maneuver and distributed operations;
(D)
new and improved strategic airlift capabilities supporting global force flow and theater reinforcement, including the development of a next-generation strategic airlifter to augment or replace the C–17 aircraft and establishing a new standard for military airlift through improved capability, capacity, survivability, connectivity, automation, and operational flexibility;
(E)
oversized and large-volume airlift systems, including plans to support current and future needs of the United States Space Force and other agencies;
(F)
vertical takeoff and landing and short-field takeoff and landing airlift platforms supporting multi-service agility and distributed operations;
(G)
delivery systems, including automated airdrop, glider, towable, and hybrid aircraft logistics platforms; and
(H)
opportunities to expand airlift capacity through commercial operation of strategic airlift aircraft, Civil Reserve Air Fleet participation, and service-based acquisition models, such as effects-as-a-service.
(6)
An assessment of command and control architecture required to support mobility operations in contested environments, including—
(A)
the use of maneuver battle management using technologies such as artificial intelligence, algorithmic allocation systems, and advanced data architectures to integrate logistics, maneuver, and mobility operations across the Joint Force; and
(B)
integration of distributed traditional air battle management capabilities within mobility forces.
(7)
An assessment of opportunities to expand mobility capability and capacity through commercial aviation capabilities, including—
(A)
the expansion of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet;
(B)
the establishment of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet tanker capability;
(C)
the commercial operation of excess, transitioned, or Government-owned strategic airlift and tanker aircraft;
(D)
the use of service-based acquisition models such as mobility-as-a-service or effects-as-a-service; and
(E)
the role of nonprime aviation companies in enabling the building of the future mobility enterprise.
(c)
Form
The plan required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex.
138.
Extension of requirement and prohibition related to C–130 aircraft
(a)
Extension of minimum inventory requirement
Section 146(a)(3)(B) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2455), as most recently amended by section 145(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 760), is further amended by striking  2026  and inserting  2028 .
(b)
Extension of prohibition on reduction of C–130 aircraft assigned to National Guard
Section 146(b)(1) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 136 Stat. 2455), as most recently amended by section 145(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 760), is further amended by striking  2026  and inserting  2028 .
II
Research, development, test, and evaluation
A
Authorization of appropriations
201.
Authorization of appropriations
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the use of the Department of Defense for research, development, test, and evaluation, as specified in the funding table in section 4201.
B
Program requirements, restrictions, and limitations
211.
Improving the requirement for an alternative test and evaluation pathway for designated defense acquisition programs
Section 218(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 4171 note) is amended by striking  relating to software and covered hardware  and inserting  under the Software Acquisition Pathways pursuant to section 3603 of title 10, United States Code, .
212.
Development, test, evaluation, demonstration, and transition to production of alternative low-cost weapon systems
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and in coordination with secretaries of the military departments and the Director of the Missile Defense Agency, as the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate, develop, test, evaluate, demonstrate, and transition to production a portfolio of alternative, affordable, low-cost weapon systems in each of the following categories:
(1)
Hypersonic strike systems.
(2)
Cruise missiles.
(3)
Shoulder-launched missiles.
(4)
Extended range munitions.
(5)
Mid-range integrated air and missile defense interceptors.
(6)
Exo-atmospheric interceptors.
(7)
Short-range integrated air and missile defense interceptors.
(8)
Medium-range air-to-air missiles.
(b)
Requirements
Programs carried out under paragraph (1) shall—
(1)
employ innovative acquisition strategies, including rapid prototyping, digital engineering, modular open-system architectures, commercial-off-the-shelf components where feasible, and other cost-reduction initiatives to achieve significantly lower unit costs than current baseline systems while maintaining operationally relevant performance;
(2)
prioritize expendable designs optimized for attritable, high-volume employment, compatibility with existing launch platforms, logistics infrastructure, and command-and-control networks, and the ability to complement existing programs of record;
(3)
be designed to enable production at scale in significantly greater quantities than current program of record systems through the prioritization of manufacturing ease and speed;
(4)
include technology maturation, risk reduction, flight testing, and transition planning to low-rate initial production no later than fiscal year 2030 for each category specified in subsection (a); and
(5)
establish specific cost and performance targets through competitive analysis, market research, prototyping, and experimentation.
(c)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
The term  alternative low-cost  systems means weapon systems in the categories listed in subsection (a) that are designed to achieve unit procurement costs significantly lower than existing program of record systems while delivering the minimum requirements set forth by the Secretary.
(2)
The term  cruise missiles  means turbojet-powered missiles designed for standoff precision strike against land or sea targets at ranges generally exceeding 250 nautical miles, with simplified guidance, propulsion, and airframe designs.
(3)
The term  exo-atmospheric interceptors  means kinetic hit-to-kill interceptors designed for ballistic missile defense in the exo-atmosphere, with engagement ranges generally exceeding 300 nautical miles (or equivalent altitudes above 50 nautical miles) and closing speeds of not less than Mach 8.
(4)
The term  extended range munitions  means ground-launched precision munitions designed for extended standoff strike at ranges generally exceeding 50 nautical miles.
(5)
The term  hypersonic strike systems  means systems capable of Mach 5 or greater flight with maneuverability, designed for long-range precision strike against time-sensitive, defended, or high-value targets at ranges generally exceeding 550 nautical miles.
(6)
The term  medium-range air-to-air missiles  means guided missiles providing beyond-visual-range air-to-air intercept capability with diverse target-set engagement potential, performing intercepts at not less than 60 nautical miles and with a maximum speed of not less than Mach 3.
(7)
The term  mid-range integrated air and missile defense interceptors  means interceptors optimized for integrated air and missile defense against cruise missiles, aircraft, and short- to medium-range ballistic missiles, with engagement ranges of not less than 30 nautical miles and speeds of not less than Mach 3.5.
(8)
The term  short-range integrated air and missile defense interceptors  means interceptors for terminal defense against aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial systems, with engagement ranges of not less than five nautical miles and maximum speeds of not less than Mach 2.
(9)
The term  shoulder-launched missiles  means man-portable or vehicle-launched missiles providing fire-and-forget or command-guided anti-armor capability at ranges of not less than one nautical mile.
213.
Modification to the advisory role of the JASON scientific advisory group
Section 222(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92) is amended—
(1)
paragraph (1), by striking  Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment  and inserting  Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering ;
(2)
in paragraph (2), by striking  Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment  and inserting  Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering ;
(3)
in paragraph (4)—
(A)
in subparagraph (A), by striking  for all or a portion of the overhead costs incurred in support of the arrangement  and inserting  for the overhead and infrastructure costs needed to support delivery of JASON’s technical assessments ; and
(B)
in subparagraph (C), by striking  a Federal agency that engages JASON  and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting  the Department of Defense may engage with another Federal agency that routinely uses JASON services to arrange for that agency to pay a proportional percentage of the total overhead and infrastructure costs needed to support delivery of JASON’s technical assessments. ; and
(4)
in paragraph (6), in the matter before subparagraph (A), by inserting  until December 31, 2035  after  this Act .
214.
Modified and streamlined process for developing, negotiating, and concluding certain international agreements
(a)
In general
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall promulgate a modified and streamlined process for developing, negotiating and concluding international agreements relating to science and technology cooperation, including memoranda of understanding and project agreements.
(b)
Elements
The process promulgated under subsection (a) shall—
(1)
comply with all other statutory requirements;
(2)
delegate authority to the maximum extent practicable;
(3)
minimize administrative tasks;
(4)
eliminate duplicative reviews; and
(5)
impose reasonable timelines for intra-Department of Defense coordination.
215.
Repeal of authority relating to temporary hiring of students and university faculty
Section 249 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note) is repealed.
216.
Limitation on availability of funds for Test Resource Management Center containerized instrumentation programs pending report on a common architecture for unmanned maritime test instrumentation
(a)
Limitation
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for containerized instrumentation programs of the Test Resource Management Center, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, in consultation with the Director of the Test Resource Management Center and the Secretaries of the military departments, submits to the congressional defense committees the report described in subsection (b).
(b)
Report on common architecture for unmanned maritime test instrumentation
(1)
In general
The report described in this subsection is a report that details the feasibility, advisability, and cost-benefit analysis of establishing a common architecture for integrating unmanned systems to act as instrumentation platforms for telemetry, flight safety systems, and multi-modal data collection.
(2)
Contents
The report described in paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(A)
A comparative evaluation of the total lifecycle costs, operational benefits, and limitations of alternative manned, containerized, and unmanned vessel instrumentation capabilities. Such evaluation shall include the following:
(i)
A direct comparison of the Blue Water Instrumentation (BWI) program at Point Mugu Sea Range with containerized approaches such as the Broad Ocean Area Data Collection System (BOADCS) and the Mobile Open-System Architecture Instrumentation Containers (MOSAIC) program.
(ii)
An analysis of scalability, adaptability, and agility, contrasting the unmanned systems model of Blue Water Instrumentation with the logistics and crewing demands of containerized systems.
(iii)
A cost-per-event and cost-per-stream analysis for each approach, accounting for platform, personnel, logistics, and sustainment costs.
(B)
An evaluation of whether distributed, unmanned platforms can meet or exceed the data collection requirements for the most stressing test scenarios, including hypersonic vehicle tracking, exoatmospheric intercepts, and terminal area data collection.
(C)
A time-phased investment and transition strategy for making an unmanned architecture the primary approach for future maritime test instrumentation investments. The strategy shall identify specific legacy or containerized programs to be divested or consolidated to fund this transition.
(3)
Form
The report described in paragraph (1) shall be in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
(c)
Definition of containerized instrumentation program
In this section, the term  containerized instrumentation program  means any program of the Test Resource Management Center that primarily relies on packaging test and evaluation instrumentation in roll-on and roll-off shipping containers for deployment on manned vessels, including—
(1)
the Broad Ocean Area Data Collection System (BOADCS), which includes the Maritime Networked Telemetry Asset (MaNTA) system; and
(2)
the Mobile Open-System Architecture Instrumentation Containers (MOSAIC) program.
217.
Limitation on availability of funds for Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering travel
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Operation and Maintenance, Defense-wide, and available to the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering for travel purposes, not more than 90 percent may be obligated or expended until the Directed Energy Working Group provides to the congressional defense committees a briefing as required by section 219(d)(6) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 10 U.S.C. 4205 note).
218.
Limitation on availability of funds for Integrated Combat Systems of the Department of the Navy
(a)
Limitation
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for Integrated Combat Systems of the Department of the Navy, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of the Navy submits to the congressional defense committees the certification required by subsection (c).
(b)
Installation and demonstration
The Secretary of the Navy shall install and demonstrate, aboard one or more destroyers, an operational prototype of the warfighting data ecosystem that includes—
(1)
a shipboard artificial intelligence data engine and sensor-integration layer that provides standardized application programming interfaces to shipboard sensors and enables cross-modal data fusion and artificial intelligence-enabled detection and classification applications;
(2)
a common shipboard graphics processing unit-centric compute and software platform that integrates data workflows across combat systems, command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence systems, and hull, mechanical, and electrical systems; and
(3)
a commercially derived development and test pipeline, including software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop capabilities, that automate integration, verification, certification, and deployment of shipboard software on representative hardware.
(c)
Certification
After completion of the installation and demonstration required by subsection (b), the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a certification that the Secretary has installed and demonstrated the operational prototype of the warfighting data ecosystem as required by subsection (b).
219.
Limitation on the use of travel funds for the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operations and maintenance, Defense-wide, and available for travel expenses for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, not more than 85 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of Defense provides each of the following to the congressional defense committees:
(1)
The strategy and plan required by section 236(e) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note).
(2)
The report on  Gaming, exercising, modeling, and simulation to support great power competition  requested in Senate report 117–130 accompanying the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263).
220.
Codification of Department of Defense Research Security Program
(a)
In general
Chapter 305 of title 10, United States Code is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
4146.
Department of Defense Research Security Program
(a)
Program established
The Secretary of Defense shall, in consultation with such other government organizations as the Secretary considers appropriate, establish a program to work with institutions of higher education that perform fundamental basic research activities—
(1)
to support protection of intellectual property, controlled information, key personnel, and information about critical technologies relevant to national security;
(2)
to limit undue influence, including through foreign talent programs, by countries to exploit United States technology within the Department of Defense research, science and technology, and innovation enterprise;
(3)
to support efforts toward development of domestic talent in relevant scientific and engineering fields; and
(4)
to prepare United States students studying abroad through the National Security Education Program of the Department or other similar undergraduate or post-graduate programs to recognize and protect themselves against recruitment or exploitation efforts by agents of a foreign power (as defined in section 101 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801)).
(b)
Institutions and organizations
(1)
In general
The program required by subsection (a) shall be developed and executed to the maximum extent practicable with institutions of higher education and other educational and research organizations conducting fundamental basic research for the Department of Defense, and aligned to the maximum extent practicable with similar efforts across the Federal Government.
(2)
Record of excellence
In selecting institutions of higher education under this subsection, the Secretary shall prioritize selection of institutions of higher education that the Secretary determines demonstrate a record of excellence in industrial security in academia and in research and development.
(c)
Requirements
The program required by subsection (a) shall include development of the following:
(1)
Information exchange fora and information repositories to enable awareness of security threats and influence operations being executed against the United States research, technology, and innovation enterprise, including support coordinating relevant elements of the Department of Defense and the rest of the Federal Government.
(2)
Training and other support for institutions of higher education to promote security and limit undue influence on institutions and personnel, including financial support for execution for such activities.
(3)
The capacity of government and academic institutions and institutions of higher education to assess whether individuals affiliated with Department of Defense programs have participated in or are currently participating in foreign talent programs or expert recruitment programs, or are otherwise being targeted for exploitation by an agent of a foreign power.
(4)
Opportunities to collaborate with defense researchers and research organizations in secure facilities to promote protection of critical information and strengthen defense against agents of foreign powers.
(5)
Regulations and procedures—
(A)
for government and academic organizations and personnel to support the goals of the program; and
(B)
that are consistent with policies that protect open and scientific exchange in fundamental research and coordinated to the maximum extent practicable with similar efforts across the Federal Government.
(6)
Policies to limit or prohibit funding provided by the Department of Defense for institutions of higher education or individual researchers who knowingly violate regulations developed under the program, including regulations relating to foreign talent programs.
(7)
Policies to limit or prohibit funding provided by the Department of Defense for institutions of higher education or individual researchers who knowingly conduct joint research activities or projects, co-author scholarly publications, technical reports, or research outputs, contract, or make other financial arrangements with entities   or individuals employed by such entities in the list described in paragraph (9), which policies shall include—
(A)
use of such list as part of a risk assessment decision matrix during proposal evaluations, including the development of a question for proposers or broad area announcements that require proposers to disclose any joint research activities or projects, co-authored scholarly publications, technical reports, research outputs, or contractual or financial connections with such entities or individuals employed by such entities;
(B)
a requirement that the Department shall notify a proposer of suspected noncompliance with a policy issued under this paragraph and provide not less than 30 days to take actions to remedy such noncompliance;
(C)
the establishment of an appeals procedure under which a proposer may appeal a negative decision on a proposal if the decision is based on a determination informed by such list;
(D)
a requirement that each awardee of funding provided by the Department shall disclose to the Department any joint research activities or projects, co-authored scholarly publications, technical reports, research outputs, contract, or financial arrangement made with such an entity or individual employed by such entity during the period of the award; and
(E)
a requirement that each awardee of funding provided by the Department shall provide to the Department an annual certification of compliance with policies promulgated pursuant to this paragraph.
(8)
Initiatives to support the transition of the results of academic institution research programs into defense capabilities.
(9)
(A)
A list of entities of the People’s Republic of China, the Russian Federation, and other countries that—
(i)
have a history of improper technology transfer, intellectual property theft, or cyber or human espionage;
(ii)
operate under the direction of the armed forces or intelligence agency of the applicable country;
(iii)
are known—
(I)
to recruit foreign individuals for the purpose of transferring knowledge to advance military or intelligence efforts of a foreign government; or
(II)
to provide misleading information or otherwise attempt to conceal the connections of an individual or institution to a defense or an intelligence agency of the applicable country;
(iv)
pose a serious risk of improper technology transfer of data, technology, or research that is not published or publicly available; or
(v)
are on any of the following lists:
(I)
Any of the following lists maintained by the Bureau of Industry and Security of th Department of Commerce:
(aa)
The Entity List set forth in Supplement No. 4 to part 744 of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations.
(bb)
The Universal List set forth in Supplement No. 6 of part 744 of that title.
(cc)
The Military-End User List set forth in Supplement No. 7 to part 744 of that title.
(dd)
The Denied Persons List maintained pursuant to section 764.3(a)(2) of that title.
(II)
The list of specially designed nationals and blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Asserts Control of the Department of the Treasury (commonly referred to as the  SDN list ).
(III)
The list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States required by section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
(IV)
The lists of debarred parties maintained by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls of the Department of State pursuant to section 38(g)(4)of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2778(g))(4).
(V)
The list of telecommunications companies of the People’s Republic of China described in section 889(f)(3) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorizations Act of 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).
(VI)
The list of semiconductor companies of the People’s Republic of China described in section 5949(i)(3) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 41 U.S.C. 4713 note).
(VII)
The list of biotechnology companies of concern maintained under section 851(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).
(VIII)
The list of entities that produce or provide communications equipment or service on the list published by the Federal Communications Commission under section 2(a) of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 (47 U.S.C. 1601(a)).
(IX)
A list maintained under clause (i), (ii), (iv), or (v) of section 2(d)(2)(B) of the Act entitled  An Act to ensure that the goods made with forced labor in Xinjiang Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China do not enter the United States market, and for other purposes (Public Law 117–18; 22 U.S.C. 6901 note), approved December 23, 2021 (commonly referred to as the  Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act ).
(B)
The list described in subparagraph (A) shall be developed and continuously updated in consultation with the Bureau of Industry and Security of the Department of Commerce, the Director of National Intelligence, United States institutions of higher education that conduct significant Department of Defense research or engineering activities, and other appropriate individuals and organizations.
(10)
(A)
A list, developed and continuously updated in consultation with the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine and such Government agencies as the Secretary considers appropriate, of foreign talent programs that the Secretary determines pose a threat to the national security interests of the United States.
(B)
In developing and updating such list, the Secretary shall consider—
(i)
the extent to which a foreign talent program or an agent of a foreign power—
(I)
poses a threat to research funded by the Department of Defense; and
(II)
engages in, or facilitates, cyber attacks, theft, espionage, attempts to gain ownership of or influence over companies, or otherwise interferes in the affairs of the United States; and
(ii)
any other factor the Secretary considers appropriate.
(11)
Development of measures of effectiveness and performance to assess and track progress of the Department of Defense across the program, which measures shall include—
(A)
the evaluation of currently available data to support the assessment of such measures, including the identification of areas in which gaps exist that may require collection of completely new data, or modifications to existing data sets;
(B)
current means and methods for the collection of data in an automated manner, including the identification of areas in which gaps exist that may require new means for data collection or visualization of such data; and
(C)
the development of an analysis and assessment methodology framework to make tradeoffs between the measures developed under this paragraph and other metrics related to assessing undue foreign influence on the Department of Defense research enterprise, such as commercial due diligence, beneficial ownership, and foreign ownership, control, and influence.
(d)
Annual reviews required
Not later than March 30, 2025, and each March 30 thereafter until December 31, 2040—
(1)
each head of a Department of Defense component that awards grants for research shall carry out a review of a representative sample of the research grants awarded by the respective component in the previous fiscal year to ensure that the component is awarding grants in compliance with the applicable policies of the Department; and
(2)
the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering shall carry out a separate review of a representative sample of the research grants awarded by such components in the previous fiscal year.
(e)
Procedures for enhanced information sharing
(1)
Collection of information
(A)
Not later than October 1, 2020, for the purpose of maintaining appropriate security controls over research activities, technical information, and intellectual property, the Secretary shall, in conjunction with such public and private entities as the Secretary considers appropriate, establish streamlined procedures to collect appropriate information relating to individuals, including United States citizens and foreign nationals, who participate in defense research and development activities.
(B)
With respect to fundamental research programs, the academic liaison designated under subsection (h) shall establish policies and procedures to collect, consistent with the best practices of Government agencies that fund academic research, appropriate information relating to individuals who participate in fundamental research programs.
(2)
Protection from release
The procedures required by paragraph (1) shall include procedures to protect such information from release, consistent with applicable regulations.
(3)
Reporting to government information systems and repositories
The procedures required by paragraph (1) may include procedures developed, in coordination with such public and private entities as the Secretary considers appropriate, to report such information to existing Government information systems and repositories.
(f)
Periodic reports
(1)
In general
Not later than March 30, 2027, and not later than March 30 of each year thereafter until December 31, 2040, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the activities carried out under the program required by subsection (a), the periodic reviews conducted pursuant to subsection (d), and the waivers issued under section 4147 of this title.
(2)
Contents
Each report submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(A)
A description of the activities conducted and the progress made under the program.
(B)
With respect to the periodic reviews conducted pursuant to subsection (d), the following:
(i)
The total number of research grants awarded by the Department in the fiscal year covered by the reviews.
(ii)
The number of reviews carried out pursuant to subsection (d)(1).
(iii)
The number of reviews carried out pursuant to subsection (d)(2).
(iv)
A description of the processes by which the heads of the components described in paragraph (1) of subsection (d) and the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering conducted the reviews under such subsection.
(v)
An assessment of issues identified during the reviews carried out under subsection (d), including a list of grants that were identified as having not been awarded in compliance with applicable policies of the Department of Defense.
(C)
The findings of the Secretary with respect to the program.
(D)
Such recommendations as the Secretary may have for legislative or administrative action relating to the matters described in subsection (a), including actions relating to foreign talent programs.
(E)
Identification and discussion of the gaps in legal authorities that need to be improve to enhance the security of research institutions of higher education performing defense research.
(F)
A description of the actions taken by such institutions to comply with such best practices and guidelines as may be established by under the program.
(G)
A description of the status of the measures of effectiveness and performance described in subsection (c)(11) for the period covered by such report, including an analytical assessment of the impact of such measures on the goals of the program.
(H)
With respect to waivers described in paragraph (1), the following:
(i)
The terms and contents of any waivers issued under section 4147 of this title in the period covered by the report;
(ii)
any trends in—
(I)
the number of waivers issued under such section over time; and
(II)
the types of contracts to which such waivers pertain; and
(iii)
the processes used by the Secretary to verify that covered institutions (as defined in such section) are in compliance with the requirements of such section.
(3)
Form
The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
(g)
Publication of updated lists
(1)
Submittal to Congress
Not later than January 1, 2021, and annually thereafter until December 31, 2032, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees the most recently updated lists described in paragraphs (9) and (10) of subsection (c).
(2)
Form
Each list submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
(3)
Public availability
Each list submitted under paragraph (1) shall be published on a publicly accessible website of the Department of Defense in a searchable format.
(4)
Intervening submittal and publication
The Secretary may submit and publish an updated list described in paragraph (1) more frequently than required by that paragraph, as the Secretary considers necessary.
(h)
Designation of academic liaison
(1)
In general
The Secretary shall, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, designate an academic liaison with principal responsibility for working with the academic and research communities to protect Department-sponsored academic research of concern from undue foreign influence and threats.
(2)
Qualification
The Secretary shall designate an individual under paragraph (1) who is an official of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering with experience—
(A)
working in security, counterintelligence, or academic research environments; and
(B)
with complex managerial tasks.
(3)
Duties
The duties of the academic liaison designated under paragraph (1) shall be as follows:
(A)
To serve as the liaison of the Department with the academic and research communities.
(B)
To execute initiatives of the Department relating to the protection of Department-sponsored academic research of concern from undue foreign influence and threats, including the program required by subsection (a).
(C)
To conduct outreach and education activities for the academic and research communities on undue foreign influence and threats to Department-sponsored academic research of concern.
(D)
To coordinate and align academic security policies with Department component agencies, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the intelligence community, and such Federal agencies as the Secretary considers appropriate.
(E)
To the extent practicable, to coordinate with the intelligence community to share, not less frequently than annually, with the academic and research communities unclassified information, including counterintelligence information, on threats from undue foreign influence.
(F)
Any other related responsibility, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
(i)
Designation of chief research security officers
(1)
In general
Each institution of higher education that receives Department of Defense funding and more than $50,000,000 in total Federal research funding annually shall designate at least one senior official to serve as the institution’s Chief Research Security Officer.
(2)
Qualifications and duties
Each Chief Research Security Officer designated under (h) shall—
(A)
be a Vice President for Research, Chief Research Officer, or another designated senior official at the institution with responsibility for research administration, compliance, or institutional security, as determined appropriate by the institution; and
(B)
serve as the principal institutional officer and primary point of contact with the Department of Defense, and other appropriate Federal authorities on matters relating to research security associated with Department of Defense–funded research, including undue foreign influence, cybersecurity pertaining to such research, insider risk, and related threats.
(3)
Eligibility for department of defense security clearances and training
(A)
The Chief Research Security Officer shall be eligible for sponsorship for an appropriate personnel security clearance for purposes of Department of Defense–funded research security, as determined by the Secretary of Defense.
(B)
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the appropriate Department of Defense security and counterintelligence authorities, and in coordination with other appropriate Federal intelligence agencies, shall establish processes—
(i)
to facilitate the sponsorship, adjudication, and issuance of appropriate personnel security clearances for Chief Research Security Officers, including through Department of Defense security clearance processes;
(ii)
to provide threat-related training, briefings, and information, including classified briefings as appropriate, related to risks to Department of Defense-funded research; and
(iii)
to ensure that information shared is relevant, timely, and provided solely for defensive, awareness, and protective purposes.
(4)
Scope and limitations
(A)
Information shared pursuant to this section shall be limited to information necessary to protect Department of Defense–funded research and associated research activities.
(B)
Nothing in this section shall be construed—
(i)
to require institutions of higher education to conduct classified research;
(ii)
to reclassify or otherwise restrict fundamental research;
(iii)
to impose new export control, classification, or security requirements on research that is otherwise unrestricted under applicable law or policy; or
(iv)
to infringe upon academic freedom, freedom of expression, or other lawful academic activities.
(5)
Alignment with existing department of defense research security requirements
The requirements of this section shall be implemented consistent with Department of Defense research security policies and programs, including National Security Presidential Memorandum–33 (relating to supported research and development national policy), issued January 2021, applicable Department of Defense directives and instructions, and guidance issued by the Office of Science and Technology Policy, as relevant to Department of Defense-funded research.
(j)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
The term  agent of a foreign power  has the meaning given such term in section 101 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801).
(2)
The term  institution of higher education  has the meaning given such term in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001).
(3)
The term  intelligence community  has the meaning given such term in section 3 of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3003).
4147.
Prohibition on contracts between certain foreign entities and institutions of higher education conducting Department of Defense-funded research
(a)
Prohibition
Beginning on January 1, 2028, a covered institution may not enter into a contract with a covered nation or a foreign entity of concern.
(b)
Waivers
(1)
Authority
Subject to the provisions of this subsection and subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense may, pursuant to a request submitted under paragraph (2) of this subsection, issue a waiver of the prohibition set forth in subsection (a).
(2)
Submission
(A)
(i)
A covered institution that desires to enter into a contract with a foreign entity of concern or a covered nation may submit to the Secretary of Defense, not later than 120 days before the institution enters into such a contract, a request to waive the prohibition set forth in subsection (a) with respect to such contract.
(ii)
A waiver request submitted by a covered institution under clause (i) shall include—
(I)
the complete and unredacted text of the proposed contract for which the waiver is being requested, and if such original contract is not in English, a translated copy of the text into English (in a manner that complies with subsection (e)); and
(II)
a statement that—
(aa)
is signed by the President or compliance officer of the institution designated in accordance with subsection (f); and
(bb)
includes information that demonstrates that such contract is for the benefit of the institution’s mission and students and will promote the security, stability, and economic vitality of the United States.
(B)
(i)
A covered institution that has entered into a contract pursuant to a waiver issued under this section, the term of which is longer than the 1-year waiver period and the terms and conditions of which remain the same as the proposed contract submitted as part of the request for such waiver, may submit, not later than 120 days before the expiration of such waiver period, a request for a renewal of such waiver for the remainder of the contract term, but not to exceed a 4-year period (which shall include any information requested by the Secretary).
(ii)
If a covered institution fails to submit a request under clause (i) or is not granted a renewal under such clause, such institution shall terminate such contract on the last day of the original 1-year waiver period.
(3)
Waiver issuance
The Secretary of Defense—
(A)
not later than 60 days before a covered institution enters into a contract pursuant to a waiver request under paragraph (2)(A), or before a contract described in paragraph (2)(B)(i) is renewed pursuant to a renewal request under such paragraph, shall notify the covered institution—
(i)
if the waiver or renewal will be issued by the Secretary; and
(ii)
in a case in which the waiver or renewal will be issued, the date on which the 1-year waiver period starts;
(B)
may only issue a waiver under this subsection to a covered institution if the Secretary of Defense determines that the contract for which the waiver is being requested will both—
(i)
benefit the institution’s mission and students; and
(ii)
promote the security, stability, and economic vitality of the United States; and
(C)
shall, when making the determination described in subparagraph (B)(ii), base such determination on the following factors:
(i)
The reasons for which the foreign entity of concern or covered nation has been so designated, and why those reasons do not apply to the contract for which waiver is being sought.
(ii)
The foreign entity of concern or covered nation’s history of involvement with covered institutions.
(iii)
The degree to which such a contract could provide access to information or technology which could materially benefit the national security of a covered nation or harm the national security of the United States.
(4)
Notification to Congress
Not later than 15 calendar days prior to issuing a waiver under this subsection, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives written notice of the intent of the Secretary to issue such waiver together with a justification for such waiver.
(5)
Application of waivers
A waiver issued under this subsection to a covered institution with respect to a contract shall only—
(A)
waive the prohibition under subsection (a) for a 1-year period, or for the remainder of the term of the contract, but not to exceed 4 years; and
(B)
apply to the terms and conditions of the proposed contract submitted as part of the request for such waiver.
(c)
Contracts prior to date of enactment
(1)
In general
In the case of a covered institution that entered into contract with a covered nation or foreign entity of concern prior to January 1, 2028, and which contract remains in effect on such date, the Secretary shall notify the congressional defense committees within 90 days of enactment of this section.
(2)
Renewal
A covered institution that has entered into a contract described in paragraph (1), the term of which is longer than the waiver period described in subparagraph (B) of such paragraph and the terms and conditions of which remain the same as the contract submitted as part of the request required under subparagraph (A) of such paragraph, may submit a request for renewal of the waiver issued under such paragraph in accordance with subsection (c)(2)(B).
(d)
Designation during contract term
In the case of a covered institution that enters into a contract with a foreign source that is not a covered nation or a foreign entity of concern but which, during the term of such contract, is redesignated as a covered nation or foreign entity of concern, such institution shall terminate such contract not later than 120 days after the Secretary notifies the covered institution of such designation or immediately requests a waiver.
(e)
Translation requirement
Any information required to be disclosed under this section with respect to a contract that is not in English shall be translated, for purposes of such disclosure, by a person that is not an affiliated entity or agent of the covered nation or foreign entity of concern involved with such contract.
(f)
Compliance officer
Each covered institution applying for a waiver under subsection (c), shall identify a compliance officer, who shall—
(1)
be a current employee or legally authorized agent of such institution; and
(2)
be responsible, on behalf of such institution, for personally certifying—
(A)
compliance with the prohibition under this section; and
(B)
the truth and accuracy of any information contained in such a waiver request.
(g)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
(A)
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the term  contract  means—
(i)
any agreement or memorandum of understanding for the acquisition, by purchase, lease, or barter, of property or services by or from a covered nation or foreign entity of concern; or
(ii)
any affiliation, agreement, or similar transaction with a covered nation or foreign entity of concern that involves the use or exchange of the name, likeness, time, services, or resources of a covered institution.
(B)
The term  contract  does not include—
(i)
an agreement solely or primarily for the purposes of conducting a study-abroad program wherein students at covered institutions in the United States travel to a covered nation to study;
(ii)
short-term, ancillary agreements such as employment contracts for visiting professorships or sponsored travel or visas of foreign nationals employed by institutions of higher education, excluding those affiliated with foreign entities of concern;
(iii)
an arms-length agreement for the acquisition by purchase, lease, or barter of property or services for the covered institution from a foreign entity of concern; or
(iv)
an agreement pertaining to a pre-existing campus or other satellite facility of a covered institution located in a covered nation or a joint facility of a covered institution and another entity located in a covered nation, including assignment or license of a trademark or copyright related to the name, likeness, mascot or similar image, unless that facility could provide access to information or technology which could materially benefit the national security of a covered nation or harm the national security of the United States.
(2)
The term  covered institution  means an institution of higher education that conducts research funded by the Department of Defense.
(3)
The term  covered nation  has the meaning given that term in section 4872(d) of this title.
(4)
The term  foreign entity of concern  means any person or entity on any of the following lists:
(A)
Any of the following lists maintained by the Bureau of Industry and Security of the Department of Commerce:
(i)
The Entity List set forth in Supplement No. 4 to part 744 of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations.
(ii)
The Unverified List set forth in Supplement No. 6 part 744 of that title.
(iii)
The Military End-User List set forth in Supplement No. 7 to part 744 of that title.
(iv)
The Denied Persons List maintained pursuant to section 764.3(a)(2) of that title.
(B)
The list of specifically designated nationals and blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of Treasury (commonly referred to as the  SDN list ).
(C)
The list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States required by section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
(D)
The lists of debarred parties maintained by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls of the Department of State pursuant to section 38(g)(4)of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2778(g)(4)).
(E)
The list of telecommunications companies of the People’s Republic of China described in section 889(f)(3) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorizations Act of 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).
(F)
The list of semiconductor companies of the People’s Republic of China described in section 5949(i)(3) of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year2023 (Public Law 117–263; 41 U.S.C. 4713 note).
(G)
The list of biotechnology companies of concern maintained under section 851(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).
(H)
The list of entities that produce or provide communications equipment or service on the list published by the Federal Communications Commission under section 2(a) of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 (47 U.S.C. 1601(a)).
(I)
A list maintained under clause (i), (ii), (iv), or (v) of section 2(d)(2)(B) of the Act entitled  An Act to ensure that the goods made with forced labor in Xinjiang Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China d o not enter the United States market, and for other purposes , approved December 23, 2021 (Public Law 117–18; 22 U.S.C. 6901 note) (commonly referred to as the  Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act ).
(5)
The term  institution of higher education  has the meaning given that term in section 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002).
 .
(b)
Conforming repeals
The following sections are hereby repealed:
(1)
Section 1277 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law 115–91; 50 U.S.C. 1914).
(2)
Section 1286 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note).
(c)
Conforming amendment
Section 1062(b)(2) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 2241 note) is amended by striking  subsection (g) of section 1286 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (10 U.S.C. 2358 note), as amended by section 1299C of this Act,  and inserting  section 4146(h) of title 10, United States Code, .
221.
Codification of Department of Defense Science, Technology, and Innovation Board
Subchapter I of chapter 303 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
4068.
Department of Defense Science, Technology, and Innovation Board
(a)
Advisory board established
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, establish and maintain a Science, Technology, and Innovation Board (in this section referred to as the  Board ) for the purposes set forth in subsection (b).
(b)
Purpose
(1)
In general
The purpose of the Board is to advise, in response to taskings, the Secretary of Defense, the Deputy Secretary of Defense, the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the other Under Secretaries of the Department of Defense on matters relating to science, technology, research, engineering, manufacturing, acquisition process, and other matters that are of special interest to the Department of Defense.
(2)
Matters of concern to the Board; identification of technologies
The Board shall—
(A)
be concerned with the pressing and complex technology problems facing the Department of Defense in such areas as research, engineering, and manufacturing; and
(B)
ensure the identification of new technologies and new applications of technology in those areas to strengthen national security.
(c)
Charter
The Board shall maintain a public charter describing its functions, which shall be updated periodically as the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering considers necessary.
(d)
Agency providing support; staff
(1)
In general
The Board shall report to the Secretary of Defense through the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
(2)
Executive Director and support staff
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering shall provide the Board with an Executive Director and the necessary support staff to manage the day-to-day operations of the Board and its ad hoc task forces.
(3)
Compliance officer
The Board shall have a designated Federal officer to ensure compliance of the Board with all Department of Defense policies and procedures and relevant Federal regulations.
(4)
Detailees and liaisons
The Board may accept detailees from the military departments or components of the Department of Defense to serve as Armed Forces liaisons to the Board and support Board activities.
(e)
Membership
(1)
Composition
The Board shall be composed of not more than 50 members as full board members, who shall be eminent authorities in the fields of science, technology, innovation, and other matters germane to scientific, technological, and innovation topics of special interest to the Department of Defense.
(2)
Terms
(A)
The appointment of Board members shall be approved by the Department of Defense Appointing Authority for a term of service of one to four years, with annual renewals, in accordance with Department of Defense policy and procedures.
(B)
No member, unless approved by the Department of Defense Appointing Authority, may serve more than two consecutive terms of service on the Board, including its subcommittees, unless a waiver is approved by the Under Secretary.
(3)
Leadership
The Department of Defense Appointing Authority shall appoint the leadership of the Board from among the members of the Board, in accordance with Department of Defense policy and procedures, for a term of service of one to two years, with annual renewal, which shall not exceed the term of a member's appointment to the Board.
(4)
Compensation of members
Except for reimbursement for official Board-related travel and per diem, members of the Board members shall serve without compensation.
(f)
Subcommittees, task forces, panels, or working groups
(1)
In general
(A)
When necessary and consistent with the Board’s mission, the Board may establish subcommittees, task forces, panels, or working groups (hereafter referred to as  subcommittees ) to support Board activities.
(B)
The establishment of subcommittees shall be based upon a written determination, which shall include terms of reference, by the Department of Defense Appointing Authority or the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, as the Board’s sponsor.
(2)
FACA and compliance
All subcommittees operate in accordance with chapter 10 of title 5 (commonly known as the  Federal Advisory Committee Act ), governing Federal statutes and regulations, and Department of Defense policy and procedures.
(3)
Operations
(A)
A subcommittee shall not work independently of the Board and shall report all of its recommendations and advice solely to the Board for its thorough deliberation and discussion at a properly noticed and open Board meeting, unless the meeting must be closed in accordance with one or more of the exemptions found in section 552b of title 5.
(B)
A subcommittee has no authority to make decisions and recommendations, orally or in writing, on behalf of the Board.
(4)
Appointment to subcommittees
Individual appointments to serve on subcommittees, which are separate and distinct from appointments to the Board itself, shall be approved by the Department of Defense Appointing Authority for a term of service of one to four years, with annual renewals, in accordance with Department of Defense policy and procedures.
(g)
Frequency of meetings
The Board shall meet not less frequently than four times each year on a quarterly basis to update the Secretary and senior leadership on the activities of the Board.
 .
222.
Alternative programs to expand inventory of air defense interceptors
(a)
Alternative programs required
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall explore, establish, and carry out efforts to increase the inventory of air defense interceptors by pursuing each of the following pathways:
(1)
Cost-reduction initiatives for existing missile systems, including value engineering, design-for-manufacturability improvements, and supply-chain efficiencies.
(2)
Delivery of technical data packages on a contract-manufacturing basis to additional manufacturers, including manufacturers in the commercial sector, consistent with applicable technical data rights or agreements with the technical data owners.
(3)
Sourcing of interceptors from allies and partners and the exploration of opportunities to establish or expand domestic production lines for such interceptors, including through co-production, licensed manufacturing, or foreign military sales arrangements.
(4)
Performance of market research across industry and the Department of Defense science and technology reinvention laboratories to identify critical components for air defense interceptors and to support the rapid integration, testing, and qualification of a new or modified interceptor design.
(b)
Report required
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report describing—
(1)
the specific activities conducted under each of the pathways required by subsection (a);
(2)
for each pathway, the potential improvements in unit cost, schedule, and production volume that could be achieved, as compared to any identified impacts on the performance, reliability, or other capabilities of the affected missile systems; and
(3)
the Secretary’s recommended path or paths forward, including any legislative or budgetary proposals necessary to implement or expand successful efforts.
223.
Improvements to personnel management authority to attract experts in science, engineering, and certain other disciplines at Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
Section 4092(b)(1)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking the semicolon and inserting  , of which not more than 40 of the 140 positions may be occupied concurrently by 2 individuals, for a period not to exceed 90 days, for the purposes of accommodating recruitment cycles and managing personnel rotations, and any such concurrent occupancy shall be counted as a single position against the total number of positions set forth in this subparagraph; .
224.
Extension of limitation on availability of funds for fundamental research collaboration with certain academic institutions
Section 238(a) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159), as amended by section 215 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60), is amended by striking  or fiscal year 2026  and inserting  , fiscal year 2026, or fiscal year 2027 .
C
Plans, reports, and other matters
231.
Assessment framework for future quantum computing programs
(a)
Framework required
Not later than June 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, develop a framework for assessing the development or acquisition of future quantum computing systems, algorithms, or hybrid-quantum computing services informed by the practices developed under the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative.
(b)
Requirements
In developing the framework required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall leverage the work products, insights, and lessons learned from the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative to help programs, technical developers, or source selection evaluators assess the following:
(1)
The ability of a system, algorithm, or service to achieve mission-relevant capability for the Department of Defense.
(2)
Risks and the sufficiency of risk mitigation steps in developing or acquiring a relevant system, algorithm, or service.
(3)
Timelines, technical enabling infrastructure, user requirements, doctrinal or employment conceptual needs, and training needs associated with the development or acquisition of a system, algorithm, or service.
(c)
Issuance of policy guidance
Not later than December 1, 2027, the Secretary shall issue policy guidance to the Department regarding the use of the assessment framework required under subsection (a).
232.
Execution of the Additive Manufacturing for Rocket Propellant systems
(a)
Program of record determination
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a determination confirming whether the Additive Manufacturing for Rocket Propellant systems should be formally established as a program of record.
(b)
Briefing requirement
Not later than April 15, 2027, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a briefing on Army efforts relating to Additive Manufacturing for Rocket Propellant systems, including its procurement funding, and integration strategies.
233.
Report on emerging technology and cognitive warfare
(a)
In general
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the implications of emerging technologies to support Department of Defense cognitive warfare.
(b)
Contents
The report submitted pursuant to subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1)
An identification and assessment of emerging technologies that have current or near-term application to cognitive warfare and operations in the information environment of the Department of Defense, including artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, synthetic media generation, analytical tools, including narrative intelligence, and neuroscience-based influence technologies.
(2)
An assessment of how adversaries of the United States, including China and Russia, are researching, developing, or employing such technologies in support of cognitive warfare objectives.
(3)
An assessment of how allies and partners of the United States, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, are researching, developing, or employing such technologies in support of cognitive warfare objectives.
(4)
An assessment of opportunities for the Department of Defense to leverage the defense industrial base, academic research institutions, and allied and partner countries in accelerating the development and fielding of relevant cognitive warfare technologies, including recommendations for public-private partnership mechanisms and international cooperation agreements.
(5)
Such other matters as the Secretary considers appropriate.
234.
Department of Defense electronics requirements study
(a)
Agreement
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall seek to enter into an agreement with an organization the Secretary considers qualified, to perform the services covered by this section.
(2)
Timing
The Secretary shall seek to enter into the agreement described in paragraph (1) such that the services covered by this section are completed before the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(b)
Study
Under an agreement between the Secretary and an organization under subsection (a), the organization shall carry out a comprehensive study analyzing current and future electronics requirements for defense systems, with particular emphasis on electronic warfare capabilities and semiconductor packaging solutions.
(c)
Elements
The study carried out under subsection (b) shall include the following:
(1)
Current state assessment
An assessment that includes—
(A)
a system-level analysis of electronics needs and core functions across existing defense platforms;
(B)
documentation of current operational requirements, including—
(i)
electronic warfare systems’ parallel target acquisition capabilities;
(ii)
threat differentiation and classification requirements; and
(iii)
counter-electronic warfare response timeframes and performance specifications;
(C)
a catalog and categorization of existing technology implementations by type and application; and
(D)
an assessment of current semiconductor packaging functions and their relationship to system performance.
(2)
Technology landscape analysis
An analysis that includes engagement with semiconductor industry experts, including Intel Corporation and other leading manufacturers—
(A)
to map system-level requirements to semiconductor-level specifications;
(B)
to identify current technology gaps and limitations; and
(C)
to analyze existing supply chain dependencies and vulnerabilities.
(3)
Future requirements definition
Development of a definition of future requirements that includes—
(A)
a survey of stakeholders to identify desired future capabilities and performance targets;
(B)
next-generation electronics requirements across multiple domains;
(C)
scalability requirements and capability roadmaps; and
(D)
documentation of emerging technology scenarios.
(4)
Modular architecture framework
Development of a framework that includes—
(A)
recommendations for standardized, modular electronics building blocks;
(B)
interface specifications to enable interoperable capabilities;
(C)
a framework for aggregate demand forecasting;
(D)
strategies for mitigating diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages; and
(E)
upgrade pathways that minimize system-wide impacts.
(d)
Report
(1)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the organization with whom the Secretary entered into a contract under subsection (a) with regards to the study carried out under subsection (b).
(2)
Contents
The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(A)
The findings described in paragraph (1).
(B)
An implementation roadmap with timeline and resource requirements.
(C)
Risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
(3)
Form
The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
III
Operation and Maintenance
A
Authorization of Appropriations
301.
Authorization of appropriations
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the use of the Armed Forces and other activities and agencies of the Department of Defense for expenses, not otherwise provided for, for operation and maintenance, as specified in the funding table in section 4301.
B
Energy and Environment
311.
Modifications to Advanced Nuclear Transition Working Group
Section 319 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60) is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b)(1), by striking  The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment  and inserting  The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs ; and
(2)
in subsection (c), by striking  The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs  and inserting  The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment .
312.
Prioritization of deployment of expeditionary solid waste disposal systems
The Secretary of Defense shall prioritize deployment of expeditionary solid waste disposal systems to contingency locations where open air burn pits remain in use, including Ar Riyan (Owen), Yemen, and other locations where members of the Armed Forces face elevated exposure risk due to the absence of feasible waste disposal alternatives.
313.
Authorization of sustainable aviation fuel procurement
Section 2911 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(k)
Sustainable aviation fuel procurement
The Secretary of Defense may procure sustainable aviation fuel for operational or training purposes at a cost that exceeds the cost of conventional petroleum-based aviation fuel.
 .
314.
Grid resiliency and energy redundancy
Section 2911(e) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by redesignating paragraphs (9) through (13) as paragraphs (10) through (14), respectively; and
(2)
by inserting after paragraph (8) the following new paragraph (9):
(9)
The value of establishing operational redundancy in both the primary procurement sourcing of energy and the specific physical categories of energy utilized to support critical mission infrastructure, ensuring the continuous availability of independent baseload generation capacities in the event of commercial or regional utility disruption.
 .
315.
Mandatory grid impact and infrastructure power requirements for enhanced use leases
(a)
Requirements
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that any enhanced use lease executed, extended, or renewed under section 2667 and 2662 of title 10, United States Code, for purposes of infrastructure, facility modernization, or energy production of the Department of Defense shall include a comprehensive, formalized assessment of localized grid impacts and infrastructure power demands.
(b)
Elements of assessment
The assessment required under subsection (a) shall explicitly document and discuss the following:
(1)
The projected net effects of the proposed enhanced use lease on the stability, capacity, and reliability of the surrounding local commercial electric grid, including potential impacts on voltage regulation, transmission congestion, and utility-scale baseline capacity.
(2)
The total peak and baseline electrical power required to fully sustain and operate all new infrastructure, facilities, or capabilities constructed on the leased property under the enhanced use lease.
316.
Storage capacity enhancements
(a)
Plan required
(1)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Transportation Command, the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency, and the Secretary of each military department, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive master plan to expand, harden, and optimize bulk storage capacity at strategic locations worldwide.
(2)
Elements of the plan
The plan required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
(A)
The establishment of theater-specific minimum operational storage capacity floors for all types of fuel used by the Department of Defense, including any high-priority strategic nodes capable of sustaining critical mission essential tasks for a minimum period of time determined by the Department without external replenishment.
(B)
A program and engineering assessment to construct hardened, semi-buried, underground, distributed, or geologic storage infrastructure and modular fueling nodes designed to withstand kinetic, cyber, and environmental threats.
(C)
A strategy to transition from single, large-scale vulnerable bulk fuel hubs to decentralized and redundant storage networks within individual installation footprints to mitigate single points of failure.
(b)
Congressional submission
(1)
Submission of master plan
Upon completion of the plan required under subsection (a), and not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit the master plan to the congressional defense committees.
(2)
Form of report
The plan submitted under paragraph (1) and any accompanying project list shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex to protect specific operational readiness thresholds and vulnerability profiles of designated strategic locations.
317.
Revision of policy on use of open-air burn pits not controlled by Department of Defense
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall revise the policy of the Department of Defense governing the use of open-air burn pits consistent with the findings and recommendations contained in the report by the Inspector General of the Department of Defense dated July 11, 2024, and entitled  Management Advisory: Non-DoD Solid Waste Burning At or Near DoD-Occupied Sites  (DODIG–2024–107).
318.
Assessment of energy supplied to installations and operational forces of the Department of Defense
(a)
In general
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Transportation Command and the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive assessment of the current status, sourcing, and security of all forms of energy supplied to installations and operational forces of the Department of Defense.
(b)
Elements of assessment
The assessment required under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
(1)
A complete accounting of the geographic origin and supply chain pathways of all forms of energy, including hydrocarbons, purchased by the Department of Defense, explicitly identifying any direct or indirect reliance on foreign energy sources.
(2)
An evaluation of the systemic vulnerabilities within current energy supply lines of the Department, including single points of failure and military installations reliant on single-source commercial transmission or entities backed by a foreign country.
(3)
An inventory of current on-site energy storage capacities, including an assessment of whether existing capacities meet baseline operational requirements.
(4)
An assessment of potential disruptions to energy supplies of the Department under various kinetic and cyber conflict scenarios.
319.
Requirement of notice on updates to public dashboard on remediation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances
Section 322 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2701 note) is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b)(2), by striking  removal  and inserting  remedial ;
(2)
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d);
(3)
by inserting after subsection (b) the following new subsection (c):
(c)
Notice of updates to dashboard
Not less frequently than semiannually, the Secretary shall provide prompt notice to regional offices of the Environmental Protection Agency, appropriate State and local authorities, restoration advisory boards established under section 2705(d) of title 10, United States Code, and the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives of updates to the dashboard under subsection (b).
 ; and
(4)
in subsection (d)(1), as redesignated by paragraph (2), by striking   removal , .
320.
Revisions to technical assistance for public participation in defense environmental restoration activities
The Secretary of Defense shall modify section 203.4 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations, to increase the limitation on the combined sum of purchase orders for technical assistance for public participation in defense environmental restoration activities under that section for an installation of the Department of Defense to a combined sum of purchase orders not to exceed $1,000,000 or, during any one year, the lesser of $100,000 or 1 percent of the total projected environmental restoration cost-to-complete of the installation.
320A.
Study on contracting process of Department of Defense for remediation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances
(a)
In general
The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study evaluating the cleanup and acquisition processes used by the Department of Defense as of the date of the enactment of this Act relating to remediation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances resulting from activities of the Department of Defense.
(b)
Elements
In conducting the study under subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall assess—
(1)
the extent to which the Department has identified and developed requirements for remediation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances across military installations where cleanup may be needed by the Department, including any fragmentation of requirements across military installations;
(2)
the extent to which the Department has analyzed the effectiveness of acquisition strategies and contracting approaches used to procure technologies and services for the remediation of such substances;
(3)
whether the cleanup and acquisition strategies of the Department account for the current state of remediation technologies for such substances;
(4)
whether the Department reviews the effectiveness of technologies previously employed at installations of the Department and considers the findings from such reviews when approaching future remediation efforts; and
(5)
any risks, gaps, or inefficiencies in the approach taken by the Department to remediate such substances, and any opportunities to improve speed, affordability, and outcomes.
(c)
Briefing
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall brief the congressional defense committees on the study conducted under subsection (a), with a report to follow at a mutually agreed upon time.
320B.
Initiation of remedial actions with respect to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances
(a)
Initiation of remedial actions
(1)
In general
To the extent that it is consistent with the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) and any other applicable law, and except as provided in paragraph (2), not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall initiate interim remedial actions with respect to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances at not fewer than 50 covered sites.
(2)
Exception
(A)
In general
The Secretary may initiate interim remedial actions with respect to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances at fewer than 50 covered sites only if the Secretary cannot find enough covered sites meeting the factor specified under section 300.415(b)(2)(i) of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations.
(B)
Report
If the Secretary utilizes the exception under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report verifying that the Secretary assessed each covered site and was unable to find a sufficient number of covered sites meeting the factor specified in such subparagraph.
(b)
Timely completion of ongoing actions
The Secretary shall ensure the timely completion of interim remedial actions at installations of the Department of Defense that are ongoing as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c)
Covered site defined
In this section, the term  covered site —
(1)
means, of the 723 installations of the Department assessed for use or potential use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances set forth in the publication of the Department dated March 31, 2025, the installations at which the estimated remedial investigation or feasibility study end date is delayed as compared to the date specified for such site in the similar publication of the Department dated December 2024; and
(2)
shall be interpreted consistent with the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) and any other applicable law.
C
Logistics and Sustainment
321.
Implementation of Comptroller General recommendations on exercises and wargames in the Indo-Pacific region
(a)
Implementation plan
(1)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, each Secretary concerned shall submit to the congressional defense committees and the Comptroller General of the United States a plan to address the following recommendations made by the Comptroller General:
(A)
Recommendations 16 through 20 in the report entitled  Weapon Systems Maintenance: DOD Needs Enhanced Assessments and Exercises to Prepare for an Indo-Pacific Conflict (GAO–26–107710C).
(B)
Recommendations 7 through 11 in the report entitled  Fuel Supply: DOD Is Not Prepared for a Contested Environment in the Indo-Pacific (GAO–25–107216C).
(C)
Recommendations 7 and 8 in the report entitled  Force Structure: Army and Marine Corps Face Challenges Developing New Multi-Domain Units (GAO–24–106266C).
(D)
Recommendations 1 and 2 in the report entitled  Military Readiness: Actions Needed to Ensure the Reserve Component Will Be Ready to Rapidly Respond to a Potential Conflict (GAO–26–107579C).
(2)
Identification of recommendations To be implemented
Each plan under paragraph (1) shall include, with respect to each recommendation described in such paragraph that the Secretary concerned has implemented or intends to implement—
(A)
a summary of actions that have been taken or will be taken to implement the recommendation; and
(B)
a schedule, with specific milestones, for completing implementation of the recommendation.
(3)
Identification of recommendations not To be implemented
Each plan under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(A)
An identification of any recommendation described in such paragraph that the Secretary concerned does not intend to implement.
(B)
A discussion of the reasons not to implement each such recommendation.
(C)
A description of alternative actions taken or intended to be taken to address the matters identified by the Comptroller General.
(b)
Implementation report
Not later than one year after submission by the Secretary concerned of the plan under subsection (a), the Secretary concerned shall carry out activities to implement the plan and provide a report to the congressional defense committees and the Comptroller General of the United States on the following:
(1)
The specific maintenance and repair objectives developed for exercises and wargames in the Indo-Pacific region.
(2)
Guidance on incorporating fuel storage and delivery missions into live exercises.
(3)
With respect to the Army and the Marine Corps, the specific sustainment and transportation objectives in exercises for multi-domain units of the Army and the Marine Corps in the Indo-Pacific region.
(4)
With respect to the Army and the Air Force, the specific realistic and accurate assessments conducted to evaluate the ability of relevant reserve component units of the Army and the Air Force to build the required readiness to meet contingency response missions.
(c)
Secretary concerned defined
In this section, the term  Secretary concerned  means—
(1)
the Secretary of Defense, with respect to actions taken by the United States Indo-Pacific Command;
(2)
the Secretary of the Army, with respect to actions taken by the Army;
(3)
the Secretary of the Air Force, with respect to actions taken by the Air Force; and
(4)
the Secretary of the Navy, with respect to actions taken by the Navy and the Marine Corps.
322.
Integration of unmanned systems into the Installation Physical Security Program
(a)
In general
The Secretary of the Army, in coordination with the heads of relevant organizations of the Department of Defense, shall develop a plan for integrating unmanned aerial systems into the Installation Physical Security Program to expand physical security monitoring capabilities for installations and facilities of the Department of the Army within the United States.
(b)
Elements
The plan required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1)
A proposal for the development and implementation of a cost-effective, scalable solution to physical security of installations of the Department of the Army that employs unmanned aerial systems to identify and monitor potential threats to such installations.
(2)
An identification of one installation to potentially host the initial development of the integration required under such subsection and two locations for additional activities related to such integration, including the criteria used to determine proposed locations, which shall—
(A)
serve as potential demonstration locations for installation defense architecture that utilizes autonomous threat detection and small unmanned aerial system deployment for purposes of persistent surveillance; and
(B)
be chosen based on geographical diversity and the strategic importance of such installation and locations to the overall security infrastructure of the Army.
(3)
A comprehensive breakdown of the full costs of the integration required under such subsection, including—
(A)
initial capital expenditure for system implementation;
(B)
the cost of deploying unmanned aerial systems, sensors, and other related infrastructure at all organic industrial base sites operated by the Department of the Army in the United States;
(C)
estimated operation and maintenance costs;
(D)
a detailed funding schedule with expenditures projected across the period covered by the most recent future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code (as of the date of the plan); and
(E)
identification of potential cost-saving opportunities from the proliferation of small unmanned aerial systems and other sensors for installation security purposes across the installation footprint of the Army.
(4)
An assessment of the viability of funding and sustaining the integration required under such subsection across the period covered by the most recent future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code (as of the date of the plan), considering—
(A)
the financial impact relative to existing security infrastructure budgets of the Army, including potential impact on force structure or equipment procurement costs;
(B)
the cost-benefit analysis of upgrading existing systems versus implementing new technologies at each selected location; and
(C)
identification of technological or policy challenges or barriers to implementing small unmanned aerial system-based persistent monitoring solutions across the footprint of the Army in the United States.
(5)
A list of any additional authorities, appropriations, or other resources necessary to ensure the success of the integration required under such subsection.
(c)
Submittal to Congress
Not later than September 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a completed version of the plan developed under subsection (a).
323.
Guidance regarding governance structure of organic industrial base of the Army
(a)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall establish and publish guidance regarding updated governance of the organic industrial base of the Army.
(b)
Elements of guidance
The guidance required under subsection (a) shall do the following:
(1)
Clearly delineate how decisions regarding resourcing and site operations that are currently overseen by the United States Army Materiel Command and workload and acquisition requirements that are currently overseen by the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology will be reconciled to ensure the efficient functioning of the organic industrial base of the Army.
(2)
Clearly delineate the relationship of the organic industrial base of the Army with the Army Sustainment Command and the Joint Energetics Transition Office.
(3)
Establish, maintain, and disseminate, not less frequently than annually, to all leadership responsible for sites of the organic industrial base of the Army a comprehensive plan for the type and quantity of production and repair activities that will occur at each site, which shall—
(A)
account for the current and projected needs of the Army, other military departments, and foreign partners;
(B)
be coordinated with other production and repair activities across the Department of Defense;
(C)
fulfill the requirements of section 351 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60); and
(D)
cover not less than the next three years of production or repair activities.
(4)
Establish an updated resourcing model for the organic industrial base of the Army that—
(A)
is focused on reducing the production costs at each site of the organic industrial base of the Army to ensure such costs are competitive with other similar facilities;
(B)
describes any modifications to the Army Working Capital Fund resulting from such model; and
(C)
describes any use of direct appropriations to fund overhead or other costs resulting from such model.
(5)
Oversee and implement ongoing modernization efforts of the Army, including by establishing, maintaining, and disseminating a comprehensive plan that—
(A)
accounts for modernization needs across all sites of the organic industrial base of the Army;
(B)
includes the criteria used to allocate modernization funds across those sites; and
(C)
shall be submitted to the congressional defense committees not less frequently than annually.
(6)
Not later than 30 days after any decision that will decrease the workload of a site of the organic industrial base of the Army by 10 percent or more, notify the congressional defense committees of such decision, which shall include an explanation for the decrease and a plan to shift other work required by the Army to the site in order to maintain workforce capability.
(c)
Organic industrial base of the Army defined
In this section, the term  organic industrial base of the Army  means the arsenals, ammunition plants, activities, and depots of the Army.
324.
Extension of deadline for designation of roles and responsibilities relating to sustainment and readiness of certain naval surface vessels
Section 8698(a)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended, in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking  the date that is one year after the date of the enactment of this section  and inserting  January 31, 2028 .
325.
Acquisition and sustainment strategy for spare parts for low mission capable aircraft
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall establish an acquisition and sustainment strategy for aircraft spare parts, applicable to any covered aircraft platform, to maximize competition and expand the defense industrial base supply chain for sustainment.
(b)
Diminishing manufacturing sources
In carrying out the strategy established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall—
(1)
identify spare parts of any covered aircraft platform that is subject to diminishing manufacturing sources or material shortages;
(2)
prioritize such parts for competitive resourcing; and
(3)
incorporate lifecycle obsolescence planning into sustainment strategies for all covered aircraft platforms.
(c)
Procurement
In carrying out the strategy established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall competitively source spare parts identified under subsection (b) by enabling the use of—
(1)
reverse engineering;
(2)
advanced manufacturing;
(3)
additive manufacturing; and
(4)
digital engineering and technical data package development.
(d)
Report
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for three years, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes—
(1)
a list of covered aircraft platforms;
(2)
mission capable rates for each such platform;
(3)
actions taken to expand competition and qualify additional vendors;
(4)
contract obligations awarded to small business concerns pursuant to this section; and
(5)
measurable changes in aircraft availability attributable to actions under this section.
(e)
Covered aircraft platform defined
In this section, the term  covered aircraft platform  means any fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft operated by the Department of Defense with—
(1)
a fleet-wide full mission capable rate of 50 percent or less during the preceding fiscal year; or
(2)
a critical mission capable rate of 40 percent or less for primary mission aircraft inventory, as determined by the Secretary concerned.
326.
Helicopter support for Kwajalein Atoll and Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range, Marshall Islands
(a)
Provision of rotary wing assets
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall ensure that a sufficient quantity of rotary wing assets, including air and maintenance crews, spares and support equipment, and any other mission critical personnel or material, necessary to support all planned test events, installation maintenance requirements, and personnel movement or evacuation contingencies are located on Kwajalein Atoll and available for mission support and tasking by the Army at Kwajalein Atoll and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range, Marshall Islands.
(b)
Requirement fulfillment options
To implement the requirements under subsection (a), the Secretary of the Army may—
(1)
consistent with section 2571 of title 10, United States Code, coordinate with the Secretary of the Air Force to obtain excess UH–1N Huey light-lift utility helicopters and any associated spares and equipment from Air Force Global Strike Command as the Air Force divests those aircraft in support of its transition to the MH–139 Grey Wolf;
(2)
obtain new or excess UH–72 Lakota light utility helicopters and any associated spares and equipment from the Army Aviation Center of Excellence as the Army transitions those aircraft in from the training fleet; or
(3)
obtain rotary wing assets for the purposes described in subsection (a) via other means, if—
(A)
such assets fulfill the capability and timeline availability requirements described in such subsection; and
(B)
the Secretary of the Army provides a written certification to the congressional defense committees not later than 30 days prior to the end of the 90-day period specified in such subsection of the intent of the Secretary to pursue such other means and that such means will fulfill the requirements of such subsection.
(c)
Long term capability sustainment plan
(1)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan outlining the enduring approach of the Army to providing rotary wing assets for mission support and tasking by the Army at Kwajalein Atoll and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range, Marshall Islands.
(2)
Elements
The plan required under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
(A)
An identification of the rotary wing assets to be made available over the next 5, 10, and 15 years.
(B)
An initial acquisition strategy for any assets not already in the inventory of the Army, as applicable.
(C)
A detailed lifecycle sustainment plan for any rotary wing assets provided for mission support and tasking by the Army at Kwajalein Atoll and the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range, Marshall Islands.
(D)
A projection of anticipated costs over the upcoming future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code, for providing the capabilities described in subsection (a).
(E)
Such other matters or recommendations as the Secretary of the Army considers relevant.
327.
Capital expenditure write-offs for Department of Defense depots and arsenals
(a)
Write-offs
With respect to any depot or arsenal of the Department of Defense, the Secretary of Defense may write-off or eliminate any internal Department accounting charges, such as remaining depreciation or internal debt from an account of a military department or the Department associated with capital assets that do not generate revenue due to mission realignments directed by the Federal Government.
(b)
Recovery of revolving fund cash outlay
Any write-off conducted under subsection (a) shall be done in a manner such that any previous revolving fund cash outlay is recovered.
(c)
Application of authority
The authority under subsection (a) applies only to financial balances within the accounts of a military department or the Department of Defense, not to payments owned to commercial contractors.
(d)
Delegation
The Secretary of Defense may delegate the authority under subsection (a) to the Secretary of a military department.
328.
Modification of requirements relating to production in factories or arsenals owned by the United States
Section 7532 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking  The Secretary  and inserting  (a)
In general .—The Secretary ;
(2)
in subsection (a), as designated by paragraph (1), by striking  , so far as those factories or arsenals can make those supplies on an economical basis  and inserting  when it is economical to do so ; and
(3)
by adding at the end the following:
(b)
Certification To use other facilities
(1)
In general
If the Secretary of the Army chooses to make munitions or weapons systems outside the organic industrial base of the Army, the Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology, or any successor official, shall certify that—
(A)
the choice will not undermine the capacity of sites of the organic industrial base of the Army within the continental United States to produce munitions or weapons systems to meet requirements of the Department of Defense and foreign allies or partner nations of the United States;
(B)
due consideration was given to whether it was in the interest of ensuring adequate workloads at sites of the organic industrial base of the Army to establish the capability to produce the munition or weapons system at such a site;
(C)
preference was given to a production facility within the continental United States; and
(D)
a site in the organic industrial base of the Army was not deemed ineligible for production solely because the munition or weapons systems is not currently being made at the site and consideration was given to the feasibility of increasing capability at such a site to allow it to meet the production need.
(2)
Explanation
If the Secretary of the Army cannot make the certification required under paragraph (1) with respect to a choice described in that paragraph, not later than 30 days before such choice is finalized, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Secretary of Defense and the congressional defense committees an explanation for why such choice is in the interest of the national security of the United States.
(c)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
The term  economical  means providing a cost comparable to that of other viable production options while also—
(A)
efficiently and quickly meeting the needs of the Army and the Department of Defense; and
(B)
addressing the needs of the Army to effectively and efficiently balance workload across the organic industrial base of the Army to maintain the health of the organic industrial base.
(2)
The term  organic industrial base of the Army  means any operational arsenal, ammunition plant, activity, or depot of the Army.
 .
D
Reports
341.
Report on strategy to maintain and upgrade conventional munitions storage facilities
(a)
Report required
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the strategy of the Department of Defense to maintain and upgrade conventional munitions storage facilities (both in the continental United States and outside the continental United States) in order to ensure the safe, effective, and long-term storage of current and future conventional munitions inventories.
(b)
Elements
The report required by subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1)
A comprehensive description of the current strategy and practices of the United States Army Materiel Command for maintaining, repairing, and upgrading conventional munitions storage facilities, including any ongoing or planned investments in infrastructure modernization.
(2)
A detailed assessment of the current condition of all conventional munitions storage facilities, including—
(A)
the percentage or proportion of facilities at each installation of the Department of Defense that meet applicable standards of the Department of Defense, the Department of the Army, and industry for conventional munitions storage;
(B)
the percentage or proportion of storage capacity currently housing obsolete, outdated, or operationally irrelevant munitions; and
(C)
an identification of the funds necessary to invest in sustained conventional munitions readiness.
(3)
An evaluation of the sufficiency of climate-controlled storage facilities to support the full execution of conventional munitions acquisition, storage, and prepositioning plans, including the ability to preposition stocks at installations outside the continental United States in support of requirements of the commanders of the combatant commands, including by specifically addressing projected shortfalls (by location and capacity) and any associated risks to conventional munitions readiness.
(4)
A strategy for coordinating conventional munitions storage requirements and facility modernization priorities across the Department of Defense, including mechanisms to align storage needs with service-specific and theater-specific operational plans.
(5)
A detailed plan to ensure that adequate storage facilities are available under conventional munitions procurement planned under the Munitions Acceleration Council of the Department of Defense in conditions that preserve the effectiveness of such munitions.
(c)
Form of report
The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex if necessary to protect sensitive operational or force-protection information.
342.
Risk assessment of air traffic control systems of Department of Defense
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a risk assessment to evaluate the air traffic control systems owned and operated by any entity of the Department of Defense and operated within the airspace of the United States and develop a modernization plan to update those systems.
(b)
Elements
The assessment required by subsection (a) shall be comprehensive across all branches of the Armed Forces and shall—
(1)
review the air traffic control systems assessed by the Department in the report dated December 2018 and entitled,  Report to Congress on Air Traffic Control Facilities  and assess any new systems implemented after the date of such report;
(2)
assess the status, as of the date of the assessment under subsection (a), of the functionality for the air traffic control systems specified in paragraph (1), including—
(A)
an assessment of facility condition;
(B)
an assessment of technology and equipment condition;
(C)
an identification of deficiencies in conditions assessed under subparagraphs (A) and (B);
(D)
the cost of addressing such deficiencies; and
(E)
a timeline for addressing such deficiencies;
(3)
identify the ongoing investments by the Department to modernize air traffic control systems;
(4)
assess the progress made in implementing modernization investments to such systems, including—
(A)
barriers or challenges to such implementation;
(B)
existing mitigation strategies; and
(C)
recommendations for authorities, resources, or policy changes; and
(5)
assess system compatibility and modernization alignment with efforts by the Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration to modernize the air traffic control system of the United States through the  Brand New Air Traffic Control System .
(c)
Submittal of assessment and plan
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees the assessment and plan required under subsection (a).
(d)
Annual report
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report detailing the status of modernizing the air traffic control systems used by the Department.
E
Other Matters
351.
Modification of depots for which minimum capital investment is required
Section 2476(f)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
(J)
Blue Grass Army Depot, Kentucky.
(K)
Sierra Army Depot, California.
(L)
Hawthorne Army Depot, Nevada.
 .
352.
Implementation of Department of Defense Inspector General recommendations relating to evaluation of management of canine welfare under military working dog program
(a)
In general
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and except as provided in subsection (b), the Secretary of the Air Force shall implement each recommendation of the Inspector General of the Department of Defense contained in the report dated February 17, 2026, and entitled,  Evaluation of the DoD Military Working Dog Program's Management of Canine Welfare  (DODIG–2026–057).
(b)
Non-implementation reporting requirement
If the Secretary of the Air Force elects to not implement a recommendation specified under subsection (a), the Secretary shall, not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that includes a justification for such election.
353.
Prohibition on operation of connected vehicles of concern on military installations and other property of the Department of Defense
(a)
Prohibition Phase I
(1)
In general
After July 1, 2027, no connected vehicle designated under paragraph (2) may be operated on a military installation or on any other property of the Department of Defense.
(2)
Designated vehicles
A connected vehicle is designated under this paragraph if it is prohibited under part 791 of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations).
(b)
Prohibition Phase II
(1)
In general
After January 1, 2029, no connected vehicle designated under paragraph (2) may be operated on a military installation or on any other property of the Department of Defense.
(2)
Designated vehicles
A connected vehicle is designated under this paragraph if it is—
(A)
designated under subsection (a)(2); and
(B)
determined by the Secretary of Defense, pursuant to the process established in the implementation plan under subsection (c)—
(i)
to be designed, developed, manufactured, or supplied by a person or persons owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of a foreign entity of concern; and
(ii)
to pose—
(I)
an undue risk of sabotage to or subversion of the information and communications technology and services of a military installation;
(II)
an undue risk of catastrophic effects on the security or resiliency of defense critical infrastructure; or
(III)
an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of United States persons.
(3)
Publication of list
(A)
In general
The Secretary shall publish and maintain on a publicly available website of the Department a list of connected vehicles designated under paragraph (2).
(B)
Annual review
Not less frequently than annually, the Secretary shall review the list required under subparagraph (A) and shall make such additions, subtractions, supplements, or amendments to the list as the Secretary determines appropriate.
(C)
Explanation of removals
Any review under subparagraph (B) that removes a vehicle from the list under subparagraph (A) shall include a written explanation of the basis for such removal.
(c)
Implementation plan
(1)
In general
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees an implementation plan for carrying out the prohibitions under subsections (a) and (b).
(2)
Elements
The implementation plan under paragraph (1) shall include—
(A)
identification of the lead office within the Department of Defense responsible for implementing and overseeing this section, and an assessment of personnel and funding required to sustain that office to meet the requirements of annual reviews conducted under subsection (e);
(B)
a verification mechanism through which military installations will identify connected vehicles designated under subsection (a)(2) or (b)(2) that are seeking access to the installation, including an evaluation of vehicle registration database and point-of-entry screening, as well as consultation with State motor vehicle authorities;
(C)
the analytical process and criteria through which the lead office will designate connected vehicles under subsection (b)(2), including methodology for assessing ownership and supply chain relationships to foreign entities of concern and the risk factors under subparagraph (B)(ii) of such subsection, incorporating existing Federal rules and interagency coordination; and
(D)
an assessment of the impact on individuals with authorized access to military installations, including military retirees, military families, and civilian employees, and measures to balance security requirements with minimizing the burden on such individuals and minimizing the impact to readiness of the Armed Forces.
(d)
Notice
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall provide not less than 180 days notice before a prohibition under subsection (a) or (b) takes effect with respect to any newly designated vehicle under such subsection, during which period individuals with authorized access to a military installation who own or operate such a vehicle may continue to access the installation.
(2)
Form
The Secretary shall provide notice under paragraph (1) by publication on a publicly available website of the Department of Defense and by such other means as the Secretary determines appropriate to reach affected individuals.
(e)
Certification
The prohibitions under subsections (a) and (b) shall take effect only upon the submission by the Secretary of Defense of a certification to the congressional defense committees that the Department of Defense has—
(1)
the resources, personnel, and screening mechanisms in place to enforce the prohibition at military installations; and
(2)
in the case of a prohibition under subsection (b), the resources, personnel, and analytical capacity in place to conduct the designation review process under paragraph (3)(B) of such subsection on an ongoing basis.
(f)
Notification if unable to certify
(1)
In general
If the Secretary of Defense is unable to make a certification under subsection (e) with respect to a prohibition under subsection (a) or (b), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a notification of that fact, including—
(A)
an explanation of why the Secretary is not ready to implement the relevant prohibition;
(B)
an identification of the steps the Secretary has taken to prepare for implementation of such prohibition;
(C)
an identification of the additional steps that remain before the Secretary is ready to implement such prohibition; and
(D)
a timeline for each step to be carried out under subparagraph (C).
(2)
Timing
The Secretary shall submit the notifications required under paragraph (1)—
(A)
with respect to the prohibition under subsection (a), not later than July 1, 2027, and not less frequently than every 180 days thereafter; and
(B)
with respect to the prohibition under subsection (b), not later than January 1, 2029, and not less frequently than every 180 days thereafter.
(g)
Waiver
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may waive a prohibition under subsection (a) or (b) with respect to a military installation, category of installations, or class of connected vehicles upon a determination that operational requirements or national security considerations warrant such waiver, and may delegate such waiver authority to such officials or commanders as the Secretary considers appropriate.
(2)
Notification
The Secretary shall notify the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives of any waiver issued under paragraph (1) not later than 30 days after issuance of the waiver, including a rationale for the waiver.
(h)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Connected vehicle
The term  connected vehicle  has the meaning given that term in section 791.301 of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations.
(2)
Defense critical infrastructure
The term  defense critical infrastructure  has the meaning given the term  critical infrastructure of the Department of Defense  in section 1650(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 10 U.S.C. 2224 note).
(3)
Foreign entity of concern
The term  foreign entity of concern  has the meaning given that term in section 9901 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (15 U.S.C. 4651).
(4)
Military installation
The term  military installation  has the meaning given that term in section 2801(c) of title 10, United States Code.
354.
Limitation on availability of funds for travel expenses of the Office of the Secretary of Defense
(a)
In general
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense-wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, not more than 25 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of Defense carries out the following:
(1)
Complies with the requirements of section 1067 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 2071).
(2)
Submits to the congressional defense committees the procedures for notifications relating to Department of Defense sensitive activities required by section 130g of title 10, United States Code.
(3)
Submits to the congressional defense committees, the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate, and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives a certification that the requirements of section 430e of title 10, United States Code, have been implemented.
(4)
Submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the unredacted investigation, including relevant supporting documents, directed by the Commander of the United States Special Operations Command on January 20, 2026.
(5)
Submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives unredacted civilian harm investigations, including all relevant supporting documents, for the strikes on the Ras Isa Port in Yemen on April 17, 2025, the Ayn Wadi Barracks Warehouses in Yemen on April 28, 2025, a residence in Yemen on April 6, 2025, and the Minab girls school in Iran on February 28, 2026.
(6)
Submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the report relating to allied and partner support to Ukraine required by section 1243 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 460), as amended by section 1245 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1104).
(7)
Provides to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives unedited video of strikes conducted against designated terrorist organizations in the area of responsibility of the United States Southern Command.
(b)
Reports required
(1)
In general
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 30 days thereafter until the Secretary submits the matters specified in subsection (a), the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report detailing the status of funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense-wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses.
(2)
Elements
At a minimum, each report required by paragraph (1) shall specify the amounts available, obligated, and expended for travel expenses.
355.
Limitation on use of travel funds for Secretary of the Air Force until briefing on West Lab Project at Lincoln Laboratory
Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, Air Force, and available for travel expenses for the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, not more than 85 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of the Air Force provides to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an unclassified briefing on—
(1)
the status of the West Lab Project at the Lincoln Laboratory of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, including planning and construction timelines and milestones as of the date of the briefing;
(2)
the resources needed to complete the West Lab Project, disaggregated by phase of construction and fiscal year when funds are needed;
(3)
with respect to delays of the West Lab Project—
(A)
the causes of any such delay;
(B)
the impact of any additional delays on the cost and schedule of construction of such project; and
(C)
the impact of delays on the activities and projects funded by the Department of Defense at the Lincoln Laboratory; and
(4)
the plan of the Secretary of the Air Force to award a construction contract for the rest of the West Lab Project by not later than June 2027, with construction to be completed by June 2029.
356.
Naming of certain assets of the Department of Defense in the Commonwealth of Virginia
(a)
Naming of assets in Virginia
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act the Secretary of Defense shall implement the naming recommendations for assets of the Department of Defense in the Commonwealth of Virginia that were adopted by the Commission.
(b)
Prohibition relating to overriding recommendations
The Secretary of Defense may not change the name of an asset described in subsection (a) to any name other than the name required under such subsection.
(c)
Commission defined
In this section, the term  Commission  means the commission established under section 370(b) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
357.
Administrative requirements for Military Aviation and Installation Assurance Clearinghouse
(a)
In general
Section 183a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (i); and
(2)
by inserting after subsection (g) the following:
(h)
Timelines
(1)
For any project for which the Secretary of Defense determines, based on the preliminary review conducted under subsection (c), that the proposed action may have an adverse impact on operations and readiness of the armed forces, the Secretary shall complete the review under subsection (d), conduct any mitigation discussions the Secretary determines appropriate, and issue a final determination consistent with subsections (c) and (e), including whether the proposed project would result in an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States, not later than 180 days after the date on which the Clearinghouse receives the relevant notice, filing, or request for review, unless the applicant agrees in writing to an extension.
(2)
For any project for which the Secretary of Defense determines, based on the preliminary review conducted under subsection (c), that the proposed action does not have an adverse impact on operations and readiness of the armed forces, the Secretary shall issue a final determination consistent with subsections (c) and (e), including whether the proposed project would result in an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States, not later than five days after completion of the preliminary review.
(3)
The Secretary may not extend, restart, or otherwise delay a deadline established under this subsection based on requests for additional information, recharacterization of previously identified issues, ongoing mitigation discussions, or the absence of an executed mitigation agreement.
(4)
For purposes of this subsection, a notice, filing, or request for review shall be deemed received by the Clearinghouse on the earlier of—
(A)
the date on which the Clearinghouse actually receives such notice, filing, or request; or
(B)
the date that is 60 days after the applicant provides notice to the Clearinghouse that it has submitted to a Federal agency information sufficient to initiate review under this section.
(5)
Failure to meet any deadline under this subsection shall constitute an unreasonable delay.
(6)
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to modify or alter the substantive standards or national security authorities applicable under this section, but only to establish procedural requirements governing the timing and completion of review by the Department of Defense.
 .
(b)
Applicability
With respect to a project described in subsection (h)(1) of section 183a of title 10, United States Code, for which the relevant notice, filing, or request for review was submitted before the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall comply with the requirements under such subsection by not later than the later of—
(1)
180 days after the date on which the Military Aviation and Installation Assurance Siting Clearinghouse received and recorded the relevant notice, filing, or request for review; or
(2)
90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
IV
Military personnel authorizations
A
Active forces
401.
End strengths for active forces
The Armed Forces are authorized strengths for active duty personnel as of September 30, 2027, as follows:
(1)
The Army, 469,000.
(2)
The Navy, 356,600.
(3)
The Marine Corps, 173,700.
(4)
The Air Force, 330,400.
(5)
The Space Force, 13,200.
B
Reserve forces
411.
End strengths for Selected Reserve
(a)
In general
The Armed Forces are authorized strengths for Selected Reserve personnel of the reserve components as of September 30, 2027, as follows:
(1)
The Army National Guard of the United States, 331,300.
(2)
The Army Reserve, 172,000.
(3)
The Navy Reserve, 56,500.
(4)
The Marine Corps Reserve, 34,700.
(5)
The Air National Guard of the United States, 107,400.
(6)
The Air Force Reserve, 67,400.
(7)
The Coast Guard Reserve, 8,500.
(b)
End strength reductions
The end strengths prescribed by subsection (a) for the Selected Reserve of any reserve component shall be proportionately reduced by—
(1)
the total authorized strength of units organized to serve as units of the Selected Reserve of such component which are on active duty (other than for training) at the end of the fiscal year; and
(2)
the total number of individual members not in units organized to serve as units of the Selected Reserve of such component who are on active duty (other than for training or for unsatisfactory participation in training) without their consent at the end of the fiscal year.
(c)
End strength increases
Whenever units or individual members of the Selected Reserve for any reserve component are released from active duty during any fiscal year, the end strength prescribed for such fiscal year for the Selected Reserve of such reserve component shall be increased proportionately by the total authorized strengths of such units and by the total number of such individual members.
412.
End strengths for Reserves on active duty in support of the Reserves
(a)
In general
Within the end strengths prescribed in section 411(a), the reserve components of the Armed Forces are authorized, as of September 30, 2027, the following number of Reserves to be serving on full-time active duty or full-time duty, in the case of members of the National Guard, for the purpose of organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or training the reserve components:
(1)
The Army National Guard of the United States, 31,154.
(2)
The Army Reserve, 16,511.
(3)
The Navy Reserve, 10,649.
(4)
The Marine Corps Reserve, 2,400.
(5)
The Air National Guard of the United States, 25,533.
(6)
The Air Force Reserve, 6,278.
(b)
Adherence to agreements with States
In executing these authorizations for fiscal year 2027, the Department of Defense—
(1)
shall adhere to any agreements made with states as a result of releveling efforts or manning studies; and
(2)
may use authorized variance authority to meet these requirements.
413.
End strengths for military technicians (dual status)
(a)
In general
The minimum number of military technicians (dual status) as of the last day of fiscal year 2027 for the reserve components of the Army and the Air Force (notwithstanding section 129 of title 10, United States Code) shall be the following:
(1)
For the Army National Guard of the United States, 20,037.
(2)
For the Army Reserve, 5,870.
(3)
For the Air National Guard of the United States, 10,824.
(4)
For the Air Force Reserve, 6,450.
(b)
Limitation on number of temporary military technicians (dual status)
The number of temporary military technicians (dual status) employed under the authority of subsection (a) may not exceed 25 percent of the total authorized number specified in such subsection.
(c)
Limitation
Under no circumstances may a military technician (dual status) employed under the authority of this section be coerced by a State into accepting an offer of realignment or conversion to any other military status, including as a member of the Active, Guard, and Reserve component. If a military technician (dual status) declines to participate in such realignment or conversion, no further action will be taken against the individual or the individual’s position.
414.
Maximum number of reserve personnel authorized to be on active duty for operational support
During fiscal year 2027, the maximum number of members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces who may be serving at any time on full-time operational support duty under section 115(b) of title 10, United States Code, is the following:
(1)
The Army National Guard of the United States, 17,000.
(2)
The Army Reserve, 13,000.
(3)
The Navy Reserve, 6,200.
(4)
The Marine Corps Reserve, 3,000.
(5)
The Air National Guard of the United States, 16,000.
(6)
The Air Force Reserve, 14,000.
C
Authorization of appropriations
421.
Military personnel
(a)
Authorization of appropriations
Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 for the use of the Armed Forces and other activities and agencies of the Department of Defense for expenses, not otherwise provided for, for military personnel, as specified in the funding table in section 4401.
(b)
Construction of authorization
The authorization of appropriations in the subsection (a) supersedes any other authorization of appropriations (definite or indefinite) for such purpose for fiscal year 2027.
V
Military personnel policy
A
Officer personnel policy
501.
Notification requirements for delayed promotions
Section 624(d) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (2), by adding at the end the following: “In the case of an officer whose promotion is delayed pursuant to this subsection, the Secretary of Defense shall notify the congressional defense committees of such delay not later than 30 days after the date on which the delay is imposed. Such notification shall include—
(A)
the reason for the delay, including a description of any adverse information or basis for concern;
(B)
the anticipated duration of the delay;
(C)
the status of any review or investigation associated with the delay; and
(D)
such other information as the Secretary considers appropriate.
 ; and
(2)
in paragraph (4)(A), by striking  , unless it is impracticable to give such written notice before the effective date of the appointment, in which case such written notice shall be given as soon as practicable .
502.
Temporary withholding of officer nominations and promotion recommendations
(a)
Authority
Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary may temporarily withhold the forwarding or processing of an officer nomination or promotion recommendation for not more than 30 days.
(b)
Disposition
Upon expiration of the period under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall—
(1)
forward the nomination or recommendation for further processing;
(2)
take appropriate action to permanently remove the officer from consideration due to a substantiated finding of misconduct; or
(3)
provide a written determination to the Secretary concerned, including the basis for continued withholding, to justify an extension under subsection (c).
(c)
Extension and notification
Any withholding that exceeds 30 days shall be accompanied by written notification to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives, including a detailed explanation of the basis for such continued withholding.
(d)
Construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the President to remove an officer from a promotion list under section 629 of title 10, United States Code.
503.
Enhanced authority for early discharges
Section 580a(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  October 1, 2015, and ending on October 1, 2019  and inserting  October 1, 2025, and ending on October 1, 2030 .
504.
Officer retirement determinations
(a)
Conditional retirements pending investigations, adverse actions, and other administrative actions
(1)
Elimination of limitation on reduction or waiver of requirement for officers under investigation or pending misconduct
Section 1370 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
in subsection (b)—
(i)
by striking paragraph (4); and
(ii)
by redesignating paragraphs (5) through (7) as paragraphs (4) through (6), respectively; and
(B)
in subsection (c)(4), by striking  subsection (b)(6)  and inserting  subsection (b)(5) .
(2)
Administrative actions
Subsection (d) of such section is amended—
(A)
in the subsection heading, by striking
pending investigation or adverse action   and inserting
pending investigation, adverse action, or other administrative action  ;
(B)
in paragraph (1)—
(i)
by inserting  or other administrative action  after  adverse personnel action ; and
(ii)
in subparagraph (A), by striking  highest permanent grade of satisfactory service  and inserting  highest grade of satisfactory service ;
(C)
in paragraph (2)—
(i)
by inserting  or other administrative action  after  adverse personnel action ; and
(ii)
in subparagraph (A), by striking  highest permanent grade of satisfactory service  and inserting  highest grade of satisfactory service ;
(D)
by striking paragraph (3); and
(E)
by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (3).
(b)
Limitation on determinations of unsatisfactory service
(1)
Regular commissioned officers
Section 1370 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection (h); and
(B)
by inserting after subsection (f) the following new subsection:
(g)
Limitation on determinations of unsatisfactory service
(1)
The Secretary concerned, or the Secretary of Defense, as the case may be, may not make a determination that an officer has not performed satisfactory service for purposes of this section unless the officer is the subject of credible adverse information.
(2)
For the purposes of this subsection, adverse information is any substantiated finding or conclusion from an officially documented investigation or inquiry. To be credible, the information must be resolved and supported by a preponderance of the evidence. To be adverse, the information must be derogatory, unfavorable, or of a nature that reflects clearly unacceptable conduct, integrity, or judgment on the part of the individual.
 .
(2)
Officers entitled to retired pay for non-regular service
Section 1370a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (i); and
(B)
by inserting after subsection (g) the following new subsection:
(h)
Limitation on determinations of unsatisfactory service
(1)
The Secretary concerned, or the Secretary of Defense, as the case may be, may not make a determination that an officer has not performed satisfactory service for purposes of this section unless the officer is the subject of credible adverse information.
(2)
For the purposes of this subsection, adverse information is any substantiated finding or conclusion from an officially documented investigation or inquiry. To be credible, the information must be resolved and supported by a preponderance of the evidence. To be adverse, the information must be derogatory, unfavorable, or of a nature that reflects clearly unacceptable conduct, integrity, or judgment on the part of the individual.
 .
(3)
Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve
Section 12741 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(e)
Limitation on determinations of unsatisfactory service
(1)
The Secretary concerned may not make a determination that a person has not performed satisfactory service for purposes of this section unless the person is the subject of credible adverse information.
(2)
For the purposes of this subsection, adverse information is any substantiated finding or conclusion from an officially documented investigation or inquiry. To be credible, the information must be resolved and supported by a preponderance of the evidence. To be adverse, the information must be derogatory, unfavorable, or of a nature that reflects clearly unacceptable conduct, integrity, or judgment on the part of the individual.
 .
505.
Retirement of regular Navy warrant officers and Marine Corps Marine Gunner warrant officers for years of service
Section 1305(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (3), by striking  33 years  and inserting  35 years ; and
(2)
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(4)
In the case of a regular Navy warrant officer in the grade of chief warrant officer, W–4, or a Marine Corps Marine Gunner warrant officer in such grade, the officer shall be retired 60 days after the date on which the officer completes 32 years of total active service.
 .
506.
Authority to improve retention for permanent professors of the United States Army War College
(a)
Appointment of professors of the United States Army War College
Section 7153(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking  branches and as professors  and inserting  branches, as professors ; and
(2)
by inserting  , and professors of the United States Army War College  before the period at the end.
(b)
Appointments, grades, and leaves of absence for permanent professors of the United States Army War College
Chapter 723 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
7219.
Permanent Military Professors of the United States Army War College: appointments, grades, and leaves of absence
(a)
Appointments
The permanent military professors of the United States Army War College shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.
(b)
Grades and promotions
A permanent military professor of the United States Army War College, who has served as such a professor for more than six years, has the grade of colonel. However, a permanent military professor appointed from the Regular Army has the grade of colonel after the date when the officer completes six years of service as a professor, or after the date on which the officer would have been promoted had the officer been selected for promotion from among officers in the promotion zone, whichever is earlier. All other permanent military professors have the grade of lieutenant colonel.
(c)
Leaves of absence
The Commandant of the United States Army War College may grant a leave of absence for the period of the suspension of the ordinary academic studies, without deduction of pay or allowances, to a military professor, associate professor, assistant professor, instructor, or other officer of the United States Army War College.
 .
(c)
Rates of pay for permanent professors of the United States Army War College
Section 203 of title 37, United States Code, is amended by inserting  the United States Army War College,  after  the United States Military Academy,  both places it appears.
(d)
Retirement of permanent professors
(1)
Retirement of permanent professors of the United States Army War College
Section 7320(b)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting  and the United States Army War College  before the period at the end.
(2)
Mandatory retirement age for permanent professors of the United States Army War College
Section 1252 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
in the section heading, by inserting
and the United States Army War College   after
at academies  ; and
(B)
in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(4)
An officer who is a permanent professor of the United States Army War College.
 .
507.
Congressional notification of relief or early departure of certain general and flag officers
Chapter 35 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
606.
Notification of relief or early departure of certain general and flag officers
(a)
Covered officer defined
In this section, the term  covered officer  means an officer serving in the grade of general, admiral, lieutenant general, or vice admiral in—
(1)
a position of importance and responsibility under section 601 of this title; or
(2)
any other position designated by the Secretary of Defense for purposes of this section.
(b)
Notice required
Not later than 5 days after the relief, removal, reassignment, resignation, retirement, request for retirement, or other separation from position of a covered officer before the expected completion of service in that position, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives written notice of such action.
(c)
Early departure
For purposes of this section, a covered officer shall be considered to separate from a position before the expected completion of service in that position if the officer departs before—
(1)
the date of a publicly announced or officially scheduled change of command, retirement, reassignment, or end date for a tour of duty;
(2)
the date on which a successor is scheduled to assume the position; or
(3)
if no such date has been established, 24 months after the officer assumed the position.
(d)
Applicability to resignation or retirement
The notice requirement under subsection (b) applies regardless of whether the resignation, retirement, or request for retirement—
(1)
was initiated by the Department or by the officer;
(2)
occurred in lieu of relief, removal, or reassignment; or
(3)
occurred without a formal written direction to depart the position.
(e)
Contents of notice
A notice under subsection (b) shall include—
(1)
the name, grade, and position of the covered officer;
(2)
the effective date of the action;
(3)
the nature of the action, including whether the action was a relief, removal, reassignment, resignation, retirement, request for retirement, or other departure;
(4)
whether the action was initiated by the Department or by the officer;
(5)
a statement of the stated basis for the action; and
(6)
whether any investigation, command inquiry, Inspector General review, or other fact-finding has been initiated in connection with the action.
(f)
Detailed report
Not later than 30 days after submitting a notice under subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the committees specified in subsection (b) a detailed report on the action, which may be submitted in whole or in part in classified form consistent with subsection (g), including—
(1)
a statement of the basis for the action signed by the Secretary of Defense, or by the Secretary of the military department concerned if designated by the Secretary of Defense;
(2)
any findings of investigation, command inquiry, Inspector General review, or other fact-finding completed as of the date of the report;
(3)
whether the covered officer was afforded an opportunity to provide a written statement for inclusion in the report, and any such statement if provided;
(4)
a certification by the Secretary of Defense whether the action was taken principally on the basis of misconduct, performance, loss of confidence, force management, reorganization, or other legitimate military or civilian leadership considerations, and not principally in retaliation for the good-faith provision, in the course of official duties, of military, operational, intelligence, readiness, legal, or risk assessments to civilian or military superiors; and
(5)
whether the Joint Staff, the Secretary of the military department concerned, the Chief of Staff of the Army, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, the Chief of Space Operations, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, or the commander of the combatant command concerned recommended the action.
(g)
Classified annex
If the Secretary of Defense determines that any information required under subsection (e) or (f) cannot be provided in unclassified form without harm to national security, the Secretary may submit such information in classified form, provided that—
(1)
the Secretary submits concurrently an unclassified notice or report containing the maximum amount of information that may be provided in unclassified form; and
(2)
the classified submission is provided as a classified annex to the notice or report otherwise required under this section.
(h)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the constitutional authority of the President as Commander in Chief or the authority of the Secretary of Defense to assign, reassign, or relieve officers. The exercise of such authority shall remain subject to the notification and reporting requirements of this section.
 .
B
Reserve component management
511.
Clarification on computation of total years of service
Section 14706 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a)(3)—
(A)
by striking  while in a program  and inserting  while participating in a service-approved program ; and
(B)
by striking  , but only  and all that follows through  such a degree ;
(2)
in subsection (b), by striking  other than a student status  and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting  a capacity other than such officer’s participation in the service-approved program of advanced education. ; and
(3)
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(d)
Service-approved program defined
In this section, the term  service-approved program  means a service-approved educational delay of active duty, active guard and reserve, or selected reserve service for a graduate of a pre-commissioning program, including a Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps program, in order attend an advanced education program to obtain a professional degree that would be required for appointment, designation, or assignment to a professional specialty in such military service.
 .
512.
Authorized strengths for Navy Reserves and Marine Corps Reserves on full-time reserve component duty
(a)
Navy Reserve officers
Section 12011(a)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking the table and inserting the following:
  Total number of members of Navy Reserve serving on full-time reserve component duty:  Number of officers who may be serving in the grade of:    Lieutenant Command  Command  Captain      10,000  917  467  151    11,000  988  489  164    12,000  1,056  509  175    13,000  1,123  529  186    14,000  1,189  549  197    15,000  1,253  568  208    16,000  1,142  555  203    17,000  1,195  565  213    18,000  1,246  575  223    19,000  1,291  585  233    20,000  1,334  595  242    21,000  1,364  603  250    22,000  1,384  610  258    23,000  1,400  615  265    24,000  1,410  620  270      .
(b)
Navy Reserve senior enlisted members
Section 12012(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking those parts of the table pertaining to the Navy Reserve and inserting the following:
  Navy Reserve:        10,000  355  160    11,000  381  173    12,000  404  187    13,000  427  202    14,000  444  216    15,000  458  231    16,000  447  221    17,000  459  234    18,000  471  247    19,000  483  260    20,000  495  273    21,000  507  286    22,000  519  299    23,000  531  312    24,000  540  325      .
(c)
Marine Corps Reserve senior enlisted members
Section 12012(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking those parts of the table pertaining to the Marine Corps Reserve and inserting the following:
  Marine Corps Reserve:        1,100  68  18    1,200  75  20    1,300  81  21    1,400  87  23    1,500  93  24    1,600  99  26    1,700  106  28    1,800  112  29    1,900  118  31    2,000  124  33    2,100  130  34    2,200  137  36    2,300  143  37    2,400  149  39    2,500  155  41    2,600  161  42    2,700  168  44    2,800  174  46    2,900  180  47    3,000  186  49      .
513.
National Guard military technician (dual status) conversions and phase-out
(a)
Conversion authority
Subject to subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense may convert a National Guard military technician (dual status) position filled by an individual employed under section 709 of title 32, United States Code, to either of the following:
(1)
A position filled by an individual employed under section 3101 of title 5, United States Code, or sections 1601, 1762, and 10508 of title 10, United States Code.
(2)
A position filled by an individual who is performing Active Guard and Reserve duty under section 328 of title 32, United States Code, unless prohibited by section 101(d)(6)(B)(iv) of title 10, United States Code.
(b)
Transfer authority
In addition to the conversion authority under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense may, with agreement by the applicable State Governor, for the purpose of reducing the number of National Guard military technician (dual status) positions, provide a State with funding for a non-Federal position for an individual employed in such position. Any such funding shall be provided through a cooperative agreement entered into with the State Governor under section 6305 of title 31, United States Code.
(c)
Consent of employee to conversion or transfer
The Secretary of Defense may not convert a position under subsection (a) or transfer a position under subsection (b) that is not vacant without the written consent of the individual filling the position being converted or transferred.
(d)
Re-employment
An individual filling a military technician (dual status) position that is converted to Active Guard and Reserve duty under subsection (a)(2), waives any re-employment entitlement under section 4314 of title 38, United States Code, to another National Guard military technician (dual status) position but may assert re-employment rights to a civilian position employed under section 3101 of title 5, United States Code, or sections 1601, 1762, and 10508 of title 10, United States Code if a similar position is reasonably available.
(e)
Adjustment to end strength requirements
(1)
Whenever a military technician (dual status) position is converted under the authority in subsection (a)(2), the applicable statutory annual end strength limitation for Active Guard and Reserve personnel within the Army and Air National Guards of the United States in accordance with section 115 of title 10, United States Code, shall be increased accordingly.
(2)
Whenever a military technician (dual status) position converted under subsection (a)(2), the applicable statutory annual minimum end strength required for National Guard military technician (dual status) within the Army and Air National Guard of the United States in accordance with section 115 of title 10, United States Code, shall be decreased accordingly.
(f)
National Guard Bureau personnel
Section 10508(b)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting  sections 1601 and 1762 of title 10,  before  or section 328 of title 32 .
(g)
Maintenance and repair duties
Section 328(b) of title 32, United States Code, is amended by inserting  maintaining and repairing supplies issued to the National Guard or the Armed Forces,  before  and training the reserve components  .
(h)
Hiring freeze
Beginning on October 1, 2028, no individual may be newly hired or employed, or rehired or reemployed, as a National Guard military technician (dual status) under section 709 of title 32, United States Code.
(i)
Termination of authority
Section 709 of title 32, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following subsection:
(k)
Termination of authority
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2), this section shall cease to be in effect as of October 1, 2038.
(2)
The Secretary of Defense may, with agreement by the applicable State governor, authorize the continued employment of military technicians (dual status) to the extent necessary to ensure adequate State disaster response capabilities within such States.
(3)
The termination of authority under this subsection shall not affect the employment, rights, and benefits of individual employees who, as of such date, are within three years of earning an unreduced Federal civilian annuity.
 .
(j)
Military technician (dual status) end strengths
(1)
Section 115(d) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  each reserve component of the Army and Air Force  and inserting  the Army Reserve and the Air Force Reserve .
(2)
The amendment made by subparagraph (A) shall take effect on October 1, 2038.
(k)
Definition of military technician (dual status)
Section 10216(a)(1)(A) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  or section 709(b) of title 32  before the semicolon.
(l)
Prohibition on use of Department of Defense funding for National Guard military technician (dual status) compensation
Subject to the provisions of section 709(k) of title 32, United States Code, funds appropriated for the Department of Defense may not be used for compensation of any individual employed as a National Guard military technician (dual status) after October 1, 2048.
(m)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
The term  military technician (dual status)  has the meaning given such term in section 709(a) of title 32, United States Code.
(2)
The term  State  includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands.
514.
Study and analysis for enhanced maritime surge maintenance, repair, and production capacity
(a)
Requirement
The Secretary of the Navy shall conduct a feasibility study and business case analysis to evaluate the requirements necessary to expand and optimize existing Navy Reserve maintenance programs, including the Navy Reserve Engineering Duty Officer (NR EDO) Program 29 and the SurgeMain program, to provide enhanced maritime surge maintenance, repair, and production capacity.
(b)
Report
The Secretary of the Navy shall submit a report to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives of the results of the feasibility study and business case analysis required by subsection (a) not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, which addresses the following elements:
(1)
An assessment of the expansion and optimization of existing Navy Reserve maintenance capabilities, including the Navy Reserve Engineering Duty Officer Program 29 and the SurgeMain construct, and the associated end-strength requirements for supporting both public and private shipyards without degrading current fleet readiness support.
(2)
An evaluation of the integration of advanced industrial skillsets into existing Reserve ratings and designators.
(3)
An analysis of the utilization of existing funding mechanisms, including established Navy Reserve training authorities.
(4)
An evaluation of public-private vocational and technical training partnerships to support workforce development and reduce the need for the Navy to independently develop new training pipelines.
(5)
An assessment of a legal and operational framework to allow Navy Reserve personnel to support production and maintenance backlogs at private shipyards holding Department of Defense contracts, including an assessment of labor relations, collective bargaining considerations, potential impacts on civilian overtime, recruitment, and retention, and requirements to ensure Reserve personnel supplement rather than displace skilled private-sector workers.
(6)
Identification of statutory, regulatory, funding, manpower, and other barriers associated with implementation and recommendations for necessary legislative or policy relief.
(c)
Definition
In this section, the term  SurgeMain program  means the Navy Reserve Surge Maintenance program.
C
General Service Authorities and military records
521.
Remote personnel processing in the military departments
(a)
Requirement for remote personnel processing
(1)
In general
Each Secretary of a military department shall implement capabilities to enable the remote in-processing and out-processing of covered personnel.
(2)
Elements
The capabilities required under paragraph (1) shall, at a minimum—
(A)
permit covered personnel to complete in-processing and out-processing requirements remotely, including through the use of electronic forms and digital signatures;
(B)
reduce the number of hours required for in-processing and out-processing associated with a permanent change of station, separation, or retirement; and
(C)
provide covered personnel and commanders with timely electronic access to records related to such processing.
(b)
Briefings
Not later than September 30, 2027, and annually thereafter through September 30, 2030, each Secretary of a military department shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the implementation of subsection (a), including—
(1)
a description of capabilities implemented;
(2)
metrics on time required for in-processing and out-processing before and after implementation;
(3)
any challenges or limitations in execution; and
(4)
plans, if any, to expand or improve such capabilities.
(c)
Definitions
In this subsection:
(1)
Covered personnel
The term  covered personnel  includes members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the military department.
(2)
In-processing
The term  in-processing  means the administrative activities that covered personnel undertake pursuant to a permanent change of station.
(3)
Out-processing
The term  out-processing  means the administrative activities that covered personnel undertake pursuant to a permanent change of station, separation from the Armed Forces, or end of employment with the military department.
522.
Repeal of sunset of authority relating to non-medical counseling services for military families
Section 1781(d) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking paragraph (4); and
(2)
by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (4).
523.
Guidance on public disclosure of personally identifiable information for certain members of the Armed Forces
(a)
Guidance required
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall issue or update guidance regarding the public release of personally identifiable information of members of the Armed Forces in administrative announcements made through official public affairs channels, including announcements related to command selections, promotion selections, and board results.
(b)
Elements
The guidance required under subsection (a) shall—
(1)
establish appropriate safeguards to mitigate security and counterintelligence risks associated with the public disclosure of personally identifiable information;
(2)
account for the unique risks to members assigned to sensitive, specialized, or high-risk units, including members of special operations forces;
(3)
provide standards, as appropriate, for the review and approval of information prior to public release; and
(4)
ensure consistency in the application of such safeguards across the military departments.
(c)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the Secretary of Defense or the Secretaries of the military departments to determine what information may be publicly released in accordance with applicable law and policy.
524.
Prohibition on reduction in the number of personnel assigned to a service review agency
(a)
Personnel limitation
Section 1559 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a), by striking  December 31, 2025  and inserting  December 31, 2031 ;
(2)
by amending subsection (b) to read as follows:
(b)
Baseline number
The baseline number for a service review agency under this section is the number of military and civilian personnel assigned to that agency as of January 1, 2026.
 ; and
(3)
in subsection (c)(2), by inserting  and the Secretary of the Navy Council of Review Boards (formerly known as the Navy Council of Personnel Boards)  after  Board of Correction for Naval Records .
525.
Reauthorization of temporary authority to develop and provide additional recruitment incentives
Section 522(h) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114–92; 10 U.S.C. 503 note) is amended by striking  December 31, 2025  and inserting  December 31, 2028 .
526.
Relief for former service members requesting review of discharge or dismissal on the basis of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury related to combat or military sexual trauma
Section 1552(h) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
(3)
As a result of its review under paragraph (2), a board established under subsection (a)(1) may—
(A)
grant a claimant’s request to upgrade the characterization of a discharge or dismissal;
(B)
grant a claimant’s request to correct the following for a discharge or dismissal: the narrative reason for separation, the separation code, and the re-enlistment code; and
(C)
deny any part of the claimant’s application for relief after liberal consideration of the evidence of record.
(4)
If a claimant described in paragraph (1) requests retirement or separation for physical disability as defined by chapter 61 of this title, the board established under subsection (a)(1) shall review such request under the evidentiary standards established by the Department of Defense for current service members in the Disability Evaluation System. If the claimant submits multiple bases or requests for relief, the board shall review any eligible requests for relief that do not involve retirement or separation for physical disability as defined by chapter 61 this title, under the liberal consideration standard established in paragraph (2).
 .
527.
Modification of whistleblower protections
Section 1034 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b)(2)(A), by adding at the end the following new clauses:
(vi)
The conducting of, or a threat to order, a retaliatory security clearance review.
(vii)
The conducting of, or a threat to order, a retaliatory psychiatric examination, mental health evaluation, psychological assessment, or other medical testing or examination.
 ;
(2)
by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (k); and
(3)
by inserting after subsection (i) the following new subsection:
(j)
Inapplicability of nondisclosure agreements
No nondisclosure policy, form, or agreement shall be construed as limiting or otherwise affecting the rights and protections provided under this section.
 .
528.
Authority for collection of personally identifiable information regarding prospective recruits
(a)
Collection of prospective recruit information; digital collection
The Secretary concerned may collect Prospective Recruit Information with respect to prospective recruits for the Armed Forces who are at least 17 years of age for the purpose of enhancing marketing, advertising, and outreach to possible prospective recruits for recruitment for service in the Armed Forces. In the case of any such prospective recruit, such information may only be collected—
(1)
with the express consent of the prospective recruit; or
(2)
in the case of a prospective recruit who is 17 years of age, with parental consent.
(b)
Responsible person
The process for obtaining consent under subsection (a) shall be carried out so that—
(1)
the person whose consent is requested is provided information before such consent is obtained that outlines the purpose of the collection, the authority for the collection, routine uses to be made of the collection and the effects on the individual, if any, of not providing all or any part of the requested information, consistent with section 552a of title 5, United States Code; and
(2)
the person has the opportunity to establish consent preferences.
(c)
Consent
Consent may be granted, and Prospective Recruit Information may be collected, under subsection (a) through a military recruiting digital website or platform. The collection of Prospective Recruit Information may be accomplished by the use of cookies or similar technology.
(d)
Prospective Recruit Information
(1)
Maintenance of information
Prospective Recruit Information pertaining to any person may not be maintained for more than 3 years after the date the information pertaining to such person is first collected under this section.
(2)
Privacy
The maintenance of information collected under this subsection is subject to subchapter II of chapter 35 of title 44 and section 552a of title 5.
(e)
Prospective Recruit information defined
In this section, the term  Prospective Recruit Information  means, with respect to a prospective recruit for the Armed Forces, the following:
(1)
Name, mailing address, physical address, email address, mobile/cell phone number, and home phone number (if any).
(2)
Age, sex, household composition, education level, birth date, marital status, and military/veteran status.
(3)
Information about browser types, connected devices, cookie data, and usage metadata.
(4)
Unique identifiers such as IP addresses and social media handles.
(5)
Fitness activity data.
(6)
Such other data elements as determined necessary for effective recruiting, as provided in regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense and maintained in accordance with the applicable system of records notice of the department concerned.
(f)
Sunset
The authority established under subsection (a) shall terminate on December 31, 2031.
529.
Modification of service obligations for cadets obtaining employment as professional athletes
(a)
Authority
(1)
United States Military Academy
Section 7448 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
in subsection (a), by amending paragraph (5) to read as follows:
(5)
(A)
That the cadet may not obtain employment as a professional athlete under this paragraph until 2 years after graduating from the Academy, except as otherwise authorized by the Secretary under subparagraph (B).
(B)
The Secretary may authorize not more than 10 cadets during any academic year to obtain employment as a professional athlete before completing the active-duty service obligation otherwise required under this subsection.
(C)
The Secretary may waive the numerical limitation under subparagraph (B) and authorize participation for more than 10 graduates in a fiscal year if the Secretary determines that—
(i)
such a waiver is in the national interest; and
(ii)
participation by additional graduates will provide significant recruiting, retention, public affairs, or strategic benefit to the Armed Forces.
(D)
A cadet authorized under subparagraph (B) shall—
(i)
accept an appointment as a commissioned officer in an appropriate reserve component, as determined by the Secretary;
(ii)
serve in the Selected Reserve in an appropriate status, grade, and assignment, as determined by the Secretary; and
(iii)
participate in recruiting, retention, public affairs or other activities that strategically benefit the armed forces, as determined by the Secretary.
(E)
The Secretary shall prescribe the period of obligated service required under this paragraph, except that such obligated service shall be served in the Selected Reserve for a period of not more than 10 years.
(F)
Upon completion of employment as a professional athlete, or upon termination of authorization under this paragraph, the Secretary may require the officer to serve on active duty for such period as the Secretary determines appropriate, except that the combined period of service required under subparagraph (E) and this subparagraph may not exceed 10 years.
(G)
If an officer authorized under this paragraph is unable or unwilling to satisfy the service obligations required under this paragraph, and is determined by the Secretary concerned to be ineligible for further military service, the Secretary may require the officer to reimburse the United States for all or a portion of the cost of the education provided by the Academy, under such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe.
 ;
(B)
in subsection (b)—
(i)
in paragraph (1), by striking  Subject to paragraph (4), the Secretary  and inserting  The Secretary ; and
(ii)
by striking paragraph (4); and
(C)
in subsection (c)—
(i)
by striking paragraph (2); and
(ii)
by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively.
(2)
United States Naval Academy
Section 8459 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
in subsection (a), by amending paragraph (5) to read as follows:
(5)
(A)
That the midshipman may not obtain employment as a professional athlete under this paragraph until 2 years after graduating from the Academy, except as otherwise authorized by the Secretary under subparagraph (B).
(B)
The Secretary may authorize not more than 10 midshipmen during any academic year to obtain employment as a professional athlete before completing the active-duty service obligation otherwise required under this subsection.
(C)
The Secretary may waive the numerical limitation under subparagraph (B) and authorize participation for more than 10 graduates in a fiscal year if the Secretary determines that—
(i)
such a waiver is in the national interest; and
(ii)
participation by additional graduates will provide significant recruiting, retention, public affairs, or strategic benefit to the Armed Forces.
(D)
A midshipman authorized under subparagraph (B) shall—
(i)
accept an appointment as a commissioned officer in an appropriate reserve component, as determined by the Secretary;
(ii)
serve in the Selected Reserve in an appropriate status, grade, and assignment, as determined by the Secretary; and
(iii)
participate in recruiting, retention, public affairs or other activities that strategically benefit the armed forces, as determined by the Secretary.
(E)
The Secretary shall prescribe the period of obligated service required under this paragraph, except that such obligated service shall be served in the Selected Reserve for a period of not more than 10 years.
(F)
Upon completion of employment as a professional athlete, or upon termination of authorization under this paragraph, the Secretary may require the officer to serve on active duty for such period as the Secretary determines appropriate, except that the combined period of service required under subparagraph (E) and this subparagraph may not exceed 10 years.
(G)
If an officer authorized under this paragraph is unable or unwilling to satisfy the service obligations required under this paragraph, and is determined by the Secretary concerned to be ineligible for further military service, the Secretary may require the officer to reimburse the United States for all or a portion of the cost of the education provided by the Academy, under such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe.
 ;
(B)
in subsection (b)—
(i)
in paragraph (1), by striking  Subject to paragraph (4), the Secretary  and inserting  The Secretary ; and
(ii)
by striking paragraph (4); and
(C)
in subsection (c)—
(i)
by striking paragraph (2); and
(ii)
by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively.
(3)
United States Air Force Academy
Section 9448 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
in subsection (a), by amending paragraph (5) to read as follows:
(5)
(A)
That the cadet may not obtain employment as a professional athlete under this paragraph until 2 years after graduating from the Academy, except as otherwise authorized by the Secretary under subparagraph (B).
(B)
The Secretary may authorize not more than 10 cadets during any academic year to obtain employment as a professional athlete before completing the active-duty service obligation otherwise required under this subsection.
(C)
The Secretary may waive the numerical limitation under subparagraph (B) and authorize participation for more than 10 graduates in a fiscal year if the Secretary determines that—
(i)
such a waiver is in the national interest; and
(ii)
participation by additional graduates will provide significant recruiting, retention, public affairs, or strategic benefit to the Armed Forces.
(D)
A cadet authorized under subparagraph (B) shall—
(i)
accept an appointment as a commissioned officer in an appropriate reserve component, as determined by the Secretary;
(ii)
serve in the Selected Reserve in an appropriate status, grade, and assignment, as determined by the Secretary; and
(iii)
participate in recruiting, retention, public affairs or other activities that strategically benefit the armed forces, as determined by the Secretary.
(E)
The Secretary shall prescribe the period of obligated service required under this paragraph, except that such obligated service shall be served in the Selected Reserve for a period of not more than 10 years.
(F)
Upon completion of employment as a professional athlete, or upon termination of authorization under this paragraph, the Secretary may require the officer to serve on active duty for such period as the Secretary determines appropriate, except that the combined period of service required under subparagraph (E) and this subparagraph may not exceed 10 years.
(G)
If an officer authorized under this paragraph is unable or unwilling to satisfy the service obligations required under this paragraph, and is determined by the Secretary concerned to be ineligible for further military service, the Secretary may require the officer to reimburse the United States for all or a portion of the cost of the education provided by the Academy, under such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe.
 ;
(B)
in subsection (b)—
(i)
in paragraph (1), by striking  Subject to paragraph (4), the Secretary  and inserting  The Secretary ; and
(ii)
by striking paragraph (4); and
(C)
in subsection (c)—
(i)
by striking paragraph (2); and
(ii)
by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively.
(b)
Regulations
Each Secretary concerned shall prescribe regulations to carry out this section and the amendments made by this section, including eligibility criteria, performance standards, and procedures for monitoring compliance.
529A.
Requirement of equal opportunity, racial neutrality, and exclusive use of merit in military personnel actions
(a)
Merit requirement
Any Department of Defense military personnel action related to promotions, nominative assignments, command selection, and military and civil schooling selection shall be based exclusively on individual merit, fitness, capability, and performance.
(b)
Consideration of certain attributes prohibited
Consideration of an individual’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin in any military personnel action described in subsection (a) is prohibited throughout the Department of Defense.
(c)
Limited exception for tasking of specific missions
(1)
In general
This section shall not be construed to prohibit tasking for specific, unconventional missions in foreign countries, where the anticipated ground operating environment of indigenous populations may justify consideration of race, ethnicity, or national origin when tasking for the mission to optimize mission success.
(2)
Combatant commander approval required
Any tasking pursuant to the exception described in paragraph (1) shall require the approval of the combatant commander concerned.
(3)
Reporting requirement
Not later than 60 days after a tasking pursuant to the exception described in paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall report the tasking to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The report shall describe—
(A)
the mission, including location and duration;
(B)
the staffing of the mission;
(C)
the demographic factors warranting the tasking;
(D)
the number of personnel involved, including their rank, position, and race, ethnicity, and national origin; and
(E)
the rationale for the tasking.
529B.
Prohibition on participation of males in athletic programs or activities, and males entering privacy spaces, at the military service academies that are designated for women or girls
(a)
In general
(1)
Prohibition on participation
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and all primary and secondary schools under the control of the Department of Defense, including the Department of Defense Education Activity Schools, do not permit a person enrolled at such an Academy or school whose sex is male to participate in an athletic program or activity that is designated for women or girls.
(2)
Privacy in women’s spaces
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and all primary and secondary schools under the control of the Department of Defense, including the Department of Defense Education Activity Schools—
(A)
designate each multi-occupancy restroom or changing room in a facility under its control for the exclusive use of males or females and take reasonable steps to prevent individuals from using a restroom or changing room designated for the opposite sex;
(B)
if only one restroom or changing room exists in a facility under its control, clearly designate that restroom or changing room for the sole use by the sex of the team or group using the facility at the time; and
(C)
provide students the option to be housed in permanent sleeping quarters only with persons of the same sex at any student housing facilities under its control or during any academy or school-sponsored trips.
(b)
Rules of construction
(1)
Participation
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and all primary and secondary schools under the control of the Department of Defense, including the Department of Defense Education Activity Schools, from permitting males to train or practice with an athletic program or activity that is designated for women or girls so long as no female is deprived of a roster spot on a team or sport, opportunity to participate in a practice or competition, scholarship, admission to an educational institution, or any other benefit that accompanies participating in the athletic program or activity.
(2)
Restrooms and changing rooms
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and all primary and secondary schools under the control of the Department of Defense, including the Department of Defense Education Activity Schools, from—
(A)
establishing single-occupancy restrooms, changing rooms, or permanent sleeping quarters;
(B)
allowing individuals to enter a restroom or changing room designated for the opposite sex—
(i)
to perform custodial services or maintenance;
(ii)
to render medical assistance;
(iii)
to provide childcare, disability support, or age-appropriate parental assistance in Department of Defense Education Activity School environments;
(iv)
to provide services or render aid during a natural disaster, a declared emergency, or when necessary to prevent a serious threat to good order or safety; or
(v)
to provide coaching or athletic training during athletic events by coaching staff in changing rooms, provided that the individual ensures that no person of the opposite sex is in a state of undress prior to entering the room; or
(C)
utilizing temporary co-ed sleeping arrangements necessary for training exercises, deployments, or other operational environments.
(c)
Definitions
In this section—
(1)
the term  athletic programs and activities  includes all programs or activities that are provided conditional upon participation with any athletic team;
(2)
the term  changing room  means a locker room, shower room, or other area designated for individuals to change clothing;
(3)
the term  female  means an individual who naturally has, had, will have, or would have, but for a congenital anomaly or intentional or unintentional disruption, the reproductive system that at some point produces, transports, and utilizes eggs for fertilization;
(4)
the term  male  means an individual who naturally has, had, will have, or would have, but for a congenital anomaly or intentional or unintentional disruption, the reproductive system that at some point produces, transports, and utilizes sperm for fertilization;
(5)
the term  restroom  means a room that includes one or more toilets or urinals;
(6)
the term  sex  means an individual’s biological sex, either male or female; and
(7)
the term  sleeping quarters  means a room with a bed in which more than one individual is housed overnight.
529C.
Modification of provisions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion
(a)
Diversity requirements for selection boards
Title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in section 573(b), by striking the last sentence;
(2)
in section 612(a)(1), by striking the last sentence; and
(3)
in section 14102(b), by striking the last sentence.
(b)
Pronoun policy repeal
Section 986 of title 10, United States Code, is repealed.
(c)
Human relations training
Section 2001(a)(1)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  include  and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting  include honor, excellence, courage, and commitment. .
529D.
Sex-neutral occupational performance standards
Section 543 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1994 (Public Law 103–160; 10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
(1)
in the section heading, by striking
Gender-neutral   and inserting
Sex-neutral  ;
(2)
in subsection (a)—
(A)
in the subsection heading, by striking
Gender neutrality   and inserting
Sex neutrality  ;
(B)
by striking  that is open to both male and female members of the Armed Forces  and inserting  in the Armed Forces ;
(C)
in paragraph (1), by striking  on the basis of gender  and inserting  on the basis of sex ;
(D)
by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively;
(E)
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph:
(2)
shall ensure that any member of the Armed Forces who meets the occupational standards for such occupational career field shall be eligible for qualification, assignment, and continuance in that occupational career field without differential standards or evaluation on the basis of sex;
 ;
(F)
in paragraph (3), as redesignated by subparagraph (D), by striking  gender quota  and inserting  sex quota ; and
(G)
in paragraph (4), as so redesignated, by inserting  men or  before  women ;
(3)
in subsection (b)—
(A)
in the subsection heading, by striking
physical   and inserting
occupational  ; and
(B)
in paragraph (1)—
(i)
by striking  physical requirements for  and inserting  requirements for technical, tactical, cognitive, and physical abilities, including ;
(ii)
by striking  strength and endurance  and inserting  strength, endurance, ;
(iii)
by striking  physical requirements as  and inserting  requirements as ;
(iv)
by striking  gender-neutral occupational standard  and inserting  sex-neutral occupational standard ;
(v)
by striking  (in the case of a career designator that is open to both male and female members of the Armed Forces) ; and
(vi)
by striking  gender-neutral basis  and inserting  sex-neutral basis ;
(4)
in subsection (c), by striking  gender-neutral occupational standard  and inserting  sex-neutral occupational standard ;
(5)
by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e);
(6)
by inserting after subsection (c) the following new subsection:
(d)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the Secretary from revising occupational performance standards, where such standards are based on validated operational requirements and applied on a sex-neutral basis.
 ; and
(7)
in subsection (e)(1), as redesignated by paragraph (4)—
(A)
in the paragraph heading, by striking
Gender-neutral   and inserting
Sex-neutral  ; and
(B)
by striking  gender-neutral occupational standard  and inserting  sex-neutral occupational standard .
D
Military Justice and other legal matters
531.
Wrongful broadcast or distribution of intimate visual images
(a)
Analysis regarding potential removal of military mission or environment as required element of offense
The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice, shall analyze the feasibility and advisability of amending section 917a(a) of title 10, United States Code, (article 117a(a) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) to remove paragraph (4) (relating to requiring as an element of the offense,  conduct [that has] a reasonably direct and palpable connection to a military mission or military environment ).
(b)
Report
Not later than December 31, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report detailing the results of the analysis conducted under subsection (a) and any associated recommendations.
532.
Expansion of victim access to Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces
Section 806b of title 10, United States Code (article 6b of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
(1)
in subsection (e)(3), by striking subparagraph (C); and
(2)
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(g)
Review by the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces
(1)
The Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces may review all decisions or dispositions taken by a Court of Criminal Appeals pursuant to a petition filed by the victim of an offense under this chapter under subsection (e) and on good cause shown.
(2)
The Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces shall take action only with respect to matters of law.
(3)
The victim of an offense under this chapter may petition the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces for review pursuant to paragraph (1) not later than 21 days after the earlier of—
(A)
the date on which the victim is notified of the decision or disposition of the Court of Criminal Appeals on a petition pursuant to subsection (e); and
(B)
the date on which a copy of the decision or disposition of the Court of Criminal Appeals, after being served on counsel for the victim (if the victim has counsel), is deposited into the United States mails for delivery by first-class certified mail to the victim at an address provided by the victim or at the latest address listed for the victim in the record of any proceedings held pursuant to section 830(a) or 832 of this title (article 30(a) or 32) or during trial.
(4)
Review of any decision or disposition of the Court of Criminal Appeals on a petition for writ of mandamus described in this subsection shall have priority in the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, as determined under the rules of the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
 .
533.
Technical amendment to completion of appellate review under article 57 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice
Section 857(c) of title 10, United States Code (article 57(c) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
(1)
by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3);
(2)
in paragraph (1)(B), by striking  Appeals and—  and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting  Appeals and the review and time requirements described in paragraph (2) are satisfied. ; and
(3)
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph (2):
(2)
Review and time requirements
The review and time requirements referred to in paragraph (1)(B) are satisfied if any of the following applies:
(A)
The time for the accused to file a petition for review by the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces has expired and the accused has not filed a petition for such review in a timely manner and the case is not otherwise under review by that Court.
(B)
The petition for review is withdrawn by the accused.
(C)
The petition for review having been filed—
(i)
either—
(I)
the petition is denied or otherwise rejected by the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces; or
(II)
the review requested by the petition is completed in accordance with the judgment of the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces; and
(ii)
with respect to subsequent review by the Supreme Court—
(I)
a petition for a writ of certiorari as provided in section 1259 of title 28 is not filed within the time limits prescribed by the Supreme Court;
(II)
such a petition is rejected by the Supreme Court;
(III)
such a petition is withdrawn by the petitioner; or
(IV)
review is otherwise completed in accordance with the judgment of the Supreme Court.
 .
534.
Review of courts-martial records
(a)
Review when direct appeal is waived, withdrawn, or not filed
Section 865(d) of title 10, United States Code (article 65(d) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
(1)
by striking paragraph (2);
(2)
by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2); and
(3)
in paragraph (2), as so redesignated—
(A)
in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking  subparagraph (A), (B), or (C)  and inserting  subparagraph (A) or (B) ; and
(B)
in subparagraph (B), by striking  conclusions  and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting “a conclusion on each of the following matters:
(i)
Whether the court had jurisdiction over the accused and the offense.
(ii)
Whether the charge and specification stated an offense.
(iii)
Whether the sentence was within the limits prescribed as a matter of law.
 .
(b)
Technical correction
Section 869(c)(2) of title 10, United States Code (article 69(c)(2) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended by striking  section 865(b) of this title (article 65(b))  and inserting  section 865(d) of this title (article 65(d)) .
535.
Authority of special trial counsel to enter into pretrial agreements with respect to certain offenses occurring before effective date of military justice reforms
Section 824a(c) of title 10, United States Code (article 24a(c) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (3)—
(A)
in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking  paragraph (5)  and inserting  paragraphs (4) and (6) ; and
(B)
in subparagraph (C), by inserting  or pretrial agreement  after  plea agreement ;
(2)
by redesignating paragraphs (4) and (5) as paragraphs (5) and (6), respectively; and
(3)
by inserting after paragraph (3) the following new paragraph:
(4)
Pretrial agreements
If a special trial counsel exercises authority pursuant to subsection (d) over an offense committed before January 1, 2019, the special trial counsel may enter into a pretrial agreement with the accused in accordance with regulations prescribed by the President. Upon acceptance of such an agreement by the military judge of a general or special court-martial, the agreement shall bind the parties and the convening authority.
 .
536.
Clarification of court of criminal appeals review of sentencing
Section 866(e)(1) of title 10, United States Code (article 66(e)(1) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
(1)
by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
(B)
whether the portion of the sentence extending to confinement is inappropriately severe, except that in the case of an offense for which the President has established a sentencing parameter for such portion pursuant to section 539E(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (10 U.S.C. 856 note), the Court may not consider such portion inappropriately severe if such portion is at or below the upper range of such sentencing parameter;
 ; and
(2)
in subparagraph (C), by striking  the sentence  and inserting  the portion of the sentence extending to confinement .
537.
Updating subpoena authority for military investigations
(a)
Pre-referral subpoenas for electronic communications
Section 830a(a)(1)(B) of title 10, United States Code (article 30a(a)(1)(B) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended by striking  warrants or orders  and inserting  warrants, orders, or subpoenas .
(b)
Authority to issue investigative subpoenas related to wire and electronic communications
Section 846(d)(3) of title 10, United States Code (article 46(d)(3) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended—
(1)
in the paragraph heading, by striking
Warrant or order   and inserting
Warrant, order, or subpoena  ;
(2)
by striking  may issue warrants or court orders  and inserting  may issue warrants, court orders, or investigative subpoenas ; and
(3)
by striking  as such warrants and orders  and inserting  as such warrants, orders, or subpoenas .
538.
Extension of Special Victims' Counsel services to domestic violence victims
(a)
Amendments
Section 1044e of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in the section heading, by inserting
domestic violence and   before
sex-related offenses  ;
(2)
by inserting  domestic violence or  before  sex-related offense  each place it appears;
(3)
in subsection (b)(3), by striking  domestic abuse advocate  and inserting  domestic abuse victim advocate ;
(4)
in subsection (f)(1), by inserting  domestic abuse victim advocate,  after  healthcare provider, ; and
(5)
in subsection (h)—
(A)
in the subsection heading, by inserting
domestic violence or   before
sex-related offense  ; and
(B)
in paragraph (1), by striking  or 930 of this title (article 120, 120b, 120c,  and inserting  928b, or 930 of this title (article 120, 120b, 120c, 128b, .
(b)
Effective date
The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect two years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c)
Briefing
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the implementation of policies and procedures to carry out the changes required pursuant to subsection (a).
539.
Treatment of hazing under Uniform Code of Military Justice
(a)
Analysis required
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice, shall analyze the feasibility and advisability of, and develop recommendations with respect to, modifying chapter 47 of title 10, United States Code (the Uniform Code of Military Justice) to provide for one or more of the following changes:
(A)
To establish hazing as a sentence modifier for offenses where hazing was present.
(B)
To establish hazing as a lesser included offense under section 893 of title 10, United States Code (article 93 of the Uniform Code of Military justice; relating to cruelty and maltreatment).
(C)
To establish another method of codifying hazing as a standalone punitive article of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
(2)
Hazing definition
As part of the analysis conducted under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall develop a proposed definition of the term  hazing  for purposes of such modifier, article, or alternative.
(b)
Report
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the results of the analysis under subsection (a), including a justification for any decision not to codify hazing as a punitive article under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
539A.
Notification of the issuance or termination of military protective orders to victims of domestic violence or sexual assault
Section 1567a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in the section heading, by inserting
and victims of domestic abuse or sexual assault   after
civilian law enforcement  ;
(2)
in subsection (a), by inserting  and, in a case involving domestic abuse or sexual assault, the victim or requesting individual,  after  appropriate civilian authorities ; and
(3)
in subsection (c), by inserting  and, in a case involving domestic abuse or sexual assault, the victim or requesting individual,  after  appropriate civilian authorities .
539B.
Military domestic violence emergent housing policy
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall establish and implement Department of Defense policy to require commanders, in response to domestic violence reports or complaints, to make an initial determination as to the credibility of the report or complaint. If the report is deemed credible, in consultation with the victim, the commander should—
(1)
impose military protective orders; and
(2)
whenever practicable, separate the victim and the alleged offender into separate housing;
(b)
Briefing
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Department of Defense shall provide a briefing to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives concerning any additional authorities necessary to properly implement the policy referenced in subsection (a), as well as the establishment of a process to maintain emergent housing entitlements to basic allowance for housing or military housing units in support of domestic violence victims for up to 180 days.
539C.
Annual report on findings of the Department-wide review of the military legal system
(a)
Report
(1)
In general
Not later than December 1, 2027, and annually thereafter by December 1 through 2031, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the General Counsel of the Department of Defense, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive report on the findings, recommendations, and implementation status of the Department-wide review of the military legal system initiated pursuant to the Secretary of Defense memorandum dated May 8, 2026.
(2)
Elements
The report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
(A)
A detailed summary of the reviews conducted by the special review panel established by the General Counsel, including a list of all final recommendations submitted to the Secretary during the preceding fiscal year.
(B)
Details on the specific timeline, implementation status, and systemic changes executed or planned by the Department based on the panel’s recommendations.
(C)
An assessment of how any administrative, structural, or policy changes resulting from the review impact the statutory independence and authorities of the special trial counsel established under part I of subtitle D of title V of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1692).
(D)
The specific metrics, criteria, and legal justifications used to differentiate  operational  military legal workloads from  civilian  workloads, alongside a quantification of any legal personnel or billets shifted from military to civilian oversight.
(E)
A summary of the comparative data and criteria used by the Department to benchmark the military legal system against the Department of Justice and State criminal justice systems, including any findings on system efficiencies or deficiencies.
(F)
An evaluation of how proposed changes affect the professional responsibility, rating chains, and statutory duty of the Judge Advocates General of the Armed Forces to provide independent legal advice.
(3)
Form
The report required under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex if necessary.
(b)
Briefing requirement
The Secretary of Defense shall brief the congressional defense committees not later than 30 days after implementing any changes based on the recommendations of the panel and review described in subsection (a)(1).
539D.
Clarification of authority to order to active-duty certain persons subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice for matters relating to offenses during specified periods incident to inactive-duty training
(a)
Persons subject to UCMJ
Section 802(d)(2)(B) of title 10, United States Code (article 2(d)(2)(B) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended by inserting  or during a period specified in subsection (a)(3)(B)  after  on inactive-duty training .
(b)
Jurisdiction to try certain personnel
Section 803(d) of such title (article 3(d) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended—
(1)
by inserting  or a period specified in section 802(a)(3)(B) of this title (article 2(a)(3)(B))  after  a period of active duty or inactive-duty training ; and
(2)
by striking  of active-duty or inactive-duty training  before the period at the end.
539E.
Inapplicability to retired members of punitive articles affecting political speech
Section 802 of title 10, United States Code (article 2 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a), by striking  The following persons  and inserting  Except as provided in subsection (e), the following persons ;
(2)
by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (f); and
(3)
by inserting after subsection (d) the following new subsection:
(e)
(1)
With respect to members to whom the provisions of this chapter are made applicable by paragraphs (4), (5), (6), and (14) of subsection (a), except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the provisions of subchapter X shall not be applicable to any—
(A)
conduct of such members which constitutes or pertains to political speech;
(B)
expressions pertaining to the actions, character, motivations, qualifications, or other attributes of government officials; or
(C)
statements of the law.
(2)
The exception under paragraph (1) shall not apply to a member—
(A)
to whom this chapter is applicable under a paragraph of subsection (a) other than one of the paragraphs referenced in paragraph (1) of this subsection; or
(B)
who is wearing a military uniform.
 .
E
Member education, training, and transition
541.
Limitation on authority to reorganize the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps
(a)
Limitations
(1)
Briefing prior to reorganization
The Secretary of the Army, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of the Air Force may not reorganize a unit of the program of their respective military service until the date that is 90 days after the date on which the Secretary provides to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a briefing with respect to the reorganization of such unit that includes the following:
(A)
Each position of such unit to be eliminated.
(B)
A risk analysis regarding the impact of the reorganization on officer accessions that justifies such reorganization.
(C)
Anticipated cost savings or expenses to the United States.
(D)
The number of members of the program affected by the reorganization, including the number of members who will have to travel to another educational institution to participate in the program after the reorganization.
(E)
Any change to a scholarship awarded under section 2107 or 2107a of title 10, United States Code, due to the reorganization.
(2)
Completion of commissioning requirements by current students
The Secretary of the Army, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of the Air Force shall ensure that any reorganization of a unit of the program of their respective military service allows a member of the program receiving financial assistance under section 2107 or 2107a of title 10, United States Code, who is affected by such reorganization to complete any requirements for receiving a commission as an officer in the military service without the member being required to transfer to another educational institution.
(b)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
The terms  program  and  member of the program  have the meanings given such terms in section 2101 of title 10, United States Code.
(2)
The term  reorganize , with respect to a unit of the program, includes closing, restructuring, reclassifying, merging, or realigning.
542.
Discharge of midshipmen for unsatisfactory conduct or inaptitude
Section 8462 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a)—
(A)
by striking  Superintendent of the Naval Academy  and all that follows through  report of the facts—  and inserting  Secretary of the Navy may discharge a midshipman from the Naval Academy and from the naval service— ;
(B)
in paragraph (1), by striking  Superintendent  and inserting  Secretary ; and
(C)
in paragraph (2), by striking  Academic Board unanimously determines  and inserting  Secretary determines ; and
(2)
by amending subsection (b) to read as follows:
(b)
The authority of the Secretary under subsection (a) may be delegated to the Superintendent of the Naval Academy.
 .
543.
Modification to program on encouragement of postseparation public and community service
(a)
Modification of applicability of repealed section
Section 553(c)(2) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1773) is amended by striking  The repeal made under paragraph (1)  and inserting  The amendments made by this section .
(b)
Effective date
The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect as if included in the enactment of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232).
544.
Limited authority to waive time-in-grade requirement for service academy graduates detailed as students at law schools
Section 2004 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a)(2), by striking  Not more than 25 officers and enlisted members from each military department  and inserting  Not more than 35 members from each military service ; and
(2)
in subsection (c)—
(A)
by inserting  (1)  before  Officers and enlisted members ; and
(B)
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(2)
The Secretaries of the military departments are authorized to waive the time in service minimum of two years in subsection (b)(1)(A)(i) for up to five officers who are graduates of the United States Military Academy established under section 7431 of title 10, United States Code, up to five officers who are graduates of the Air Force Academy established under section 9431 of title 10, United States Code, and up to five officers who are graduates of the Naval Academy established under section 8451 of title 10, United States Code, respectively.
 .
545.
Elimination of the right of cadets to automatic reexamination
(a)
United States Military Academy
Section 7451 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking subsection (b);
(2)
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b); and
(3)
in subsection (b), as so redesignated, by striking  the course  and inserting  a course .
(b)
United States Air Force Academy
Section 9451 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking subsection (b);
(2)
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b); and
(3)
in subsection (b), as so redesignated, by striking  the course  and inserting  a course .
(c)
Effective date
The amendments made by this section shall apply to the first academic year beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act.
546.
Revision to decision timeframe for expedited transfers at the military service academies
(a)
United States Military Academy
Subsection (e)(2)(C)(i) of section 7461 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  72 hours  each place it appears and inserting  five calendar days .
(b)
United States Naval Academy
Subsection (e)(2)(C)(i) of section 8480 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  72 hours  each place it appears and inserting  five calendar days .
(c)
United States Air Force Academy
Subsection (e)(2)(C)(i) of section 9461 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  72 hours  each place it appears and inserting  five calendar days .
547.
Establishment of program to promote participation of foreign students in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps
(a)
Establishment
(1)
In general
Not later than January 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a program using the authority provided under section 2103(b) of title 10, United States Code, to promote the participation of foreign students in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (in this section referred to as the  Program ).
(2)
Organization
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the Secretaries of the military departments, the commanders of the combatant commands, the participant institutions in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program, and any other individual the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate, shall be responsible for, and shall oversee, the Program.
(b)
Objective
The objective of the Program is to promote the readiness and interoperability of the United States Armed Forces and the military forces of partner countries by providing a high-quality, cost effective military-based educational experience for foreign students in furtherance of the military-to-military program objectives of the Department of Defense and to enhance the educational experience and preparation of future United States military leaders through increased, extended interaction with highly qualified potential foreign military leaders.
(c)
Activities
(1)
In general
Under the Program, the Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
identify to the military services’ Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program the foreign students who, based on criteria established by the Secretary, the Secretary recommends be considered for admission under the Program;
(B)
coordinate with partner countries to evaluate interest in and promote awareness of the Program;
(C)
establish a mechanism for tracking an alumni network of foreign students who participate in the Program; and
(D)
to the extent practicable, work with the participant institutions in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program and partner countries to identify academic institutions and programs that—
(i)
have specialized academic programs in areas of study of interest to participating countries; or
(ii)
have high participation from or significant diaspora populations from participating countries.
(d)
Strategy
(1)
In general
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a strategy for the implementation of the Program.
(2)
Elements
The strategy required by paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
(A)
A governance structure for the Program, including—
(i)
the officials tasked to oversee the Program;
(ii)
the format of the governing body of the Program;
(iii)
the functions and duties of such governing body with respect to establishing and maintaining the Program; and
(iv)
mechanisms for coordinating with partner countries whose students are selected to participate in the Program.
(B)
A list of additional authorities, appropriations, or other congressional support necessary to ensure the success of the Program.
(C)
A description of targeted partner countries and participant institutions in the Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps for the first three fiscal years of the Program, including a rationale for selecting such initial partners.
(D)
A description of opportunities and potential timelines for future Program expansion, as appropriate.
(E)
A description of the mechanism for tracking the alumni network of participants of the Program.
(F)
Any other information the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate.
(e)
Report
(1)
In general
Not later than September 20, 2028, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees (as that term is defined in section 101 of title 10, United States Code) a report on the Program.
(2)
Elements
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
(A)
A narrative summary of activities conducted as part of the Program during the preceding fiscal year.
(B)
An overview of participant Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs, individuals, and countries, to include a description of the areas of study entered into by the students participating in the Program.
(C)
A description of opportunities and potential timelines for future Program expansion, as appropriate.
(D)
Any other information the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate.
(f)
Limitation on authority
The Secretary of Defense may not use the authority provided under this section to pay for tuition or room and board for foreign students who participate in the Program.
(g)
Termination
The Program shall terminate on December 31, 2032.
548.
Designation of senior official for military-to-civilian transition
(a)
In general
Chapter 58 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
1156.
Senior official for military-to-civilian transition
(a)
Designation
The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness shall designate a senior official of the Department of Defense to oversee policy and programs related to the transition of members of the armed forces from active duty to civilian life or reserve components.
(b)
Qualifications
The official designated under paragraph (1) shall be designated from among individuals with appropriate experience in military personnel policy, transition assistance, veterans' affairs, or related matters.
(c)
Role, responsibility, and authority
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2), the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness shall prescribe the roles, responsibilities, and authorities of the official designated under subsection (a).
(2)
The roles, responsibilities, and authorities prescribed under paragraph (1) shall include, with respect to the transition of members of the armed forces from active duty to civilian life and reserve components and the families of such members experiencing such transition—
(A)
serving as the principal advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness on policies, operations, and programs and activities relating to the transition of members;
(B)
assisting the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness with policies, operations, and programs and activities relating to the transition of members;
(C)
working, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Education, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of all activities relating to the transition of members;
(D)
serving as the principal coordinator for military-to-civilian transition policy within the Department of Defense, with the mission of coordinating and overseeing the effectiveness of transition programs of the Department of Defense and ensuring all members of the armed forces are well equipped for civilian life or the reserve components, as the case may be;
(E)
overseeing the implementation of transition programs in the Department of Defense;
(F)
conducting a review and assessment of all transition programs and services offered by the Department of Defense, including the programs under this chapter, and proposing legislative or administrative action—
(i)
to improve the efficacy and efficiency of the programs; and
(ii)
to ensure compliance with all legal requirements related to transition assistance; and
(G)
working with Federal agencies, State and local governments, and nongovernmental organizations to improve the delivery of transition support services to members and families of members.
 .
(b)
Implementation and briefing
(1)
Implementation
The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness shall designate a senior official under section 1156(a) of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a) of this section, not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(2)
Briefing
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees on—
(A)
the status of the designation of the official described under subsection (1); and
(B)
the implementation of the roles, responsibilities, and authorities of such official.
549.
Payment of tuition for off-duty training or education
(a)
Authority
Section 2007 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in the section heading, by inserting
and institution fees   after
Payment of tuition  ;
(2)
in subsection (a), by striking  or expenses  and inserting  , expenses, or institution fees ; and
(3)
in subsection (c), by striking  or expenses  each place it appears and inserting  , expenses, or institution fees .
(b)
Increase in per-semester-hour cap
The Secretary of Defense may prescribe regulations increasing the per-semester-hour cap for tuition assistance offered by the military services to not more than $350 per semester-hour.
(c)
Annual report
(1)
In general
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on Off-Duty and Voluntary Education and Training Account ( Accounts ) outcomes.
(2)
Elements
The report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
(A)
Fiscal, volume, compliance, and distribution metrics.
(B)
Metrics linking investment in the Accounts to outcomes including educational attainment, recruitment/retention, mission readiness, and transition readiness.
(C)
An analysis of compliance with sections 2005, 2006a, and 2007 of title 10, United States Code.
(D)
An analysis of the severability of annual ceiling requirements from per-semester-hour caps under part 68 of title 32, Code of Federal Regulations.
549A.
Improvement of transition of medics in the Armed Forces to the civilian workforce in health care occupations
(a)
Recommendations required
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with each of the States (through the Defense-State Liaison Office of the Department of Defense), the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Homeland Security (with respect to matters concerning the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Department of the Navy), shall develop recommendations to improve the transition of medics serving in the Armed Forces into the civilian workforce in health care occupations, including as certified nurse aides, licensed practical nurses, or medical assistants.
(b)
Considerations
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall—
(1)
identify any barriers—
(A)
to improving the ability of the Secretary to determine and communicate how the military credentials and experience of a medic separating from the Armed Forces translate to credentialed civilian employment in health care occupations;
(B)
that exist to the standardization among the Armed Forces of military medic credentials and experience and the alignment of such credentials and experience to credentialed civilian employment in health care occupations;
(C)
that exist to ensuring members of the Armed Forces with military medic credentials and experience have earned the equivalent civilian credential prior to separation from the Armed Forces in addition to receiving their military credentials;
(D)
to the increased establishment and uptake of accelerated or bridge programs to assist separating members of the Armed Forces in translating military credentials and experience into civilian health care credentials and employment;
(E)
to increasing the availability and accessibility of preparatory activities under the SkillBridge program established under section 1143(e) of title 10, United States Code, in the health care sector for members of the Armed Forces preparing for separation, to include—
(i)
the approval timeline for separating members to participate in SkillBridge programs in the health care sector; and
(ii)
requirements to return to their duty station for out-processing; and
(F)
to providing information on civilian health care credentials and employment under the Transition Assistance Program to medics separating from the Armed Forces, including information on State-by-State licensing and credentialing; and
(2)
consider the potential impact of—
(A)
clarification by States through legislation, actions of State licensing boards, or actions of State credentialing boards of the civilian equivalents of certain military credentials and experience in health care;
(B)
implementation, including through State-provided incentives, of accelerated programs to bridge military medic credentials and experience with civilian health care credentials and licenses;
(C)
financial support or incentives by States to increase the availability and accessibility of such programs;
(D)
requiring the military departments to align military health care credentials with civilian equivalents; and
(E)
tracking and reporting, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Homeland Security (with respect to matters concerning the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Department of the Navy), the number of separated members of the Armed Forces with health care-related military credentials and experience who continue in the civilian health care sector, including the type of employment they pursue.
(c)
Report
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing—
(1)
the recommendations developed under subsection (a); and
(2)
a plan to implement those recommendations.
(d)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Medic
The term  medic  means a member of the Armed Forces acting in a clinical health care-related occupation while serving in the Armed Forces.
(2)
State
The term  State  means each of the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, or the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands that have a Defense-State Liaison Office.
(3)
Transition Assistance Program
The term  Transition Assistance Program  means the program of the Department of Defense for pre-separation counseling, employment assistance, and other transitional services provided under sections 1142 and 1144 of title 10, United States Code.
549B.
Standards and requirements for institutions of higher learning seeking to participate in Department of Defense education programs
(a)
Prohibition on categorical restrictions
Except as provided in subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense may not, by any policy or other action—
(1)
prohibit or otherwise restrict the Department of Defense or the military departments from permitting servicemembers to participate in an eligible program at an eligible institution of higher education, as a means to complete an eligible program, including any constituent subsidiary or subelement of such institution, regardless of the source of funds used by the member to pay tuition, fees, or related expenses; or
(2)
deny covered funds to members of the Armed Forces who are otherwise eligible for such assistance, or deny covered support to any such member, on the basis that the member has applied to, enrolled in, attends, or has completed an eligible program at an eligible institution of higher education, including any constituent subsidiary or subelement of such institution.
(b)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered funds
The term  covered funds  means any program, appropriation, or other authority of the Department of Defense to pay, reimburse, or otherwise provide financial assistance for education or training of members of the Armed Forces, including under section 2007 of title 10, United States Code, and any successor authority.
(2)
Covered support
The term  covered support  means any Department of Defense funding or facilitation of a member’s participation in education or training conducted in whole or in part at an institution of higher education, whether full-time or part-time, other than professional military education programs conducted by the Department of Defense.
(3)
Eligible institution of higher education defined
The term  eligible institution of higher education  means an institution that—
(A)
is accredited, and maintains accreditation in good standing, by an accrediting agency or association recognized by the Secretary of Education under part H of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1099b et seq.); and
(B)
(i)
operates a program authorized in section 2006a(a) of title 10, United States Code; or
(ii)
offers or administers an eligible program under paragraph (4).
(4)
Eligible program
The term  eligible program  means—
(A)
an educational program authorized by law and established by the Department of Defense under which the Department is authorized to provide covered funds or covered support; or
(B)
a fellowship, scholarship, degree, certificate, medical residency, grant, or other training or education program in which members of the Armed Forces are authorized to participate that is funded through—
(i)
covered funds;
(ii)
personal funds;
(iii)
authorized outside fellowships, scholarships, or grants; or
(iv)
any combination of sources described in clauses (i) though (iii).
(c)
Limited exceptions for cause; termination or suspension of institutional eligibility
(1)
In general
The Secretary may restrict attendance under subsection (a)(1), or suspend or terminate the availability of covered funds or covered support under subsection (a)(2), with respect to an otherwise eligible institution of higher education if—
(A)
the institution has materially failed to comply with specific terms of a memorandum of understanding, contract, or other educational partnership agreement applicable to the eligible program;
(B)
the restriction, suspension, or termination is required to address a specific, articulable national security risk;
(C)
the restriction, suspension, or termination is required by a provision of Federal law or is undertaken upon mutual written agreement between the Department and the institution; or
(D)
the institution has been convicted of, or has been the subject of a final civil judgment that the institution violated—
(i)
the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2751 et seq.) or regulations issued thereunder;
(ii)
the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4801 et seq.) or regulations issued thereunder;
(iii)
the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) or regulations issued thereunder; or
(iv)
Section 1831 of title 18, United States Code (economic espionage).
(2)
Least disruptive means; prospective application
Any action under paragraph (1) shall be narrowly tailored and implemented using the least disruptive means practicable, including to the maximum extent practicable, applying such action prospectively and permitting enrolled students to finish their current course of study.
(d)
Notice
In the event that the Secretary believes that a  for cause  exception has been triggered under subsection (c), the Secretary shall provide for the following:
(1)
Not later than 90 days before the proposed termination date, the Secretary shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives and the affected institution written notification, including—
(A)
the proposed termination date; and
(B)
the factual basis for suspension or termination under subsection (c).
(2)
The Secretary shall provide an opportunity for the institution to appeal or dispute the findings and cure any material deficiencies in the written notification within 30 days of receipt of such notification. If at any point the institution demonstrates that they have cured the issue, the Secretary shall re-evaluate the suspension or termination and determine whether the institution has addressed the material deficiencies.
(e)
Rule of construction
Participation in Department of Defense education programs and activities by institutions of higher education shall be determined based on institution-agnostic eligibility requirements and objective criteria. Nothing in this section shall be construed—
(1)
to permit the Secretary to disqualify an institution of higher education from participating in Department of Defense education or training programs or activities on the basis of—
(A)
an institution of higher education’s First Amendment rights or its protection of student free speech and association rights under section 112 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1011a.); or
(B)
an institution of higher education’s religious character or affiliation;
(2)
to require the Secretary of Defense to approve any individual request for covered funds or covered support where the member or the institution of higher education does not meet program-wide, institution-agnostic eligibility or selection requirements;
(3)
to restrict the Secretary’s ability to establish institution-agnostic program guidelines, eligibility criteria, or funding caps on covered support programs that are not otherwise inconsistent with this section;
(4)
to limit the ability of the Secretary of Defense or the Secretaries of the military departments from entering into program agreements with eligible institutions of higher education to carry out educational programs authorized in law; or
(5)
create an entitlement for servicemembers to refuse orders otherwise issued in the due course of normal detailing processes or for military necessity.
(f)
Exclusion
The prohibitions in subsection (a) do not apply to an institution of higher education that operates for profit.
549C.
Government copyright for work produced at Defense Security Cooperation University
Section 105(d)(2) of title 17, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
(P)
Defense Security Cooperation University.
 .
549D.
Promoting the use of standardized testing at military service academies and DoDEA schools
(a)
Military service academies
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that each of the Service Academies (as that term is defined in section 347(d) of title 10, United States Code) may satisfy any standardized testing requirement through scores from any of not fewer than three nationally recognized standardized assessments that are designed to evaluate college readiness and that measure, at a minimum, mathematics, reading, grammar and writing, and analytical reasoning skills. Such assessments may also evaluate critical and logical reasoning, comprehension of literary, historical, or philosophical texts, and other indicators of postsecondary readiness as determined appropriate by the Secretary.
(b)
DODEA schools
The Director of the Department of Defense Education Activity shall ensure that students enrolled in the eleventh grade are offered the opportunity to take not fewer than three standardized assessments described in subsection (a).
549E.
Department of Defense-wide hate symbol policy and recruiter and workforce training requirement
(a)
Department-wide policy required
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue a Department-wide policy applicable to members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense that—
(1)
prohibits the display, possession for display, or use of hate symbols in the workplace or in connection with official duties, including on the body, uniform, civilian work attire, personal equipment, government property, or digital work platforms, including through tattoos, brands, insignia, patches, apparel, or electronic imagery;
(2)
establishes uniform minimum standards for identifying and addressing prohibited hate symbols across all military departments and defense agencies;
(3)
requires each military department and defense agency to revise its regulations and instructions to comply with such policy; and
(4)
provides procedures for review, waiver where appropriate, removal, or remediation consistent with applicable law.
(b)
Hate symbol defined
(1)
In general
In this section, the term  hate symbol —
(A)
means any symbol, image, insignia, emblem, tattoo, sign, coded designation, or other visual representation that, in context, would reasonably be understood as expressing, advocating, endorsing, or promoting hatred, unlawful discrimination, violent extremism, or supremacy directed against a protected class or group; and
(B)
does not include the good-faith display or use of symbols for legitimate religious, cultural, historical, educational, artistic, intelligence, law enforcement, or investigative purposes where the circumstances do not reasonably indicate support for extremist ideology or unlawful discrimination.
(2)
Considered factors
In determining whether a symbol constitutes a hate symbol under this section, the Secretary of Defense shall consider—
(A)
the historical and cultural meaning of the symbol;
(B)
the manner, context, and location in which the symbol is displayed;
(C)
whether the symbol is associated with extremist organizations or ideologies;
(D)
whether the display would reasonably be interpreted as communicating support for hatred, discrimination, or violent extremism; and
(E)
applicable constitutional, statutory, and religious accommodation protections.
(c)
Identification guidance
The Secretary of Defense shall—
(1)
develop and maintain supplemental guidance and reference materials, in consultation with subject matter experts, to assist commanders, supervisors, human resources personnel, and investigators in identifying hate symbols; and
(2)
not less than every three years, review and, if necessary, update such guidance and reference materials in consultation with civil rights experts and organizations with recognized expertise in hate and extremist symbols.
(d)
Training requirement
The Secretary of Defense shall incorporate instruction on the hate symbol policy and identification guidance into existing training programs for—
(1)
members of the Armed Forces; and
(2)
civilian employees of the Department of Defense;
(e)
Implementation and oversight
(1)
Certification
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, each military department and defense agency shall certify compliance with the requirements under this section.
(2)
Briefing
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall brief the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives on the implementation of this provision.
F
Military family readiness and dependents' education
I
Dependents' education
551.
Certain assistance to local educational agencies that benefit dependents of military and civilian personnel
(a)
Continuation of authority to assist local educational agencies that benefit dependents of members of the Armed Forces and Department of Defense civilian employees
(1)
Assistance to schools with significant numbers of military dependent students
Of the amount authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 by section 301 and available for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide activities as specified in the funding table in section 4301, $50,000,000 shall be available only for the purpose of providing assistance to local educational agencies under subsection (a) of section 572 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 (Public Law 109–163; 20 U.S.C. 7703b).
(2)
Local educational agency defined
In this subsection, the term  local educational agency  has the meaning given that term in section 7013(9) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7713(9)).
(b)
Impact aid for children with severe disabilities
(1)
In general
Of the amount authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 pursuant to section 301 and available for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide activities as specified in the funding table in section 4301, $10,000,000 shall be available for payments under section 363 of the Floyd D. Spence National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001 (as enacted into law by Public Law 106–398; 114 Stat. 1654A–77; 20 U.S.C. 7703a).
(2)
Additional amount
Of the amount authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 pursuant to section 301 and available for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide activities as specified in the funding table in section 4301, $20,000,000 shall be available for use by the Secretary of Defense to make payments to local educational agencies determined by the Secretary to have higher concentrations of military children with severe disabilities.
(3)
Report
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the Department’s evaluation of each local educational agency with higher concentrations of military children with severe disabilities and subsequent determination of the amounts of impact aid each such agency shall receive.
552.
Educational technologists at Department of Defense Education Activity schools
(a)
In general
The Director of the Department of Defense Education Activity shall ensure that each school district of such Activity has, at a minimum, one staff member dedicated to facilitating educational technology and related matters.
(b)
Duties
A staff member described in subsection (a) shall, at a minimum—
(1)
ensure classroom technologies meet policy requirements and the needs of students and teachers;
(2)
assist administrators, curriculum teams, instructional support specialists, and teachers in developing and modeling learning opportunities to make the best use of technology in the classroom;
(3)
assist in the implementation of technology integration; and
(4)
perform other duties related to educational technology as assigned.
(c)
Briefing required
Not later than February 1, 2028, the Director shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on—
(1)
the implementation of subsections (a) and (b); and
(2)
any recommendations for changes to policy or statutes to ensure that the Department of Defense Education Activity has sufficient staff and resources to support the use of beneficial technology in classrooms.
II
Child care and related matters
555.
Expansion of eligible child care providers for Department of Defense programs
(a)
Removal of prior service requirement
Section 1798(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (1), by striking the semicolon and inserting  ; and ;
(2)
by striking paragraph (2); and
(3)
by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2).
(b)
National service volunteers
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may seek to enter into an interagency partnership with a Federal agency with the ability to place individuals described in paragraph (2) in military child development centers in accordance with national service laws and with all the benefits accorded to such individuals under those laws.
(2)
Individuals described
An individual described in this paragraph is a participant, including a volunteer or national senior volunteer, under the national service laws who is trained in education services and is in compliance with hiring requirements for military child development centers.
(3)
Definitions
In this subsection, the terms  participant  and  national service laws  have the meanings given those terms in section 101 of the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12511)).
 556.
Standardized reporting on Department of Defense child care readiness
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall standardize the collection and reporting of data related to child care capacity, workforce readiness, and waitlists across the Armed Forces and military installations.
(b)
Required data elements
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall, at a minimum, require the collection and reporting of data with respect to the following:
(1)
Child care capacity and utilization, disaggregated by branch of the Armed Forces and military installation.
(2)
Child care workforce staffing levels, vacancies, turnover rates, and compensation ranges, disaggregated by branch of the Armed Forces and military installation.
(3)
Child care waitlists, disaggregated by—
(A)
children that are currently at home with a parent;
(B)
children that are currently being cared for by family members, friends, neighbors, or nannies;
(C)
children that are currently receiving care through—
(i)
a military child development center (as defined in section 1800 of title 10, United States Code) other than the center for which the children are on the waitlist;
(ii)
a military family child care program, including identification of whether the program is supported by subsidies provided by the Department of Defense under section 1796 of title 10, United States Code; or
(iii)
community-based child care, including identification of whether such care is supported by financial assistance provided by the Department through the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood program under section 1798 of title 10, United States Code;
(D)
families requiring child care during nontraditional hours; and
(E)
children for whom sufficient information is not available to categorize care status, including as a result of incomplete or self-reported data.
(4)
Demand for child care by age cohort, with specific identification of the demand for child care for children under age 5.
(5)
Utilization and attrition data for fee assistance programs.
(6)
Geographic areas with persistent unmet child care needs.
(c)
Analysis of waitlist data
The Secretary shall—
(1)
analyze data on child care waitlists collected under subsection (b), including—
(A)
the extent of duplicate entries across military installations or child care programs; and
(B)
the proportion of waitlist entries that—
(i)
reflect unmet need for child care; and
(ii)
reflect unmet preference for specific child care programs; and
(2)
take steps to resolve discrepancies in such data, including duplicate waitlist entries and inclusion of children on waitlists who are receiving care.
(d)
Regulations
The Secretary may prescribe such regulations as are necessary to carry out this section.
(e)
Briefings required
(1)
Initial briefing
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on—
(A)
existing systems and reporting practices used to track data related to child care capacity, workforce readiness, and waitlists;
(B)
the quality, completeness, and limitations of data available as of the date of the briefing;
(C)
actions underway to standardize data collection and reporting across the Department of Defense; and
(D)
a plan, including timelines, to improve standardization of data collection and reporting.
(2)
Recurring briefings
Not later than December 31, 2027, and annually thereafter for three years, the Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on—
(A)
data collected under subsection (b);
(B)
trends in child care capacity, workforce readiness, and unmet demand, disaggregated by branch of the Armed Forces and geographic region;
(C)
actions taken to address identified gaps in child care availability, including actions taken by each branch of the Armed Forces and in each geographic region; and
(D)
any recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve collection and reporting of data related to child care capacity, workforce readiness, and waitlists.
557.
Update to pay system for child and youth programs operated by nonappropriated fund instrumentalities
(a)
In general
Not later than January 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall issue or revise policy relating to the pay system for employees of child and youth programs operated by nonappropriated fund instrumentalities to implement the requirements of section 589A of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–59; 10 U.S.C. 1792 note).
(b)
Elements
The policy required to be issued or revised under subsection (a) shall—
(1)
incorporate a revised staffing model for child development programs that includes positions—
(A)
to facilitate classroom operations and provide direct support to staff of child development programs; and
(B)
to coordinate and support the needs of children with special needs and provide direct support to personnel working with such children;
(2)
modify the pay band structure and compensation rates to improve recruitment and retention of employees of child and youth programs described in subsection (a); and
(3)
provide for the implementation of the policy as soon as practicable, subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c)
Nonappropriated fund instrumentality defined
In this section, the term  nonappropriated fund instrumentality  has the meaning given that term in section 2488 of title 10, United States Code.
III
Other matters
561.
Department of Defense Fellowship Program for Military Spouses
Subchapter I of chapter 88 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1784a the following new section:
1784b.
Department of Defense Fellowship Program for Military Spouses
(a)
Establishment
Not later than April 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a fellowship program for military spouses, to be known as the  Department of Defense Military Spouse Fellowship Program  (in this section referred to as the  Program ), to enhance career opportunities for military spouses and to support the readiness of military families.
(b)
Fellowships
(1)
In general
Under the Program, a component of the Department of Defense selected by the Secretary under subsection (c)(1) shall provide to fellowships to military spouses.
(2)
Term and conditions
A fellowship under the Program—
(A)
shall be for a term of not less than 12 months and not more than 24 months;
(B)
may be full time or part time, with a preference for full time; and
(C)
may be an in-person or remote position.
(3)
Compensation
A fellow under the Program shall be compensated at a rate of pay under the General Schedule under section 5332 of title 5 appropriate to the role of the fellow.
(c)
Administration
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall—
(1)
select components of the Department of Defense to participate in the Program based on strategic workforce planning and demonstrated need;
(2)
ensure that fellowships offered by components of the Department of Defense selected under paragraph (1) are available across a range of grade levels and provide for a wide array of career fields and experiences; and
(3)
ensure that the Program has the funding and other resources to provide for not less than 500 full-time equivalent fellowships each year.
(d)
Responsibilities of participating components
(1)
In general
A component of the Department of Defense selected under subsection (c)(1) to participate in the Program shall be responsible for—
(A)
providing a meaningful fellowship experience to fellows in the component, including through the provision of professional development and mentorship opportunities;
(B)
documenting the performance of fellows during the terms of their fellowships; and
(C)
subject to paragraph (2), making every effort to identify permanent positions within the component to which a fellow may be non-competitively converted at the end of the term of the fellowship.
(2)
Conversion to permanent positions
The conversion under paragraph (1)(C) of a fellowship under the Program to a permanent position shall be contingent upon the performance of the fellow, the availability of a permanent position, and the availability of funding.
(e)
Military spouse defined
In this section, the term  military spouse  means any individual who is married (within the meaning of section 7703 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986), as of the first date on which the individual is employed by a component of the Department of Defense under this section, to a member of the uniformed services serving on active duty.
 .
562.
Consideration in member assignments process of colocation of members and civilian employee spouses
(a)
In general
Not later than March 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall require each of the Armed Forces to have in place a policy for achieving, as a secondary consideration during the process of assigning members to duty stations, colocation of covered couples.
(b)
Elements
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall—
(1)
ensure that, in assigning a member of the Armed Forces who is part of a covered couple to a duty station—
(A)
the primary considerations are the member’s current qualifications and ability to fill a valid mission requirement; and
(B)
colocation is a secondary consideration, to maximize the opportunities for continued employment of the civilian employee of the Department of Defense through all flexibilities available;
(2)
ensure civilian personnel policies and processes of the Department are updated to facilitate colocation; and
(3)
provide resources, training, and additional flexibilities where appropriate to the Armed Forces and human resources managers of the Department to facilitate retention of civilian employees of the Department during permanent change of station moves of members of the Armed Forces who are part of a covered couple.
(c)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Civilian employee of the Department of Defense
The term  civilian employee of the Department of Defense —
(A)
means an employee (as defined in section 2105 of title 5, United States Code) of the Department of Defense;
(B)
includes—
(i)
a nonappropriated fund instrumentality employee (as defined in section 1587(a) of title 10, United States Code); and
(ii)
a temporary employee of the Department; and
(C)
does not include an employee of a contractor of the Department of Defense.
(2)
Colocation
The term  colocation , with respect to a covered couple, means assigning the member of the Armed Forces to a duty location in a manner that results in the retention of the civilian employee of the Department of Defense at the same pay grade and in the same job series within any component of the Department, whether through remote work, alternate work site arrangements, a reassignment, or an internal transfer.
(3)
Covered couple
The term  covered couple  means a couple in which a member of the Armed Forces serving on active duty and a civilian employee of the Department of Defense are married to each other.
563.
Review of Exceptional Family Member Program
(a)
In general
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall initiate a review of how the Exceptional Family Member Program (in this section referred to as the  Program ) affects assignment decisions, continuity of care, access to medical, behavioral health, and educational services, and retention and career progression of members across the Armed Forces.
(b)
Elements
The review required by subsection (a) shall—
(1)
identify military installations where families with an individual in the Program face unavailable, limited, or difficult-to-access services;
(2)
assess whether current assignment screening and coordination processes under the Program—
(A)
are effectively ensuring that such families are assigned to locations where needed services are reasonably available; and
(B)
adequately evaluate the availability, timeliness, and continuity of educational services and related supports required under an existing individualized education program, individualized family service plan, or other applicable educational accommodation for an individual in the Program, including whether families experience significant delays, gaps, or barriers in obtaining comparable services after relocation;
(3)
evaluate the impact of enrollment of a family member in the Program on assignment opportunities, assignment stability, and readiness of members of the Armed Forces; and
(4)
identify best practices across the military departments for improving continuity of care and assignment stability for families with an individual in the Program.
(c)
Report required
Not later than April 30, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the results of the review that includes a corrective action plan describing steps—
(1)
to improve assignment screening for families with an individual in the Program;
(2)
to increase transparency regarding the availability of services at military installations;
(3)
to improve how the Department of Defense assesses the availability of educational services at assignment locations and reduces disruptions in implementation of such services following a permanent change of station;
(4)
to improve coordination among military treatment facilities, the TRICARE program (as defined in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code), and civilian services providers; and
(5)
to strengthen relocation support for families with an individual in the Program while moving between duty stations.
564.
Improved counseling and access to information relating to foster care for military families
(a)
Training for counselors
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall require all counselors assigned to a Family Advocacy Program or Military and Family Life program at a military installation in the United States to be trained in the requirements and resources relating to foster care of the State in which the installation is located.
(2)
Foster care liaisons
A counselor who has received training under paragraph (1) shall be known as a  foster care liaison .
(b)
Inclusion of foster care information on Military OneSource
The Secretary shall require Military OneSource to include a mechanism for military families to obtain information on foster care, including the requirements and resources relating to foster care of each State.
(c)
Collaboration with Administration for Children and Families
The Secretary may consult with the Administration for Children and Families of the Department of Health and Human Services to obtain resources relating to foster care for military families, including curricula for training under subsection (a).
565.
Reporting on gaps between senior and junior enlisted security forces that could hinder effective oversight and leadership at Protection Level One locations
Section 585 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 135 Stat. 1759) is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a)(2), by striking  through 2027  and inserting  through 2032 ; and
(2)
in subsection (b)—
(A)
by redesignating paragraph (9) as paragraph (10); and
(B)
by inserting after paragraph (8) the following new paragraph:
(9)
A description of gaps between senior and junior enlisted security forces personnel that could hinder effective oversight and leadership at each PL-1 location and actions needed to remedy such gaps.
 .
G
Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps
571.
Update of guidance and evaluation of Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps instructor pay scale
(a)
Update of guidance
Not later than January 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries concerned shall update Department of Defense issuances governing the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program, including the applicable Department of Defense Instruction, to—
(1)
reflect current statutory requirements relating to the minimum number of Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps units, including any increases enacted in recent National Defense Authorization Acts, and the plan of the Secretary to achieve and sustain such minimums;
(2)
an evaluation plan to assess the effects of the JROTC Standardized Instructor Pay Scale, or any successor pay system, on recruitment and retention of JROTC instructors, including the implementation and utilization of the temporary authority to provide bonuses to such instructors under section 546 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2031 note); and
(3)
standardized metrics for measuring JROTC instructor recruiting outcomes and retention rates across the military services.
(b)
Required metrics
The evaluation plan required under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, metrics relating to—
(1)
 instructor vacancy rates and time-to-hire;
(2)
retention rates and length of service;
(3)
geographic variation in recruiting and retention outcomes, including high-cost-of-living areas, rural, urban, and geographically isolated locations;
(4)
comparisons between outcomes under the legacy pay system and the JSIPS;
(5)
the identification of recruiting efforts used to attract instructor applicants, including data on how applicants learned about available instructor positions;
(6)
the number of applicants who begin, complete, or withdraw from the instructor hiring process, including the interview and background investigation stages;
(7)
the number of applicants who accept or decline instructor position offers, including to the extent practicable, information on the reasons offers were declined;
(8)
the number, amount, and distribution of bonuses provided to JROTC instructors under section 546 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2031 note), disaggregated by military department, geographic location, and instructor type, as well as any identified barriers to use of the authority; and
(9)
any other matters the Secretary determines appropriate.
(c)
Report to Congress
Not later than one year after the issuance of the updated guidance under subsection (a), and annually thereafter for two years, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that includes—
(1)
a description of the updated guidance and implementation status;
(2)
baseline data and metrics collected using the metrics developed under subsection (a);
(3)
 an assessment of the effects of the pay scale on recruitment and retention;
(4)
an assessment of the effectiveness of the bonus authority authorized by section 546 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 2031 note) in improving recruitment and retention of JROTC instructors, including whether such authority should be modified, extended, or made permanent; and
(5)
any recommendations for legislative or administrative action.
572.
Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs in Department of Defense Education Activity schools
(a)
Requirement
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that, by not later than October 1, 2027, each secondary school operated by the Department of Defense Education Activity that meets the eligibility requirements for establishment and maintenance of a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps unit under section 2031 of title 10, United States Code, establishes and maintains such a unit.
(b)
Sustainable enrollment threshold
The Secretary may waive the requirement under subsection (a) with respect to a school described in that subsection if the Secretary determines that the school will not be able to meet a threshold for enrollment in a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps unit sufficient to sustain the viability of the unit over time.
H
Decorations and other awards, miscellaneous reports, and other matters
581.
Authorization for award of the Distinguished-Service Cross to Isaac  Ike  Camacho for acts of valor in Vietnam
Section 592 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 899) is amended by striking
posthumous   in the section heading.
582.
Authorization for award of the Distinguished-Service Cross for Joseph P. Lynch for acts of valor in the Republic of Vietnam
(a)
Waiver of time limitations
Notwithstanding the time limitations specified in section 7274 of title 10, United States Code, or any other time limitation with respect to the awarding of certain medals to persons who served in the Armed Forces, the Secretary of the Army may award the Distinguished-Service Cross under section 7272 of such title to Joseph P. Lynch for the acts of valor in the Republic of Vietnam described in subsection (b).
(b)
Acts of valor described
The acts of valor referred to in subsection (a) are the actions of Joseph P. Lynch on April 17, 1968, during a combat mission near Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam for which he was previously awarded the Silver Star.
583.
Submission to Congress of information for consideration of certain military awards
(a)
Army
Section 7274 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(d)
A time limitation under this section may not be waived unless the Secretary of the Army first submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives the unredacted package of information considered by the Secretary, including all relevant information relating to any reconsideration of an award.
 .
(b)
Navy
Section 8298 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(c)
A time limitation under this section may not be waived unless the Secretary of the Navy first submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives the unredacted package of information considered by the Secretary, including all relevant information relating to any reconsideration of an award.
 .
(c)
Air Force
Section 9274 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(d)
A time limitation under this section may not be waived unless the Secretary of the Air Force first submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives the unredacted package of information considered by the Secretary, including all relevant information relating to any reconsideration of an award.
 .
584.
Medal of Honor review procedures and reconsideration and upgrade requirements
(a)
Army
Chapter 737 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 7274 the following new section:
7274a.
Medal of Honor: review procedures; reconsideration and upgrade requirements
(a)
Review responsibilities
(1)
The Secretary of the Army is responsible for establishing and maintaining procedures for the review of Medal of Honor recommendations submitted pursuant to this chapter, including recommendations submitted within statutory time limits under section 7274(b) of this title, recommendations lost or not acted upon due to inadvertence under section 7274(c) of this title, and recommendations submitted pursuant to section 1130 of this title upon request of a Member of Congress.
(2)
Each Medal of Honor recommendation forwarded by the Secretary of the Army to the Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
include the recommendation of an independent board of review convened specifically to consider the award of the proposed Medal of Honor;
(B)
contain the recommendation of the Secretary of the Army;
(C)
include the recommendation of the Chief of Staff of the Army; and
(D)
contain incontestable proof that the member distinguished himself or herself in accordance with the requirements of section 7271 of this title.
(3)
Upon receipt of a Medal of Honor recommendation, the Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
obtain the advisory recommendation of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the merits of the nomination; and
(B)
for nominations submitted within the time limits prescribed by section 7274(b) of this title, or for actions arising from ongoing combat or military operations, obtain through the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff the advisory recommendation of the applicable combatant commander.
(4)
The Secretary of Defense shall include the Secretary's recommendation to the President for any Medal of Honor recommendation determined to satisfy the criteria in section 7271 of this title.
(b)
Standards for reconsideration and upgrade
(1)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, reconsideration of a previously reviewed Medal of Honor nomination, or upgrade of a previously approved award to the Medal of Honor, may be initiated only upon a showing of—
(A)
new, substantive, and material evidence that was not available at the time of the original recommendation and that was not previously considered by the awarding authority; or
(B)
material error or impropriety in the processing or adjudication of the original recommendation, including loss of substantiating documents or witness statements during original routing, clearly incorrect application of official policy, or substantiated discrimination based on race, sex, or religion, provided that any such conclusion is supported by a preponderance of the evidence.
(2)
Information that adds detail to facts already presented in the original recommendation, but is not new, substantive, or material, does not satisfy the requirement under paragraph (1)(A) for new, substantive, and material evidence.
(3)
Authority to determine whether the requirements of paragraph (1) have been satisfied is as follows:
(A)
The Secretary of Defense shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any prior award case adjudicated within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This authority may not be delegated.
(B)
The Secretary of the Army shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any case previously adjudicated within the Department of the Army. This authority may not be delegated.
(c)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the President to award the Medal of Honor pursuant to section 7271 of this title or to modify the time limitations established in section 7274 of this title except as provided herein.
 .
(b)
Navy and Marine Corps
Chapter 837 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 8298 the following new section:
8299.
Medal of Honor: review procedures; reconsideration and upgrade requirements
(a)
Review responsibilities
(1)
The Secretary of the Navy is responsible for establishing and maintaining procedures for the review of Medal of Honor recommendations submitted pursuant to this chapter, including recommendations submitted within statutory time limits under section 8298 (a) of this title, recommendations lost or not acted upon due to inadvertence under section 8298(b) of this title, and recommendations submitted pursuant to section 1130 of this title upon request of a Member of Congress.
(2)
Each Medal of Honor recommendation forwarded by the Secretary of the Navy to the Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
include the recommendation of an independent board of review convened specifically to consider the award of the proposed Medal of Honor;
(B)
contain the recommendation of the Secretary of the Navy;
(C)
include the recommendation of the Chief of Staff of the Navy; and
(D)
contain incontestable proof that the member distinguished himself or herself in accordance with the requirements of section 8291 of this title.
(3)
Upon receipt of a Medal of Honor recommendation, the Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
obtain the advisory recommendation of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the merits of the nomination; and
(B)
for nominations submitted within the time limits prescribed by section 8298(a) of this title, or for actions arising from ongoing combat or military operations, obtain through the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff the advisory recommendation of the applicable combatant commander.
(4)
The Secretary of Defense shall include the Secretary's recommendation to the President for any Medal of Honor recommendation determined to satisfy the criteria in section 8291 of this title.
(b)
Standards for reconsideration and upgrade
(1)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, reconsideration of a previously reviewed Medal of Honor nomination, or upgrade of a previously approved award to the Medal of Honor, may be initiated only upon a showing of—
(A)
new, substantive, and material evidence that was not available at the time of the original recommendation and that was not previously considered by the awarding authority; or
(B)
material error or impropriety in the processing or adjudication of the original recommendation, including loss of substantiating documents or witness statements during original routing, clearly incorrect application of official policy, or substantiated discrimination based on race, sex, or religion, provided that any such conclusion is supported by a preponderance of the evidence.
(2)
Information that adds detail to facts already presented in the original recommendation, but is not new, substantive, or material, does not satisfy the requirement under paragraph (1)(A) for new, substantive, and material evidence.
(3)
Authority to determine whether the requirements of paragraph (1) have been satisfied is as follows:
(A)
The Secretary of Defense shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any prior award case adjudicated within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This authority may not be delegated.
(B)
The Secretary of the Navy shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any case previously adjudicated within the Department of the Navy. This authority may not be delegated.
(c)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the President to award the Medal of Honor pursuant to section 8291 of this title or to modify the time limitations established in section 8298 of this title except as provided herein.
 .
(c)
Air Force
Chapter 937 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 9274 the following new section:
9274a.
Medal of Honor: review procedures; reconsideration and upgrade requirements
(a)
Review responsibilities
(1)
The Secretary of the Air Force is responsible for establishing and maintaining procedures for the review of Medal of Honor recommendations submitted pursuant to this chapter, including recommendations submitted within statutory time limits under section 9274(b) of this title, recommendations lost or not acted upon due to inadvertence under section 9274(c) of this title, and recommendations submitted pursuant to section 1130 of this title upon request of a Member of Congress.
(2)
Each Medal of Honor recommendation forwarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to the Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
include the recommendation of an independent board of review convened specifically to consider the award of the proposed Medal of Honor;
(B)
contain the recommendation of the Secretary of the Air Force;
(C)
include the recommendation of the Chief of Staff of the Air Force; and
(D)
contain incontestable proof that the member distinguished himself or herself in accordance with the requirements of section 9271 of this title.
(3)
Upon receipt of a Medal of Honor recommendation, the Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
obtain the advisory recommendation of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the merits of the nomination; and
(B)
for nominations submitted within the time limits prescribed by section 9274(b) of this title, or for actions arising from ongoing combat or military operations, obtain through the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff the advisory recommendation of the applicable combatant commander.
(4)
The Secretary of Defense shall include the Secretary's recommendation to the President for any Medal of Honor recommendation determined to satisfy the criteria in section 9271 of this title.
(b)
Standards for reconsideration and upgrade
(1)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, reconsideration of a previously reviewed Medal of Honor nomination, or upgrade of a previously approved award to the Medal of Honor, may be initiated only upon a showing of—
(A)
new, substantive, and material evidence that was not available at the time of the original recommendation and that was not previously considered by the awarding authority; or
(B)
material error or impropriety in the processing or adjudication of the original recommendation, including loss of substantiating documents or witness statements during original routing, clearly incorrect application of official policy, or substantiated discrimination based on race, sex, or religion, provided that any such conclusion is supported by a preponderance of the evidence.
(2)
Information that adds detail to facts already presented in the original recommendation, but is not new, substantive, or material, does not satisfy the requirement under paragraph (1)(A) for new, substantive, and material evidence.
(3)
Authority to determine whether the requirements of paragraph (1) have been satisfied is as follows:
(A)
The Secretary of Defense shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any prior award case adjudicated within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This authority may not be delegated.
(B)
The Secretary of the Air Force shall determine whether material error or impropriety existed in any case previously adjudicated within the Department of the Air Force. This authority may not be delegated.
(c)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the President to award the Medal of Honor pursuant to section 9271 of this title or to modify the time limitations established in section 9274 of this title except as provided herein.
 .
585.
Time limitations
(a)
Consideration of proposals for decorations not previously submitted in timely fashion
Section 1130 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (f); and
(2)
by inserting after subsection (c) the following new subsections:
(d)
Proposals to be considered under this section must originate before the military service concerned operationalized a standardized, online, awards review process.
(e)
(1)
An exception to the time limitations under this section shall be granted for a member or former member of the armed forces whose recommendation for a decoration could not be processed due to the classification of the details of the act, achievement, or service. In such cases, a recommendation for a decoration may be considered if it is submitted within three years of the date the information providing the necessary evidence is declassified.
(2)
For purposes of the exception under paragraph (1), the term 'declassification' includes—
(A)
information released through the automatic declassification mechanisms established under Executive Order 13526 (or any successor order), including the 10-year, 25-year, 50-year, or 75-year automatic declassification timelines; and
(B)
information released through a Mandatory Declassification Review (MDR) or a request under section 552 of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the  Freedom of Information Act ).
 .
(b)
Review determinations regarding certain decorations
Section 1552 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking subsection (j); and
(2)
by redesignating subsection (k) as subsection (j).
586.
Production of award files
(a)
Production of files
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the following information on all decorations awarded under the authorities of sections 7271, 7272, 7279, 8291, 8292, 8295, 9271, 9272, and 9279 of title 10, United States Code, between the January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2026:
(1)
Unredacted copies of all supporting documentation, material matters, and information considered by boards of review, the chain of command, and any party employed by the Department of Defense, including the Secretary of Defense, who evaluated the merits of, offered a recommendation about, or approved the decorations.
(2)
Unredacted copies of all recommendations made by boards of review, the chain of command, and any party employed by the Department of Defense, including the Secretary of Defense, pertaining to the awarding of the decorations.
(3)
For those decorations approved by the Secretary of Defense or the Secretaries of the military departments, a written justification of the basis for awarding such decoration.
(4)
A description of the legal authority under which each of the decorations was awarded.
(b)
Briefing
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on each of the decorations awarded in (a) and whether any legal discrepancies or errors exist in the awarding of such decorations, along with a legislative proposal to correct any errors so identified.
(c)
Prohibition on use of funds
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, not more than 90 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of Defense has submitted all documentation for each award specified under subsection (a) to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
VI
COMPENSATION AND OTHER PERSONNEL BENEFITS
A
Pay and Allowances
601.
Modification of reimbursement of expenses relating to travel for inactive-duty training and muster duty
(a)
In general
Section 452(j)(1) of title 37, United States Code, is amended by striking  more than 50 miles  and inserting  to a permanent duty assignment location requiring one-way travel of more than 100 miles .
(b)
Effective date
Section 452(j) of title 37, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), shall apply to travel on or after January 1, 2028.
(c)
Conforming repeal
Section 623 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 138 Stat. 1933) is amended by striking subsections (b) and (c).
(d)
Report required
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report containing the following elements:
(1)
The estimated marginal cost of implementation of subsection (j) of section 452 of title 37, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), to the Department of Defense, and, for members of the Coast Guard, the Department of Homeland Security, disaggregated by reserve component.
(2)
The estimated total number of members of the Armed Forces who would be affected by implementation of such subsection (j).
(3)
Any recommended change to such subsection in order to improve efficacy or implementation.
(4)
Any other matter that the Secretary determines appropriate.
602.
Fiscal year 2027 increase in military basic pay
(a)
Waiver of section 1009 adjustment
The adjustment to become effective during fiscal year 2027 required by section 1009 of title 37, United States Code, in the rates of monthly basic pay authorized members of the uniformed services shall not be made.
(b)
Increase in basic pay
Effective on January 1, 2027, the rates of monthly basic pay for members of the uniformed services are increased by 3.6 percent.
603.
Reimbursement of costs of long commutes for members assigned to remote or isolated installations in areas without affordable housing
Section 453 of title 37, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(j)
Reimbursement of costs of long commutes for members assigned to remote or isolated installations in areas without affordable housing
(1)
The Secretary concerned may reimburse a member of the armed forces described in paragraph (2) for the costs described in paragraph (3).
(2)
A member is described in this paragraph if—
(A)
the duty station of the member is a remote or isolated installation (as defined in section 4705 of title 10);
(B)
the member lives more than 30 miles, or has a commute of longer than one hour, from the member's residence to the member's duty station; and
(C)
the member is unable to live closer to that duty station because of a lack of affordable housing and essential services near the duty station.
(3)
The costs described in this paragraph are—
(A)
(i)
the average cost of fuel for the distance the member travels from the member's residence to the member's duty location; and
(ii)
a percentage, to be determined by the Secretary of Defense, of costs associated with maintenance and wear-and-tear on the vehicle of the member as a result of commuting; or
(B)
if available, the cost of taking public transportation from the member's residence to the member's duty location.
(4)
The Secretary of Defense shall establish guidelines for administering this subsection, including guidelines with respect to—
(A)
how a member can apply for reimbursement under this subsection; and
(B)
verification of—
(i)
the distance a member travels from the member's residence to the member's duty location, which may be accomplished through a combination of housing records and tools for measuring distance using the Global Positioning System; and
(ii)
the lack of affordable housing and essential services near the member's duty station.
 .
B
Special and Incentive Pay
611.
One-year extension of certain expiring bonus and special pay authorities
(a)
Authorities relating to reserve forces
Section 910(g) of title 37, United States Code, relating to income replacement payments for reserve component members experiencing extended and frequent mobilization for active duty service, is amended by striking  December 31, 2026  and inserting  December 31, 2027 .
(b)
Title 10 authorities relating to health care professionals
The following sections of title 10, United States Code, are amended by striking  December 31, 2026  and inserting  December 31, 2027 :
(1)
Section 2130a(a)(1), relating to nurse officer candidate accession program.
(2)
Section 16302(d), relating to repayment of education loans for certain health professionals who serve in the Selected Reserve.
(c)
Authorities relating to nuclear officers
Section 333(i) of title 37, United States Code, is amended by striking  December 31, 2026  and inserting  December 31, 2027 .
(d)
Authorities relating to title 37 consolidated special pay, incentive pay, and bonus authorities
The following sections of title 37, United States Code, are amended by striking  December 31, 2026  and inserting  December 31, 2027 :
(1)
Section 331(h), relating to general bonus authority for enlisted members.
(2)
Section 332(g), relating to general bonus authority for officers.
(3)
Section 334(i), relating to special aviation incentive pay and bonus authorities for officers.
(4)
Section 335(k), relating to special bonus and incentive pay authorities for officers in health professions.
(5)
Section 336(g), relating to contracting bonus for cadets and midshipmen enrolled in the Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps.
(6)
Section 351(h), relating to hazardous duty pay.
(7)
Section 352(g), relating to assignment pay or special duty pay.
(8)
Section 353(i), relating to skill incentive pay or proficiency bonus.
(9)
Section 355(h), relating to retention incentives for members qualified in critical military skills or assigned to high priority units.
(e)
Authority to provide temporary increase in rates of basic allowance for housing
Section 403(b) of title 37, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (7)(E), relating to an area covered by a major disaster declaration or containing an installation experiencing an influx of military personnel, by striking  December 31, 2026  and inserting  December 31, 2027 ; and
(2)
in paragraph (8)(C), relating to an area where actual housing costs differ from current rates by more than 20 percent, by striking  December 31, 2026  and inserting  December 31, 2027 .
612.
Increase in maximum amount of aviation bonus
Section 334(c)(1)(B) of title 37, United States Code, is amended by striking  $50,000  and inserting  $60,000 .
613.
Authorization of board certification incentive pay for veterinary comparative medicine officers
Section 335(c)(2) of title 37, United States Code, is amended by inserting  or holds a comparable qualifying Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, as determined by the Secretary concerned,  after  is board certified .
614.
Modification of bonus authority for Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadets and midshipmen
Section 336 of title 37, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b), by striking  $5,000  and inserting  $15,000 ; and
(2)
in subsection (c)(1), by striking  field training or a practice cruise under section 2104(b)(6)(A)(ii) of title 10  and inserting  training requirements prescribed by the Secretary concerned .
615.
Increase in maximum amounts of hostile fire pay and imminent danger pay
Section 351(b) of title 37, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (1), by striking  $450  and inserting  $600 ; and
(2)
in paragraph (2), by striking  $275  and inserting  $400 .
616.
Medical providers qualified to recertify catastrophic injuries or illnesses qualifying members for special compensation
Section 439(b) of title 37, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (2), by striking  has been certified  and inserting  was initially certified ;
(2)
by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (4) and (5), respectively; and
(3)
by inserting after paragraph (2) the following new paragraph (3):
(3)
has been recertified (if required), by a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, as in need of such assistance;
 .
C
Commissary and Exchange Benefits
621.
Authorized patrons of commissary and exchange stores
(a)
In general
Chapter 54 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by redesignating sections 1061 through 1066 as sections 1062 through 1067, respectively; and
(2)
by inserting before section 1062, as so redesignated, the following new section:
1061.
Authorized patrons of commissary and exchange stores
(a)
Authorized commissary patrons
(1)
In general
The following categories of individuals may access commissary stores:
(A)
Members of the uniformed services, as follows:
(i)
Members of the armed forces on active duty.
(ii)
Members of the National Guard and reserve components in any duty status under this title or title 32.
(iii)
Members of the commissioned corps of the Public Health Service.
(iv)
Members of the commissioned officer corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including wage-marine personnel authorized under section 264 of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Act of 2002 (33 U.S.C. 3074) to access commissary stores.
(v)
Cadets and midshipmen of the United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and the United States Coast Guard Academy.
(B)
Retired members of the uniformed services, as follows:
(i)
All members carried on the official retired lists of the uniformed services who are entitled to or eligible for retired or retainer pay.
(ii)
Retired wage-marine personnel of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its predecessor services.
(iii)
Retired officers and crews of the former Lighthouse Service.
(C)
Other former members of the uniformed services, as follows:
(i)
Veterans—
(I)
discharged or released from service in the armed forces under honorable conditions; and
(II)
who are hospitalized in facilities where commissary stores are available.
(ii)
Any other retired or former members or veterans expressly entitled under this title to access commissary stores.
(D)
Dependents (as defined in section 1072 of this title) of any individual described in subparagraph (A), (B), or (C), including surviving spouses and dependents of members or veterans described in subparagraph (B) or (C).
(E)
Civilian employees of the Department of Defense and nonappropriated fund instrumentality employees (as defined in section 1587(a) of this title) who are—
(i)
are assigned to a military installation—
(I)
outside the United States; or
(II)
in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States; or
(ii)
are designated by the Secretary concerned as serving in a mission-critical occupation or a position experiencing a significant staffing shortage.
(F)
Subject to paragraph (3)(D), civilian employees of other Federal agencies when serving outside the United States, or in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, pursuant to a written support agreement authorized under section 2470 of this title or other formal interagency agreement with the Department of Defense.
(G)
Subject to paragraph (3)(D), employees of United States nongovernmental organizations or firms working outside the United States, or in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, under contracts with the Department of Defense.
(H)
Civil service mariners of the Military Sealift Command and the Army Corps of Engineers.
(I)
Nuclear materials couriers (as defined in section 8331 of title 5).
(2)
Limited and temporary access categories
In addition to the categories of individuals described in paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense may authorize access to commissary stores for the following categories of individuals in the following circumstances:
(A)
Employees of the Defense Commissary Agency assigned to commissary stores within the United States, for personal, on-premise consumption during meals and authorized breaks within scheduled working hours.
(B)
Civilian officials of the Department of Defense appointed by the President who reside in Government quarters on military installations and family members of such officials who reside with such officials.
(C)
Officers and enlisted personnel of the military services of foreign countries when on duty with the United States armed forces or under reciprocal agreements.
(D)
Representatives and employees of the American National Red Cross, United Service Organizations, the United Seamen’s Service, the Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association, and the Fisher House Foundation when assigned to duty with or in direct support of the armed forces—
(i)
outside the United States; or
(ii)
in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States.
(E)
Personal agents designated in writing by the commander of a military installation to shop on behalf of individuals who are authorized to access commissary stores under this subsection.
(F)
Individuals or employees of entities granted temporary access, when such access is necessary to restore or sustain military operations, during—
(i)
federally declared disasters (as defined in section 1065 of this title); or
(ii)
humanitarian relief or other emergency operations.
(G)
Members of the armed forces who are involuntarily separated as a result of force reshaping during the two-year period following such separation.
(H)
Members of the armed forces who receive sole survivorship discharges described in section 1174(i) of this title during the two-year period following such separation.
(3)
Administration
(A)
Duration
An individual is authorized to access commissary stores under this subsection for only so long as the qualifying status, employment, or assignment of the individual remains applicable or as otherwise provided by statute.
(B)
Exception
This subsection does not authorize access to commissary stores in foreign countries where treaties or international agreements prohibit such access.
(C)
Limitations
The authority under this subsection—
(i)
may not be used to establish a broad or permanent category of individuals authorized to access commissary stores other than a category specifically authorized by this subsection; and
(ii)
shall be implemented in a manner that ensures no additional funds are required to be appropriated.
(D)
Offsetting of costs of access for certain individuals
In the case of an individual described in subparagraph (F) or (G) of paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense may impose a fee or surcharge, or use another mechanism, as necessary to offset the administrative costs of providing the individual access to commissary stores.
(E)
Prohibition on expansion of access without approval of Congress
Except as expressly authorized by an Act of Congress, the Secretary of Defense, and any other official or employee of the Department of Defense, may not expand eligibility for access to commissary stores to any additional individual or category of individuals by regulation, policy, memorandum, or other administrative action.
(b)
Authorized exchange system patrons
(1)
In general
The categories of individuals authorized to access commissary stores under subsection (a) are also authorized to access the military exchange system operated by the Department of Defense, including the Army and Air Force Exchange Service, the Navy Exchange Service Command, and the Marine Corps Exchange.
(2)
Other authorized patrons
(A)
Civilian employees; nuclear materials couriers
Civilian employees of the Department of Defense and nonappropriated fund instrumentality employees (as defined in section 1587(a) of this title), and nuclear materials couriers (as defined in section 8331 of title 5), are authorized to access military exchange stores located in the United States and in the commonwealths, territories, or possessions of the United States, including for the purchase of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages.
(B)
Veterans
Veterans discharged or released from service in the armed forces under honorable conditions are authorized to access the online military exchange system, consistent with the policy of the Department of Defense in effect before the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 governing remote sales of the military exchange system.
(C)
Limitations
Access to the military exchange system authorized under this paragraph does not—
(i)
include authorization to purchase military uniforms; or
(ii)
extend to any other programs, facilities, or services operated by nonappropriated fund activities of the Department of Defense for the morale, welfare, and recreation of members of the armed forces.
(3)
Duration
An individual is authorized to access the military exchange system under this subsection for only so long as the qualifying status, employment, or assignment of the individual remains applicable or as otherwise provided by statute.
(4)
Prohibition on expansion of access without approval of Congress
Except as provided by paragraph (2)(C) or as expressly authorized by an Act of Congress, the Secretary of Defense, and any other officer or employee of the Department of Defense, may not expand eligibility for access to the military exchange system to any additional individual, or category of individuals by regulation, policy, memorandum, or other administrative action.
(c)
Temporary authorizations
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may authorize temporary access to commissary stores and the military exchange system for a period of not more than one year for categories of individuals not covered by subsection (a) or (b) if—
(A)
those individuals are otherwise authorized to access military installations; and
(B)
the Secretary—
(i)
notifies the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives of the authorization; and
(ii)
includes in that notification a description of the categories of individuals authorized to access the military exchange system and the rationale for authorizing such access.
(2)
Renewals
The Secretary is authorized to renew an authorization for temporary access provided under paragraph (1) for additional periods of not more than one year each if, for each renewal, the Secretary submits the notification required by paragraph (1)(B) not fewer than 60 days before the effective date of the renewal.
 .
(b)
Conforming amendments
Chapter 54 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), is further amended—
(1)
in section 1063(c), by striking  section 1063  and inserting  section 1064 ;
(2)
in section 1065(c)(2), by striking  section 1063(e)  and inserting  section 1064 ;
(3)
in section 1066(h)(1)(A), by striking  section 1063(e)  and inserting  section 1064 ; and
(4)
in section 1067(c)(1), by striking  section 1063  and inserting  section 1064 .
622.
Modification of operating expenses of commissary stores
Section 2483 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(8)
Construction, repair, improvement, and maintenance of physical infrastructure (as defined in section 2484(h)(1)(B) of this title).
 ; and
(2)
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(d)
Limitations relating to military construction
Amounts used for construction under subsection (b)(8) shall be subject to the requirements and limitations under section 2805 of this title.
 .
623.
Pilot program on access of civilian employees to commissary stores
(a)
Authority
The Secretary of Defense may carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility of, demand for, and financial impact of extending access to commissary stores to civilian employees of the Department of Defense while maintaining the benefit of such access for members and retired members of the Armed Forces and their families.
(b)
Eligible employees
Under the pilot program authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary may provide access to a commissary store selected for participation in the pilot program under subsection (c) to full-time civilian employees of the Department of Defense and nonappropriated fund instrumentality employees (as defined in section 1587(a) of this title) who are assigned to a location within the vicinity of the military installation where the store is located.
(c)
Selection of stores
The Secretary—
(1)
may select up to 16 commissary stores within the continental United States to participate in the pilot program authorized by subsection (a); and
(2)
in making selections under paragraph (1), shall ensure representation of diverse geographic regions and types of military installations.
(d)
Fees
The Secretary may impose a fee or surcharge, or use another mechanism—
(1)
to offset the administrative costs of providing access to commissary stores to employees described in subsection (b); and
(2)
to ensure that no additional amounts are required to be appropriated to carry out the pilot program authorized by subsection (a).
(e)
Duration
The Secretary may determine the duration of the pilot program authorized by subsection (a), except that the pilot program shall terminate not later than January 1, 2028.
(f)
Report required
Not later than 180 days after the termination under subsection (e) of the pilot program authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report evaluating—
(1)
the number and categories of employees described in subsection (b) participating in the pilot program, including participation rates by military installation, grade, and employment type;
(2)
the total volume of sales and patronage levels generated by those employees and the proportion of total commissary sales represented by the patronage of those employees;
(3)
the gross and net revenue generated from sales to those employees;
(4)
the disposition or use of any additional revenues, fees, or surcharges collected under the pilot program;
(5)
the impact of the pilot program on the overall operating costs of commissary stores, including with respect to labor, supply chain, and inventory management;
(6)
any observed or projected effects of the pilot program on the requirements of the Defense Commissary Agency for appropriations and the subsidies provided for the operations of commissary stores;
(7)
the impact of the pilot program on infrastructure, security, parking, and utilities at commissary stores participating in the pilot program;
(8)
the effect of the pilot program on access to and wait times at commissary stores, and customer satisfaction, for members of the Armed Forces;
(9)
any operational challenges, staffing adjustments, or system modifications required to carry out the pilot program;
(10)
any adjustments to procurement or contracting requirements associated with increased patronage resulting from the pilot program; and
(11)
the overall feasibility, fiscal sustainability, and advisability of permanent or expanded access to commissary stores for civilian employees of the Department of Defense, including recommendations for any legislative or policy changes necessary to support such access.
D
Other Matters
631.
Authority for shipment and storage of privately owned vehicles of members moving between authorized locations
Section 453(c)(4) of title 37, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
(4)
(A)
The Secretary of the military department concerned may authorize the shipment or storage of more than one privately owned vehicle for a member of the armed forces in connection with a temporary or permanent move between authorized locations.
(B)
The exercise of the authority provided by subparagraph (A) shall—
(i)
be subject to the availability of appropriations and operational requirements; and
(ii)
not be conditioned on the implementation of a Department of Defense-wide policy on shipment and storage of personally owned vehicles.
 .
632.
Reimbursement of guardianship costs incurred as a result of relocations
Section 453 of title 37, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(j)
Reimbursement of qualifying guardianship costs
(1)
From amounts otherwise made available for a fiscal year to provide travel and transportation allowances under this chapter, the Secretary concerned may reimburse a member of the uniformed services for qualified guardianship costs if—
(A)
the member relocates to a new jurisdiction or geographic area as the result of—
(i)
an assignment to a duty station;
(ii)
a reassignment, either as a result of a permanent change of station or permanent change of assignment, between duty stations;
(iii)
a transfer from a regular component of a uniformed service into the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve of a uniformed service, if the member is authorized a final move from the last duty station to the new jurisdiction or geographic area; or
(iv)
placement on the temporary disability retired list under chapter 61 of title 10; and
(B)
the movement of the member's dependents is authorized at the expense of the United States under this section as part of the relocation.
(2)
(A)
Reimbursement provided to a member under this subsection for qualified guardianship costs may not exceed $1,000 in connection with each relocation described in paragraph (1).
(3)
No reimbursement may be provided under this subsection for qualified guardianship costs paid or incurred after December 31, 2029.
(4)
In this subsection, the term  qualified guardianship costs  means costs, including paperwork, travel, or court, legal, or other administrative fees, incurred by a member or the spouse of a member if—
(A)
a State appoints the member or spouse as the guardian of a minor child or an adult adjudicated to be in need of a guardian; and
(B)
the member or spouse needs to seek a new appointment in a new jurisdiction because of the member's relocation described in paragraph (1).
 .
633.
Provision of counseling on housing for members of the Armed Forces
Section 992 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b)(2), by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
(C)
The Secretary concerned may, subject to the applicable requirements of this section, enter into contracts to provide counseling under this paragraph with individuals and organizations that provide counseling with respect to housing, including organizations that are certified under section 106(e) of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701x(e)).
 ; and
(2)
in subsection (f)(3), by striking  and mortgages  and inserting  mortgages, and other financial products related to the purchase or lease of a primary residence (and information on fees related to such products) .
634.
Special priority travel authorization for personnel stationed at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
Section 2641b of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection (h); and
(2)
by inserting after subsection (f) the following new subsection (g):
(g)
Special priority for travel to and from United States Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
(1)
An individual eligible pursuant to subsection (c) for the travel program who is stationed at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, may purchase transportation, at commercially competitive rates (as determined by the agency contracting for the transportation), for travel to and from Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, without regard to subsection (b).
(2)
An individual described in paragraph (1) shall have a priority for transportation under the travel program consistent with other official travelers, as determined by the Secretary.
(3)
Notwithstanding section 3302 of title 31, amounts collected under paragraph (1) shall be credited to the appropriate appropriation of the agency contracting for the transportation. Amounts so collected shall be credited to and merged with the funds in that appropriation and shall be available for the same period and purposes as the appropriation with which merged.
 .
635.
Program to assist members in obtaining personal driver’s licenses
Chapter 101 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 2015 the following new section:
2015a.
Authority to assist members in obtaining State driver's licenses
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may provide assistance to a member of the armed forces for expenses of obtaining, while serving in the armed forces, a personal driver’s license under the laws of a State.
(b)
State defined
In this section, the term  State  means the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, the United States Virgin Islands, and American Samoa.
 .
636.
Student loan relief for members of Selected Reserve
Section 16301(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  15 percent  and inserting  20 percent .
637.
Enhancement of Air Force rated officer retention demonstration program
Section 604 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 37 U.S.C. 301b note) is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b)(2), by striking  and not less than one year ; and
(2)
in subsection (d), by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
(1)
Flexibility of assignment and duty locations
Under the demonstration program required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable and consistent with the needs of the Air Force, offer a rated officer described in subsection (b)—
(A)
assignment to the duty location preferred by the officer, including consecutive assignments to the same duty location; or
(B)
the opportunity to perform a staff assignment that—
(i)
does not require the officer to relocate; or
(ii)
permits the officer to remain in an active flying status while performing such assignment.
 .
638.
Pilot program on career intermissions for certain Air Force fighter aircrew
(a)
Establishment
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall establish a pilot program, under the authority provided by section 710 of title 10, United States Code, to permit officers in Air Force fighter aircrew career fields to take a one-time career intermission in order to evaluate whether targeted career intermissions reduce early separations and preserve experienced fighter aircrew subject-matter experts for air staff positions and leadership roles in the active component of the Air Force.
(b)
Intermission period
An intermission under the pilot program established under subsection (a) shall be for a period of not less than 4 months and not more than one year, as selected by the participant.
(c)
Treatment of aviation bonuses
(1)
Eligibility
An officer described in subsection (a) may participate in the pilot program established under that subsection if the officer is subject to an active duty service obligation of not less than two years as of the beginning of the period of intermission of the officer under subsection (b). Participation in the pilot program shall not, by itself, disqualify an officer from eligibility for an aviation bonus under section 334(b) of title 37, United States Code.
(2)
Suspension of payments
Payment of an aviation bonus under section 334(b) of title 37, United States Code, to an officer shall be suspended during any period of intermission of an officer under the pilot program established under subsection (a).
(3)
Resumption of payments
Upon the return of an officer to active duty after an intermission under the pilot program established under subsection (a), payment of an aviation bonus under section 334(b) of title 37, United States Code, may resume for the remaining period of the agreement of the officer under paragraph (3) of that section, subject to the terms of the agreement.
(4)
Tolling
Any period of intermission under the pilot program established under subsection (a) shall not be counted toward the fulfillment of an agreement with respect to an aviation bonus under section 334(b) of title 37, United States Code.
(5)
Other service obligations
Except as provided in paragraph (4), an officer shall continue to satisfy any other active duty service obligation during a period of intermission under the pilot program established under subsection (a).
(d)
Application of career intermission program authorities
Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Secretary shall carry out the pilot program established under subsection (a) in accordance with section 710 of title 10, United States Code.
(e)
Termination
The authority to carry out the pilot program under subsection (a) shall terminate on the date that is 5 years after the date on which the pilot program is established.
(f)
Reports required
Not later than one year after the establishment of the pilot program under subsection (a), and annually thereafter until termination of the pilot program under subsection (e), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the implementation and effectiveness of the pilot program.
VII
Health Care
A
TRICARE and Other Health Care Benefits
701.
Digital system for beneficiary assistance at military medical treatment facilities and through managed care support contractors
(a)
Digital system for access assistance
(1)
In general
Not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a digital system under which a covered beneficiary who receives health care at a military medical treatment facility or through a managed care support contractor under the TRICARE program may electronically—
(A)
file a complaint, raise awareness about an issue, or provide positive feedback relating to access to care at such military medical treatment facility or through such managed care support contractor; and
(B)
view the status of such complaint or issue at any time, including the status of any interim or final action taken to address the complaint or issue.
(2)
Process
The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall develop a process to acknowledge receipt of complaints or issues under paragraph (1)(A) and specify a timeline for response to such complaints or issues.
(3)
Transmittal to patient advocates
Any complaint or issue filed under paragraph (1)(A) shall be promptly transmitted to an appropriate patient advocate of the Department of Defense.
(4)
Military medical treatment facility complaints or issues
Complaints or issues filed under paragraph (1)(A) with respect to a military medical treatment facility may be automatically aggregated and submitted to the Director of the Defense Health Agency on a quarterly basis.
(b)
Report on complaints filed under digital system
(1)
Submission
Not later than March 1 of each year during the three-year period following the establishment of the system under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the total number of complaints or issues filed under such system.
(2)
Elements
Each report under paragraph (1) shall include, for each military medical treatment facility with respect to which a complaint or issue was filed under the system under subsection (a), the following:
(A)
An identification of the most common access to care complaints or issues filed by covered beneficiaries with respect to such facility.
(B)
A comparison of the number of complaints or issues filed regarding access to specialty care versus access to primary care.
(C)
A comparison of the number of complaints or issues filed regarding access to women’s health care versus access to health care that is not women’s health care.
(D)
A comparison of the number of complaints or issues filed regarding access to pediatric care versus access to non-pediatric care.
(E)
A comparison of the number of complaints or issues filed regarding administrative hurdles to access to care versus other access to care issues.
(F)
A summary of steps taken at such facility to reduce access to care complaints or issues by covered beneficiaries.
(c)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered beneficiary
The term  covered beneficiary  means an individual enrolled in a health care plan under the TRICARE program and eligible to receive care at a military medical treatment facility.
(2)
Managed care support contractor
The term  managed care support contractor  means a health care organization contracted to provide care via a managed support contract in support of the health benefits under the TRICARE program.
(3)
TRICARE program
The term  TRICARE program  has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
702.
Expansion of access to dental care for certain dependents
Paragraph (2) of section 1077(c) of title 10, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
(2)
(A)
Dependents who are covered by a dental plan established under section 1076a of this title may be treated by postgraduate dental residents in a dental treatment facility of the uniformed services under a graduate dental education program accredited by the American Dental Association.
(B)
Treatment under subparagraph (A) shall be provided on a space available basis and only if the Secretary of Defense determines that adequate resources exist to provide such treatment.
 .
703.
Expansion of eligibility for hearing aids to include children of retired members of the Uniformed Services enrolled in family coverage under TRICARE Select
Section 1077(a)(16)(B)(ii) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting  or TRICARE Select  before the period at the end.
704.
Evaluation of inclusion of additional accrediting bodies for purposes of qualifications for licensure of mental health professionals under TRICARE Program
(a)
In general
The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall evaluate the feasibility and advisability of permitting reimbursement under the TRICARE program of certified mental health counselors who hold a masters or higher-level degree in counseling from a program that is accredited by a covered institution.
(b)
Report
Not later than July 1, 2027, the Director shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the evaluation conducted under subsection (a).
(c)
Interim final rule
If the report submitted under subsection (b) recommends permitting reimbursement of counselors with a degree from a program accredited by a covered institution, the Director shall issue an interim final rule implementing such recommendations not later than two years after submittal of the report.
(d)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered institution
The term  covered institution  means any of the following:
(A)
The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
(B)
The Higher Learning Commission.
(C)
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
(D)
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.
(E)
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
(F)
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
(G)
The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
(H)
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
(I)
The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.
(J)
The Distance Education Accreditation Commission.
(K)
The Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
(L)
The American Psychology Association.
(2)
TRICARE program
The term  TRICARE program  has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
705.
Improvement of provider directory accuracy for specialty care providers under the TRICARE program
(a)
In general
The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall—
(1)
ensure that each managed care contract under the TRICARE program entered into after the date of the enactment of this Act includes requirements that the managed care contractor—
(A)
conduct comprehensive outreach campaigns, to include electronic and non-electronic means, and mass email campaigns to network specialty care providers providing—
(i)
information relating to penalties associated with inaccurate provider directory information;
(ii)
resources for improving directory information; and
(iii)
direct links for providers to update their directory information;
(B)
make it a condition of joining the network managed by such contractor under the TRICARE program for specialty care providers to validate their provider directory information not less frequently than quarterly;
(C)
ensure that when specialty care providers file for reimbursement, such providers are prompted to review and verify their directory accuracy;
(D)
create a mechanism by which beneficiaries under the TRICARE program can report provider directory inaccuracy to the contractor;
(E)
conduct random tests (not less frequently than monthly) encompassing all specialty care provider types, of the accuracy of information maintained by the contractor relating to specialty care providers; and
(F)
not less frequently than monthly, submit to the Director the results of such random tests, disaggregated by each specialty care provider type, conducted during the month covered by the report; and
(2)
develop financial penalties or other contractual remedies for inaccurate provider directory information under such contracts in accordance with the penalties or remedies imposed as of the date of the enactment of this Act under the T–5 Contract.
(b)
Other methods
The Director shall carry out any other methods that the Director finds useful for the improvement of provider directory accuracy under the TRICARE program.
(c)
Testing of directory information
Not less frequently than twice each year during the three-year period following the date of the enactment of this Act, the Inspector General of the Defense Health Agency shall—
(1)
conduct random tests, encompassing and disaggregating by all specialty care provider types, of the accuracy of information relating to specialty care providers contained in the provider directory under the TRICARE program; and
(2)
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing the findings of each random test.
(d)
Briefings
(1)
In general
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the following four years, the Director shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on progress in carrying out this section.
(2)
Elements
Each briefing under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
(A)
A description of the techniques that are most effective in improving accuracy of provider directories.
(B)
An identification of the authorities or tools that the Defense Health Agency lacks for improving such accuracy.
(C)
An identification of challenges specific to each specialty care provider type that limit such accuracy.
(D)
An assessment of the impact of efforts of the Defense Health Agency towards improving such accuracy on providers either leaving the TRICARE program or on the willingness of non-network providers to join the TRICARE program.
(e)
Comptroller General review
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the following two years, the Comptroller General of the United States shall—
(1)
conduct a holistic review of provider directory accuracy under the TRICARE program, disaggregated by each specialty care provider type, to measure the progress of the Director towards meeting the existing requirements set forth by each managed care contractor under the TRICARE program, including by providing recommendations that would inform the development of the next managed care support contract competition; and
(2)
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the review conducted under paragraph (1).
(f)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Random test
(A)
In general
The term  random test , with respect to specialty care providers, means conducting covert calls to offices of a random sample of such providers using phone numbers from the directory available under the TRICARE program with respect to such providers to confirm the accuracy of information contained in such directory.
(B)
Special rule
A random test may not be conducted with respect to the same sample of providers in consecutive tests.
(2)
TRICARE program
The term  TRICARE program  has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
706.
Modification of requirement to provide start-up time for certain TRICARE contractors
Section 1095c(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (1), by striking  nine months after the date of the award of the contract, but in no case later than one year after the date of such award  and inserting  one year after the date on which the transition period of performance begins under the contract to allow for adequate start-up time for an orderly transition ; and
(2)
in paragraph (3), by striking  nine-month  and inserting  one-year  each place it appears.
707.
Corrections to pilot program for supplemental coverage relating to cancer
Section 734 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 1071 note) is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a), by striking  September 30, 2027  and inserting  January 31, 2028 ;
(2)
in subsection (c), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking  a publicly accessible internet website  and inserting  the public-facing website of the TRICARE program ;
(3)
in subsection (d)(2), by striking  establish procedures to determine  and inserting  provide a method for verification of ;
(4)
in subsection (e), by striking  2026  and inserting  2027 ; and
(5)
in subsection (g)(2), by inserting  a health plan option under  after  enrolled in .
708.
Coverage of cranial orthotic devices for deformational plagiocephaly under TRICARE program
Section 1079(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
(21)
Cranial orthotic devices (molding helmets) for deformational plagiocephaly may be provided as part of a reconstructive medical treatment.
 .
709.
Technical amendments to the Public Health Service Act
(a)
In general
The Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 201 et seq.) is amended—
(1)
in section 2 (42 U.S.C. 201)—
(A)
in paragraph (p), by striking  means the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Public Health Service, or Coast and Geodetic Survey; and  and inserting  has the meaning given such term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code; ;
(B)
in paragraph (q), by striking the period and inserting  ; and ; and
(C)
by adding at the end the following:
(r)
The term  Defense Agency  has the meaning given such term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
 ; and
(2)
in section 543(e) (42 U.S.C. 290dd–2(e))—
(A)
in paragraph (1), by inserting  or the Defense Agency responsible for military health care under chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code,  after  Uniformed Services ; and
(B)
in paragraph (2), by inserting  or the Defense Agency responsible for military health care under chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code  after  Uniformed Services .
(b)
Effective date
The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect as if included in the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328).
710.
Licensure of mental health professionals in TRICARE Program
(a)
Qualifications for TRICARE Certified Mental Health Counselors
For purposes of determining whether a mental health care professional is eligible for reimbursement under the TRICARE program as a certified mental health counselor, an individual who holds a masters or higher-level degree in counseling from a program that is accredited by a covered institution shall be treated as holding such degree from a mental health counseling program or clinical mental health counseling program that is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
(b)
Implementation
The Secretary of Defense shall implement this section beginning not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c)
Briefing
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the plan of the Secretary to implement this section.
(d)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered institution
The term  covered institution  means any of the following:
(A)
The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
(B)
The Higher Learning Commission.
(C)
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
(D)
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.
(E)
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
(F)
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
(G)
The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
(H)
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
(I)
The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.
(J)
The Distance Education Accreditation Commission.
(K)
The Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
(L)
The American Psychology Association.
(2)
TRICARE program
The term  TRICARE program  has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
711.
Requirements relating to wellness checks for health and welfare of certain members of the Armed Forces
(a)
Wellness checks
(1)
Wellness checks required
(A)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall issue such regulations, policies, and procedures as may be necessary to require that, whenever appropriate following a member of the Armed Forces sustaining any significant injury or illness or being on sick call, a wellness check is conducted to account for the health and welfare of such member.
(B)
Significant injury or illness or sick call
For purposes of subparagraph (A), a member of the Armed Forces shall be considered to have sustained a significant injury or illness or to be on sick call if a medical professional recommends an absence of the member from regular duties for 24 hours or longer, such as placing the member on quarters or recommending convalescent leave.
(2)
Methods of contact
In conducting a wellness check for a member of the Armed Forces pursuant to paragraph (1), if the member does not respond to such check conducted via an electronic or telephone communication method, the individual conducting the check shall progress to an in-person method of contact.
(3)
Result of failure to locate
If, as a result of a wellness check conducted pursuant to paragraph (1) for a member of the Armed Forces, the individual conducting such check is unable to locate such member, the individual shall refer to the applicable regulations, policies, and procedures of the Department of Defense regarding the determination and reporting of such member as missing, absent unknown, absent without leave, or duty status-whereabouts unknown.
(b)
Implementation by unit commanders
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that each unit commander coordinates with the judge advocates assigned or attached to, or performing duty with, the unit under the command of such commander for assistance in the implementation of any regulation, policy, or procedure required under subsection (a) with respect to such unit.
(c)
Additional actions by unit commanders
(1)
In general
On a routine basis, each unit commander shall—
(A)
review the requirements contained in the document titled  Commander’s Critical Information Requirements , dated January 2020, or any successor document, to ensure such requirements—
(i)
have been issued or updated during the three-year period preceding any such review;
(ii)
reflect the medical issues or safety incidents of members of the Armed Forces that the commander deems sufficiently significant; and
(iii)
have been distributed to the unit under the command of such commander; and
(B)
host confidential wellness meetings with subordinate commanders at which such commanders may discuss with one or more medical officers assigned to such unit any significant injuries or illnesses affecting members of the Armed Forces serving in or with such unit.
(2)
Wellness meetings
Confidential wellness meetings under paragraph (1)(B) may be integrated with existing command, staff, or health-of-the-force synchronization meetings if the confidentiality of the medical and personal information a member of the Armed Forces is appropriately maintained.
(d)
Training
(1)
In general
Each Secretary concerned, and the Secretary of Defense with respect to civilian personnel of the Department of Defense, shall ensure that training on the importance of accountability with respect to health and welfare, and the significant negative outcomes that may occur when accountability procedures fail, is integrated into existing command, leadership, and prevention training programs to the maximum extent practicable
(2)
No need for separate training requirement
A separate standalone training requirement is not required for purposes of carrying out paragraph (1).
(e)
Secretary concerned defined
In this section, the term  Secretary concerned  has the meaning given that term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
712.
Requirement to offer medical chaperones during sensitive medical examinations
The Secretary of Defense shall establish and implement a policy throughout the Department of Defense to require that a medical chaperone be offered and available to be present with a patient during any sensitive medical examination, as determined by the Secretary, conducted at a military medical treatment facility.
713.
Pilot program on reciprocal access to health care facilities, personnel, and services of Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of expanding reciprocal access to health care facilities, personnel, and services between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs (in this section referred to as the  pilot program ).
(b)
Purposes
The purposes of the pilot program are—
(1)
to improve access to timely, high-quality health care for covered beneficiaries;
(2)
to improve continuity of care for transitioning members of the Armed Forces and veterans;
(3)
to reduce duplication of health care capacity and infrastructure;
(4)
to enhance medical readiness and provider proficiency;
(5)
to maximize the efficient use of medical facilities and personnel of the Federal Government; and
(6)
to assess opportunities for future integration and coordination between the health care systems of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
(c)
Authorized activities
(1)
In general
Under the pilot program, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may authorize—
(A)
coordinated referral and specialty care arrangements;
(B)
integrated scheduling, credentialing, reimbursement, and care coordination processes; and
(C)
the sharing and interoperability of electronic health records and related health information systems consistent with applicable privacy and security requirements.
(2)
Priority
Activities under the pilot program shall prioritize arrangements that cannot be readily achieved under sharing agreements in effect as of the date of the enactment of this Act due to administrative, eligibility, or systemic barriers.
(d)
Pilot sites
(1)
Initial sites
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly designate not fewer than five and not more than 10 pilot sites.
(2)
Selection criteria
In selecting pilot sites under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall consider—
(A)
geographic areas with overlapping medical infrastructure of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs;
(B)
locations experiencing provider shortages or access challenges;
(C)
locations with significant populations of transitioning members of the Armed Forces, former members of the Armed Forces, or veterans;
(D)
locations where at least one of the local Federal facilities has the staff and operation capacity to take on the work of the pilot program;
(E)
opportunities to improve medical readiness of the Armed Forces; and
(F)
existing sharing agreements or integrated care models.
(3)
Modification of pilot sites
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may jointly add, remove, suspend, or modify pilot sites and services covered under the pilot program as the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs jointly determine necessary based on performance, patient safety, operational requirements, beneficiary access, or other appropriate considerations if the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs provide to the appropriate committees of Congress, not later than 30 days before adding, removing, suspending, or modifying any such site or service, a notification of such action.
(e)
Eligibility
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly establish eligibility criteria and priority categories for participation in the pilot program.
(2)
Priority
In establishing criteria under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall prioritize—
(A)
transitioning members of the Armed Forces;
(B)
members of the Armed Forces and veterans residing in medically underserved areas;
(C)
beneficiaries requiring specialty care with extended wait times;
(D)
members of the Armed Forces and veterans receiving behavioral health care; and
(E)
military families if reciprocal access would improve continuity or access to care for such families.
(f)
Waiver of administrative requirements
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may waive or modify administrative requirements that would otherwise unnecessarily impede the operation of the pilot program, except requirements relating to patient safety, quality standards, or statutory eligibility for care.
(g)
Data collection and performance metrics
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly establish metrics to evaluate the pilot program, including metrics relating to—
(A)
patient access and wait times;
(B)
quality of care and patient outcomes;
(C)
patient satisfaction and care coordination;
(D)
provider productivity and readiness impacts;
(E)
cost and resource utilization;
(F)
continuity of care for transitioning members of the Armed Forces;
(G)
continuity of care for veterans receiving care under the pilot program at facilities other than facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs;
(H)
electronic health record interoperability and information sharing; and
(I)
comparison of use of the pilot program to use of sharing agreements for similar services under other authorities.
(2)
Standardization
The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that data collection under this subsection is standardized across pilot sites to the maximum extent practicable.
(h)
Application of authority
The pilot program shall—
(1)
build upon and not duplicate authorities under section 8111 of title 38, United States Code; and
(2)
apply only to the extent necessary to test enhanced reciprocal access to health care facilities, personnel, and services beyond sharing agreements in effect as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
(i)
Briefings and reports
(1)
Initial briefing
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a briefing regarding implementation plans for the pilot program.
(2)
Annual briefings
Not later than April 1 of each year during the duration of the pilot program, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a briefing regarding—
(A)
pilot site performance;
(B)
beneficiary participation;
(C)
budgetary impacts;
(D)
patient safety and quality metrics;
(E)
any modifications to pilot sites or covered services; and
(F)
legislative recommendations, if any.
(3)
Interim report
Not later than two years after commencement of operations under the pilot program at the first pilot site, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly submit to the appropriate committees of Congress an interim report on the results of the pilot program.
(4)
Final report
Not later than one year before the termination of the pilot program under subsection (k), the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a final report containing—
(A)
an assessment of the effectiveness of the pilot program;
(B)
recommendations regarding expansion, modification, or termination of the pilot program;
(C)
an assessment of impacts on medical readiness of the Armed Forces and health care delivery for veterans; and
(D)
any recommendations for legislative or administrative action.
(j)
Voluntary participation and preservation of existing authorities
(1)
Voluntary participation
Participation in the pilot program by veterans shall be voluntary.
(2)
Patient election
A veteran eligible to participate in the pilot program may elect to receive care through—
(A)
a facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs;
(B)
a military medical treatment facility participating in the pilot program; or
(C)
a community provider pursuant to applicable community care authorities of the Department of Veterans Affairs .
(3)
No requirement to use Department of Defense facilities
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may not require a veteran to receive care through a facility of the Department of Defense as a condition of eligibility for, or receipt of, care or services under laws administered by the Secretary.
(4)
Patient notice
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that veterans eligible to participate in the pilot program receive clear notice regarding available health care options, including the availability of community care if otherwise authorized by law.
(5)
No limitation on community care eligibility
Nothing in this section may be construed to limit, alter, delay, or otherwise affect the eligibility of a veteran for care, services, or referrals furnished under the Veterans Community Care Program under section 1703 of title 38, United States Code, or any other authority available under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive care from non-Department of Veterans Affairs providers.
(k)
Duration
The pilot program shall commence not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act and shall terminate five years after the commencement of operations of the pilot program at the first pilot site.
(l)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Appropriate committees of Congress
The term  appropriate committees of Congress  means—
(A)
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate; and
(B)
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives.
(2)
Covered beneficiary
The term  covered beneficiary  has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
(3)
Military medical treatment facility
The term  military medical treatment facility  means a facility of the Defense Health Agency, a military department, or another component of the Department of Defense providing health care services.
(4)
Pilot site
The term  pilot site  means any medical center, hospital, clinic, or other health care facility of the Department of Defense or the Department of Veterans Affairs that is participating in the pilot program.
(5)
Reciprocal access
The term  reciprocal access  means systematic, non-excess-capacity access with integrated operations, as opposed to access that is limited to excess capacity only.
714.
Medical screening for members of the Armed Forces who served at data masked or classified locations
(a)
Modification to service records
Not later than January 1, 2029, the Secretary of Defense shall modify the service records of covered members to include a check box or other method to signify that the covered member served at a covered location and would merit additional medical screening.
(b)
Hazard screening
(1)
In general
During a covered examination, a covered member shall receive—
(A)
a screening to determine if such member served at a covered location at any time during service in the Armed Forces; and
(B)
if such member served at such a location, additional exposure-specific medical screenings and evaluations to identify potential exposure to hazardous substances, radiation, or other harmful occupational and environmental hazards encountered during service in the Armed Forces, consistent with current clinical practice guidelines and recommendations of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
(2)
Inclusions
The screenings and evaluations required under paragraph (1) may include—
(A)
a targeted assessment of medical histories;
(B)
a physical examination;
(C)
laboratory testing;
(D)
imaging studies; and
(E)
other diagnostic procedures that the Secretary determines are medically necessary.
(c)
Documentation
A health care provider shall document all exposures identified by the provider and the results of any screenings and evaluations conducted under subsection (b) in the permanent medical record of the relevant covered member and ensure that relevant exposure information is transmitted to the Department of Veterans Affairs upon separation or retirement of such member.
(d)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered examination
The term  covered examination  means—
(A)
a screening conducted by a health care provider of the Department of Defense for any covered member prior to a permanent change of station from a covered location; or
(B)
any annual preventive health assessment of a covered member conducted by a health care provider of the Department.
(2)
Covered location
The term  covered location  means—
(A)
a data masked or classified location; or
(B)
a facility on the most recent list of facilities covered under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 7384 et seq.) published in the Federal Register by the Secretary of Energy.
(3)
Covered member
The term  covered member  means a member of the Armed Forces currently serving on active duty.
715.
Medical testing and related services for firefighters of Department of Defense
(a)
Provision of services
During the annual periodic health assessment of each firefighter of the Department of Defense, or at such other intervals as may be indicated in subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the firefighter (at no cost to the firefighter) appropriate medical testing and related services to detect, document the presence or absence of, and prevent, certain cancers.
(b)
Criteria
Services required to be provided under subsection (a) shall meet, at a minimum, the following criteria:
(1)
Breast cancer
With respect to breast cancer screening, if the firefighter is a female firefighter—
(A)
such services shall include the provision of a mammogram to the firefighter—
(i)
if the firefighter is 40 years old to 49 years old (inclusive), not less frequently than twice each year;
(ii)
if the firefighter is 50 years old or older, not less frequently than annually; and
(iii)
as clinically indicated (without regard to age); and
(B)
in connection with the provision of a mammogram under subparagraph (A), a licensed radiologist shall review the most recent mammogram provided to the firefighter, as compared to prior mammograms so provided, and provide to the firefighter the results of such review.
(2)
Colon cancer
With respect to colon cancer screening—
(A)
if the firefighter is 40 years old or older, or as clinically indicated without regard to age, such services shall include the communication to the firefighter of the risks and benefits of stool-based blood testing;
(B)
if the firefighter is 45 years old or older, or as clinically indicated without regard to age, such services shall include the provision, at regular intervals, of visual examinations (such as a colonoscopy, CT colonoscopy, or flexible sigmoidoscopy) or stool-based blood testing; and
(C)
in connection with the provision of a visual examination or stool-based blood testing under subparagraph (B), a licensed physician shall review and provide to the firefighter the results of such examination or testing, as the case may be.
(3)
Prostate cancer
With respect to prostate cancer screening, if the firefighter is a male firefighter, such services shall include the communication to the firefighter of the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screenings and the provision to the firefighter of a prostate-specific antigen test—
(A)
not less frequently than annually if the firefighter—
(i)
is 50 years old or older; or
(ii)
is 40 years old or older and is a high-risk individual; and
(B)
as clinically indicated (without regard to age).
(4)
Other cancers
Such services shall include routine screenings for any other cancer the risk or occurrence of which the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified as higher among firefighters than among the general public, the provision of which shall be carried out during the annual periodic health assessment of the firefighter.
(c)
Optional nature
A firefighter of the Department of Defense may opt out of the receipt of medical testing or a related service provided under subsection (a).
(d)
Use of consensus technical standards
In providing medical testing and related services under subsection (a), the Secretary shall use consensus technical standards in accordance with section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (Public Law 104–113; 15 U.S.C. 272 note).
(e)
Documentation
(1)
In general
In providing medical testing and related services under subsection (a), the Secretary—
(A)
shall document the acceptance rates of such tests offered and the rates of such tests performed;
(B)
shall document test results to identify trends in the rates of cancer occurrences among firefighters; and
(C)
may collect and maintain additional information from the recipients of such tests and other services to allow for appropriate scientific analysis.
(2)
Privacy
In analyzing any information of an individual documented, collected, or maintained under paragraph (1), in addition to complying with other applicable privacy laws, the Secretary shall ensure the name and any other personally identifiable information of the individual is removed from such information prior to the analysis.
(3)
Sharing with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The Secretary may share data from any tests performed under subsection (a) with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as appropriate, to increase the knowledge and understanding of cancer occurrences among firefighters.
(f)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Firefighter
The term  firefighter  means someone whose primary job or military occupational specialty is being a firefighter.
(2)
High-risk individual
The term  high-risk individual  means an individual who—
(A)
is African American;
(B)
has at least one first-degree relative who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age; or
(C)
is otherwise determined by the Secretary to be high risk with respect to prostate cancer.
B
Health Care Administration
721.
Development of capability prototype on secure access to health record for members of the Armed Forces
(a)
Capability prototype
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement a capability prototype that is interoperable with the electronic health record of the Department of Defense for active duty members of the Armed Forces who receive health care from the Defense Health Agency to digitally collect their medical records through a covered health record platform before separating from active duty.
(b)
Contracts
(1)
Authority
The Secretary shall seek to enter into a contract using competitive procedures with an appropriate entity for the provision of the covered health record platform under the capability prototype under subsection (a).
(2)
Notice of competition
(A)
In general
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a request for proposals for the contract described in paragraph (1).
(B)
Open competition
A request under subparagraph (A) shall be full and open to any contractor that has an existing covered health record platform.
(3)
Selection
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall award a contract to an appropriate entity pursuant to the request for proposals under paragraph (2) if at least one acceptable offer is submitted.
(c)
Pilot program on use of capability prototype
(1)
In general
The Secretary shall carry out a pilot program under which the Secretary shall assess the feasibility and advisability of using the capability prototype developed under subsection (a) for a period of not less than 180 days.
(2)
Selection of Armed Forces
The Secretary shall select not less than one Armed Force in which to carry out the pilot program under paragraph (1).
(3)
Termination or extension of use of capability prototype
At the end of the period specified in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall survey all participants in the pilot program under such paragraph and, based on survey results, may—
(A)
terminate the capability prototype developed and implemented under subsection (a);
(B)
continue the capability prototype;
(C)
expand the capability prototype; or
(D)
implement the use of a covered health record platform in the Defense Health Agency throughout the uniformed services.
(d)
Prohibition on new appropriations
No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the requirements of this section and such requirements shall be carried out using amounts otherwise authorized to be appropriated for the Department of Defense through the Joint Incentive Fund.
(e)
Briefing required
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the capability prototype developed and implemented under subsection (a).
(f)
Covered health record platform defined
In this section, the term  covered health record platform  means a health record platform that meets the following requirements:
(1)
Has web-based and native mobile phone application capabilities.
(2)
Has the capability to store and share records with the Department of Veterans Affairs or any other designated care provider.
(3)
Has the capability to store records in the cloud.
(4)
Does not have a requirement for integration to receive or share records.
(5)
Has the capability to instantly share data based on a combination of access key and personal identifier.
(6)
Has the capability to provide secure data storage and records transfer upon separation of a member of the Armed Forces from active duty.
(7)
Does not require a business associate agreement with any party.
(8)
Has secure data isolation with access controls.
(9)
Has, at a minimum, data security that would require separate encryption for each document, relying on AES256 or better algorithm with keys encryption using RSA2048 or better algorithm, or any successor similar algorithm.
722.
Inventory and annual catchment area assessment of military-civilian health care partnerships
(a)
Centralized inventory of military-civilian partnerships
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall develop and maintain a centralized inventory of military–civilian health care partnerships throughout the Department of Defense.
(2)
Coordination
In carrying out paragraph (1), the Director of the Defense Health Agency shall coordinate with the Secretary of each military department to ensure the inventory developed and maintained under such paragraph reflects partnerships established and maintained by the Defense Health Agency, the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and the military departments.
(3)
Military department responsibilities
(A)
In general
Each Secretary of a military department shall develop and maintain an inventory of military–civilian health care partnerships under the jurisdiction of such Secretary.
(B)
Inclusion in centralized inventory
The inventories developed under subparagraph (A) shall be provided to the Director of the Defense Health Agency on a recurring basis, as determined by the Secretary of Defense, for inclusion in the centralized inventory under paragraph (1).
(C)
Use of inventories
The inventories maintained by the military departments under this paragraph shall be used to inform and update the centralized inventory maintained by the Defense Health Agency under paragraph (1).
(4)
Elements
The inventories required under this subsection shall include, at a minimum, the following:
(A)
The type and purpose of each military–civilian health care partnership.
(B)
Participating organizations, including civilian and other Federal partners.
(C)
Geographic location and supported beneficiary population.
(D)
Resources shared, including personnel, facilities, and funding.
(E)
Duration and terms of the partnerships.
(F)
Measures of performance and effectiveness of the partnerships.
(b)
Annual catchment area assessment
(1)
In general
Not less frequently than annually, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall conduct a catchment area assessment of military–civilian health care partnerships and resource-sharing agreements of the Department of Defense.
(2)
Use of inventory
The catchment area assessment conducted under paragraph (1) shall be informed by the centralized inventory developed under subsection (a), including inputs provided by the military departments.
(3)
Scope
(A)
In general
Each catchment area assessment conducted under paragraph (1) shall focus on the catchment area of a military medical treatment facility and other related organizations.
(B)
Elements
Each catchment area assessment conducted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(i)
An assessment of the extent to which existing military–civilian health care partnerships fulfill the intended objectives of such partnerships, including access to care, quality, cost-effectiveness, and medical readiness.
(ii)
An identification of gaps in care, redundancies, or underutilized resources.
(iii)
An evaluation of whether individual partnerships should be expanded, reduced, or maintained.
(iv)
An identification of opportunities to establish new partnerships or modify existing agreements.
(v)
Consideration of regional health care capacity, including civilian and Federal health care providers.
(vi)
An analysis of trends that may affect the performance or sustainability of military–civilian health care partnerships.
(4)
Metrics and benchmarks
The Secretary of Defense shall establish standardized metrics and benchmarks to evaluate the performance and outcomes of military–civilian health care partnerships assessed under this subsection.
(c)
Briefing
Not later than April 1, 2027, and annually thereafter for the following five years, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing containing the results of the most recent catchment area assessment conducted under subsection (b), which shall include the following:
(1)
A summary of the centralized inventory developed and maintained under subsection (a).
(2)
Key findings regarding the effectiveness of military–civilian health care partnerships.
(3)
An identification of any resources that are required to ensure effective military–civilian health care partnerships.
(4)
Planned actions to expand, modify, or terminate military–civilian health care partnerships.
(5)
Any recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve military–civilian health care collaboration.
(d)
Military–civilian health care partnership defined
In this section, the term  military–civilian health care partnership  includes any agreement, contract, or arrangement between the Department of Defense and a non-Department entity for the provision, sharing, or coordination of health care services, personnel, training, or resources.
723.
Requirement for review before actions to downsize, realign, or reduce scope of services at military medical treatment facilities
Section 1073d of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(g)
Limitation on actions to downsize, realign, or reduce scope of services
(1)
The Secretary of Defense may not carry out any action initiated after the date of the enactment of the  National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027  to downsize, realign, or otherwise reduce the scope of services at a military medical treatment facility until the Secretary conducts a comprehensive review consistent with this subsection.
(2)
A review required under paragraph (1) with respect to an action relating to a military medical treatment facility shall include, at a minimum, the following:
(A)
An assessment of the capacity, capability, and readiness of local civilian health care providers to absorb affected beneficiary populations.
(B)
An assessment of the capacity, capability, and accessibility of facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in the relevant catchment area.
(C)
An evaluation of the impact on access to care for covered beneficiaries, including wait times, travel distances, and specialty care availability.
(D)
An analysis of the effects on medical readiness, including clinical workload necessary to sustain provider skills within the armed forces.
(E)
An assessment of risks to continuity of care, particularly for complex or chronic conditions.
(F)
Such other factors as the Secretary determines appropriate to ensure a complete understanding of impacts on beneficiaries and mission requirements.
(3)
The Secretary of Defense shall certify to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives that the review required under this subsection has been completed prior to implementing any action described in paragraph (1) and shall include a summary of findings and a justification for the proposed action.
(4)
Not later than one year before conducting any action to downsize, realign, or otherwise reduce the scope of services at a military medical treatment facility, the Secretary of Defense shall have a consultative discussion regarding such action with the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
 .
724.
Policy on provider notification to commanders regarding imminent risk of suicide for members of the Armed Forces
(a)
Policy Required
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement a policy throughout the Department of Defense regarding the notification of commanders when a health care provider determines that a member of the Armed Forces is at imminent risk of suicide.
(b)
Definition of imminent risk
(1)
In general
As part of the policy required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall establish a clear and standardized definition of  imminent risk of suicide  for purposes of the military health system.
(2)
Elements of definition
The definition required under paragraph (1) shall—
(A)
be informed by evidence-based clinical standards and suicide risk assessment practices;
(B)
account for the presence of suicidal ideation, intent, plan, access to means, and temporal proximity of potential self-harm;
(C)
distinguish between acute, immediate risk and non-immediate or chronic suicide risk; and
(D)
allow for the exercise of professional clinical judgment in individual cases.
(c)
Elements
The policy required under subsection (a) shall—
(1)
establish clear and standardized criteria for determining when a member of the Armed Forces is at imminent risk of suicide, consistent with evidence-based clinical practices;
(2)
require timely notification to the appropriate commander when such a determination is made, while ensuring that only the minimum necessary information is disclosed to protect the privacy of the member;
(3)
define the roles and responsibilities of health care providers, commanders, and other relevant personnel in responding to such notifications;
(4)
ensure that such notifications are made in a manner that supports the safety and well-being of the member, including coordination of appropriate interventions and support services;
(5)
incorporate procedures to safeguard the confidentiality of protected health information consistent with section 552a of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the  Privacy Act of 1974 ), and applicable regulations of the Department of Defense;
(6)
provide guidance on documentation and accountability for decisions relating to such notifications; and
(7)
include mechanisms to ensure that such notifications do not result in inappropriate adverse personnel actions solely on the basis of a mental health condition.
(d)
Training and implementation
The Secretary shall ensure that—
(1)
health care providers within the military health system receive training on the policy developed under subsection (a), including criteria for determining imminent risk and procedures for notification of commanders;
(2)
commanders receive training on appropriate responses to such notifications, including how to support members of the Armed Forces while maintaining good order and discipline; and
(3)
health professionals within the military health system in patient care positions receive training on—
(A)
how to respond when a member of the Armed Forces initiates the referral process under section 1090b(e) of title 10, United States Code; and
(B)
how to recognize signs indicating mental health distress and imminent risk of suicide.
(e)
Coordination
In developing the policy required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult with—
(1)
the Director of the Defense Health Agency;
(2)
the Surgeons General of the Armed Forces; and
(3)
other relevant stakeholders, as determined appropriate by the Secretary.
(f)
Briefing to Congress
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing that includes—
(1)
a description of the policy developed under subsection (a);
(2)
an assessment of implementation of such policy across the Armed Forces;
(3)
a description of any identified challenges or barriers to such implementation; and
(4)
recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve suicide prevention efforts of the Department of Defense.
725.
Authority over Defense Health Program
Section 1073 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
(c)
Authority
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs shall have authority over the entirety of the Defense Health Program.
 .
726.
Enterprise Revenue Cycle Improvement Initiative
(a)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs and the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall implement an enterprise-wide revenue cycle improvement initiative (in this section referred to as the  Initiative ) to standardize revenue cycle management processes, strengthen governance and accountability, improve workforce capability, and increase the accuracy, timeliness, and yield of third-party collections and claims management across the military health system.
(b)
Objectives
The objectives of the Initiative are the following:
(1)
To establish and implement standardized revenue cycle management processes, defined stage-by-stage accountability, and enterprise performance standards across all military medical treatment facilities.
(2)
To improve the accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of clinical documentation, medical coding, charge capture, claims submission, and denial management, including through the use of advanced analytics, automation, and robotic process automation technologies as appropriate.
(3)
To increase third-party collections yield and reduce preventable claim denials across the military health system.
(4)
To strengthen the accuracy of medical readiness documentation, including documentation supporting deployment eligibility determinations, disability evaluation processing, and military provider clinical currency sustainment.
(5)
To ensure interoperability with the GENESIS electronic health record platform of the military health system to support end-to-end revenue cycle operations and performance visibility.
(6)
To establish enterprise workforce training and certification programs to improve revenue cycle competency across military medical treatment facilities.
(7)
To provide actionable performance data and operational feedback to markets, networks, and military medical treatment facilities of the Defense Health Agency to improve accountability and outcomes.
(c)
Elements
In carrying out the Initiative, the Secretary shall—
(1)
designate a senior official within the Defense Health Agency to serve as the enterprise revenue cycle improvement lead, with responsibility for implementation, performance oversight, and reporting;
(2)
establish enterprise-wide revenue cycle performance standards and defined accountability for each stage of the revenue cycle, from patient scheduling through final collections;
(3)
develop and implement enterprise performance metrics, including leading and lagging indicators, with escalation thresholds and corrective action requirements;
(4)
implement workforce training and proficiency assessment programs for personnel performing revenue cycle functions across military medical treatment facilities;
(5)
leverage existing investments in the GENESIS electronic health record platform of the military health system, existing analytics capabilities, and enterprise financial systems to support standardized revenue cycle operations; and
(6)
incorporate advanced analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence capabilities, consistent with policies of the Department of Defense for responsible use of artificial intelligence, to support coding accuracy, denial prevention, charge capture, and revenue integrity.
(d)
Implementation
(1)
Application
The Initiative shall apply to all military medical treatment facilities within the Defense Health Agency.
(2)
Priority
The Secretary shall prioritize initial implementation of the Initiative at facilities with the greatest opportunity for improvement in revenue cycle performance and third-party collections yield.
(3)
Contracts and support
The Secretary may enter into contracts or other agreements using available acquisition methods and competitive procedures, as appropriate, to obtain specialized expertise, technology capabilities, or implementation support necessary to carry out the Initiative.
(4)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the establishment of a new acquisition program or program management office for the purpose of revenue cycle management.
(e)
Reporting
(1)
Initial report
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report describing—
(A)
the baseline performance of military medical treatment facilities across key revenue cycle metrics, including days to final bill, clean claim submission rate, preventable denial rate, coding accuracy rate, and third-party collections yield;
(B)
the enterprise revenue cycle governance structure established under the Initiative, including stage-by-stage accountability designations;
(C)
implementation milestones and target dates for enterprise-wide deployment; and
(D)
the allocation of funds authorized for the Initiative.
(2)
Quarterly reports
Not later than 90 days after the submission of the initial report under paragraph (1), and quarterly thereafter for a period of not less than two years, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report describing—
(A)
progress in implementing the Initiative as compared to implementation milestones;
(B)
performance improvements in the metrics identified under paragraph (1)(A) compared to the established baseline;
(C)
the status of workforce training and certification programs;
(D)
the impact of revenue cycle accuracy improvements on medical readiness documentation, including any identified effects on deployment eligibility determinations or disability evaluation processing; and
(E)
challenges, risks, and recommendations for sustainment or expansion of the Initiative.
(f)
Sunset
This section shall terminate on the date that is three years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
727.
Notification to licensing and medical boards of States in case of investigation or misconduct
(a)
In general
Not later than 30 days after a covered event with respect to misconduct allegedly committed by a licensed medical professional of the Department of Defense, the Secretary of Defense shall notify the relevant State licensing and medical boards regarding such misconduct.
(b)
Covered event defined
In this section, the term  covered event , with respect to a licensed medical professional of the Department, means the date on which—
(1)
an investigation that could lead to criminal charges is started into misconduct allegedly committed by such professional; or
(2)
such professional is charged with misconduct.
728.
Additional review of disclosure requirements under processes and forms relating to health care provider credentialing and privileging of Department of Defense
(a)
In general
Section 720 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 1094 note) is amended—
(1)
by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections (c) and (d), respectively;
(2)
by inserting after subsection (a) the following new subsection (b):
(b)
Additional review relating to disclosure of mental and behavioral health conditions
Not later than 180 days after implementing the centralized credential system established under subsection (a)(2), the Secretary shall review all processes and forms relating to health care provider credentialing and privileging of covered applicants to—
(1)
identify questions, required disclosures, or other information required to be provided by the applicant that asks or requires the applicant to disclose mental, behavioral, psychological, or other related health conditions of the applicant, including requirements contained in—
(A)
applications for credentialing, peer reference, or competency assessment; and
(B)
employee manuals, guidance, and policies of the Department of Defense governing the requirements for credentialing, privileging, or employment of health care providers; and
(2)
review credentialing, peer reference, and competency assessment forms for health care providers and make a comparison across the military departments and the Defense Health Agency as applicable, including a review of—
(A)
which forms require disclosure of mental, behavioral, psychological, or other related health conditions; and
(B)
whether such disclosure of mental, behavioral, psychological, or other related health conditions include past and current diagnoses and treatment.
 ; and
(3)
in subsection (c), as redesignated by paragraph (1)—
(A)
in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting after  this Act,  the following:  and not later than one year after implementing the centralized credential system established under subsection (a)(2) ;
(B)
in paragraph (1), by striking  review required under subsection (a)  and inserting  reviews required under subsections (a) and (b) ; and
(C)
in paragraph (2), by striking  such review  and inserting  such reviews .
(b)
Report
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing the following:
(1)
The findings of the review required under subsection (b) of section 720 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 1094 note), as added by subsection (a)(2) of this section.
(2)
A detailed plan outlining steps the Secretary has taken or will take pursuant to such review, including a timeline for completion of such steps.
729.
Expansion of Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record
(a)
In general
Section 996 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (i); and
(2)
by inserting after subsection (d) the following new subsections:
(e)
Inclusion of family member exposures
The Secretary may include in the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record of a member of the armed forces exposures experienced by family members of such member during an accompanied tour while such member is serving on active duty, regardless of whether the location is in the continental United States, outside the continental United States, or a classified location.
(f)
Individual access to data and updates or corrections
(1)
The Secretary may provide to members of the armed forces, veterans, designated family members, and survivors password-protected access to view data within the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record to which the individual is authorized to view.
(2)
An individual may request an update or correction to any data included in the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record that relates to the individual.
(g)
Toxic exposure capability
The Secretary may modify the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record to provide the capability to notify an individual of a potential toxic exposure of the individual in real time.
(h)
Preservation of records after death
The Secretary may modify the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record to preserve records of an individual after the death of the individual for purposes of research, survivor benefits, and disease-cluster identification.
 .
(b)
Full operating capacity
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record maintained under section 996 of title 10, United States Code, is at full operating capacity in accordance with the requirements and authorities under such section, as amended by subsection (a).
(c)
Report
Not later than January 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report detailing—
(1)
whether the Secretary intends to implement subsections (e) through (h) of section 996 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a)(2); and
(2)
if the Secretary does not intend to implement any such subsection, the recommendations of the Secretary with respect to the implementation of such subsection.
730.
Pilot program on modernization of drug testing using voice-based risk assessment
(a)
Pilot program required
The Secretary of Defense shall carry out a pilot program at not more than five military installations, representing a combined total of not less than 40,000 and not more than 50,000 active-duty members of the Armed Forces, to evaluate the use of voice-based risk assessment technology to support targeted drug testing.
(b)
Purpose
The purpose of the pilot program is to determine whether automated voice-based screening tools can improve the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and operational readiness of the Department of Defense’s drug testing programs by enabling risk-informed testing in place of universal urinalysis.
(c)
Program elements
The pilot program shall—
(1)
integrate voice-based automated screening technology capable of producing real-time, individualized risk assessments from simple yes/no questions;
(2)
be executed as part of the Drug Demand Reduction Program of the Department of Defense;
(3)
assess impacts on testing volume, cost savings, personnel time, and operational readiness;
(4)
be conducted in a manner that protects individual privacy and complies with applicable law, Department policy, and applicable protections under section 552a of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the  Privacy Act of 1974 ); and
(5)
only be conducted if the proposed voice-based automated screening technology or any other proposed screening technology is scientifically validated, peer-reviewed, and legally defensible as defined by the Secretary of Defense.
(d)
Termination
The Secretary of Defense shall determine when to terminate the pilot program established under this section.
C
Combat and Operational Health Support
741.
Establishment of Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System
(a)
Establishment
Chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1110b the following new section:
1110c.
Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall establish and maintain a Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System (in this section referred to as the  Joint DNBI System ) within the Defense Health Agency to provide standardized, interoperable, and real-time monitoring of disease and non-battle injury across the armed forces.
(b)
Applicability
The Joint DNBI System shall apply to—
(1)
the regular components of the armed forces;
(2)
the reserve components of the armed forces when in Federal service; and
(3)
such other personnel of the Department of Defense as the Secretary determines appropriate.
(c)
Elements
The Joint DNBI System shall—
(1)
standardize definitions, metrics, and reporting requirements for disease and non-battle injury of members of the armed forces;
(2)
integrate with the electronic health record systems of the Department of Defense;
(3)
integrate with readiness reporting systems and operational reporting platforms;
(4)
provide commanders and combatant commands with near-real-time medical situational awareness;
(5)
incorporate environmental and occupational health surveillance data;
(6)
track lost duty days, medical evacuations, limited duty status, and other readiness impacts attributable to disease and non-battle injury;
(7)
integrate lessons learned with respect to infectious disease and preventive medicine, including through overseas medical laboratories and the Global Emerging Infectious Surveillance program, across the armed forces; and
(8)
ensure interoperability, as appropriate, with joint, interagency, and allied health surveillance systems.
(d)
Responsibilities
(1)
Secretary of Defense
The Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
designate a senior official within the Office of the Secretary of Defense to oversee policy oversight with respect to the Joint DNBI System; and
(B)
ensure adequate resourcing and cybersecurity protections for such system.
(2)
Secretaries of the military departments
Each Secretary of a military department shall—
(A)
implement standardized reporting procedures with respect to the Joint DNBI System;
(B)
ensure compliance with such system at all command levels; and
(C)
incorporate disease and non-battle injury metrics into readiness assessments.
(3)
Joint staff and combatant commanders
The Joint Staff and the commanders of the combatant commands shall incorporate data from the Joint DNBI System into operational risk assessments and campaign planning.
(4)
Director of the Defense Health Agency
The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall—
(A)
develop the concept of operations for the Joint DNBI System; and
(B)
implement policy guidance from the Secretary of Defense and ensure such system achieves full operational capability.
(e)
Privacy and civil liberties
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the Joint DNBI System complies with—
(1)
section 552a of title 5 (commonly known as the  Privacy Act of 1974 );
(2)
the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–191); and
(3)
all applicable cybersecurity and data protection requirements.
(f)
Annual briefing
Not later than March 1 of each year beginning in the first full fiscal year following implementation of the Joint DNBI System, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on trends in disease and non-battle injury and associated readiness impacts.
(g)
Sunset
This section shall terminate on September 30, 2032.
(h)
Disease and non-battle injury defined
In this section, the term  disease and non-battle injury  means any medical condition not directly attributable to hostile action, including infectious disease, environmental exposure, occupational injury, training-related injury, heat or cold injury, and other non-combat-related conditions affecting readiness.
 .
(b)
Implementation timeline
The Secretary of Defense shall—
(1)
not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, issue implementing guidance for the Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System established under section 1110c of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a);
(2)
not later than 18 months after such date of enactment, achieve initial operating capability for such system; and
(3)
not later than 36 months after such date of enactment, achieve full operating capability for such system.
(c)
Initial report
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report describing—
(1)
progress of implementation of the Joint Disease and Non-Battle Injury Surveillance and Readiness System established under section 1110c of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a);
(2)
identified capability gaps with respect to such system; and
(3)
resource requirements for such system.
742.
Preservation of dedicated aeromedical evacuation capability of Medical Service Corps of the Army
(a)
In general
The Medical Service Corps of the Army shall maintain a dedicated aeromedical evacuation capability, including personnel, training, doctrine, and aircraft specifically configured for aeromedical evacuation missions.
(b)
Clarification of authority
The Secretary of the Army shall ensure that—
(1)
the aviation branch of the Army has the authority to organize, train, and equip aviation assets in accordance with operational requirements; and
(2)
the medical department of the Army, under the authority delegated to such department by the Surgeon General of the Army, has the authority for medical command and control, patient care responsibilities, and clinical standards for aeromedical evacuation operations.
(c)
Elements of capability
The Secretary of the Army shall maintain the capability required under subsection (a)—
(1)
in alignment with the sufficiency analysis of the Surgeon General of the Army;
(2)
consistent with medical evacuation doctrine and operational planning assumptions of the Army; and
(3)
in support of—
(A)
the commanders of the combatant commands;
(B)
contingency operations and operational plans;
(C)
civil authorities;
(D)
chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear response force missions;
(E)
humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations; and
(F)
garrison emergency medical response operations at installations of the Department of Defense.
(d)
Change in structure
(1)
In general
The capability required under subsection (a) shall remain a distinct component within the Medical Service Corps of the Army and may not be restructured into general-purpose aviation elements or dual-use configurations without prior notification to the congressional defense committees, which shall—
(A)
be accompanied by a formal risk assessment on—
(i)
operational medical readiness of the Medical Service Corps; and
(ii)
readiness of the Medical Service Corps to support the joint force and missions specified under subsection (c)(3); and
(B)
contain a report that—
(i)
is based on the force structure authorizations outlined in the most current Army Structure Message;
(ii)
is informed by the most current Total Army Analysis approved by the Secretary of the Army; and
(iii)
does not propose or assume any changes to the aircraft authorizations reflected in the documents specified in clauses (i) and (ii).
(2)
Operational medical requirements and joint force needs
Any adjustments made to the force structure of the aeromedical evacuation capability of the Army must account for operational medical requirements and joint force needs where the Surgeon General of the Army retains authority over the medical force structure, staffing, clinical oversight, and doctrinal development for aeromedical evacuation units.
(e)
Effective date
This section shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(f)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit augmentation of military patient movement operations with combatant, commercial, or allied assets in contingency or humanitarian operations, as determined necessary by the Secretary of Defense.
743.
Establishment of partnership program between United States, Indo-Pacific region, and Arctic region for military trauma care, disease and non-battle injury, health systems support, and research
(a)
In general
Not later than June 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, working in coordination with the commanders of the appropriate combatant commands, shall seek to enter into a partnership with appropriate governmental counterparts in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions to establish a joint program focused on military trauma care and research.
(b)
Elements
The program required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1)
The sharing of relevant lessons learned in combat casualty care derived from prior conflicts.
(2)
The conduct of joint conferences, symposia, and professional exchange programs involving military medical professionals from the United States and partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions.
(3)
Collaboration on matters related to health policy, health administration, and medical logistics, including medical supplies and equipment, through structured knowledge exchanges.
(4)
The conduct of joint research and development initiatives addressing the health effects of new and emerging weapons and methods of warfare.
(5)
The establishment of agreements with military medical schools in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions to support reciprocal education programs under which—
(A)
students of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences receive specialized military medical instruction at participating military medical schools in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions; and
(B)
military medical personnel from partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions receive specialized military medical instruction at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, consistent with section 2114(f) of title 10, United States Code.
(6)
The provision of assistance to partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions to support the development, sustainment, and modernization of combat casualty care systems and programs.
(7)
Coordination, through the Joint Trauma System of the Defense Health Agency, of trauma care doctrine, data collection, performance improvement, and clinical best practices with the armed forces and military medical services of partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions, in coordination with United States Indo-Pacific Command, United States Northern Command, and United States European Command.
(8)
The provision of training to the armed forces of partner nations in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions in the following areas:
(A)
Health effects and medical response related to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive weapons.
(B)
Trauma care.
(C)
Preventive medicine and infectious disease.
(D)
Post-traumatic stress disorder.
(E)
Suicide prevention.
(F)
Traumatic brain injury.
(G)
Medical and health intelligence.
(H)
Health policy and administration.
(9)
The maintenance of a list of critical medical supplies and equipment required to support program objectives and regional readiness.
(10)
Such other activities or program elements as the Secretary of Defense determines appropriate to advance the purposes of this section.
744.
Aerial transport and Department of Defense-wide capability for high-consequence infectious diseases
(a)
In general
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall establish, sustain, and resource a program to provide for the safe, long-range aerial transport of personnel of the Department of Defense known to be or suspected of being infected by a high-consequence infectious disease.
(b)
Aeromedical evacuation component of infectious disease response capability
The program required under subsection (a) shall serve as the aeromedical evacuation component of a capability of the Department for high-consequence infectious disease response that supports independent military operations of the Department and integration with Federal, State, local, civilian, and academic partners.
(c)
Program requirements
In establishing and sustaining the program required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall—
(1)
develop and maintain curriculum and identify qualified instructors to train and certify military and civilian medical personnel on procedures associated with the safe, long-range aerial transport of patients with infectious diseases;
(2)
establish and periodically update medical care standards, infection prevention and control measures, and operational safety protocols necessary to maximize patient survival and minimize infection risk to aircrew, medical personnel, and support personnel;
(3)
serve as the joint force advocate and executive agent for aerial transport of personnel with high-consequence infectious diseases within the Department;
(4)
establish standards, sustainment requirements, and lifecycle management processes for personal protective equipment, transport isolation systems, and associated medical equipment used in transporting infected patients;
(5)
develop joint doctrine, concepts of operation, and medical force requirements necessary to support a Department-wide high-consequence infectious disease capability, including patient movement, definitive care, and integration across the continuum of care;
(6)
inform the organization, training, and equipping of specialized, organized teams capable of conducting high-consequence infectious disease patient movement and care in operational, austere, and strategic environments;
(7)
support interoperability and operational integration with Federal, State, local, civilian, and academic partners to enable coordinated response to tactical incidents, large-scale contingencies, and research activities related to emerging and future infectious disease threats; and
(8)
identify capability gaps and support research, development, testing, and evaluation of medical countermeasures, transport systems, protective equipment, and operational procedures necessary to improve survivability, safety, and mission effectiveness in high-consequence infectious disease operations.
(d)
Enterprise doctrine and oversight
The Secretary shall develop and maintain doctrine and policy throughout the Department to guide the development, fielding, sustainment, and employment of high-consequence infectious disease response capabilities across the Department.
745.
Requirement for annual large-scale combat casualty estimation report
(a)
Purpose
The purpose of this section is to ensure that the Department of Defense, in coordination with the Joint Staff Surgeon and the Director of the Defense Health Agency, maintains accurate, comprehensive, and validated estimates of potential casualties in major combat operations to inform readiness, medical planning, and policy decisions.
(b)
Report required
(1)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until September 30, 2032, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on projected casualties of the Armed Forces in large-scale combat operations.
(2)
Frequency
Reports under paragraph (1) may be required more frequently upon request of the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
(c)
Coordination
Each report required under subsection (b) shall be prepared in coordination with—
(1)
the Joint Staff Surgeon;
(2)
the Director of the Defense Health Agency; and
(3)
the Surgeon General of each military department.
(d)
Content of report
Each report required under subsection (b) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
(1)
Projected casualty estimates (including those killed, wounded, and missing and including non-battle injuries) for major combat scenarios consistent with the national defense strategy required under section 113(g) of title 10, United States Code, and joint operational planning assumptions.
(2)
An assessment of the capacity of the medical system, including—
(A)
deployable hospital beds, evacuation assets, and blood supply;
(B)
trauma team and medical personnel availability; and
(C)
contingency staffing plans under mass casualty scenarios.
(3)
A force health protection capability assessment, including preventive medicine, immunization, and disease outbreak mitigation plans.
(4)
A joint trauma system integration assessment, including lessons learned and expected survivability outcomes under projected casualty scenarios.
(5)
An identification of data sources and methodology, including assumptions, models, and validation procedures used to generate casualty estimates.
(6)
A description of gaps in capabilities and an identification of recommendations, including recommendations for resource or policy requirements, to mitigate projected shortfalls.
(e)
Form of report
(1)
In general
Each report required under subsection (b) shall be submitted in classified form, with a summary in unclassified form suitable for congressional oversight.
(2)
Protection of classified data
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that classified data included in a report submitted under subsection (b) is properly safeguarded and that methodologies are appropriately documented for internal and congressional review.
746.
Report on the organization, performance, and standardization of emergency medical services within the Department of Defense
(a)
Report required
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the organization, oversight, capabilities, and performance of emergency medical services across military installations.
(b)
Matters To be included
The report required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1)
Organizational structure
A description of the current organizational structure responsible for providing emergency medical services across military installations, including the roles of—
(A)
the Secretary of Defense;
(B)
the Secretary of each military department;
(C)
the Director of the Defense Health Agency;
(D)
installation commanders;
(E)
fire and emergency services organizations; and
(F)
military medical treatment facilities.
(2)
Assessment of emergency medical services capabilities
An assessment of emergency medical services capabilities at military installations, including—
(A)
the number and distribution of emergency medical services response units;
(B)
ambulance capabilities and equipment levels;
(C)
staffing levels and certification levels of emergency medical personnel;
(D)
availability of advanced life support services;
(E)
integration with military medical treatment facilities and local civilian hospitals; and
(F)
an evaluation of systems used to track naloxone distribution, including—
(i)
the degree of integration of such tracking systems between emergency medical services reporting systems and medical record systems;
(ii)
procedures for documenting naloxone administration during emergency responses; and
(iii)
recommendations for establishing a standardized Department-wide tracking framework.
(3)
Performance metrics
Standardized performance metrics for emergency medical services operations across military installations, including—
(A)
response-time metrics, including—
(i)
the average dispatch-to-arrival response time;
(ii)
the percentage of emergency calls with arrival on scene within eight minutes; and
(iii)
the time from arrival on scene to patient contact;
(B)
patient care metrics, including—
(i)
cardiac arrest survival rates;
(ii)
time to first defibrillation during cardiac arrest events;
(iii)
trauma stabilization and transport intervals; and
(iv)
adherence to established pre-hospital clinical protocols;
(C)
operational capacity metrics, including—
(i)
the number of available ambulances per installation population;
(ii)
the availability of advanced life support capabilities; and
(iii)
emergency medical services coverage areas and response zones; and
(D)
personnel-readiness metrics, including—
(i)
certification levels of emergency medical technicians and paramedics;
(ii)
training completion rates; and
(iii)
participation in joint emergency response exercises.
(4)
Automated external defibrillator assessment
An evaluation of the deployment and readiness of automated external defibrillator devices across military installations, including—
(A)
the number and distribution of such devices;
(B)
identification of high-traffic locations where such devices are deployed;
(C)
maintenance and inspection compliance rates for such devices;
(D)
training levels for personnel in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and usage of such devices;
(E)
the usage of such devices in training and physical fitness evolutions; and
(F)
response outcomes for cardiac emergencies in which such devices were used.
(5)
Integration with civilian emergency systems
An assessment of coordination between installation emergency medical services systems and State or local emergency response systems, including—
(A)
mutual aid agreements;
(B)
interoperable communications systems;
(C)
joint training and response exercises; and
(D)
procedures for patient transport to civilian medical facilities.
(6)
Resource and capability gaps
Identification of any capability gaps or resource deficiencies affecting emergency medical services operations, including—
(A)
personnel shortages;
(B)
equipment or ambulance shortfalls;
(C)
deficiencies in placement or maintenance of automated external defibrillator devices;
(D)
limitations affecting response times; and
(E)
funding challenges.
(7)
Recommendations
Recommendations of the Secretary of Defense regarding—
(A)
the development of emergency medical services standards throughout the Department of Defense;
(B)
improvements to emergency response performance;
(C)
enhanced automated external defibrillator device deployment and cardiac emergency preparedness;
(D)
standardized funding within one organization of the Department;
(E)
legislative or administrative actions necessary to standardize emergency medical services operations across the Department; and
(F)
other matters that are relevant to standardized emergency medical services and usage of automated external defibrillator devices.
(c)
Briefing requirement
Not later than 30 days after submission of the report required under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the findings and recommendations contained in the report.
(d)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Emergency medical services
The term  emergency medical services  means pre-hospital emergency medical care and patient transport provided by trained personnel in response to medical emergencies.
(2)
Military installation
The term  military installation  has the meaning given that term in section 2801(c) of title 10, United States Code.
747.
Expansion of health care license portability for medical providers of the National Guard
Section 1094(d)(3)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking  or duty under  and inserting “or duty—
(i)
under
 ;
(2)
by striking the period at the end and inserting  ; or ; and
(3)
adding at the end the following:
(ii)
under title 32 when providing care to a member of the uniformed services.
 .
748.
Joint forces medical capabilities development and standardization
(a)
Process required
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of each military department, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall develop a process to establish required joint force medical capabilities for members of the Armed Forces that meet the operational planning requirements of the combatant commands.
(b)
Process elements
The process developed under subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1)
A joint medical estimate to determine the medical requirements for managing members of the Armed Forces who are wounded, ill, or injured during military operations, including with respect to environmental health, public health, health treats, force health protection, and medical material and supply chain risks.
(2)
The development of a joint concept of health service support, which shall include a listing of the capabilities (including medical intelligence, blood support, education, and training) required by the defense health and medical enterprise to support the complexities of the future battlespace aligned against the roles of care.
(3)
A process to review and revise military health related mission essential tasks in order to ensure that such tasks are aligned with military medical knowledge, skills, abilities, education, and training.
(4)
A process to standardize the interoperability of medical equipment and capabilities to support the joint force.
(5)
A process to collect and evaluate operational medical lessons of the Department of Defense—
(A)
learned through use of the Joint Lessons Learned Information System; or
(B)
by leveraging information available through the Joint Trauma System of the Defense Health Agency, process improvement systems, Trauma Registry of the Department of Defense, and other information systems as appropriate.
(6)
A process to incorporate operational medical lessons learned into the joint medical estimate.
(7)
A process to incorporate operational medical lessons learned into the Universal Joint Task List, the Mission Essential Task Lists of each military department, and the Joint Mission Essential Task List.
(8)
A process to incorporate operational medical lessons learned into enlisted medical education and training, undergraduate medical education, and graduate medical education.
(c)
Annual briefing required
Not later than April 1 of each year through 2031, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the process required under subsection (a).
(d)
Roles of care defined
In this section, the term  roles of care  means the standardized levels of medical capability provided to wounded, ill, or injured personnel of the Armed Forces as such personnel move through the military health system from the point of injury to definitive treatment and rehabilitation.
(e)
Repeal of superseded authority
Section 732 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1817) is repealed.
749.
Expansion of authorities to enable interoperability among military health care professionals of the United States and partner countries
(a)
Licensure requirement for health-care professionals
Section 1094(e)(3) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by redesignating subparagraph (E) as subparagraph (J); and
(2)
by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following new subparagraphs:
(E)
Japan.
(F)
The Republic of Korea.
(G)
France.
(H)
Germany.
(I)
Qatar.
 .
(b)
Exchange of defense personnel between United States and friendly foreign countries
Section 311 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b)—
(A)
by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); and
(B)
by inserting after paragraph (2) the following new paragraph:
(3)
(A)
Subject to certification under subparagraph (B), an agreement for the exchange of health care professionals may provide for assignment of Department of Defense personnel to perform authorized Federal duties in foreign military medical facilities or operational platforms.
(B)
In carrying out subparagraph (A), the commander of the appropriate geographic combatant command, or an authorized designee, following a review of applicable international agreements, national laws, and regulations, shall certify that sufficient mitigation of criminal and civil liability for health care professionals exists in the location in which authorized Federal duties are to be performed.
 ; and
(2)
in subsection (c)—
(A)
by striking  In the case of  and inserting  (1) In the case of ; and
(B)
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(2)
An agreement for the exchange of health care professionals is subject to licensure requirements as defined in section 1094 of this title.
 .
750.
Task force on international agreements for Indo-Pacific medical partnerships
(a)
In general
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall establish a task force responsible for securing and negotiating the international agreements required to implement the Indo-Pacific Medical Readiness Program established under section 735 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1074 note) to ensure the Armed Forces of the United States can partner with foreign medical facilities during peacetime and wartime operations for military medical care, casualty evacuation, and storage relevant to military medical preparedness (in this section referred to as the  task force ).
(b)
Lead and participants
(1)
Lead
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall designate a senior official from the Office of the Secretary of Defense to lead and coordinate the activities of the task force.
(2)
Participants
Participants in the task force shall include senior representatives from the following:
(A)
The Joint Staff.
(B)
Relevant combatant commands.
(C)
Each military department.
(D)
The Department of State.
(E)
The Defense Health Agency.
(F)
The Defense Logistics Agency.
(c)
Duties
The duties of the task force shall include the following:
(1)
Identifying the possible foreign governments and medical facilities that could meet the priority requirements in the contingency and operational plans of the United States Indo-Pacific Command.
(2)
Reviewing existing United States agreements with those foreign governments for medical readiness and identifying necessary expansions or adjustments to ensure that the Department of Defense can leverage medical facilities to carry out those requirements.
(3)
Agreeing on a priority target list of foreign governments for diplomatic outreach and developing a diplomatic plan between the Department of Defense and the Department of State for each country, in consultation with the local United States mission with responsibility for the bilateral relationship.
(4)
Coordinating outreach to foreign governments and foreign companies to develop or adjust medical readiness agreements as needed, in consultation with the local United States mission with responsibility for the bilateral relationship.
(d)
Interim progress report
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the task force shall submit to Congress a progress report that—
(1)
indicates the senior official designated under subsection (b)(1);
(2)
details a list of priority foreign governments with which the task force intends to expand cooperation and, for each such government—
(A)
the type of desired cooperation with foreign medical facilities under the jurisdiction of such government;
(B)
existing medical readiness agreement frameworks with such government; and
(C)
barriers to implementing the medical readiness program under section 735 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1074 note) with such government; and
(3)
a strategy and plan for overcoming those barriers by not later than March 2027.
751.
Pilot program for Indo-Pacific regional medical data sharing
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall develop a pilot health information technology platform (in this section referred to as the  platform ) that can function across military and civilian medical facilities in the United States and foreign countries in the area of operations of the United States Indo-Pacific Command in accordance with the medical readiness program established under section 735 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1074 note).
(b)
Consultation
In developing the platform, the Secretary shall consult with the respective stakeholders, including the Commander of United States Indo-Pacific Command, the Assistant Secretary of Defense of Health Affairs, the Director of the Defense Health Agency, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of State, health care providers of the Department of Defense, entities in the business of health data management or maintenance of electronic health records, and other relevant stakeholders in the United States.
(c)
Lessons learned
In developing the platform, the Secretary should consider best practices developed by the European Union in refining the European Union Early Warning and Response System for medical data-sharing to support wounded Ukrainians during the Russian-Ukrainian War.
(d)
Available patient information
The Secretary shall ensure elements of patient information included in the platform are appropriate to support timely medical care for members of the Armed Forces and citizens of the United States located in the Indo-Pacific region in the event of a crisis or conflict.
(e)
Compliance and security
The Secretary will strive to ensure that the platform—
(1)
is developed with the goal of adhering to applicable privacy and security standards for health information, while establishing a clear framework for data handling that distinguishes between Armed Forces personnel and civilians to ensure appropriate data sharing for military operations and to protect civilian privacy;
(2)
promotes the secure, seamless, and accurate exchange of critical electronic health information by aligning with modern interoperability standards and discouraging information blocking;
(3)
incorporates a risk-based approach for health technologies to foster innovation while protecting patient safety;
(4)
utilizes certified health information technology where feasible to ensure robust privacy and security protections;
(5)
is usable by health care providers in multiple countries and facilitates the exchange of both structured and unstructured electronic health information in compliance with best cybersecurity practices with respect to maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality, maintaining system integrity, securing individual access through encryption and security, and enhancing data availability, including—
(A)
the ability to securely aggregate, secure, and exchange information developed and housed on partner systems that do not meet all Department of Defense cybersecurity requirements; and
(B)
the use of technologies that protect data at rest, in transit, and in use, such as confidential computing, to the maximum extent practicable;
(6)
establishes shared and documented rules, as part of a defined governance structure, for which and to what extent individuals and entities obtain and maintain access to the platform, which may include—
(A)
a federated identity, credentialing, and access management system to ensure appropriate personnel from Federal and mission partner entities can securely access information; and
(B)
a mechanism to adopt and integrate unique patient identifiers used by mission partners to ensure accurate patient tracking, identification, and matching;
(7)
provides a mechanism by which health data and information of patients are available in multiple languages relevant to the Indo-Pacific region in a timely manner for use in urgent medical care, utilizing structured and computable data formats where feasible;
(8)
is easily usable by health care providers in multiple countries and facilitates the exchange of both structured and unstructured electronic health information; and
(9)
can be used in multiple environments, such as across computers, laptops, mobile devices, instances where there is low internet bandwidth, and when in contested environments.
(f)
Plan
(1)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a plan for establishing the platform.
(2)
Elements
The plan submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
(A)
The proposed list of the medical facilities within the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility at which the first iteration of the platform may be used.
(B)
A working group, including key stakeholders, established to ensure the platform is in pursuit of compliance under subsection (e), and a strategy for managing any necessary exemptions from certain requirements that could otherwise impede patient care during a crisis.
(C)
A proposed timeline for development and deployment of the platform.
(D)
A working group established to enable strategy for establishing a data governance structure, a federated identity management system, and a potential unique patient identifier mechanism as described in subsection (e)(6).
(g)
Report
Not later than one year after the deployment of the platform under subsection (f)(2)(C), the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the performance of the platform and recommendations on further refinement and utility of the platform. The report shall specifically assess the platform’s effectiveness in addressing known interoperability gaps, avoiding blocking information as mandated by the Cures Act, accommodating civilian partner integrations under HIPAA, and overcoming cybersecurity challenges identified in relevant Department of Defense studies.
D
Reports and Other Matters
761.
Review of chaperone policies within facilities of the Defense Health Agency
(a)
Review
Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Defense Health Agency shall review the compliance by all facilities of the Defense Health Agency with chaperone policies required by the policy memorandum of the Defense Health Agency dated December 15, 2025, and titled  Chaperones/Standbys within Defense Health Agency Facilities  (DHA–Policy Memorandum 25–020).
(b)
Facilities in noncompliance
In carrying out the review under subsection (a), the Director shall—
(1)
identify facilities that are not in compliance with the memorandum specified in such paragraph; and
(2)
not later than seven days after identifying a facility under paragraph (1), submit to Congress resources necessary to verify such compliance.
(c)
Report
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing the following:
(1)
The findings of the review under subsection (a).
(2)
A detailed plan outlining steps the Director has taken or will take pursuant to such review, including a timeline for completion of such steps.
(3)
An evaluation of resourcing constraints of the Defense Health Agency in ensuring compliance with the memorandum specified under such subsection.
(4)
A detailed plan outlining additional formalized guidance with respect to the provision of chaperones for sensitive medical examinations to be provided through policy instructions of the Defense Health Agency.
(5)
A mechanism for monitoring the effectiveness of the policies contained within such memorandum on an ongoing basis, to include establishing routine inspections and collecting data to assess compliance by facilities of the Defense Health Agency with such memorandum.
(6)
An assessment of how existing law affects the provision of chaperones for sensitive medical examinations.
(7)
Recommendations for changes to relevant law to more effectively implement the policies contained within such memorandum.
762.
Unfunded priorities report of the Defense Health Agency
(a)
Annual report
Not later than 10 days after the date on which the budget of the President for a fiscal year is submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, the Director of the Defense Health Agency shall submit to the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the congressional defense committees a report on the unfunded priorities of the Defense Health Agency.
(b)
Elements
Each report required under subsection (a) shall specify, for each unfunded priority covered by such report, the following:
(1)
A summary description of such priority, including the objectives outlined in the national defense strategy required under section 113(g) of title 10, United States Code, and the National Military Strategy required under section 153(b) of such title to be advanced if such priority is funded (whether in whole or in part).
(2)
The additional amount of funds recommended in connection with the objectives under paragraph (1).
(3)
Account information with respect to such priority, including the following (as applicable):
(A)
Line Item Number (LIN) for applicable procurement accounts.
(B)
Program Element (PE) number for applicable research, development, test, and evaluation accounts.
(C)
Sub-activity group (SAG) for applicable operation and maintenance accounts.
(4)
A detailed assessment of each specific risk that would be reduced in executing the national defense strategy required under section 113(g) of title 10, United States Code, and the National Military Strategy required under section 153(b) of such title if such priority is funded (whether in whole or in part).
(5)
The requirement to be addressed by the unfunded priority.
(6)
The reason funding for the priority was not included in the budget of the President.
(7)
A description of any funding provided for the requirement for the current and preceding fiscal year.
(8)
An assessment of the effect that providing funding for the priority would have on the future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States Code.
(c)
Prioritization of priorities
Each report required under subsection (a) shall present the unfunded priorities covered by such report as follows:
(1)
In overall order of urgency of priority according to the amount of risk reduced.
(2)
In overall order of urgency of priority among unfunded priorities (other than covered military construction projects).
(3)
In overall order of urgency of priority among covered military construction projects.
(d)
Sunset
This section shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(e)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered military construction project
The term  covered military construction project , with respect to a fiscal year, means a military construction project that—
(A)
is included in any fiscal year of the future-years defense program under section 221 of title 10, United States Code, that is submitted in connection with the budget of the President for the fiscal year and is executable in the fiscal year; or
(B)
is considered by the commander of a combatant command to be an urgent need and is executable in the fiscal year.
(2)
Unfunded priority
The term  unfunded priority , with respect to a fiscal year, means a program, activity, or mission requirement, including a covered military construction project, that—
(A)
is not funded in the budget of the President for the fiscal year as submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code;
(B)
is necessary to fulfill a requirement associated with an operational or contingency plan of a combatant command or other validated requirement; and
(C)
would have been recommended for funding through the budget specified in subparagraph (A) by the officer submitting the report required by subsection (a) in connection with the budget if—
(i)
additional resources had been available for the budget to fund the program, activity, or mission requirement; or
(ii)
the program, activity, or mission requirement had emerged before the budget was formulated.
763.
Evaluation of certain research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall evaluate—
(1)
the results of completed research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health among women who are members of the Armed Forces;
(2)
the status of such research that is ongoing;
(3)
any gaps in knowledge and research on—
(A)
treatments for menopause-related symptoms, including hormone and non-hormone treatments;
(B)
the safety and effectiveness of treatments for menopause-related symptoms;
(C)
the relation of service in the Armed Forces to perimenopause and menopause and the impact of such service on perimenopause and menopause;
(D)
the effect of combat roles on symptoms relating to perimenopause and menopause, including exposure to burn pits, toxic chemicals, and perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (commonly known as  PFAS ); and
(E)
the impact of perimenopause and menopause on the mental health of women who are members of the Armed Forces;
(4)
the availability of and uptake of professional training resources for covered providers relating to mid-life women’s health with respect to the care, treatment, and management of perimenopause and menopausal symptoms, and related support services; and
(5)
the availability of and uptake of treatments for women who are members of the Armed Forces who are experiencing perimenopause or menopause.
(b)
Report; strategic plan
Not later than January 31, 2028, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing—
(1)
the findings of the evaluation conducted under subsection (a);
(2)
recommendations for improving professional training resources described in subsection (a)(4) for covered providers; and
(3)
a strategic plan that—
(A)
resolves the gaps in knowledge and research identified in the report; and
(B)
identifies topics in need of further research relating to potential treatments for menopause-related symptoms of women who are members of the Armed Forces.
(c)
Nonduplication and supplementation of efforts
In carrying out activities under this section, the Secretary shall ensure that such activities minimize duplication and supplement, not supplant, existing information-sharing efforts with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Health and Human Services.
(d)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered provider
The term  covered provider  means a health care provider employed by the Department of Defense.
(2)
Menopause
The term  menopause  means the stage of a woman’s life—
(A)
when menstrual periods stop permanently and she can no longer get pregnant; and
(B)
that is not a disease state, but a normal part of aging for women.
(3)
Mid-life
The term  mid-life  means a life stage that—
(A)
coincides with the menopausal transition in women, which may be physical or emotional;
(B)
encompasses the late reproductive age, which can begin at approximately 35 years of age, to the late postmenopausal stages of reproductive aging, which can extend to approximately 65 years of age; and
(C)
often marks the onset of many chronic diseases.
(4)
Perimenopause
The term  perimenopause  means the time during a woman's life when levels of the hormone estrogen fall unevenly in a woman’s body and is also called the menopausal transition.
(5)
Postmenopausal
The term  postmenopausal  means the stage of a woman's life after a woman has been without a menstrual period for 12 months that lasts for the rest of a woman’s life and reflects a time when women are at increased risk for osteoporosis and heart disease.
764.
Notification of material failure at military medical treatment facilities affecting patient care
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall notify the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives not later than 30 days after the date on which a material failure affects patient care in an operating room, critical care unit, intensive care unit, or emergency department at a military medical treatment facility.
(b)
Elements
Each notification under subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1)
The name and location of the military medical treatment facility.
(2)
A description of the operating room, critical care unit, intensive care unit, or emergency department affected and the scope of any shutdown.
(3)
The reason for any shutdown, including whether the shutdown is planned or unplanned.
(4)
The date on which any shutdown began or is expected to begin and the anticipated duration.
(5)
The number and types of surgical procedures, bed days, and encounters affected.
(6)
A description of mitigation measures to ensure continuity of care, including use of other military medical treatment facilities or civilian providers.
(7)
An assessment of the impact on patient safety and access to care.
(8)
The cost and funding source of any needed repairs and maintenance.
(c)
Briefing required
Not later than May 1, 2027, and not less frequently than quarterly thereafter for the following three years, the Secretary shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on—
(1)
for the period covered by the briefing, the aggregated data on notifications provided under subsection (a);
(2)
the funding and source of funding available to mitigate material failures in military medical treatment facilities; and
(3)
such recommendations for legislative changes or other pertinent matters as the Secretary considers appropriate.
765.
Study on military health system
(a)
Study
(1)
In general
Not later than June 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall seek to enter into a contract or other agreement with a federally funded research and development center pursuant to which the center shall carry out a study on the military health system.
(2)
Elements
The study required under paragraph (1) shall include—
(A)
an analysis of the sufficiency of the military health system—
(i)
to provide combat casualty care and force health protection to ensure the preservation of the joint force;
(ii)
to achieve its goals of ensuring the health and fitness of members of the Armed Forces;
(iii)
to meet the needs of the combatant commands in a large scale combat operation;
(iv)
to conduct pandemic response;
(v)
through military and civilian medical doctors and other health care providers and administrators, to provide forward-deployed medical care during sustained armed conflict; and
(vi)
to provide a world-class health care benefit to members of the Armed Forces, former members of the Armed Forces, and their dependents.
(B)
an in-depth analysis of future options for the military health system, including—
(i)
maintaining the TRICARE program with its structure as of the date of the enactment of this Act using large managed care support contractors offering provider networks under the military health system;
(ii)
creating a marketplace of plans under the TRICARE program analogous to the Federal Employee Health Benefit Plan under chapter 89 of title 5, United States Code;
(iii)
eliminating large managed care support contracts and requiring health care providers to accept beneficiaries enrolled in the TRICARE program as a condition of participating in the Medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.) or directly establishing a network of providers without the use of a managed care support contractor;
(iv)
the integration of the military health system managed care support contract with the community care model of the Department of Veterans Affairs; and
(v)
any other viable model for health coverage that accomplishes the goals in subparagraph (A); and
(C)
recommendations for the future of the military health system, including policy and statutory changes.
(b)
Requirements
Each option assessed under subsection (a)(2)(B) shall include—
(1)
an analysis of the viability of incorporating such option into the direct care system of health care facilities and providers of the Department of Defense, and any possible risks to the effectiveness of such direct care system;
(2)
cost assessments; and
(3)
the application of game theory and other strategic analytical methods to model and assess the anticipated behavior and incentives of key stakeholders, including health care providers, beneficiaries, managed care contractors, and Federal health programs, under such option.
(c)
Report to Secretary
The federally funded research and development center that carries out the study under subsection (a) shall submit to the Secretary of Defense a report on the results of such study.
(d)
Reports and briefings to Congress
Not later than March 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall—
(1)
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an unaltered copy of the report received by the Secretary under subsection (c), which shall include—
(A)
a detailed explanation of the strategy, methodology, assumptions, and economic analysis used to conduct the study under subsection (a), including any force shaping constructs, scenarios, and assumptions used as a part of such study; and
(B)
an assessment of operational risk based on the risk management classifications of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff set forth in the Joint Risk Analysis and Methodology on October 12, 2021 (Joint Staff Manual 3105.01A), or successor manual; and
(2)
provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the results of such study.
766.
Establishment of Warfighter Performance Optimization Initiative, Total Force Fitness
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretaries concerned, shall establish a comprehensive initiative for warfighter performance optimization to be known as the  Warfighter Performance Optimization Initiative  (in this section referred to as the  Initiative ), within which the Total Force Fitness (TFF) program shall serve as the foundational framework for improving readiness, resilience, and lethality across the Armed Forces. The Initiative shall be housed under the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs.
(b)
Definitions
(1)
Warfighter Performance Optimization; WPO
The terms  Warfighter Performance Optimization and  WPO  mean a Department-wide initiative to integrate human performance, safety, and resilience programs into a unified strategy that enhances readiness and lethality.
(2)
Total force fitness
The term  Total Force Fitness  means the leadership-driven program nested within WPO that optimizes human performance through proactive, holistic approaches across interconnected domains of fitness, including the following activities:
(A)
Physical fitness
Activities to reduce musculoskeletal injuries, accelerate rehabilitation, improve nutrition and sleep, and mitigate occupational and environmental exposures.
(B)
Psychological and social fitness
Activities to strengthen resilience, reduce stress injuries, prevent suicides and substance abuse, and enhance peer and family support.
(C)
Spiritual fitness
Activities to foster meaning, ethical decision-making, and resilience under combat and operational stress.
(D)
Cognitive fitness
Activities to enhance decision-making, adaptability, memory, and problem-solving under operational conditions, supported by evidence-based training and emerging technologies.
(c)
Objectives
The objectives of the Initiative are as follows:
(1)
Improve overall health, readiness, resilience, and lethality of service members.
(2)
Reduce musculoskeletal injuries and accelerate rehabilitation timelines.
(3)
Enhance warfighter performance in nutrition, sleep, financial literacy, conflict resolution, stress management, and life skills.
(4)
Reduce incidence of harmful behaviors.
(5)
Advance cognitive readiness through measurable improvements in decision-making, adaptability, and operational effectiveness.
(d)
Quarterly reporting
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 90 days thereafter for three years, the Secretary of Defense shall submit a report to Congress on the implementation and effectiveness of the Initiative.
(e)
Secretary concerned defined
In this section, the term  Secretary concerned  has the meaning given that term in section 101 of title 10, United States Code.
767.
Military Family Limb Loss and Limb Difference Support Program
(a)
Establishment
Beginning in fiscal year 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a program, to be known as the  Military Family Limb Loss and Limb Difference Support Program  (in this section referred to as the  Program ), to augment the holistic rehabilitative care for covered beneficiaries with limb loss or limb dysfunction through peer mentoring, education, and community outreach.
(b)
Activities
The Program shall include—
(1)
peer mentorship and family support services;
(2)
education related to limb loss care and services;
(3)
community reintegration supports;
(4)
coordination of non-clinical resources;
(5)
outreach and awareness activities; and
(6)
such other activities as the Secretary considers appropriate.
(c)
Partnerships
In carrying out the Program, the Secretary may enter into a cooperative agreement or contract with one or more organizations that have demonstrated experience in carrying out the activities described in subsection (b) in virtual or in-person settings to support individuals with limb loss or limb difference, including individuals belonging to pediatric, military, or veteran populations.
(d)
Implementation plan
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a plan for implementing the Program that—
(1)
describes the process for selecting and entering into cooperative agreements or contracts with organizations under subsection (c);
(2)
estimates the costs and staffing needs of implementing the Program;
(3)
assesses the extent to which existing resources and programs of the Department of Defense can support the Program;
(4)
includes performance metrics the Secretary will use to evaluate the effectiveness of the Program; and
(5)
requires integration of the Program with research efforts of the military health system to improve healthcare quality, access and outcomes for members of the Armed Forces and their families.
(e)
Reports required
Not later than one year after the date on which the Program is implemented, and annually for three years thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that includes, for the year preceding submission of the report—
(1)
the number and demographics characteristics of covered beneficiaries served by the Program;
(2)
a description of services provided and partnerships established under the Program;
(3)
an assessment of gaps in services or geographic coverage of the Program; and
(4)
recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve support for military families affected by limb loss or limb difference.
(f)
Covered beneficiary defined
In this section, the term  covered beneficiary  means—
(1)
an individual who has experienced limb loss or limb difference; and
(2)
is—
(A)
a dependent of a member or retired member of the Armed Forces; or
(B)
otherwise eligible for health care under chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code, as determined appropriate by the Secretary.
768.
Briefing on primary care provided at military medical treatment facilities on installations of the Air Force
(a)
Briefing
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Defense Health Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of the Air Force, shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing that contains—
(1)
an assessment of the force mix of active duty and civilian medical providers at military medical treatment facilities located on installations of the Air Force; and
(2)
an accompanying plan to address any primary care shortfalls that could result from a mobilization of the Air Force for military operations, particularly in locations that are remote or medically underserved.
(b)
Briefing components
The briefing required under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
(1)
A plan of action for each military medical treatment facility at which a primary care shortfall is identified under such subsection—
(A)
to improve access to, and the quality of, primary care for members of the Armed Forces and their families by creating a supportive, team-based clinical environment;
(B)
to enhance recruitment and retention of qualified medical personnel of the Department of Defense, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, mental health nurse practitioners, licensed practical nurses, and medical assistants; and
(C)
to increase the medical readiness of the Armed Forces through improved health outcomes, proactive health management, and ensuring health care providers of the Department maintain clinical skills.
(2)
Recommendations on the most effective use of—
(A)
hiring authorities, including temporary excepted service appointments and direct hire authorities, consistent with applicable law and regulations;
(B)
recruitment, relocation, and retention incentives, such as student loan repayment programs for certain highly qualified civilian candidates; and
(C)
appropriate licensing and credentialing flexibilities and authorities.
(3)
A description of objectives and quality metrics, including the number of providers hired and retained, patient load, patient wait times for appointments, and other information as determined appropriate by the Director of the Defense Health Agency and the Secretary of the Air Force.
(4)
An assessment of the feasibility and advisability of conducting a pilot program under which the Air Force Medical Service hires civilian health care workers to support the operational requirements of military medical treatment facilities described in subsection (a).
769.
Assessment of access, fairness, and transparency under TRICARE pharmacy benefits program
(a)
Comptroller General audit
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and not later than one year after the effective date of the first new contract or agreement entered into by the Secretary of Defense for the administration of the pharmacy benefits program after such date of enactment, the Comptroller General of the United States shall—
(1)
conduct an audit of—
(A)
data reported by the contractor responsible for the administration of the pharmacy benefits program relating to—
(i)
rates of reimbursement and any price concessions, including direct and indirect remuneration fees, bonuses, and clawbacks;
(ii)
any discrepancies between average reimbursements to various types of pharmacies disaggregated by retail, mail order, specialty pharmacies, and any pharmacy owned by or affiliated with such contractor; and
(iii)
the difference between what the contractor charges the TRICARE program for a pharmaceutical agent and what the contractor pays to pharmacies for the same pharmaceutical agent, disaggregated by retail, mail order, and specialty pharmacies;
(B)
prior authorizations required by the TRICARE program for prescription drug treatments and services;
(C)
the timeliness of dispensing prescription drugs from the various types of pharmacies, disaggregated by retail, mail order, and specialty pharmacies; and
(D)
the adequacy of the retail pharmacy network under the TRICARE program and access by eligible covered beneficiaries to such network, including with respect to continuity of care, geographic accessibility (taking into account factors in addition to travel time to and from a pharmacy, with special consideration for rural and underserved areas), and the extent to which elections by such beneficiaries reflect personal preference; and
(2)
submit the results of such audit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
(b)
Access to information
(1)
In general
The Secretary, as a condition of any contract entered into for the administration of the pharmacy benefits program, and notwithstanding any other provision of law, or any contract, subcontract, agreement, or confidentiality provision to the contrary, shall ensure that the contractor provides the Comptroller General full access to any information the Comptroller General determines necessary to conduct the audit under subsection (a)(1) not later than 30 days after the request for such information by the Comptroller General.
(2)
Information To be included
Information required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(A)
Claims-level data.
(B)
Information on reimbursement methodologies and payment rates.
(C)
An identification of all price concessions, including rebates, fees, discounts, and remuneration of any kind from manufacturers, pharmacies, or other entities.
(D)
Information on amounts charged to the Department of Defense and amounts paid to pharmacies for the same drug.
(E)
An identification of contracts, subcontracts, and other arrangements with manufacturers, pharmacies, or third parties relevant to the administration of the pharmacy benefits program.
(3)
Prohibition on withholding of information
Information required to be provided under this paragraph may not be withheld, redacted, or limited on the basis of claims relating to proprietary information, trade secrets, or confidential commercial information, except that the Comptroller General shall protect such information from public disclosure in accordance with applicable law.
(4)
Form, detail, and frequency
The Comptroller General may determine the form, level of detail, and frequency of data submissions required under paragraph (1).
(5)
Treatment as breach
Failure to provide information required under this subsection shall constitute a material breach of contract.
(c)
Assessment of impact
If the audit conducted under subsection (a)(1) finds that reimbursement rates paid to retail pharmacies under the pharmacy benefits program are, on average or in a systemic manner, less than the documented acquisition cost to such pharmacies for outpatient prescription drugs covered by such audit, the Comptroller General shall include with the results of such audit submitted under subsection (a)(1) an assessment of the impact of such reimbursement rates on retail pharmacy participation, beneficiary access, network adequacy, and continuity of care.
(d)
Access metrics
In conducting oversight of the pharmacy benefit program, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that measures of access to such program include—
(1)
continuity of care and beneficiary preference, including the ability of beneficiaries to remain with their pharmacy of choice; and
(2)
meaningful geographic access standards beyond drive-time calculations, with special consideration for rural and underserved areas.
(e)
Report
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan for the implementation of this section.
(f)
Applicability to existing contracts
(1)
In general
This section shall apply to any contract, agreement, or other arrangement in effect on or after the date of the enactment of this Act, including any contract, agreement, or arrangement entered into before such date.
(2)
Modification of contracts
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall modify any existing contract or agreement as necessary to ensure compliance with the requirements of this section.
(3)
Limitation on extension or renewal
The Secretary may not exercise any option to extend or renew an existing contract or agreement for the administration of the pharmacy benefits program unless the contractor is in full compliance with the requirements of this section.
(g)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Eligible covered beneficiary; pharmaceutical agent; prescription drug
The terms  eligible covered beneficiary ,  pharmaceutical agent , and  prescription drug  have the meanings given those terms in section 1074g of title 10, United States Code.
(2)
Pharmacy benefits program
The term  pharmacy benefits program  means the pharmacy benefit program of the TRICARE program under section 1074g of title 10, United States Code.
(3)
TRICARE program
The term  TRICARE program  has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.
770.
Comptroller General review of influenza vaccine requirements of Department of Defense
(a)
In general
The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a review of the influenza vaccine requirements of the Department of Defense and the considerations that led to recent policy changes with respect to such requirements as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
(b)
Elements
The review required under subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1)
A description of previous and current influenza vaccination requirements, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, described in—
(A)
Department of Defense Instruction 6205.02 relating to the Department of Defense Immunization Program;
(B)
updated guidance on influenza vaccination issued by the Secretary of Defense in an April 20, 2026, memorandum; and
(C)
relevant implementing guidance for any such requirements or guidance.
(2)
An analysis of any risks, benefits, or other matters considered by the Secretary of Defense with respect to the updated guidance specified in paragraph (1)(B).
(3)
The impact of such updated guidance on the ability of the Department to meet medical readiness goals established in Department of Defense Instruction 6025.19 relating to the Individual Medical Readiness Program.
(4)
Such other matters as the Comptroller General determines relevant.
(c)
Briefing
Not later than September 30, 2027, the Comptroller General shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the results of the review conducted under subsection (a), with a report to follow at a mutually agreed upon time and in a mutually agreed upon format.
VIII
Acquisition policy, acquisition management, and related matters
A
Acquisition policy and management
801.
Multi-year procurement for certain munitions
(a)
In general
Subject to section 3501 of title 10, United States Code, the head of an agency is authorized to enter into one or more multi-year contracts, beginning in fiscal year 2027, for the procurement of any of the following systems:
(1)
Joint Strike Missile (JSM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with JSM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the missile system).
(2)
Naval Strike Missile (NSM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with NSM systems, including systems procured for the Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS), or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the missile system).
(3)
Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with PrSM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the missile system).
(4)
Mk 48 Heavyweight Torpedo (Mk 48) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Mk48 systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the torpedo system).
(5)
Mk 54 Lightweight Torpedo (Mk 54) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Mk54 systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the torpedo system).
(6)
Clandestine-Delivered Mine, Quickstrike Mine, and Hammerhead Mine systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Clandestine-Delivered Mine, Quickstrike Mine, and Hammerhead Mine systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the mine system).
(7)
Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with JDAM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(8)
Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with GMLRS systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(9)
6.8mm ammunition (and products, services, and logistics support associated with 6.8mm ammunition that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(10)
Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) (AGR-20 A/B) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with APKWS systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(11)
Fixed-Wing, Air Launched, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Ordnance (FALCO) (AGR-20F) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with FALCO systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(12)
Small Diameter Bomb II (SDB II) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with SDB II systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(13)
Air Intercept Missile-9X (AIM-9X) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with JDAM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(14)
Javelin CLU (Command Launch Unit) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Javelin CLU systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the launch unit system).
(15)
FGM-148 Javelin systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Javelin systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(16)
Coyote Block 2C interceptor systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Coyote systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(17)
Sonobuoys, inclusive of SSQ- 36, SSQ-53, SSQ-62, SSQ-101, SSQ1125, systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with Sonobuoys systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the sonobuoy system).
(18)
RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with ESSM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(19)
RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) systems (and products, services, and logistics support associated with RAM systems or a subsystem that performs a critical function of the munition system).
(b)
Procurement in conjunction with existing contracts
The systems and subsystems described in subsection (a) may be procured through modifications or extensions to any existing contract for such systems and subsystems.
(c)
Authority for advance procurement
The head of an agency may enter into one or more contracts for advance procurement, beginning in fiscal year 2027, associated with a system or subsystem described in subsection (a) for which authorization to enter into a multi-year procurement contract is provided under such subsection, which may include procurement of economic order quantities of material and equipment when cost savings are achievable.
(d)
Condition for out-year contract payments
A contract entered into under subsection (a) shall provide that any obligation of the United States to make a payment under the contract for a fiscal year after fiscal year 2027 is subject to the availability of appropriations for that purpose for such later fiscal year.
(e)
Head of an agency defined
In this section, the term  head of an agency  means—
(1)
the Secretary of Defense;
(2)
the Secretary of the Army;
(3)
the Secretary of the Navy; or
(4)
the Secretary of the Air Force.
802.
Limitation on availability of funds pending report on and revisions of software acquisition pathway implementation
(a)
Limitation
Of the funds described in subsection (c), not more than 95 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of Defense submits the report required under subsection (b).
(b)
Report
(1)
In general
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on implementation of the software acquisition pathway (in this section referred to as the  Software Pathway ).
(2)
Elements
The report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
(A)
The implementation plan outlined in the March 6, 2025, memo by the Office of the Secretary of Defense titled  Directing Modern Software Acquisition to Maximize Lethality .
(B)
A description of progress on the adoption by the Department of Defense components and military departments of the Software Pathway as the preferred pathway for all software development components of business and weapon system programs.
(C)
A description of progress on making commercial solutions openings and other transactions authority the default solicitation and contracting award approaches for acquiring capabilities under the Software Pathway.
(c)
Funds described
The funds described in this subsection are funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Defense and available for travel expenses for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment.
803.
Report on multiyear procurement
(a)
Inclusion of multiyear procurement in budget justification materials
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments and the portfolio acquisition executives of each military department, shall include in the budget justification materials submitted to Congress in support of the Department of Defense budget for the fiscal year (as submitted with the President’s budget under section 1105(a) of title 31, United States Code) a comprehensive report and centralized summary display on critical multiyear procurement requirements for that fiscal year.
(b)
Contents of summary display
The centralized summary display submitted under subsection (a) shall detail the multiyear procurement activities of the Department of Defense and include, at a minimum, the following information for each affected program:
(1)
Each active multiyear procurement authority currently utilized by the Department, including all utilizations under $500,000,000 that require congressional notification and all utilizations over $500,000,000 that require congressional notification.
(2)
The specific fiscal years covered by each active multiyear authority.
(3)
The total cost and annual funding increments allocated to each authority.
(4)
The annual and total production amounts, if applicable, associated with each contract.
(5)
A comprehensive list of all multiyear procurement authorities planned for by the Department over the current Future Years Defense Program cycle.
(6)
A concise description of any industrial base stabilization, cost-avoidance, any efficiency benefits that justifies each current or planned multiyear request.
(c)
Leverage existing mechanisms
To the extent possible, the Secretary of Defense shall leverage existing program acquisition executive mechanisms and office assessment mechanisms to generate the data required by this section, rather than creating new administrative offices or entities.
804.
Modifications to technical data rights
(a)
Modifications to rights in technical data
Section 3771(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (3)(C), by inserting  , and for which the United States shall have government purpose rights, unless the Government and the contractor negotiate different license rights  after  component) ; and
(2)
in paragraph (4)(A)—
(A)
in clause (ii), by striking  ; or  and inserting a semicolon;
(B)
by redesignating clause (iii) as clause (iv); and
(C)
by inserting after clause (ii) the following new clause:
(iii)
is a release, disclosure, or use of detailed manufacturing or process data—
(I)
that is necessary for operation, maintenance, installation, or training and shall be used only for operation, maintenance, installation, or training purposes supporting wartime operations or contingency operations; and
(II)
for which the head of an agency determines that the original supplier of such data will be unable to satisfy military readiness or operational requirements for such operations; or
 .
(b)
Reform of technical data and software rights to support competition, sustainment, and readiness
(1)
Default government purpose rights for deliverables
Chapter 239 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 3775 the following new section:
3776.
Default government purpose rights for deliverables under Department of Defense contracts
(a)
Default rights
Except as provided in subsection (b), any technical data, computer software, or computer software documentation delivered under a contract, subcontract, or other agreement entered into by the Department of Defense for the acquisition of noncommercial products or services shall be provided with government purpose rights unless the contractor establishes, through clear and convincing evidence, entitlement to more restrictive rights.
(b)
Contractor burden
A contractor asserting less-than-government purpose rights shall provide—
(1)
a compliant assertions table identifying each specific item of data or software claimed;
(2)
factual documentation of private development funding;
(3)
clause-specific unlimited-rights exclusions applied at the lowest practicable segregable level; and
(4)
corresponding portion markings on the deliverables.
(c)
Failure To substantiate
Any failure by a contractor to comply with subsection (b) shall result in the deliverable being treated as provided with government purpose rights.
 .
(2)
Improper markings of critical items
For any critical readiness items of supply (as that term is defined in section 4324(d)(4) of title 10, United States Code) that are noncommercial items, if the Secretary of Defense determines that a contractor—
(A)
applied an incorrect restrictive marking;
(B)
failed to exclude unlimited- or unrestricted-rights categories;
(C)
failed to portion-mark at the required segregable level; or
(D)
submitted an incomplete or invalid assertions table;
 then all affected technical data, computer software, and documentation shall be deemed as government purpose rights.
(3)
Clawback of excessive payments arising from improper restrictions
(A)
Independent analysis
The Secretary shall obtain an independent engineering and cost analysis to determine the fair and reasonable price for any item procured under circumstances where improper restrictive markings contributed to an unjustified sole-source environment.
(B)
Government claim
If the amount paid by the Government exceeds the amount determined under paragraph (1), the difference shall constitute a contract debt owed to the United States under chapter 71 of title 41, United States Code (commonly known the  Contract Disputes Act ).
(C)
Interest
Any amount owed under this paragraph shall accrue interest from the date of overpayment in accordance with section 7109 of title 41, United States Code.
(4)
Enforcement and remedies
A contractor found to have repeatedly mismarked data or submitted invalid assertions tables shall be ineligible for award of contracts requiring the delivery of technical data or software for a period determined by the Secretary.
805.
Accountability and training for defense acquisition
(a)
Standardization for program acquisition executives
(1)
Performance indicators for program acquisition executives
The Secretary of Defense shall develop key performance indicators to be used by all program acquisition executives, which shall address the following:
(A)
The portfolio cost variance from baseline estimates.
(B)
Milestone delivery performance and turnaround time across different phases of acquisition.
(C)
Market research and competition.
(D)
Use of Modular Open System Architecture.
(E)
Supply chain and workforce risk mitigation.
(F)
Authority utilization, including other transaction authority, commercial solutions opening, middle tier acquisition, and software acquisition pathway.
(G)
Derisking activity, including capital market involvement.
(H)
Any other metric the Secretary considers relevant.
(2)
Data dashboard
(A)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement a phased rollout plan for a centralized, enterprise-grade data dashboard, designed to provide real-time visibility into the operational health, strategic growth, and efficiency of each program acquisition executive portfolio.
(B)
Contents
The dashboard described in subparagraph (A) shall automatically track and visualize performance across the following four critical performance pillars:
(i)
Financial and budgeting health.
(ii)
Schedule and operational delivery.
(iii)
Industrial base and workforce growth.
(iv)
Innovation and agility metrics.
(3)
Workforce deficiency analysis
The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a comprehensive human capital market analysis of each program acquisition executive portfolio to identify—
(A)
immediate and projected workforce deficiencies; and
(B)
the staffing ratios required to support expanded portfolios, with a focus on recruiting specialized talent from the private sector, such as data scientists, industrial base analysts, and commercial finance experts.
(4)
Report on Performance Indicators
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report that includes the performance indicators developed under paragraph (1), the phased rollout plan developed under paragraph (2), and the analysis conducted under paragraph (3).
(b)
Pilot program on commercial acquisition practices
(1)
Establishment of Pilot Program
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish a pilot program (referred to in this section as the  Pilot Program ) to enhance the use of commercial acquisition practices within the Department of Defense by appointing highly qualified experts to serve in senior decision-making roles for covered acquisitions.
(2)
Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives Pipeline
(A)
In general
In carrying out the Pilot Program, the Secretary of Defense shall appoint not less than 10 and not more than 30 highly qualified experts as  Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives —
(i)
to actively assist the Secretary in the development, instruction, and continuous refinement of the Gold Tier Capital Certification Training Program established under subsection (c); and
(ii)
to align commercial and public practices for defense acquisitions and contracts.
(B)
Qualifications
In appointing individuals as Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall—
(i)
select individuals with significant experience in commercial acquisition, including—
(I)
not fewer than 8 years of experience in procuring or managing large-scale commercial products or services; and
(II)
demonstrated responsibility for acquisition decisions in competitive commercial markets that involve funding or a project value of more than $50,000,000; and
(ii)
prioritize the appointment of individuals with experience in industries such as advanced technology, manufacturing, logistics, or any other sector characterized by large-scale commercial procurement.
(C)
Appointment term
A Senior Commercial Acquisition Executive shall be appointed for a term of four years.
(D)
Hiring Authority and Compensation
The Secretary may—
(i)
appoint individuals under this section as highly qualified experts pursuant to section 9903 of title 5, United States Code, or any other applicable authority; and
(ii)
fix the pay of an individual appointed under this section at the highest rate authorized for highly qualified experts under section 9903 of title 5, United States Code, and may use any available flexibility under such section to recruit individuals with the expertise required under this section.
(E)
Duties
Each Senior Commercial Acquisition Executive shall—
(i)
be assigned to a military department, defense agency, or other component of the Department of Defense and report to the senior acquisition executive, or any other official the Secretary considers appropriate, of the assigned department, agency, or component;
(ii)
lead or participate in the development and approval of acquisition strategies for covered acquisitions;
(iii)
advise and support contracting officers and program officials in the use of commercial acquisition procedures, including—
(I)
commercial solution openings;
(II)
fixed-price contracting; and
(III)
price-based evaluation methods;
(iv)
promote the use of commercial practices consistent with the objectives of section 3102 of title 10, United States Code; and
(v)
provide input and recommendations for the Gold Tier Capital Certification Training Program.
(F)
Covered acquisitions
For covered acquisitions, the Secretary shall ensure that a Senior Commercial Acquisition Executive either serves as the lead acquisition official or provides oversight for the acquisition strategy, which shall include meaningful participation in decisions relating to the contract structure, the pricing approach, and the source selection methodology.
(3)
Reporting requirements
(A)
Interim report
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that—
(i)
provides the number of Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives and the portfolio and service assignment of each such executive;
(ii)
describes the types of acquisitions in which such executives were involved;
(iii)
describes the extent to which the executives influenced acquisition strategy, contract structure, and pricing approaches;
(iv)
provides an assessment of the effectiveness of the Pilot Program in improving the use of commercial acquisition practices, including any impacts on cost, speed, and participation by nontraditional defense contractors; and
(v)
includes recommendations regarding whether the authority of the Secretary to appoint Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives under this section should be extended, modified, or made permanent.
(B)
Final report
(i)
In general
Not later than 180 days prior to the termination date described in paragraph (4), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive report that evaluates the Pilot Program.
(ii)
Contents
The report shall include an assessment of total cost avoidance, accelerated acquisition timelines, industry feedback, and a formal recommendation on whether to permanently codify the authorities granted under this section.
(4)
Sunset
(A)
In general
The authority of the Secretary to appoint individuals under paragraph (2)(A) shall terminate 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(B)
Individuals appointed before termination date
An individual appointed under paragraph (2)(A) before the termination date described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph may continue to serve for the duration of the individual's appointment, subject to applicable law.
(5)
Covered acquisitions defined
In this subsection, the term  covered acquisitions  means an acquisition—
(A)
not designated as a major defense acquisition program, as defined in section 4201 of title 10, United States Code; and
(B)
for a product or service that includes, as a significant component or purpose—
(i)
software or software-intensive systems;
(ii)
autonomous systems, including unmanned platforms and associated enabling technologies;
(iii)
artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data analytics capabilities;
(iv)
cloud computing, data infrastructure, or digital platforms;
(v)
cyber capabilities, including cybersecurity and cyber defense tools;
(vi)
space-based services or commercially provided space capabilities;
(vii)
advanced sensing, networking, or communications technologies; or
(viii)
such other technology areas as the Secretary of Defense determines can be effectively acquired using commercial acquisition procedures, including where such procedures would improve speed, cost, competition, or access to innovative suppliers.
(c)
Pilot training program for Gold Tier Capital Certification
(1)
Establishment
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish a pilot training program (referred to in this subsection as the  Training Program ) to establish, evaluate, and refine within the Department of Defense the training and qualifications necessary for an elite advanced financial certification, which shall be known as the  Gold Tier Capital Certification .
(2)
Participant nomination and selection
(A)
Annual nominations
For each fiscal year during which the Training Program is active, each service acquisition executive shall nominate not fewer than 10 and not more than 15 contracting officers from their respective military department to participate in the Training Program.
(B)
Selection criteria
Nominations shall be based on demonstrated technical competence, leadership potential, and aptitude for advanced commercial acquisition practices.
(3)
Curriculum requirements
(A)
Core competencies
The Training Program shall feature a rigorous, advanced curriculum focused on commercial capital markets and corporate and alternative defense financing, including the following instructional areas:
(i)
Capital structure fundamentals, including debt, equity, and hybrid financial instruments.
(ii)
Risk allocation models and corporate financial incentive alignment.
(iii)
Deal structuring and creative financing mechanisms.
(iv)
Commercial valuation methodologies and return-on-investment analysis.
(v)
Public-private partnership models and execution frameworks.
(vi)
Operational and structural distinctions between venture capital, private equity, internal corporate investment, and traditional commercial banking.
(B)
Educational partners
The curriculum described in subparagraph (A) shall be developed and delivered in coordination with partner institutions and Senior Commercial Acquisition Executives (appointed in subsection (b)), including top-tier graduate business and economic schools, investment banking firms, venture capital firms, and private equity firms.
(C)
Rotational immersions and industry exchange program
(i)
In general
The curriculum described in subparagraph (A) will include a formalized industry exchange program, through which contracting officers in the Training Program may complete temporary operational rotations with venture capital firms, defense prime contractors, commercial technology startups, and investment banks.
(ii)
Exchange period
A temporary operational rotation shall last between six and 12 months.
(iii)
Purpose
These rotations will provide contracting officers with firsthand experience in commercial business operations, rapid scaling methodologies, and private-sector risk allocation.
(4)
Administrative role of defense acquisition university
The Defense Acquisition University shall serve the Training Program in a strictly administrative and coordinating capacity, to include the funding and management of travel, lodging, and enabling logistics for participants.
(5)
Performance metrics for Gold Tier Capital Certification
(A)
In general
Any contracting officer who successfully completes the Training Program shall be awarded the Gold Tier Capital Certification.
(B)
Maintenance of designation
To maintain the Gold Tier Capital Certification, an individual who completes the Training Program must meet or exceed the annual performance metrics, as set and evaluated by the relevant portfolio acquisition executive and Senior Commercial Acquisition Executive.
(C)
Forfeiture and replacement
Any officer who fails to meet the metrics described under subparagraph (B) for two or more evaluation periods shall immediately forfeit the Gold Tier Capital Certification.
(D)
Replacement of officer
Not later than 60 days after the forfeiture of a Gold Tier Capital Certification under subparagraph (C), the relevant service acquisition executive shall nominate a qualified replacement for the Training Program.
(6)
Personnel incentives and authorities
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that contracting officers holding a valid Gold Tier Capital Certification receive the incentives and operational authorities described in this paragraph.
(A)
Promotion considerations
In procedures for military and civilian personnel evaluations, the Secretary shall consider the possession of a Gold Tier Capital Certification as an advanced professional qualification and give such certification positive weight for promotion and leadership selection.
(B)
Streamlined approvals
The Secretary shall establish expedited, streamlined administrative review and approval pathways for non-traditional financing mechanisms executed by any officer with a Gold Tier Capital Certification.
(C)
Liaison status
Any officer with a Gold Tier Capital Certification shall possess direct liaison status with the Economic Defense Unit.
(D)
Industry immersions
The Secretary shall provide officers with a Gold Tier Capital Certification with priority access to official operational immersion opportunities within industry, including financial and investment entities and commercial startups.
(7)
Reporting requirements
(A)
Interim briefing
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the initial implementation of the Training Program, metrics achieved by the participants, and curriculum efficacy.
(B)
Interim report
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that—
(i)
provides the number contracting officers that participated in the Training Program, and the portfolio and service designation of each such officer;
(ii)
describes the types of acquisitions in which such officers were involved;
(iii)
describes the extent to which the Training Program influenced acquisition strategy, contract structure, and pricing approaches;
(iv)
provides an assessment of the effectiveness of the Training Program in improving the use of commercial acquisition practices, including any impacts on cost, speed, and participation by nontraditional defense contractors; and
(v)
includes recommendations as to whether the authority under this section should be extended, modified, or made permanent.
(C)
Final report
(i)
In general
Not later than 180 days prior to the termination date described in paragraph (8), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a comprehensive report that evaluates the Training Program.
(ii)
Contents
The report shall include an assessment of total cost avoidance, accelerated acquisition timelines, industry feedback, and a formal recommendation on whether to permanently codify the certification program.
(8)
Sunset
The Training Program shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
B
Amendments to general contracting authorities, procedures, and limitations
811.
Consolidation and rationalization of restrictions on procurement from certain foreign countries
(a)
Establishment of new chapter in title 10, United States Code
Subpart I of part V of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new chapter:
390
Restrictions on procurement from certain foreign countries
4991.
Definitions
In this chapter:
(1)
The term  Commerce Control List  means the list maintained by the Bureau of Industry and Security and set forth in Supplement No. 1 to part 774 of the Export Administration Regulations (as defined in section 1742 of the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4801).
(2)
The term  commercial product  has the meaning given the term in section 103 of title 41.
(3)
The term  commercially available off-the-shelf item    (COTS) has the meaning given the term in section 104 of title 41.
(4)
The term  covered country  means—
(A)
the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea);
(B)
the People’s Republic of China;
(C)
the Russian Federation; and
(D)
the Islamic Republic of Iran.
(5)
The term  covered entity  means—
(A)
an entity domiciled in a covered country or subject to the influence or control of the government of a covered country, as determined by the Secretary of Defense;
(B)
an entity identified as a Communist Chinese military company under section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note);
(C)
an entity on the Non-SDN Chinese Military-Industrial Complex Companies List maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury;
(D)
Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, Dahua Technology Company, or any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities; or
(E)
any other entity designated by the Secretary of Defense as posing a national security risk due to its ties to a covered country.
(6)
The term  covered item  means goods, services, or materials identified in this chapter as subject to procurement restrictions, including chemical materials, munitions, strategic and critical materials, telecommunications equipment, unmanned aircraft systems, printed circuit boards, personal protective equipment, and batteries.
(7)
The term  covered telecommunications equipment or services  means—
(A)
telecommunications equipment produced by Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation (or any subsidiary or affiliate);
(B)
telecommunications or video surveillance equipment used for public safety, security of government facilities, physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure, or other national security purposes, that is produced by Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company (or any subsidiary or affiliate);
(C)
telecommunications or video surveillance services provided by the entities described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) or using equipment produced by such entities; and
(D)
telecommunications or video surveillance equipment or services produced or provided by an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence or the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, reasonably believes to be owned or controlled by, or otherwise unduly influenced by, the government of a covered country.
(8)
The term  simplified acquisition threshold  has the meaning given the term in section 134 of title 41.
4992.
Prohibition on procurement from covered countries and entities
(a)
Prohibition
Except as provided in this chapter, the Secretary of Defense may not—
(1)
procure, renew, or extend a contract for the procurement of any covered item that is, or contains materials or components that are mined, refined, processed, manufactured, or assembled, in whole or in part, by a covered country or covered entity;
(2)
enter into, renew, or extend a contract with an entity that uses a covered item as a substantial or essential component of any system or as critical technology as part of any system; or
(3)
enter into, renew, or extend a contract with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that itself uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system, regardless of whether such use is in performance of a Department of Defense contract.
(b)
Applicability
(1)
Paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a) apply to prime contracts and subcontracts at any tier under such contracts.
(2)
Subsection (a)(3) applies only to the prime contractor with whom the Department of Defense enters into a contract.
(3)
Federal bidders and contractors—
(A)
may reasonably rely on certifications of compliance from covered entities and subcontractors when providing proposals to the Department of Defense; and
(B)
are not required to conduct independent third-party audits or other formal reviews related to such certifications.
(4)
Nothing in this section shall permit the Secretary to apply the prohibitions in subsection (a) to existing contracts for goods, services, or technology, including when such contracts are modified, extended, or renewed, entered into prior to the effective date of the relevant prohibited good or service.
(c)
Covered items
This section applies to the following items:
(1)
Chemicals listed under the heading  Task 1: Domestic Production of Critical Chemicals  in section 3.0E of the document of the Department of Defense titled  Statement of Objectives (SOO) for Critical Chemicals Production  (FOA: FA8650–19–S–5010, Appendix VI, Call: 012) and dated December 5, 2022, or any successor document.
(2)
Goods, services, or technology provided by an entity identified in the annual list published in the Federal Register by the Department of Defense of Chinese military companies operating in the United States pursuant to section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note), except that the prohibition shall not apply to—
(A)
goods, services, or technology to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third party, including backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or
(B)
components (as defined in section 105 of title 41).
(3)
(A)
Goods and services—
(i)
on the munitions list of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations;
(ii)
on the Commerce Control List that—
(I)
are classified in the 600 series; or
(II)
contain strategic and critical materials, rare earth elements, or energetic materials used to manufacture missiles or munitions.
(B)
The prohibition pursuant to this paragraph does not apply in connection with a visit by a vessel or an aircraft of the United States Armed Forces to the People’s Republic of China.
(4)
Strategic and critical materials, including specialty metals and rare earth elements (as referenced in sections 4863 and 4872 of this title, and section 857 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note)).
(5)
Unmanned aircraft systems (as referenced in section 848 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 U.S.C. 4871 note)).
(6)
Printed circuit boards (as referenced in section 4873 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 U.S.C. )).
(7)
Personal protective equipment (as referenced in section 4875 of this title).
(8)
Batteries from specified companies (as referenced in section 154 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 10 U.S.C. 4651 note prec.)).
(9)
Covered telecommunications equipment or services (as referenced in section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. 3901 not prec.)).
4993.
National security waiver
(a)
Authority
The Secretary of Defense may waive the prohibitions under section 4992 of this title if the Secretary determines in writing that such waiver is necessary to the national security interests of the United States.
(b)
Requirements
A written determination under subsection (a)—
(1)
shall specify the quantity or scope of covered items or materials or the scope of covered telecommunications equipment or services to which the waiver applies and the time period over which the waiver applies; and
(2)
shall be provided to the congressional defense committees not later than 15 days before issuing the waiver, except that in the case of an urgent national security requirement, such certification may be provided up to 7 days after the waiver is issued.
(c)
Delegation
The authority under subsection (a)—
(1)
may be delegated to either the senior acquisition executive of a military department or the official responsible for all acquisition functions of such other element or organization of the Department of Defense concerned, for a waiver applicable to one or more acquisition programs or procurements within that military department or element of the Department of Defense; or
(2)
may be delegated to the Deputy Secretary of Defense or the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment for a waiver applicable to more than one military department.
4994.
Exceptions for commercial products, COTS items, and thresholds
(a)
Commercial products and cots items
(1)
In general
Except as provided in paragraph (2), this chapter applies to the procurement of commercial products and COTS items.
(2)
Exception
This chapter only applies to COTS items that are—
(A)
specialty metals, including mill products, that have not been incorporated into end items, subsystems, assemblies, or components;
(B)
forgings or castings of specialty metals, unless incorporated into COTS end items, subsystems, or assemblies; or
(C)
covered items or covered telecommunications equipment or services that perform a mission-critical function and are not incorporated into end items, subsystems, assemblies, or components.
(b)
Simplified acquisition threshold
Section 4992 of this title does not apply to acquisitions in amounts below the simplified acquisition threshold.
(c)
Outside the United States
Section 4992 of this title does not apply to procurements outside the United States in support of contingency operations or for use outside the United States.
  .
(b)
Implementation and effective date
(1)
Effective date
The amendments made by this section shall take effect on January 1, 2028.
(2)
Regulations
The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations to implement chapter 390 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), including updates to the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
812.
Requirements for information relating to supply chain risk
Section 3252 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (b)—
(A)
in paragraph (1), by inserting  officials, general counsels,  after  procurement ;
(B)
in paragraph (2)(B), by striking  measures are not reasonably available to reduce  and inserting  measures have been taken and are not reasonably expected to reduce ;
(C)
in paragraph (3)—
(i)
in subparagraph (A)—
(I)
by inserting  , including the nature of the supply chain risk,  after  risk assessment ; and
(II)
by striking  ; and  and inserting a semicolon; and
(ii)
in subparagraph (B)—
(I)
by striking  measures that were considered and why they were not reasonably available to reduce  and inserting  measures that were taken and why they were not reasonably expected to reduce ; and
(II)
by striking the period at the end and inserting  ; and ; and
(iii)
by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
(C)
a legal opinion from the Department of Defense Office of General Counsel that the determination required in paragraph (2), as well as the analysis required in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of this paragraph, meets the statutory requirements of this section;
 ; and
(D)
by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
(4)
determining and certifying to the appropriate congressional committees that a foreign entity of concern in the supply chain has carried out nefarious, malicious, or concerning actions warranting such exercise of authority; and
(5)
the Inspector General of the Department of Defense conducts a review and determines that all requirements under this subsection have been met.
 ;
(2)
in subsection (c)(2)—
(A)
by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as subparagraphs (C) and (D), respectively; and
(B)
by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraph:
(B)
allow the appropriate parties of a covered procurement action a 30-day window to address the Department’s concerns or take other remedial actions;
 ;
(3)
by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e); and
(4)
by inserting after subsection (c) the following new subsection:
(d)
Limitations on authority
(1)
Unless a complete and detailed notification has been received by the appropriate congressional committees within 5 days of a determination under this section, the determination shall have no effect for purposes of this section until the notification has been so received.
(2)
A determination under this section shall not be invoked for contract disputes or as a negotiating tool and shall only be invoked to protect critical defense systems from adversary exploitation by screening out suppliers who pose unacceptable risks of sabotage or malicious subversion in the procurement process.
 .
813.
Limitations on certain missile contracts or other agreements
(a)
Limitation on use of funds
(1)
In general
None of the funds appropriated by this Act or any previous Act, or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended on a covered contract or other agreement unless the Secretary of Defense certifies to the congressional defense committees, in writing, that such contract or other agreement does not contain any clause or provision that would authorize the Secretary to—
(A)
remove or install personnel at any prime contractor or subcontractor; or
(B)
direct the internal resources of any prime contractor or subcontractor, including independent research and development or capital expenditures, regardless of whether such term is a condition of award, as a penalty for delinquency, or for any other reason, unless the Department of Defense paid for such resources as a direct cost under the contract or other agreement.
(2)
Removal of non-conforming clause
If the Secretary determines that any covered contract or other agreement awarded prior to the date of the enactment of this Act does not conform to the requirements of paragraph (1), the Secretary shall seek to enter into bilateral negotiations with the contractor to modify such contract or other agreement to remove the non-conforming clause or provision without consideration.
(b)
Prohibition on contract modifications
(1)
In general
Except as may be necessary to comply with subsection (a)(2), the Secretary of Defense may not make any modification or change to any term of a covered contract or other agreement that is entered into using funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027, to alleviate contractor performance issues, including delinquency, cost overruns, schedule delays, technical performance issues, or any other performance-related grounds, and shall strictly enforce all such terms as written.
(2)
Exception
Paragraph (1) shall not apply to a modification or change to a covered contract or other agreement if such modification is made pursuant to the extraordinary contractual relief authorities provided in the Act entitled  An Act to authorize the making, amendment, and modification of contracts to facilitate the national defense , approved August 28, 1958 (50 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.) and complies with all applicable regulations and procedures implementing such authorities.
(c)
Definitions
In this section, the term  covered contract or other agreement  means any of the following contract or other agreement entered into using multiyear procurement authorities authorized in section 804 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.):
(1)
Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3).
(2)
Tomahawk Cruise Missile.
(3)
Joint Air-to-Air Standoff Missile (JASSM).
(4)
Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM).
(5)
Standard Missile-6 (SM-6).
(6)
Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IB.
(7)
Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM).
(8)
Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD).
(9)
Low-Cost Hypersonic Strike Systems.
(10)
Family of Affordable Mass Munitions ( FAMM ), Extended-Range Attack Munition ( ERAM ), Enterprise Test Vehicle ( ETV ), or ground-launched low-cost cruise missile systems.
814.
Limitations on the centralized commercial item capability
(a)
Limitation
No funds authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027, or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense, may be obligated or expended for the centralized commercial item capability required by section 3456(a) of title 10, United States Code, until the conditions described in subsection (b) are satisfied.
(b)
Conditions
The conditions referred to in subsection (a) are the following:
(1)
The Secretary of Defense certifies that the Department of Defense has—
(A)
issued comprehensive Department-wide guidance implementing subtitle C of title XVIII of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1245); and
(B)
amended the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to fully implement such subtitle.
(2)
The Secretary of Defense has developed and issued stricter guidance, including higher standards and criteria of evidence, for the approval of noncommercial item determinations (or commercial item exceptions) with respect to the following capabilities:
(A)
Software or software-intensive systems.
(B)
Autonomous systems, including unmanned platforms and associated enabling technologies.
(C)
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data analytics capabilities.
(D)
Cloud computing, data infrastructure, or digital platforms.
(E)
Cyber capabilities, including cybersecurity and cyber defense tools.
(F)
Other technology areas as the Secretary of Defense determines are characterized by significant commercial market participation.
(c)
Comptroller General review and certification requirement
(1)
Review required
Not later than 180 days after the date on which the Secretary of Defense notifies the congressional defense committees that the conditions in subsection (b) have been met, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct and complete—
(A)
a review of the guidance issued pursuant to subsection (b)(1) to determine whether such guidance provides adequate implementation of subtitle C of title XVIII of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026; and
(B)
a review of a representative sample of noncommercial item determinations (or commercial item exceptions) made under the stricter guidance required by subsection (b)(2) to assess whether such determinations are supported by sufficient evidence and are not being approved through an insufficiently rigorous process.
(2)
Report
The Comptroller General shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the reviews required by paragraph (1), including an assessment of the adequacy and rigor of the guidance and determination processes.
815.
Limitations relating to capital distributions for defense contractors
(a)
In general
Except as provided in subsection (b), beginning on June 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense may not enter into a contract for the procurement of goods or services, unless the contractor agrees in writing that the entity shall not—
(1)
purchase an equity security of such entity, or any parent entity of such entity, that is listed on a national securities exchange; or
(2)
pay dividends or make any other capital distribution with respect to the equity securities of the entity.
(b)
Waiver for qualifying defense investment
The Secretary of Defense may waive the limitation in subsection (a) for the purpose of rewarding contractors that agree to a qualifying defense investment plan that is approved by the Secretary.
(c)
Review and enforcement
(1)
Establishment of formal review process
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a formal review mechanism for identifying, on a continuing basis, the Department of Defense contractors that are in violation of the requirements of subsection (a).
(2)
Evidence and notification of violation
(A)
In general
If a contracting officer of the Department of Defense finds, or receives and substantiates, an allegation described in subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall immediately notify the contractor of the violation in writing.
(B)
Allegation described
An allegation described in this subparagraph is any allegation relating to—
(i)
a contractor of the Department engaging in an activity prohibited under subsection (a), if the requirements of such subsection have not been waived under subsection (b); or
(ii)
a contractor who received a waiver under subsection (b) is underperforming with respect to prioritization, investment, or production such that the contractor no longer meets the requirements of the qualifying defense investment plan approved by the Secretary pursuant to subsection (b).
(C)
Contents of notice
The notice issued under subparagraph (A) shall include, depending on the basis of the violation, a description of—
(i)
the conduct of the contractor that is prohibited under subsection (a); or
(ii)
the nature of the underperformance or insufficient prioritization, investment, or production speed of the contractor that fails to meet the requirements described in the qualifying defense investment plan under subsection (b).
(3)
Remediation
(A)
In general
Not later than 15 days after the date on which the contractor receives the notice of a violation under paragraph (3)(A), the contractor may submit to the Secretary a remediation plan, approved by the board of directors of the contractor, for review by the Secretary.
(B)
Content of plan
The remediation plan submitted under subparagraph (A) shall include a description of the manner by which the contractor shall remedy the violation, including, if applicable, a strategy for meeting the requirements described in the qualifying defense investment plan under subsection (b) or an update of such a plan.
(C)
Identification of deficiencies
If the Secretary identifies deficiencies in the remediation plan submitted under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall engage with the contractor as needed to resolve such deficiencies.
(4)
Penalties
If a contractor engages in an activity prohibited under subsection (a) and was not granted a waiver under subsection (b) or if the contractor was granted a waiver under subsection (b) but no longer meets the requirements of the qualifying defense investment plan, the contracting officer of the Department of Defense may take one or more of the following actions against the contractor for any contract entered into on or after the date specified in subsection (a):
(A)
Suspend payment under the contract.
(B)
Revoke the waiver issued under subsection (b) for the contractor as a whole or for any defined business segment.
(C)
Determine that the contractor lacks requisite responsibility for award of competitive contracts or other agreements.
(D)
Terminate the eligibility of the contractor to receive progress payments under section 3804 of title 10, United States Code.
(E)
Refer the matter to the Secretary for other administrative actions.
(d)
Report to Congress
(1)
In general
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the date specified in subsection (e), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report that includes, for the one-year period preceding submission of the report—
(A)
a list of all contractors granted a waiver under subsection (b) and the justification for each waiver; and
(B)
a list of all entities that have violated agreements made pursuant to subsection (a) or diverged from the practices that justified the granting of a waiver under subsection (b).
(2)
Publication
Not later than 30 days after the date of submission of a report under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall make such report publicly available.
(e)
Sunset
This section shall cease to have effect on January 1, 2031.
(f)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Equity security
The term  equity security  has the meaning given such term in section 3(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)).
(2)
National securities exchange
The term  national securities exchange  means an exchange registered as a national securities exchange in accordance with section 6 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78f).
(3)
Qualifying defense investment
(A)
In general
The term  qualifying defense investment  means an expenditure by a contractor that is directly related to increasing the capacity or capability of its defense business segment, including—
(i)
construction, expansion, or modernization of manufacturing facilities, shipyards, or production lines dedicated to defense programs;
(ii)
acquisition of machine tools, capital equipment, and production technology for defense systems;
(iii)
applied non-reimbursable research and development directly supporting defense programs;
(iv)
establishment or expansion of workforce training programs and facilities for defense manufacturing skills; and
(v)
strategic stockpiling of raw materials and components critical to defense production.
(B)
Exclusions
A qualifying defense investment does not include—
(i)
an allowable cost for reimbursement under any contract; or
(ii)
an expenditure used under any contract or other agreement as the basis for the Department of Defense to provide contract financing or advance payments.
816.
Prohibition of procurement of molybdenum, gallium, or germanium from non-allied foreign nations and authorization for production from recovered material
Section 844 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 976) is amended—
(1)
by redesignating paragraph (3) of subsection (b) as subsection (c) and moving such subsection, as so redesignated, two ems to the left; and
(2)
in subsection (c), as redesignated by paragraph (1) of this section, by striking  amendments made by paragraphs (1) and (2)  and inserting  amendments made by this section .
817.
Other transaction authority reporting
Any project carried out by the Department of Defense using other transaction authority under section 4021 of title 10, United States Code, shall be reported in the same manner as other Department of Defense expenditures for inclusion in the searchable public website established by the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (31 U.S.C. 6101 note; Public Law 109–282).
818.
Limitation on procurement of cut flowers and cut greens
(a)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered entity
The term  covered entity  means—
(A)
a foreign government; and
(B)
an agent of a foreign principal (as defined section 1 of the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended (22 U.S.C 611)).
(2)
Cut flower
The term  cut flower  means a flower removed from a living plant for decorative use.
(3)
Cut green
The term  cut green  means a green, foliage, or branch removed from a living plant for decorative use.
(4)
Qualifying area
The term  qualifying area  means—
(A)
a State;
(B)
the District of Columbia;
(C)
a territory or possession of the United States; or
(D)
an area subject to the jurisdiction of a federally recognized Indian Tribe.
(b)
Requirement
(1)
In general
Funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense may only be used for the procurement of a cut flower or cut green if the cut flower or cut green is grown in a qualifying area.
(2)
Applicability
This subsection shall apply to a procurement made or contracted for—
(A)
in the United States; and
(B)
on or after the date that is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c)
Gifts for displays
(1)
In general
The Department of Defense may only accept a gift of a cut flower or cut green that is not grown in a qualifying area from a covered entity for the purpose of displaying the cut flower or cut green if the origin of the cut flower or cut green is clearly displayed at the time of delivery.
(2)
Requirement
If the Department of Defense accepts a gift of a cut flower or cut green from a covered entity under paragraph (1), it shall clearly display the origin of the cut flower or cut green during the period of display of the cut flower or cut green.
819.
Audit and mitigation of covered cellular modules in the Department of Defense systems and infrastructure
(a)
Department of Defense audit
(1)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall initiate a Department-wide audit to identify the presence of covered cellular modules within covered systems.
(2)
Scope
The audit required under paragraph (1) shall—
(A)
cover all military departments, combatant commands, defense agencies, and Department of Defense activities or programs;
(B)
prioritize covered systems critical to military mobility, logistics, and installation security;
(C)
include both government-owned and contractor-operated covered systems connected to Department of Defense networks or accessing Department of Defense information;
(D)
identify to the maximum extent practicable, the manufacturer, model, firmware version, and host product for each covered cellular module identified; and
(E)
assess the cybersecurity risk posed by each identified covered cellular module, including data flows, network exposure, and potential for remote access.
(b)
Mitigation and Reporting
(1)
Report required
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and biennially thereafter for a period not to exceed 6 years, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the audit and mitigation activities carried out under this section.
(2)
Contents
Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(A)
The preliminary or updated findings of the audit required under subsection (b).
(B)
A description of ongoing and planned mitigation measures, including—
(i)
rip-and-replace programs;
(ii)
accelerated divestiture or retirement of legacy assets;
(iii)
network segmentation, isolation, or compensating cybersecurity or engineering controls;
(iv)
firmware or software remediation; and
(v)
supply-chain substitution with trusted alternatives.
(C)
Cost estimates, timelines, and resource requirements for each category of mitigation measure described in subparagraph (B).
(D)
An identification of any statutory, regulatory, or acquisition barriers to completing mitigation.
(E)
Recommendations for additional legislative authorities, if any, needed to complete mitigation.
(3)
Form
Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
(c)
Comptroller General report
Not later than 180 days after the submission of the report required in subsection (b), the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the implementation and effectiveness of the activities described in subsection (b).
(d)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Cellular module
The term  cellular module  means a modular transmitter, as described in section 15.212 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, that provides cellular connectivity to a host product, including an Internet of things device.
(2)
Covered cellular module
The term  covered cellular module  means any cellular module produced, manufactured, or provided by—
(A)
an entity identified under section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.);
(B)
an entity that is owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of the People’s Republic of China; or
(C)
any other entity determined by the Secretary of Defense to present an unacceptable supply-chain risk.
(3)
Covered system
The term  covered system  means any item of infrastructure owned, leased, operated, or controlled by the Department of Defense.
(4)
Internet of things device
The term  Internet of things device  has the meaning given to such term in NIST Special Publication 1800–16.
820.
Improving transparency of foreign influence on Department of Defense contractors
Section 847(a)(3) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 U.S.C. 4819 note) is amended by striking  in excess of $5,000,000  and inserting  in excess of $500,000 .
821.
Reporting of price increases
(a)
Reporting of increases above specified prices
Chapter 271 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
3710.
Reporting of increases above specified prices
(a)
In general
An offeror shall be required to report to the relevant contracting officer not later than 30 days after becoming aware that the price of a product or service under a covered contract reaches or exceeds—
(1)
25 percent above the price specified in the contract bid or the government paid for that product or service the previous calendar year; or
(2)
50 percent above the price paid for such a product or service 5 years earlier.
(b)
Covered contract defined
In this section, the term  covered contract  means a cost-plus contract awarded without competition under section 3204 of this title and as defined under section 6.302 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
 .
(b)
Inclusion of noncompliance information in FAPIIS
Chapter 271 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
3711.
Inclusion of noncompliance information in Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System
The Director of the Defense Contract Audit Agency or the relevant service acquisition executive shall report in the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS) housed within the System for Award Management the following information:
(1)
Contractors who fail to report price increases as required under 3705(a)(2) of this title.
(2)
Updated findings from audits conducted by the Agency regarding noncompliance with the requirement.
(3)
With respect to unreported product or service price increases, the product or service’s National Stock Number, order quantity, unit cost, total cost, purchasing or reimbursing entity, and date of the order.
 .
822.
Late submission of cost and pricing data as invalid defense to contract price reductions for defective cost or pricing data
Section 3706(c) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (3), by striking  ; or  and inserting a semicolon;
(2)
in paragraph (4), by striking the period and inserting  ; or ; and
(3)
by adding at the end of the following:
(5)
the cost or pricing data were submitted by the prime contractor or subcontractor after the date of agreement on the price of the contract or, if applicable consistent with subsection (a)(2), such other date agreed upon between the parties.
 .
C
Industrial base matters
831.
Establishment of the Supply Chain Risk Management Integration Cell
(a)
Establishment
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a Supply Chain Risk Management Integration Cell (in this section referred to as  the Cell  ) within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy.
(b)
Duties described
For the purposes of operating the Cell described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall delegate or otherwise assign to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy the authorities and duties to—
(1)
direct and conduct oversight of all Department of Defense Supply Chain Risk Management activities, programs, tools, and datasets;
(2)
manage and make determinations regarding lists and other restrictions relating to Department of Defense Supply Chain Risk Management, including those authorized in—
(A)
section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.);
(B)
section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note); and
(C)
section 805 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 10 U.S.C. 4651 note prec.);
(3)
manage and make determinations regarding supply chain transparency programs, incentives, and other activities, including those authorized in—
(A)
section 849 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 3241 note prec.);
(B)
section 856 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 10 U.S.C. 3241 note prec.); and
(C)
subsection (a)(3) of section 857 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note);
(4)
oversee data and databases related to Department of Defense Supply Chain Risk Management and the integration of such data and databases across the Department of Defense, to include integration with commercial data sources;
(5)
select and assign a sufficient number of dedicated staff necessary for the Cell to effectively manage the duties described in paragraphs (1) through ( 4);
(6)
consult with the Supply Chain Risk Management Threat Analysis Center at the Defense Intelligence Agency; and
(7)
any other authorities or duties necessary to manage, direct, or otherwise coordinate Supply Chain Risk Management activities and programs.
(c)
Exceptions
The Secretary of Defense shall not delegate or assign to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy authorities or duties that explicitly relate to cybersecurity.
(d)
Implementation
Not later than 90 days after the date on which the Cell described in subsection (a) is established, the Secretary shall amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to support the establishment of the Cell and to implement the changes in authorities and duties described in subsection (b).
(e)
Briefing required
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees describing—
(1)
estimated staffing and resources requirements to establish and operate the Cell;
(2)
plans to reorganize existing offices and functions throughout the Department to ensure the Cell can carry out the authorities and duties described in subsection (b);
(3)
plans to provide resources to the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy for the purposes of establishing and operating the Cell; and
(4)
estimated timelines to consolidate in the Cell the various authorities and duties described in subsection (b).
832.
Expansion of reverse engineering authority for prototype projects
Section 4022(e)(5)(B) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  to address obsolescence .
833.
Competition requirement for certain munitions
(a)
PAC–3 alternative sourcing
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Patriot Advanced Capability–3 ( PAC–3 ) multiyear procurement authorized by section 804(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60), not more than 50 percent may be obligated or expended unless the Secretary of Defense certifies that at least 40 percent of fiscal year 2027 procurement of the Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) solid rocket motors is sourced from a secondary or additional qualified supplier.
(b)
Standard Missile–6 alternative sourcing
The Secretary of Defense shall require the Standard Missile–6 multiyear procurement authorized by this Act and by section 804(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60) to source Mark 72 and Mark 104 solid rocket motors from more than one vendor by the following deadlines:
(1)
Beginning in fiscal year 2028, 20 percent or more solid rocket motors shall be ordered by the prime contractor from a secondary or additional qualified supplier.
(2)
Beginning in fiscal year 2029, 30 percent or more solid rocket motors shall be ordered by the prime contractor from a secondary or additional qualified supplier.
(3)
Beginning in fiscal year 2030, 40 percent or more solid rocket motors shall be ordered by the prime contractor from a secondary or additional qualified supplier.
834.
Analyses of certain activities for action to address sourcing and industrial capacity
(a)
Analysis required
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and other appropriate officials, shall review the list of items under subsection (b) to determine and develop appropriate actions to maintain access to critical defense industry components and materials, including—
(A)
restricting procurement, with appropriate waivers for cost, emergency requirements, and nonavailability of suppliers, including restricting procurement to—
(i)
suppliers in the United States;
(ii)
suppliers in the national technology and industrial base (as defined in section 4801 of title 10, United States Code);
(iii)
suppliers in other allied or partner nations; or
(iv)
other suppliers;
(B)
increasing investment through use of research and development procurement activities and acquisition authorities, including the Defense Production Act and the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program to—
(i)
expand production capacity;
(ii)
diversify sources of supply; or
(iii)
promote alternative approaches for addressing military requirements;
(C)
prohibiting procurement from selected sources or nations;
(D)
taking a combination of actions described under subparagraphs (A),(B), and (C); or
(E)
taking no action.
(2)
Considerations
The analyses conducted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall consider national security, economic, and treaty implications, as well as impacts on current and potential suppliers of goods and services.
(b)
List of high-priority goods and services for analyses, recommendations, and actions
The items described in this subsection are the following:
(1)
Boron carbide.
(2)
Copper foil, copper clad laminates, glass, or any other copper-containing inputs for printed circuit boards.
(3)
Synthetic diamond.
(4)
Silicon carbide.
(c)
Briefing on analyses, recommendations, and actions
Not later than February 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives—
(1)
a summary of the findings of the analyses undertaken for each item pursuant to subsection (a);
(2)
relevant recommendations resulting from the analyses, including any proposed statutory changes to implement sourcing restrictions; and
(3)
descriptions of specific activities undertaken as a result of the analyses, including schedule and resources allocated for any planned actions.
835.
Regulations applicable to wearing optional combat boots
(a)
In general
Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary of Defense shall issue regulations requiring that any optional combat boots being sold at military exchanges be certified by the combat boot quality assurance program conducted by the relevant military service, to ensure combat boots meet uniform regulations regarding durability, quality, and uniform standards.
(b)
Waiver
The Secretary of Defense may provide a military service a waiver for subsection (a) for 90 days until the combat boot quality assurance program is implemented.
(c)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
The term  combat boot quality assurance program  means the requirement in section 865(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note).
(2)
The term  optional combat boots , with respect to a member of the Armed Forces, means combat boots not furnished to such member of the Armed Forces by the Secretary of Defense.
(3)
The term  required uniform  means a uniform a member of the Armed Forces is required to wear as a member of the Armed Forces.
836.
Report on domestic nonavailability determinations granted for critical materials
Not later than May 1, 2027, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the issuance of domestic nonavailability determinations (DNADs) for strategic and critical materials covered by sections 4863 and 4872 of title 10, United States Code. The report shall—
(1)
identify all DNADs issued over the previous 5 years;
(2)
identify whether DNADs were granted for a specific program or end item or granted for a class of material;
(3)
assess the Department of Defense’s review process for DNADs, including timeframes for approval and communication with industry; and
(4)
describe any other matters the Under Secretary determines relevant for issuing DNADs for strategic and critical materials.
837.
Limitation on availability of funds pending information on the small unmanned aircraft system industrial base
Not more than 80 percent of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 and available to the Defense Autonomous Warfare Group, and not more than 95 percent of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense-wide, for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, may be obligated or expended until—
(1)
the report required under section 914(e)(1) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note) is submitted to the congressional defense committees; and
(2)
the report required under section 162(c) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 4871 note) is submitted to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
838.
Energetics industrial base roadmap
(a)
In general
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Director of the Joint Energetics Transition Office, in coordination with the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy and the Secretaries of the military departments, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a roadmap for the future desired state for the energetics industrial base.
(b)
Elements
The roadmap under subsection (a) shall include the following elements:
(1)
An assessment of the capacity and capability of the energetics industrial base to support the demands of existing munitions programs of record.
(2)
An assessment of the capacity and capability of the energetics industrial base to support planned future demands of munitions programs.
(3)
Identification of current and potential shortfalls in common precursors and chemicals for energetic materials.
(4)
An assessment of emerging technologies or manufacturing processes that would support the modernization or evolution of the energetics industrial base.
(5)
A description of United States Government funding to date for the energetics industrial base, whether through programs of record or through Defense Production Act (DPA) or Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) programs, broken out by fiscal year and purpose.
(c)
Energetic materials defined
In this section, the term  energetic materials  means critical chemicals and formulations that—
(1)
release large amounts of stored chemical energy; and
(2)
are capable of being used as explosives, propellants, pyrotechnics, and reactive materials that—
(A)
create lethal effects in warheads in kinetic weapons components and systems; or
(B)
increase propellant performance in a weapon propulsion system as related to lethal effects, range, or speed.
839.
Supply chain, capability, and capacity study of high-demand items in the textile industrial base
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall contract with a federally funded research and development center to conduct a detailed assessment of the textile industrial base providing uniform items to the military services. The review shall include—
(1)
a description of coordination between industry and the military services to understand shortfalls in the textile industrial base over the last five years;
(2)
a description of the ability of the military services to provide annual or long-term data for increased stability in long-term contracting for textile manufacturing;
(3)
 any requested domestic non-availability determinations made to the Defense Logistics Agency or the services and the rationale for the absence of available domestic options;
(4)
a review of Defense Logistics Agency contracting processes, including the ability to provide industry with long-term demand, Berry amendment compliance, and responsiveness to the needs of the military services;
(5)
an assessment of the supply chains of all Berry-compliant textiles and footwear options, including current challenges, potential for surge capacity, any investments in capital expenditures in the last 10 years, data on sales over the last 10 years, quality assurance procedures, testing, and qualification procedures;
(6)
 a review of the military services specifications for textiles and footwear, including where specifications are the limiting factor to higher quality items or if changes in specification can improve manufacturing timelines;
(7)
a review of any allied or Trade Agreement Act-compliant partnerships that could be expanded to improve supply chain resilience;
(8)
an assessment of the efficacy of the investments made under the automated textile manufacturing program under the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program, including any improvements or best practices that could be implemented;
(9)
an assessment of the importance of having multiple supply lines in the textile industrial base and the consequences of single points of failure; and
(10)
any other matters determined to be relevant to the review.
(b)
Deadlines
(1)
Final assessment
Not later than September 30, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives the final review required under subsection (a).
(2)
Briefing
Not later than May 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing with an initial review of the scope of the assessment required under subsection (a).
(c)
Authority to use relevant supply chain technologies
The federally funded research and development center conducting the review under subsection (a) may utilize any relevant supply chain technologies for in-depth review of the textile industrial base.
840.
Pilot program on providing subsidies for combat boots
(a)
In general
Not later than June 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Army shall establish and implement a pilot program to provide subsidies for the cost of certain combat boots to members of the Army that receive a uniform allowance.
(b)
Subsidy
(1)
Payment of subsidy
Under the pilot program required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall establish a subsidy for an eligible member for the purchase of combat boots that comply with the requirements of section 4862 of title 10, United States Code, in an amount that is equal to 30 percent of the price of such boots.
(2)
Use of subsidy
A member who receives the subsidy under paragraph (1) shall use the subsidy to purchase from the Army and Air Force Exchange Service not more than one pair of combat boots that comply with the requirements of section 4862 of title 10, United States Code.
(c)
Role of exchange stores
(1)
Selection of locations
The Secretary shall select three military installations at which exchange stores operated by the Army and Air Force Exchange Service are located to carry out the pilot program required by subsection (a).
(2)
Provision of information to Army and Air Force Exchange Service
The Secretary shall provide information on eligible members to the exchange stores at the installations selected under paragraph (1).
(3)
Notice; implementation
The Secretary shall—
(A)
in collaboration with the exchange stores at the installations selected under paragraph (1), provide appropriate notice to eligible members with respect to the subsidy under subsection (b); and
(B)
under the authority provided by section 2491 of title 10, United States Code, reimburse each such store for—
(i)
the cost of the subsidies under subsection (b) provided by the store; and
(ii)
any incidental marketing costs associated with the pilot program required by subsection (a) incurred by the store.
(4)
Data collection
(A)
Collection by Secretary
The Secretary shall collect data on—
(i)
the total population of eligible members; and
(ii)
the overall cost of providing the subsidy under subsection (b).
(B)
Collection by exchange stores
The Secretary shall collect data from the exchange stores at the installations selected under paragraph (1) on—
(i)
the rates of use of the subsidy under subsection (b) on a quarterly and annual basis; and
(ii)
which combat boots are being purchased with the subsidy.
(d)
Termination
The pilot program required by subsection (a) shall terminate on December 31, 2029.
(e)
Briefings required
(1)
Implementation
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of the Army shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on—
(A)
a plan to establish and implement the pilot program required by subsection (a); and
(B)
the three military installations selected under subsection (c)(1) to carry out the pilot program.
(2)
Annual briefing
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the termination under subsection (d) of the pilot program required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representative on—
(A)
the use of the subsidy provided under subsection (b); and
(B)
the data collected under subsection (c)(4).
(f)
Eligible member defined
The term  eligible member  means a member of the Army authorized to receive a cash clothing replacement allowance under chapter 29 of volume 7A of the Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation.
841.
Cross-functional team for the textile industrial base
(a)
In general
Not later than April 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall institute a cross-functional team on the textile industrial base to improve supply chain stability and resiliency. The cross-functional team shall meet not less than quarterly.
(b)
Membership
The cross-functional team shall include representatives from—
(1)
each military service;
(2)
the Defense Logistics Agency; and
(3)
the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy.
(c)
Responsibilities
The cross-functional team instituted under subsection (a) shall map the textile industrial base for the service specific requirements and determine which, if any, resiliency measures need to be taken.
(d)
Competitive pilot program
(1)
In general
Not later than January 1, 2028, the cross-functional team shall establish a competitive pilot program to revitalize supply chains in the domestic textile industrial base.
(2)
Competitive solicitation
The program established under paragraph (1) shall establish competitive solicitation for industrial base analysis and sustainment funding to encourage—
(A)
surge capacity as required by supply chain mapping;
(B)
modernization of relevant textile industrial facilities for vertical integration or flexible manufacturing;
(C)
expansion and qualification of second or alternative sources of supply where single points of failure exist in the industrial base;
(D)
prioritization of urgent service uniform requirements; and
(E)
expansion of competition to ensure higher quality products and improved pricing.
(3)
Briefing
The Office of the Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, in coordination with the members of the cross-functional team instituted under subsection (a), shall brief the congressional defense committees—
(A)
not later than 60 days after initial stand up of the cross-functional team, on membership, meeting schedule, and priorities;
(B)
not later than 90 days after the completion of initial supply chain mapping, on single points of failure, opportunities for surge capacity, and concerns regarding foreign investment or influence; and
(C)
annually, on the resources required to create competition and supply chain resiliency necessary in the competitive pilot program, progress made on supply chain mapping, and any other matters relevant to the cross-functional team.
842.
Assessing and addressing risk related to adversarial capital
(a)
Designation
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall designate, within the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, an office with primary responsibility for identifying, assessing, monitoring, and mitigating risks related to adversarial capital in the defense industrial base and broader defense innovation base. The Secretary shall ensure the office assigned is responsible for carrying out the following functions:
(1)
Collaboration to identify and mitigate risks of adversarial capital
The following activities related to collaborating to identify and mitigate risks of adversarial capital:
(A)
Promoting robust collaboration across the Department of Defense, other Federal agencies, industry, and academia by coordinating, deconflicting, and synchronizing, adversarial capital risk management activities, including mitigations.
(B)
Promulgating and enforcing Department-wide policy related to the monitoring and assessment of adversarial capital in the defense industrial base ecosystem, including the development of risk matrices to support decision making.
(C)
Facilitating timely sharing of threat information, vulnerability assessments, and risk indicators with covered defense industrial base entities.
(D)
Establishing cooperative research and development agreements to support joint supplier mapping and mitigation research.
(E)
Working through the Office of Strategic Capital and service and component acquisition executives to provide targeted support to small and medium-sized defense industrial base entities in implementing effective supply chain risk management measures.
(2)
Adversarial capital identification
The following activities related adversarial capital identification:
(A)
Mapping adversarial capital flows for mission-critical weapons systems, technologies, and materials.
(B)
Identifying and monitoring dependencies on foreign adversaries across the defense industrial base by identifying foreign adversary-controlled nodes, single points of failure, and critical chokepoints and tactics, techniques, and procedures.
(C)
Providing specific recommendations to Secretary of Defense on actions or policies necessary to reduce adversarial capital flows for mission-critical weapons systems, technologies, and materials.
(3)
Data sharing and protection pathways
The following activities related to data sharing and protection pathways:
(A)
Working with industry to develop clear legal, contractual, and technical procedures to support and enable contractor disclosures of sub-tier sourcing and beneficial ownership data relevant to national security.
(B)
Protecting this data ensuring appropriate liability protections for contractors making good-faith disclosures.
(C)
Implementing a voluntary risk-sharing framework, modeled on the protections provided under section 104 of the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 (6 U.S.C. 1503), under which industry partners may share supplier risk information and receive validated risk assessments in return, with safeguards for proprietary data.
(4)
Economic security risk assurance capability
The establishment, not later than January 1, 2028, and maintenance of a capability to be known as the  Economic Security Risk Assurance  capability, which shall—
(A)
consolidate and analyze information related to adversarial capital flows, materials, supplier identifiers, sourcing data, program-supplier linkages, and other information as determined by the office, including the synthesis of commercially available information and, where appropriate, classified information;
(B)
develop intelligence reporting and collection requirements for the defense intelligence community;
(C)
support analysis of entities to determine when tactics are used to obfuscate the ownership relationships to hide adversarial capital flows;
(D)
provide risk visualization;
(E)
enable federated access by authorized program offices and acquisition decision authorities, and supply chain illumination programs across the Department; and
(F)
enable the office to better perform the responsibilities outlines in paragraphs (1) through (3) of this section.
(5)
Automated risk management
The following activities related to automated risk management:
(A)
Implementing and maintaining continuous automated monitoring for changes in corporate control, beneficial ownership, geographic sourcing, and supply chain structure.
(B)
Issuing automated alerts to contracting authorities, program leadership, and affected industry upon detection of significant risk indicators.
(C)
Applying corroboration protocols requiring validation of significant risk findings across not fewer than two independent data sources before forming the basis for risk-tier elevation, mitigation action, or referral to appropriate law enforcement or regulatory authorities.
(b)
Reporting requirements
(1)
Initial establishment
The Secretary shall provide the congressional defense committees notification of the designation of office with primary responsibility in accordance with subsection (a) and the establishment of the Economic Security Risk Assurance tool in accordance with subsection (a)(4).
(2)
Annual briefing
Beginning on December 1, 2027, and each year after for the next three years, the Secretary shall provide the congressional defense committees an annual report on activities, analysis, and findings of the office with primary responsibility for assessing and mitigating risks related to adversarial capital. The report may be provided in classified form and may include any recommendations the Secretary may have to reduce or further mitigate risks related to adversarial capital in the defense industrial base and broader defense innovation base.
843.
Modifications to requirement for public reporting of Chinese military companies operating in the United States
Section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a), by striking  , based on the most recent information available, ;
(2)
in subsection (b)—
(A)
in paragraph (3)(A), by striking  based on the latest information available ; and
(B)
by striking paragraph (4);
(3)
by amending subsection (e) to read as follows:
(e)
Regulations
The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations to implement this section.
 ; and
(4)
in subsection (g)—
(A)
by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (4), and (5) as paragraphs (4), (11), (16), and (20), respectively;
(B)
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraphs:
(2)
Assistance
The term  assistance  means the provision of any benefit, including monetary compensation in the form of grants, loans, subsidies, tax benefits, real property, tangible or intangible property, discounts, employees, sponsored research, or any other preferential treatment.
(3)
Association
The term  association  means a group of two or more entities connected for a common interest.
 ;
(C)
in paragraph (4), as redesignated by subparagraph (A), by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows:
(C)
includes a wholly owned or wholly controlled subsidiary or wholly owned or wholly controlled affiliate of a parent entity or an entity described in subparagraph (B).
 ;
(D)
by inserting after paragraph (4), as so redesignated, the following new paragraphs:
(5)
Contributor to Chinese defense industrial base
The term  contributor to the Chinese defense industrial base —
(A)
means an entity that manufactures, produces, exports, or provides materials, products, or services that—
(i)
can supply, service, or expand China's military-civil fusion strategy; or
(ii)
could be used for military or defense purposes by—
(I)
Chinese military and paramilitary elements, security forces, police, law enforcement, border control, the People’s Armed Police, or the Ministry of State Security; or
(II)
any other organization subordinate to the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, or the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense; and
(B)
may include manufacturing, producing, exporting, or providing materials, products, or services that have a substantial military application, even if—
(i)
the particular technology, product, or service is not directly supplied to or used by an entity described in subclause (I) or (II) of subparagraph (A)(ii); and
(ii)
the particular technology, product, or service also has commercial uses.
(6)
Directly controlled by
The term  directly controlled by , with respect to an entity, means that another entity exercises power over, influences, manages, or guides the business decisions or operations of the entity.
(7)
Formal association
The term  formal association  includes established or recognized relationships between entities, such as joint ventures, standardization or working groups, task forces, consortiums, or partnerships and projects.
(8)
Indirectly controlled by
The term  indirectly controlled by , with respect to an entity, means that another entity exercises power, influence, management, or guidance over the business decisions or operations of the entity through an intermediate entity, subsidiary, or affiliate entity.
(9)
Indirectly owned by
The term  indirectly owned by , with respect to an entity, means ownership of the entity achieved through investment in, or the purchase of shares or economic or voting rights in, the entity through an intermediate entity, subsidiary, or affiliate entity, without regard to—
(A)
the percentage of ownership or number of shares owned; or
(B)
whether such ownership results in control of the entity.
(10)
Informal association
The term  informal association  means a lesser recognized, short-term relationship between entities, such as participation in exhibitions, competitions, or joint demonstrations.
 ;
(E)
in paragraph (11), as redesignated by subparagraph (A)—
(i)
by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (H) as subparagraphs (C) through (I), respectively; and
(ii)
by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the following new paragraphs:
(A)
Entities knowingly receiving assistance or that knowingly received assistance from the Government of China or the Chinese Communist Party through science, technology, research, and industrial efforts that may constitute efforts initiated, granted, or created by, provided under, or related to, the Chinese military industrial planning apparatus, or in furtherance of Chinese military industrial planning objectives.  Single Champion  or  Little Giant  designations associated with Chinese industrial planning, or any other successor selection or designation as an enterprise associated with Chinese industrial planning, may constitute knowing receipt of assistance through science, technology, research, and industrial efforts initiated, granted, or created by, provided under, or related to, the Chinese military industrial planning apparatus or in furtherance of Chinese military industrial planning objectives or military-civil fusion efforts.
(B)
Entities that knowingly contract with, or provide services or components to (including as lower tier suppliers and subcontractors)—
(i)
the People’s Liberation Army, Chinese military and paramilitary elements, security forces, police, law enforcement, border control, the People’s Armed Police, or the Ministry of State Security; or
(ii)
any other organization subordinate to the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, or the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense.
 ;
(F)
by inserting after paragraph (11), as so redesignated, the following new paragraphs:
(12)
Military-civil fusion enterprise zone
The term  military-civil fusion enterprise zone  means a section of territory established by the Government of China for the purpose of advancing China’s policy of military-civil fusion through economic activity.
(13)
Military equipment procurement platform
The term  military equipment procurement platform  means a digital marketplace that advertises or sells equipment, supplies, or services to the military or military suppliers and that are ultimately used by the Chinese military or the Chinese defense industrial base, without regard to whether the platform is established, sponsored, or run by a private entity or the Government of China.
(14)
Military industrial planning apparatus
The term  military industrial planning apparatus  means efforts or policies initiated by the Government of China to expand the Chinese defense industrial base, including military-civil fusion integration of dual-use products, technologies, or services.
(15)
Military industrial planning objective
The term  military industrial planning objective  means a line of effort (such as a plan, mission, or goal) outlined by the Government of China to expand the Chinese defense industrial base, including by integrating dual-use products, technologies, or services into military equipment, programs, or systems.
 ; and
(G)
by inserting after paragraph (16), as redesignated by subparagraph (A), the following new paragraphs:
(17)
Operational direction; policy guidance
The terms  operational direction  and  policy guidance  mean instructions, decisions, proposals, plans, guidance, or requirements on how an entity should conduct operations.
(18)
Owned by
The term  owned by , with respect to an entity, mean ownership of the entity achieved through investment in, or the purchase of shares or economic or voting rights in, the entity, without regard to—
(A)
the percentage of ownership or number of shares owned; or
(B)
whether such ownership results in control of the entity.
(19)
Parent entity
The term  parent entity , with respect to an entity, means another entity that directly or indirectly holds at least 50 percent of the economic interest or at least 50 percent of the voting interest in the entity.
 .
844.
Amendments to requirements pertaining to printed circuit boards
(a)
In general
Section 4873 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a)(1), by inserting  , copper clad laminate, copper foil, or glass  after  printed circuit board ; and
(2)
in subsection (c)—
(A)
in paragraph (2), by striking  that—  and inserting  containing copper foil, copper clad laminates, glass, or any other copper-containing inputs that— ; and
(B)
by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
(7)
Copper clad laminate
 The term  copper clad laminate  means a composite material consisting of copper foil bonded to a dielectric substrate used in the manufacture of printed circuit boards.
(8)
Copper foil
The term  copper foil  means thin sheets of copper used as a conductive layer in copper clad laminates or printed circuit boards.
(9)
Glass
The term  glass  means glass fibers used as a dielectric in copper clad laminates or printed circuit boards.
 .
(b)
Effective Date
The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect on January 1, 2029.
845.
Report on the feasibility and advisability of establishing a strategic partnership on defense industrial priorities between the United States and Israel
(a)
In general
Not later March 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report with a plan for the establishment of a partnership between the Department of Defense and appropriate counterparts of the Government of Israel in order—
(1)
to enhance market opportunities for United States-based and Israeli-based defense technology companies;
(2)
to increase interoperability through dual-use and emerging technologies;
(3)
to counter adversarial development of dual-use defense technologies; and
(4)
in coordination with appropriate counterpart offices of the Israeli Ministry of Defense—
(A)
to enable coordination on defense industrial priorities and set tangible goals for industrial base participation by both nations;
(B)
to highlight partnering opportunities for programs in both nations, and to help navigate country-specific acquisition regulations for partners unfamiliar with the regulatory environment of the other;
(C)
to streamline emerging defense technology research and development;
(D)
to create more effective pathways to market for defense technology startups that allow increased participation in industrial partners from each nation in the industrial bases of the other;
(E)
to collaborate on the development of dual-use defense capabilities through coordination; and
(F)
to leverage other private capital, equity on venture funding opportunities to augment government funds for technology deployment or scaling;
(5)
to create programs that incentivize defense technology companies from both nations to address defense priorities outside of the Middle East; and
(6)
to explore innovative mentor-protégé arrangements that partner companies from each nation to help navigate the acquisition regulatory environment of each nation.
(b)
Feasibility assessment
The report required under subsection (a) shall include an assessment of the feasibility of implementing the plan.
(c)
Briefing
Not later than 30 days after the submission of the report required under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the report’s recommendations on feasibility of a partnership on defense industrial base priorities.
846.
Prohibition on the use of Chinese-manufactured optical fiber by the Department of Defense
(a)
Prohibition
The Secretary of Defense may not procure, obtain, or use optical fiber and optical fiber cable that are produced, manufactured, or assembled by an entity that is owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of the People’s Republic of China for use in Department of Defense information networks or communications systems.
(b)
Applicability
This section applies to—
(1)
the Department of Defense; and
(2)
any contractor or subcontractor at any tier that procures or uses covered optical fiber in the performance of a contract with the Department of Defense.
(c)
Covered optical fiber defined
In this section, the term  covered optical fiber  means single-mode or multi-mode optical fiber and optical fiber cable.
(d)
Implementation
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to require contractor certification and supply-chain disclosure with respect to covered optical fiber.
(e)
Waiver authority
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may grant a waiver to the prohibition under subsection (a) on a case-by-case basis if the Secretary determines that—
(A)
the waiver is necessary for the national security interests of the United States; and
(B)
no practicable alternative exists from a source not described in subsection (a).
(2)
Limitation
A waiver granted under this subsection shall be time limited and scoped to the minimum extent necessary.
(3)
Notice
Not later than 30 days after granting a waiver, the Secretary shall submit written notice to the congressional defense committees describing—
(A)
the justification for the waiver;
(B)
the duration and scope of the waiver; and
(C)
the plan to transition to compliant materials.
(f)
Effective date
This section shall apply to contracts awarded on or after October 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act.
847.
Promoting the United States drone industrial base
Section 848(a)(1) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116–92; 10 USC 4871 note) is amended—
(1)
by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
(B)
uses flight controllers, radios, communication devices, navigation systems, data transmission devices, cameras and sensors, or gimbals manufactured in a covered foreign country or by an entity domiciled in a covered foreign country;
 ;
(2)
by redesignating subparagraphs (C) and (D) as subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively;
(3)
by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new subparagraph:
(C)
uses batteries, battery cells, battery management systems, motors, or electronic speed controllers developed in a covered foreign country or by an entity domiciled in a covered foreign country;
 ;
(4)
in subparagraph (D), as so redesignated, by striking  ; or  and inserting a semicolon; and
(5)
by inserting after subparagraph (E), as so redesignated, the following new subparagraph:
(F)
beginning one year after the date of the enactment of this subparagraph, uses any subcomponents or raw materials, as part of a component listed in subsections (B) through (E) of this section, sourced from, processed in, or manufactured in a covered foreign country or by an entity domiciled in a covered foreign country; or
 .
848.
Pilot program for domestic antimony and copper production for defense applications
(a)
Establishment
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a pilot program to support the recovery of antimony and copper as byproducts of mineral production in the United States.
(b)
Elements
The pilot program required by subsection (a) shall include methods—
(1)
to evaluate multiple processes and techniques for recovery of antimony and copper as byproducts of mineral production;
(2)
to develop process design plans necessary for scaling recovery of antimony and copper to demonstration-level production;
(3)
to generate sample material for independent testing to verify suitability for defense applications; and
(4)
to produce qualified antimony material that meets specifications provided by the Defense Logistics Agency.
(c)
Contracting authority
The Secretary may enter into contracts, cooperative agreements, or other transactions with appropriate entities to implement the pilot program required by subsection (a).
(d)
Termination
The pilot program required by subsection (a) shall terminate not later than five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(e)
Report to Congress
(1)
In general
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the next four years, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the status and findings of the pilot program required by subsection (a).
(2)
Elements
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall include—
(A)
a summary of the progress made under the pilot program required by subsection (a) with respect to recovery and processing of antimony and copper;
(B)
technical and economic assessments with respect to such recovery; and
(C)
recommendations for expanding domestic antimony and copper production and reducing dependency on foreign sources of antimony and copper.
849.
Full accountability for Chinese military companies
Section 1260H of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116–283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note) is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a), by striking  , based on the most recent information available, is operating directly or indirectly in the United States or any of its territories and possessions, ;
(2)
in subsection (b)—
(A)
in paragraph (1), by striking  2030  and inserting  2035 ; and
(B)
by striking paragraph (4);
(3)
by amending subsection (e) to read as follows:
(e)
Regulations
The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations to implement this section.
 ; and
(4)
in subsection (g)—
(A)
by amending paragraph (2)(C) to read as follows:
(C)
includes a majority-owned or majority-controlled subsidiary or majority-owned or majority-controlled affiliate of a parent entity or an entity described in subparagraph (B);
 ; and
(B)
in paragraph (3)—
(i)
by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:
(A)
Entities knowingly receiving assistance or that knowingly received assistance from the Government of China or the Chinese Communist Party through science, technology, research, and industrial efforts that may constitute efforts initiated, granted, or created by, or provided under, or related to, the Chinese military industrial planning apparatus, or in furtherance of Chinese military industrial planning objectives.  Single Champion  or  Little Giant  designations associated with Chinese industrial planning, or any other successor selection or designation as an enterprise associated with Chinese industrial planning, may constitute knowing receipt of assistance through science, technology, research, and industrial efforts initiated, granted, or created by, or provided under, or related to, the Chinese military industrial planning apparatus, or in furtherance of Chinese military industrial planning objectives or military-civil fusion efforts.
 ;
(ii)
by redesignating subparagraph (H) as subparagraph (J);
(iii)
by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (G) as subparagraphs (C) through (H);
(iv)
by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraph:
(B)
Entities that knowingly contract with, or provide services or components, which can include lower tier suppliers and subcontractors, to the People’s Liberation Army, Chinese military and paramilitary elements, security forces, police, law enforcement, border control, the People’s Armed Police, the Ministry of State Security, or any other organization subordinate to the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, or the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense.
 ; and
(v)
by inserting after subparagraph (H), as redesignated by clause (ii), the following new subparagraph:
(I)
Majority-owned or majority-controlled subsidiaries or majority-owned or majority-controlled affiliates of entities described in subparagraphs (A) through (G).
  ; and
(C)
by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
(6)
Assistance
The term  assistance  means benefits from the Government of China, including monetary compensation in the form of grants, loans, subsidies, tax benefits, real property, tangible or intangible property, discounts, employees, sponsored research, or any other preferential treatment.
(7)
Association
The term  association  means a group of two or more entities connected for a common interest.
(8)
Contributor to Chinese defense industrial base
The term  contributor to the Chinese defense industrial base —
(A)
means an entity that manufactures, produces, exports, or provides materials, products, or services that can supply, service, or expand China’s military-civil fusion strategy or that could be used by Chinese military and paramilitary elements, security forces, police, law enforcement, border control, the People’s Armed Police, the Ministry of State Security, or any other organization subordinate to the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, or the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense for military or defense purposes; and
(B)
includes manufacturing, producing, exporting, or providing materials, products, or services that have a substantial military application, even if the particular technology, product, or service is not directly supplied to or used by the Chinese military or defense and even if the particular technology, product, or service also has commercial uses.
(9)
Directly controlled by
The term  directly controlled by  means exercising power over, influencing, managing, or guiding an entity’s business decisions or operations.
(10)
Formal association
The term  formal association  includes established or recognized relationships, such as joint ventures, standardization or working groups, task forces, consortiums, or partnerships and projects with an entity identified in subsection (b)(1).
(11)
Indirectly controlled by
The term  indirectly controlled by  means power, influence, management, or guidance of an entity’s business decisions or operations through an intermediate entity, subsidiary, or affiliate entity.
(12)
Indirectly owned by
The term  indirectly owned by  means ownership achieved through investment in, or the purchase of, shares or economic or voting rights of an entity through an intermediate entity, subsidiary, or affiliate entity, regardless of the percentage of ownership or number of shares owned. Indirect ownership by any entity identified in subsection (b)(1) does not require that such entity hold control of another entity through its ownership.
(13)
Informal association
The term  informal association  means a lesser-recognized, short-term relationship, such as participation in exhibitions, competitions, or joint demonstrations with any entity identified in subsection (b)(1).
(14)
Military-civil fusion enterprise zone
The term  military-civil fusion enterprise zone  means a section of territory established by the Government of China for the purpose of advancing China’s policy of military-civil fusion through economic activity.
(15)
Military equipment procurement platforms
The term  military equipment procurement platforms  means a digital marketplace that advertises or sells equipment, supplies, or services to the military or military suppliers. A digital marketplace can be established by, sponsored by, or run by private entities or the government of China to advertise and sell equipment, supplies, or services that are ultimately used by the Chinese military or the Chinese defense industrial base.
(16)
Military industrial planning apparatus
The term  military industrial planning apparatus  means efforts or policies initiated by the Chinese government to expand the Chinese defense industrial base, including military-civil fusion integration of dual-use products, technologies, or services.
(17)
Military industrial planning objectives
The term  military industrial planning objectives  means lines of effort (such as plans, missions, or goals) outlined by the Chinese government to expand the Chinese defense industrial base, including by integrating dual-use products, technologies, or services into military equipment, programs, or systems.
(18)
Operational guidance; policy guidance
The terms  operational guidance  and  policy guidance  mean instructions, decisions, proposals, plans, guidance, or requirements on how an entity should conduct operations.
(19)
Owned by
The term  owned by  means ownership achieved through investment in, or the purchase of, shares or economic or voting rights in an entity, regardless of the percentage of ownership or number of shares owned. Ownership by any entity identified in subsection (b)(1) does not require that such entity hold control of another entity through its ownership.
(20)
Parent entity
The term  parent entity  includes an entity that directly or indirectly holds at least 50 percent of the economic interest or at least 50 percent of the voting interest of an entity.
 .
D
Small business matters
861.
Department of Defense Mentor-Protege Program
Section 4902 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking  disadvantaged small business  each place it appears and inserting  eligible small business ;
(2)
in subsection (b)—
(A)
in paragraph (1), by striking  Defense contracts and other contracts and subcontracts  and inserting  Defense contracts, subcontracts, agreements, and sub-agreements ; and
(B)
in paragraph (2), by striking  subcontractors and suppliers  and inserting  awardees, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers ;
(3)
in subsection (d)(1)(B)(iii)(I)—
(A)
by striking  Defense contracts  each places it appears and inserting  Defense contracts or agreements ; and
(B)
by striking  the subcontracts  and inserting  the subcontracts or sub-agreements ;
(4)
in subsection (e)(1), by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following new subparagraph:
(B)
An agreement term for a period not to exceed five years.
 ;
(5)
in subsection (f)(1)—
(A)
in subparagraph (B), by striking  ; and  and inserting a semicolon;
(B)
by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (D); and
(C)
by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new subparagraph:
(C)
security compliance matters, such as cybersecurity, export controls, and facility clearances; and
 ;
(6)
in subsection (g)—
(A)
by striking  Defense contract  each place it appears and inserting  Defense contract or agreement ;
(B)
in paragraph (2)—
(i)
by striking  unusual circumstances  each place it appears and inserting  mission needs ; and
(ii)
in subparagraph (B), by striking  program participation  and all that follows through the period and inserting  agreement term under the mentor-protege agreement. ;
(C)
in paragraph (3)(C), by striking  concerns has declined  and inserting  concerns has declined in any relevant category of small business concern under the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.) ;
(D)
in paragraph (4), by striking  would be a small business concern owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals  and inserting  would qualify as a small business concern ;
(7)
in subsection (k)—
(A)
by striking paragraph (7) and inserting the following new paragraph:
(7)
any assistance obtained by the mentor firm for the protege firm from one or more—
(A)
business development, business outreach, or assistance centers or networks for small business concerns established pursuant to the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.);
(B)
entities providing procurement technical assistance pursuant to chapter 388 of this title;
(C)
historically Black colleges or universities, minority institutions of higher education, or other colleges, universities, or institutions of higher education, including innovation and economic development entities of such colleges, universities, or institutions;
(D)
entities providing manufacturing assistance pursuant to section 25 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k(e)) or section 4841 of this title; or
(E)
entities providing research and development assistance pursuant to section 23 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3715) or section 4124(f) of this title.
 ; and
(B)
in paragraph (9), by striking  Defense contracts  and inserting  Defense contracts and agreements ; and
(8)
in subsection (n)—
(A)
by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (9) as paragraphs (3) through (10), respectively;
(B)
by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph:
(2)
Except when referring to a mentor-protege agreement entered into under subsection (e), the term  agreement  means any cooperative agreement, grant, other transaction, prize, or other agreement related to acquisition or to assistance with research and development, production, or manufacturing.
 ; and
(C)
in paragraph (3), as redesignated by subparagraph (A), by striking  its primary North American Industry Classification System code  and inserting  the North American Industry Classification System code pertinent to the objectives of the particular mentor-protege agreement .
862.
APEX Accelerator funding
Section 4955(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (1), by striking  $1,500,000  and inserting  $2,000,000 ;
(2)
in paragraph (2), by striking  $750,000  and inserting  $1,000,000 ; and
(3)
in paragraph (4), by striking  $1,500,000  and inserting  $2,000,000 .
863.
Test program for negotiation of comprehensive small business subcontracting plans
Section 834(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 (Public Law 101–189; 15 U.S.C. 637 note) is amended by striking  December 31, 2027  and inserting  December 31, 2037 .
864.
Application of the bona fide place of business to certain contracts
(a)
In general
Notwithstanding section 8(a)(11) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(a)(11)) and section 124.501(k) of title 13, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor regulation, for purposes of a construction contract awarded by the Department of Defense under such section 8(a), such section 8(a)(11) shall be deemed satisfied if the Program Participant certifies to the Business Opportunity Specialist assigned to the Program Participant that the Program Participant will establish a staffed, physical office in the geographic area required under such section 124.501(k) not later than 60 days after the date of the contract award.
(b)
Sunset
The authority under subsection (a) shall terminate on December 31, 2032.
(c)
Briefing
On an annual basis until the authority under subsection (a) terminates, the Secretary of Defense shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the use of the authority under subsection (a), which shall include—
(1)
uses of the authority and in which geographic location;
(2)
data on the confirmation of the establishment of a physical office within 60 days, as required under subsection (a); and
(3)
any other matters the Secretary of Defense determines relevant.
E
Other matters
871.
Technical corrections related to National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 provisions
(a)
Section 805
Section 805(e)(2)(A) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 10 U.S.C. 3771 note) is amended by striking  by the contractor for are commensurate  and inserting  by the contractor are commensurate .
(b)
Further amendment to National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025
The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159) is amended—
(1)
in section 164(f)(3) (10 U.S.C. 4651 note prec.), as amended by section 162(4) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 769), by inserting  that  before  uses  both places it appears; and
(2)
in section 1522(d)(2)(B)(vi), as amended by section 1521(5) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1156), by striking  disaggregated each element of the  and inserting  disaggregated by each element of the .
(c)
Further amendments to title 10, United States Code
Title 10 of the United States Code is amended—
(1)
in subsection (d) of section 3453, as added by section 1822(a)(3) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1247)—
(A)
by striking  (1) The head of an agency shall establish  and inserting the following: “The head of an agency shall—
(1)
establish
 ;
(B)
by moving subparagraphs (A) and (B) two ems to the right; and
(C)
by moving paragraph (2) two ems to the right;
(2)
in section 3459, as added by section 1824 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1248), by amending subsection (c) to read as follows:
(c)
Definitions
In this subsection—
(1)
The term  subcontract  includes a transfer of commercial products and commercial services between divisions, subsidiaries, or affiliates of a contractor or subcontractor and does not include other supply agreements; and
(2)
The term  other supply agreements  does not include any agreement entered into by a contractor or subcontractor for the supply of products or services that are intended for use in the performance of multiple contracts with the Department of Defense or with other parties, and that are not identifiable to any particular contract.
 ;
(3)
in section 3702(a), as amended by section 1804(c) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1234), by striking  $2,000,000  in paragraph (4) and inserting  $10,000,000 ; and
(4)
in section 4023(b), as amended by section 1831 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1253), is amended by striking  Chapter 137 of this title applies  and inserting  Legacy provisions of chapter 137 of this title apply .
872.
Limitation on availability of funds pending implementation of certain requirements relating to munitions
(a)
In general
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, defense-wide, and available for the Office of the Secretary of Defense for travel expenses, not more than 90 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of Defense submits to the congressional defense committees—
(1)
the report required under section 364 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 834) detailing the stockpiles of critical munitions required to fight simultaneous conflicts in different theaters of operation and a plan to implement critical munitions requirements to fight simultaneous conflicts in the next budget cycle; and
(2)
a certification that the requirement under paragraph (9) of section 222c of title 10, United States Code, as added by section 361 of such Act (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 833), to modify Out-Year Unconstrained Total Munitions Requirement and Out-Year inventory numbers to include an estimate of the annual aggregate demand from United States allies and partners has been met.
873.
Repeal of amendments providing for submission by subcontract offeror of recent price history in satisfaction of cost or pricing data requirements
Section 3702(a)(3) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking  (A) An offeror  and inserting  An offeror ;
(2)
by striking subparagraph (B); and
(3)
by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively.
874.
Competitive procedures for certain pharmaceutical contracts
(a)
Prohibition
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that any contract awarded for the purpose of pharmaceutical drug, active pharmaceutical ingredients, or other pharmaceutical materials stockpiling, manufacturing, onshoring, or supply chain expansion, is awarded using competitive sourcing procedures.
(b)
Notification requirement
Not later than 15 days before awarding a contract described in subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a written notification including—
(1)
a description of the scope of work to be performed under the contract;
(2)
the anticipated value of the contract; and
(3)
the statutory or regulatory authorities under which the contract will be awarded.
875.
Enhancement of defense supply chain resilience and secondary source qualification
Subsection (f) of section 865 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 4811 note), is amended to read as follows:
(f)
Expedited Qualification Panel
(1)
In general
Not later than June 30, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the secretaries of the military departments and the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency, shall establish a program to expedite the processing of certain Source Approval Requests. The program shall provide that a Source Approval Request Package submitted by an applicant and meeting the requirements under paragraph (2) shall be subject to the expedited source approval process set under paragraph (3) and may be eligible for the incentives described in paragraph (4) .
(2)
Qualifying Source Approval Request Packages
Any Source Approval Request, regardless of category, for an item of supply that is not a critical safety item shall be classified as a Qualifying Source Approval Request Package if it meets the following requirements (as determined by the Secretary concerned):
(A)
Manufacturer of record
The applicant is a manufacturer of record for the proposed subject item of supply.
(B)
Approved Source Approval Request template
The Source Approval Request is submitted on a standardized template for expedited Source Approval Requests. The standardized templates shall be published by each military department not later than April 1, 2027, and shall include all information required for the supply chain risk management review referenced in subsection (f)(3)(D) of this section on an expedited basis.
(C)
Qualified Engineering Designee certification
A Qualified Engineering Designee certifies in writing that the engineering data included in the applicable Source Approval Request, including the technical data Package, conforms to the applicable Technical Data Package or reverse engineering standards required of such item of supply.
(D)
Manufacturing certification
The applicant, or the relevant majority-owned manufacturing subsidiary, holds a current AS9100 Rev D certification (or successor standard) issued by an accredited third-party certification body.
(E)
Small business parity and market competition
The Secretary of Defense shall establish mechanisms to ensure fair access for small businesses, such as subsidized engineering reviews or a waiver of designee fees for qualifying small businesses.
(3)
Expedited Source Approval process
Not later than 7 days after receiving a Source Approval Request purporting to be a Qualifying Source Approval Request Package, the Secretary concerned shall determine whether the Source Approval Request qualifies for such treatment. A qualifying Source Approval Request Package shall be subject to the following Expedited Source Approval Process:
(A)
A qualifying Source Approval Request Package shall be referred to an Expedited Qualification Panel for the military department, which shall be established by the Secretary concerned by not later than June 30, 2027.
(B)
Absent the Expedited Qualification Panel’s written determination to the applicant that additional engineering evaluation is required solely based on either the criticality or novelty and complexity of the item of supply, the Qualified Engineering Designee’s certification under paragraph (2)(C) shall constitute the full engineering evaluation necessary for such Expedited Qualification Panel’s review of the Qualifying Source Approval Request Package.
(C)
Not later than 14 days after receipt of a Qualifying Source Approval Request Package, the applicable Expedited Qualification Panel shall issue a determination on whether to grant approval or disapproval of the Source Approval Request.
(D)
(i)
The 14-day timeline for final determination shall be paused for a maximum of 30 days to allow for the completion of a comprehensive supply chain risk management and foreign ownership, control, or influence assessment.
(ii)
For qualifying items, particularly non-commercial items with an anticipated contract value exceeding $5,000,000, this review timeframe shall align with standard Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency review schedules to ensure the applicant poses no risk to the Department.
(4)
Complete Technical Data Package incentives
(A)
In general
If a Qualifying Source Approval Request Package that meets the requirements of paragraph (2) also includes delivery of a Complete Technical Data Package and Government purpose rights to such Complete Technical Data Package, and such Qualifying Source Approval Request Package receives a determination of full approval pursuant to paragraph (3)(C), the Defense Logistics Agency, the Secretary concerned, or relevant head of contracting activity shall award to the manufacturer of record a firm-fixed-price indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract for the item of supply which is the subject of such qualifying Source Approval Request Package.
(B)
Contract terms
A contract awarded under subparagraph (A) shall include the following terms:
(i)
Pricing
The unit price shall not exceed 90 percent of the weighted average unit price paid by the Defense Logistics Agency for the item of supply during the two-year period preceding the date of receipt of the Qualifying Source Approval Request Package.
(ii)
Minimum quantity
A guaranteed minimum annual order quantity of not less than 60 percent of the average annual quantity of the item of supply ordered by the Defense Logistics Agency during the 3-year period preceding the date of receipt of the Qualifying Source Approval Request Package.
(iii)
Length
A period of performance of three years.
(iv)
Deviations
Clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) may be deviated from at the discretion of the contracting activity as necessary to establish the awardee as a viable source of supply if it is determined by the contracting activity to be in the best interest of the Government and is bilaterally negotiated with the awardee.
(C)
Competition authority
The award of a contract under this subsection is authorized notwithstanding the requirements of section 3201 of title 10, United States Code, and no justification and approval under section 3204(e) of title 10, United States Code, shall be required for such award.
(5)
Report
Not later than January 1, 2028, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments and the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report containing an evaluation of the program under this subsection, which shall include a quantitative evaluation of—
(A)
the number of Source Approval Request Packages processed;
(B)
average time to qualification compared to prior to the inception of the program;
(C)
processing cost per Source Approval Request review;
(D)
impact on part unit cost; and
(E)
mission readiness.
(6)
Definitions
In this subsection:
(A)
The term  Complete Technical Data Package  means a Technical Data Package that includes a complete set of engineering data, drawings, specifications, inspection criteria, test procedures, quality assurance provisions, and other technical information sufficient to enable a qualified manufacturer to produce an item of supply that conforms to the original design requirements.
(B)
The term  criticality  means any item of supply which should be a critical safety item.
(C)
The term  critical safety item  means any item of supply that is either an aviation critical safety item or ship critical safety item, as those terms are defined in section 3243 of title 10, United States Code.
(D)
The term  Government purpose rights  has the meaning given that term in section 252.227–7013(a) of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations.
(E)
The term  manufacturer of record  means an entity, or its majority-owned subsidiary, which shall directly, or indirectly through a majority-owned subsidiary, perform the fabrication or manufacture of the item of supply for which such Source Approval Request is being sought.
(F)
The term  novelty and complexity  means any Source Approval Request Package where the proposed Package introduces a material change in the form, fit, or function relative to the Technical Data Package or reverse engineering standards of such item of supply.
(G)
The term  Qualified Engineering Designee  means an individual who—
(i)
holds a current appointment as a Designated Engineering Representative issued by the Federal Aviation Administration under part 183 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, in the technical discipline for which the Source Approval Request is being made; or
(ii)
holds an equivalent certification or certifications reflecting engineering competence in an applicable technical field and independence obligations substantially equivalent to the process by which the Federal Aviation Administration appoints Designated Engineering Representatives, as determined by the Secretary of Defense pursuant to an application and qualification process established not later than March 31, 2027, that includes, at a minimum—
(I)
eight years of engineering experience in the technical discipline for which the Source Approval Request is being made;
(II)
knowledge and experience relating to the processing of engineering data involving the qualification of parts or systems within such technical discipline; and
(III)
an engineering degree or equivalent relevant to such technical discipline.
 .
876.
Limitation pending Army conformance with portfolio acquisition executive requirements
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for operation and maintenance, Army, and available for travel expenses for the Office of the Secretary of the Army, not more than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of the Army certifies to the congressional defense committees that all portfolio acquisition executives of the Army are certified acquisition officials in accordance with section 1732 of title 10, United States Code.
877.
Procurement of medical countermeasures for overseas personnel of the Department of Defense for acute radiation syndrome and thermal burns
(a)
In general
Subject to appropriations for such purpose, the Secretary of Defense may procure, pre-position, sustain, and maintain medical countermeasures that are determined to be requirements pursuant to section 734(a) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1071 note).
(b)
Use of funds
Amounts subject to appropriation under subsection (a) may be used only for medical countermeasures that are identified by the Secretary of Defense, through the program established under subsection (a) of section 734 of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 1071 note), as requirements for covered personnel, as defined in subsection (c) of such section.
(c)
Authorized activities
Amounts subject to appropriation under subsection (a) may be used for—
(1)
procurement and advanced procurement of medical countermeasures to diagnose, prevent, and treat acute radiation syndrome, cutaneous radiation injury, and thermal burns;
(2)
stockpiling, pre-positioning, storage, and replenishment;
(3)
lifecycle sustainment and maintenance; and
(4)
activities necessary to ensure deployment readiness and effective operational use of such countermeasures.
878.
Procurements on behalf of the Department of Defense by the Department of Veterans Affairs for planning, design, and construction projects
Section 801(d) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (Public Law 110–181; 10 U.S.C. 3201 note prec.) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(3)
In the case of the procurement of property or services on behalf of the Department of Defense by the Department of Veterans Affairs for planning, design, and construction projects, a certificate of compliance shall not be required.
 .
879.
Leasing of vessels, aircraft, and combat vehicles
Section 3671(b)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows:
(D)
the Secretary has certified to such committees that—
(i)
entering into the proposed contract provides an accelerated delivery schedule or is the most cost-efficient means of obtaining the vessel, aircraft, or combat vehicle; and
(ii)
the Secretary has determined that the lease complies with all applicable laws, Office of Management and Budget circulars, and Department of Defense regulations.
 .
880.
Prohibition on modems or routers acquisitions involving entities owned or controlled by China
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may not acquire any modem or router if the manufacturer, bidder, or offeror is a covered Chinese entity.
(b)
Applicability
This section shall apply only with respect to contracts or other agreements entered into, renewed, or extended after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered Chinese entity
The term  covered Chinese entity  means an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the National Intelligence or the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, determines to be an entity owned, controlled, directed, or subcontracted by, affiliated with, or otherwise connected to, the Government of the People’s Republic of China.
(2)
Manufacturer
The term  manufacturer  means—
(A)
the entity that transforms raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item;
(B)
any entity that subcontracts with the entity described in subparagraph (A) for the entity described in such subparagraph to transform raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item;
(C)
any entity that otherwise directs the entity described in subparagraph (A) to transform raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item; or
(D)
any parent company, subsidiary, or affiliate of the entity described in subparagraph (A).
(3)
Modem
The term  modem  means a modulator-demodulator, digital-to-analog, and back, signal converter that allows computers to communicate over telephone wires or cable TV cable.
(4)
Router
The term  router  means a device that connects two or more packet-switched networks or subnetworks, serving the two primary functions of—
(A)
managing traffic between these networks by forwarding data packets to their intended IP addresses; and
(B)
allowing multiple devices to use the same Internet connection.
881.
Prohibition on television acquisitions involving entities owned or controlled by China
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense may not acquire any television if the manufacturer, bidder, or offeror is a covered Chinese entity.
(b)
Applicability
This section shall apply only with respect to contracts or other agreements entered into, renewed, or extended after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered chinese entity
The term  covered Chinese entity  means an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the National Intelligence or the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, determines to be an entity owned, controlled, directed, or subcontracted by, affiliated with, or otherwise connected to, the Government of the People’s Republic of China.
(2)
Manufacturer
The term  manufacturer  means an entity that—
(A)
transforms raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item;
(B)
subcontracts with an entity described in subparagraph (A) for the entity described in such subparagraph to transform raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item;
(C)
otherwise directs an entity described in subparagraph (A) to transform raw materials, miscellaneous parts, or components into the end item; or
(D)
is a parent company, subsidiary, or affiliate of an entity described in subparagraph (A).
(3)
Television
The term  television  has the meaning given the term  Television set or TV  in section 430.2 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations.
882.
Prohibition for defense contractors providing sensitive information related to synthetic biology to foreign entities of concern
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall prohibit a covered entity from providing to a foreign entity of concern a digital sequence of synthetic DNA or RNA or a synthetic protein designed by humans or artificial intelligence systems.
(b)
Waiver
The Secretary may waive the prohibition under subsection (a) if the Secretary—
(1)
determines the waiver is in the national security interests of the United States; and
(2)
not less than 30 days before the waiver takes effect, notifies the congressional defense committees with respect to the waiver and the determination under paragraph (1).
(c)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
Covered entity
The term  covered entity  means any entity that does any work with the Department of Defense under a contract, grant, cooperative agreement, or other federally awarded vehicle, including an agreement authorized under section 4021 or 4022 of title 10, United States Code, a cooperative research and development agreement, or a material transfer agreement.
(2)
Digital sequence
The term  digital sequence  means a binary file or other digital representation containing symbols representing the identity, order, and any chemical modification for each position in a DNA, RNA, or protein molecule.
(3)
Foreign country of concern
The term  foreign country of concern  has the meaning given that term in section 10612(a) of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (42 U.S.C. 19221(a)).
(4)
Foreign entity of concern
The term  foreign entity of concern  means—
(A)
a government entity of a foreign country of concern;
(B)
a foreign person subject to the jurisdiction of, or organized under the laws of, a foreign country of concern; or
(C)
a foreign person owned, directed, or controlled by an entity described in subparagraph (A) or (B).
(5)
Synthetic DNA or RNA
The term  synthetic DNA or RNA  means—
(A)
molecules that are constructed by joining nucleic acid molecules and can replicate in a living cell, such as recombinant nucleic acids;
(B)
nucleic acid molecules that are chemically or by other means synthesized, including such molecules that are chemically or otherwise modified but can base pair with naturally occurring nucleic acid molecules, such as synthetic nucleic acids; or
(C)
molecules that result from the replication or derivation of molecules described in subparagraph (A) or (B).
(6)
Synthetic protein
The term  synthetic protein  means a non-naturally occurring sequence of amino acids, including short sequences that may combine natural and non-natural amino acids.
883.
Reporting on contractor operations related to China
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall require any entity entering into a covered contract with the Department of Defense to submit a report on the entity's operations related to China, including—
(1)
sales revenue from China;
(2)
profit attributable to its China business;
(3)
assets held or located in China;
(4)
liabilities associated with China business;
(5)
investments in Chinese entities;
(6)
loans from Chinese entities;
(7)
the number of suppliers located in China down to the second tier of subcontracting; and
(8)
the number of Chinese citizen employees, whether located in China or elsewhere and including both regular and contract employees.
(b)
Reporting to Congress
The Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report aggregating the information reported pursuant to subsection (a).
(c)
Covered contract defined
In this section, the term  covered contract  means a contract for a major defense acquisition program, as that term is defined in section 4201 of title 10, United States Code.
884.
Ensuring Department of Defense contractor compliance with disability hiring goals
(a)
In general
For each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct an audit of the compliance of the contractors of the Department of Defense with the 7-percent utilization goal for employment of qualified individuals with disabilities by contractors established by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs of the Department of Labor under section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 793).
(b)
Reports
Not later than 5 months after the end of a fiscal year for which the Secretary of Defense was required to conduct an audit under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the findings of such audit.
IX
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT
A
Office of the Secretary of Defense and Related Matters
901.
Economic Defense Unit
(a)
In general
Chapter 4 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
149a.
Economic Defense Unit
(a)
Establishment
There is established in the Department of Defense an Economic Defense Unit (in this section referred to as the  Unit ).
(b)
Director
(1)
In general
The head of the Unit shall be the Director (in this section referred to as the  Director ).
(2)
Appointment
The Director shall be appointed by the Secretary of Defense from among—
(A)
employees in Senior Executive Service positions (as defined in section 3132 of title 5); or
(B)
individuals from outside the civil service who have successfully held equivalent positions with relevant experience in strategic planning, economic planning and analysis, or similar activities in the private sector, another component of the Department of Defense, or another Federal agency.
(3)
Authority of Director
The Director—
(A)
shall serve as a principal staff assistant to advise the Secretary on matters within the responsibilities of the Unit;
(B)
shall report directly to the Deputy Secretary of Defense without intervening authority; and
(C)
may communicate views on matters within the responsibilities of the Unit directly to the Deputy Secretary without obtaining the approval or concurrence of any other official within the Department of Defense.
(4)
Limitation on holding multiple offices
The Director may not hold any other office or title.
(c)
Responsibilities
(1)
In general
The Unit shall be responsible for the following:
(A)
Coordinating among, and harmonizing economic competition activities by, components of the Department of Defense, including by serving as a co-chair of the National Defense Economic Competition Research Council.
(B)
Developing and maintaining requirements for economic competition activities to reinforce military advantage, including requirements described in subsection (d).
(C)
Developing and maintaining a campaign plan for economic competition activities to reinforce military advantage.
(D)
Conducting or sponsoring analyses and other net assessment activities to scope economic competition activities, gaps, needs, or requirements related to activities of the United States, allies of the United States, or adversaries.
(E)
Directing the execution of economic competition activities.
(F)
Developing programming and budget submissions for economic competition activities.
(G)
Advising the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary with respect to economic competition activities, including with respect to coordinating integration of economic competition requirements or programs into joint and interagency planning activities.
(H)
Acting as the principal interlocutor for interagency activities related to economic competition activities.
(I)
Leading outreach of the Department of Defense to relevant private actors engaged in economic competition activities, including by liaising with private actors under section 1047 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117–263; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).
(J)
Sponsoring or conducting regular tabletop exercises related to economic competition activities in order—
(i)
to assess the economic impacts of decisions of the Department of Defense during crises and conflicts;
(ii)
to evaluate the economic tools available to the United States Government to augment the capabilities of the Department of Defense in competition, crises, and conflicts; or
(iii)
to evaluate planning scenarios or concept development, including to test proposed doctrine, tactics, or other nonmaterial approaches for economic competition activities that might be used by the Department of Defense.
(K)
Selecting economic competition activities projects to be carried out using funds made available to the Unit, allocating funds to organizations to carry out such projects, and monitoring the execution of such projects.
(L)
Serving as the co-chair of the National Security Capital Forum.
(M)
Regularly updating the National Security Council and relevant Federal agencies with respect to the economic competition activities of the Department of Defense.
(2)
No responsibility for negotiating equity investments
The Unit—
(A)
shall not be responsible for negotiating or executing any agreements related to—
(i)
taking an equity interest in an entity; or
(ii)
using debt instruments, warrants, options, and other rights to acquire an equity interest in an entity; and
(B)
shall work with and through existing entities within the Department established to negotiate and execute such agreements.
(d)
Economic competition requirements
(1)
In general
The requirements for economic competition activities developed and maintained by the Unit under subsection (c)(1)(B) may include requirements for—
(A)
access, basing, and overflight;
(B)
countering mobilization of adversaries;
(C)
countering modernization of adversaries;
(D)
countering defense industrial base activities by adversaries;
(E)
ensuring the access of the United States to critical materials and capabilities; and
(F)
such other matters as the Director considers appropriate.
(2)
Consultations
In developing requirements for economic competition activities under subsection (c)(1)(B), the Director shall consult—
(A)
integrated priorities lists from combatant commanders derived from operational plans or theater campaign plans;
(B)
integrated priorities lists of defense industrial base shortfalls or investment opportunities; and
(C)
the outcomes of experimentation events, science and technology activities, and examinations of issues of economic competition by concept development organizations.
(e)
Staffing
In consultation with the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary, the Director shall ensure—
(1)
staffing of the Unit with individuals with relevant expertise and experience, including a diversified mix of individuals with expertise in—
(A)
financial analysis;
(B)
national security economics;
(C)
intelligence analysis;
(D)
international business or finance;
(E)
campaign planning;
(F)
military operations;
(G)
supply chain planning or risk management; and
(H)
complex real estate or construction mega-projects; and
(2)
such individuals are vetted for and abide by conflict-of-interest regulations prescribed under subsection (f) specifically for the Unit to protect the significantly sensitive nature of the economic data and decision-making conducted by staff of the Unit.
(f)
Conflict-of-interest regulations
(1)
In general
The Director shall submit to the congressional defense committees—
(A)
not later than July 1, 2027, interim conflict-of-interest regulations required by subsection (e)(2) applicable to the staff of the Unit; and
(B)
not later than January 31, 2028, final such regulations.
(2)
Updates
The conflict-of-interest regulations prescribed under subparagraph (A) shall be updated not less frequently than once every three years.
(g)
Reporting requirements
(1)
Quarterly briefings
Not less frequently than quarterly, the Director shall provide to the Secretary and the congressional defense committees a briefing on, for the quarter preceding the briefing—
(A)
the activities of the Unit;
(B)
the outcomes of and advances resulting from such activities; and
(C)
work product of the Unit.
(2)
Annual reports
Not less frequently than annually, the Director shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the matters described in subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) of paragraph (1) for the year preceding submission of the report.
(h)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to confer upon the Director or the Unit any new authority beyond planning, coordinating, and advising the Department of Defense with respect to economic competition activities.
(i)
Economic competition activities defined
In this section, the term  economic competition activities  means actions that are taken to reinforce military advantage in and through the economic domain, including such actions taken—
(1)
to leverage private capital and market actors;
(2)
to acquire or procure items;
(3)
to protect or enhance the economic or technological advantage of the United States or allies of the United States;
(4)
in the information environment or cyber environment or as other sensitive operations; or
(5)
to leverage interagency authorities.
 .
(b)
Personnel management authority
Section 4092(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(12)
Economic Defense Unit
The Director of the Economic Defense Unit may carry out a program of personnel management authority provided in subsection (b) in order to facilitate recruitment of eminent experts described in section 149a(e) of this title.
 .
(c)
National Defense Economic Competition Research Council
Section 228(c) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note) is amended—
(1)
by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
(1)
Chair
The Director of the Economic Defense Unit shall be the chair of the Council.
 ; and
(2)
in paragraph (2)—
(A)
by redesignating subparagraphs (A) through (N) as clauses (i) through (xiv), respectively, and by moving such clauses, as so redesignated, two ems to the right; and
(B)
by striking  The co-chairs  and all that follows through  the following:  and inserting in the following: “The Council shall include the following:
(A)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.
(B)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
(C)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment.
(D)
Representatives from each of the following:
 .
(d)
National Security Capital Forum
Section 1092(b) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118–159; 10 U.S.C. 149 note) is amended to read as follows:
(b)
Co-chairs
The Director of the Office of Strategic Capital and the Director of the Economic Defense Unit shall serve as co-chairs of the Forum established under subsection (a).
 .
902.
Extension of pilot program on capital assistance of Office of Strategic Capital
Section 149(e)(9) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  2028  each place it appears and inserting  2038 .
903.
Requirement for professional code of conduct for certain Department of Defense positions
(a)
In general
Not later than August 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall develop a professional code of conduct for individuals serving in positions in the Department of Defense specified in subsection (c), or adopt or modify an existing code of conduct to apply to those positions, to ensure that individuals in those positions have clear guidance on the ethics and standards governing their professional behavior.
(b)
Elements
In developing, or adopting or modifying, a code of conduct under subsection (a), the Secretary shall ensure that the code—
(1)
reinforces the need for integrity, competence, diligence, and exercise of care in professional judgment by individuals serving in positions specified in subsection (c) in all actions representing the United States Government;
(2)
ensures the integrity of decision-making by those individuals and of data generated by those individuals that affects global capital markets;
(3)
requires those individuals to avoid any action that would potentially distort markets or lead to the perception of distorting or manipulating markets;
(4)
requires those individuals to, as representatives of the United States Government, take all care and caution to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest; and
(5)
ensures those individuals conduct thorough documentation of—
(A)
all actions taken by those individuals while serving in the positions specified in subsection (c); and
(B)
all communication between those individuals and other government entities; and
(C)
all communication between those individuals and the private sector.
(c)
Positions specified
A position specified in this subsection is any position of an employee or contractor in any of the following components of the Department of Defense:
(1)
The Economic Defense Unit.
(2)
The Office of Strategic Capital.
(3)
The Office of Expanded Competition.
(4)
The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy.
(d)
Briefing required
Not later than September 15, 2027, the Secretary of Defense shall provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees regarding—
(1)
the implementation of the code of conduct required by subsection (a);
(2)
the number of employees and contractors covered by that code; and
(3)
the process the Department of Defense will use to regulate breaches of that code.
904.
Redesignation of Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness; reorganization of Assistant Secretaries of Defense
(a)
Redesigation of Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness as Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs
(1)
In general
Section 136 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
in the section heading, by striking
Readiness   and inserting
Health Affairs  ; and
(B)
by striking  and Readiness  each place it appears and inserting  and Health Affairs .
(2)
References
Any reference in any law or regulation to the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness or the office of that Under Secretary shall, on and after the effective date described in subsection (d), be deemed to be a reference to Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs or the office of that Under Secretary, as the case may be.
(3)
Conforming amendments
Title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
by striking  Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness  each place it appears and inserting  Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs ; and
(B)
by striking  Under Secretary for Personnel and Readiness  each place it appears and inserting  Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs .
(b)
Reorganization of Assistant Secretaries of Defense
(1)
Establishment of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness
(A)
Establishment
Section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(10)
One of the Assistant Secretaries is the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness, who shall report directly to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics. The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness shall serve as the principal advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics and the Secretary of Defense on all matters relating to the sustainment and readiness of the armed forces.
 .
(B)
Responsibility for functions of Assistant Secretaries of Defense for Sustainment and for Readiness
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness shall exercise—
(i)
all functions vested in the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment before the date of the enactment of this Act, including responsibility for logistics, materiel readiness, maintenance policy, transportation, and related sustainment activities; and
(ii)
all functions transferred from the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness under paragraph (3)(B), including responsibility for military readiness reporting, readiness policy, training support, and related readiness activities.
(2)
Redesignation of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment
(A)
In general
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment, within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act), is redesignated as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness, as established by paragraph (10) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1)(A).
(B)
References
Any reference in any law, regulation, guidance, directive, or other document to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment shall, on and after the effective date described in subsection (d), be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness.
(3)
Elimination of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness
(A)
In general
The position of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act) is eliminated.
(B)
Transfer of functions
All functions, duties, powers, and authorities of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness are transferred to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness established by paragraph (10) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1)(A).
(C)
References
Any reference in any law, regulation, guidance, directive, or other document to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness shall, on and after the effective date described in subsection (d), be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment and Readiness established by paragraph (10) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1)(A).
(4)
Establishment of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy
Section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as amended by paragraph (1)(A), is further amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(11)
(A)
One of the Assistant Secretaries is the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy, who shall serve as a principal assistant secretary within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs.
(B)
The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy shall be appointed from among persons who have substantial experience in military housing, personnel policy, or related fields.
(C)
Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Health Affairs, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy shall have, as the principal duties of the Assistant Secretary, the overall supervision of the policy and programs of the Department of Defense relating to—
(D)
privatized military housing under subchapter IV of chapter 169 of this title, including any privatized military family housing programs;
(E)
unaccompanied personnel housing, including the management, oversight, and policy for all unaccompanied housing programs of the Department;
(F)
travel regulations, including policies and entitlements with respect to permanent changes of station and related travel programs;
(G)
the Defense Travel Management Office and all Department-wide travel management programs; and
(H)
the Defense Personal Property Program, including the household goods and personally procured move programs.
 .
(5)
Designation of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy Chief Housing Officer
(A)
In general
Section 2851a(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment  and inserting  the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy .
(B)
Transfer of Chief Housing Officer functions
All functions, duties, and authorities vested in the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment in the capacity of Chief Housing Officer of the Department of Defense are transferred to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy established by paragraph (11) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (4).
(C)
References
Any reference in any law, regulation, guidance, directive, or other document to the Chief Housing Officer or to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment acting in the capacity of the Chief Housing Officer shall, on and after the effective date described in subsection (d), be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Housing, Personnel Movement, and Travel Policy established by paragraph (11) of section 138(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (4).
(c)
Implementation
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall—
(1)
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a plan for implementing this section and the amendments made by this section; and
(2)
revise Department of Defense Directive 5124.02 (relating to the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness) and any other relevant documents issued by the Department in accordance with that plan.
(d)
Effective date
(1)
In general
This section (other than subsection (c)), and the amendments made by this section, shall take effect on January 20, 2029.
(2)
Authority for early implementation
Notwithstanding the effective date described in paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense may implement any provision of or amendment made by this section before that effective date if the Secretary determines that doing so is in the best interests of the Department of Defense.
905.
Responsibility for cyber matters in Office of Secretary of Defense
(a)
Establishment of Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks
(1)
Office of secretary of defense
Section 131(b) of title 10, United States Code is amended—
(A)
in paragraph (3), by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
(G)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.
 ;
(B)
by striking paragraph (5); and
(C)
by redesignating paragraphs (6) through (9) as paragraphs (5) through (8), respectively.
(2)
Under secretary
Chapter 4 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 133b the following:
133c.
Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks
(a)
Under secretary of defense
There is an Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks, appointed from civilian life by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Under Secretary shall be appointed from among persons who have an extensive background in management, cyber operations, information technology, or related fields, and have experience with managing complex programs or organizations. A person may not be appointed as Under Secretary within seven years after relief from active duty as a commissioned officer of a regular component of an armed force.
(b)
Duties and powers
Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary of Defense, the Under Secretary shall perform such duties and exercise such powers as the Secretary may prescribe, including—
(1)
serving as the Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of Defense, with the authorities and responsibilities specified in section 146 of this title;
(2)
serving as the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense, with the authorities and responsibilities specified in section 142 of this title;
(3)
establishing Department of Defense-wide policy, strategy, and investment priorities for the adoption and integration of artificial intelligence and data strategy and management capabilities, including the development and implementation of a comprehensive data strategy to enable decision advantage across the Department;
(4)
establishing and enforcing Department-wide cybersecurity policy, standards, and programs, and the coordination of cybersecurity standards and policies with other Federal agencies, coalition partners, and industry;
(5)
providing strategic direction and policy for the information technology enterprise of the Department, including network modernization, cloud adoption, collaboration capabilities, and the development, fielding, and scaling of digital services and software capabilities across the Department; and
(6)
establishing policy and strategy for the recruitment, development, and retention of the cyber and information technology workforce of the Department, including the Cyber Excepted Service and related workforce development programs.
(c)
Precedence in department of defense
(1)
Precedence in matters of responsibility
With regard to all matters for which the Under Secretary has responsibility by the direction of the Secretary of Defense or by law, the Under Secretary takes precedence in the Department of Defense after the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary of Defense.
(2)
Precedence in other matters
With regard to all matters other than the matters for which the Under Secretary has responsibility by the direction of the Secretary or by law, the Under Secretary takes precedence in the Department of Defense after the Secretary, the Deputy Secretary, and the Secretaries of the military departments.
(d)
Organization of office of under secretary
The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks shall consist of the following:
(1)
An Assistant Secretary of Defense for Networks, Infrastructure, and Enterprise Software.
(2)
An Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy.
(3)
An Assistant Secretary of Defense for Resources and Forces.
(4)
The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer of the Department of Defense, who shall serve as the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer and the Chief Data Officer of the Department of Defense, and who shall report directly to the Under Secretary.
(5)
The Chief Information Security Officer of the Department of Defense, who shall report directly to the Under Secretary.
 .
(3)
Deputy under secretary
Section 137a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
in subsection (a)(1), by striking  six  and inserting  seven ; and
(B)
in subsection (c), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(7)
One of the Deputy Under Secretaries is the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.
 .
(4)
Assistant secretary
Section 138 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
in subsection (a)(1), by striking  20  and inserting  21 ; and
(B)
by amending subsection (b)(9) to read as follows:
(9)
One of the Assistant Secretaries is the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy. The Assistant Secretary shall report directly to the Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.
 .
(b)
Principal cyber advisor
(1)
In general
Chapter 4 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 145 the following new section:
146.
Principal Cyber Advisor and Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor
(a)
Principal cyber advisor
(1)
Establishment
There is a Principal Cyber Advisor of the Department of Defense.
(2)
Responsibilities
The Principal Cyber Advisor shall do the following:
(A)
Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary of Defense, exercise authority, direction, and control over all cyber-peculiar administrative matters relating to the organization, training, and equipping of cyber forces across the military departments and the United States Cyber Command.
(B)
Act as the principal civilian advisor to the Secretary on all cyber matters, including military cyber forces and activities.
(C)
After the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary, serve as the principal cyber official within the senior management of the Department of Defense.
(D)
Execute overall integration of the activities of cyberspace operations forces, including associated policy and operational considerations, resources, personnel, technology development and transition, and acquisition.
(E)
Develop, assess, and oversee the implementation of the cyber strategy of the Department and execution of the cyber posture review of the Department on behalf of the Secretary.
(F)
Coordinate activities pursuant to subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (3) with the Principal Information Operations Advisor and other officials as determined by the Secretary, to ensure the integration of activities in support of cyber, information technology, information, and electromagnetic spectrum operations.
(G)
Undertake such other matters relating to the cyberspace operations forces of the Department as the Secretary shall specify for the purposes of this subsection.
(3)
Cross-functional team
Consistent with section 911 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 10 U.S.C. 111 note), the Principal Cyber Advisor shall—
(A)
integrate the cyber expertise and perspectives of appropriate organizations within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Staff, the military departments, the Defense Agencies, the Department of Defense Field Activities, and the combatant commands, by establishing and maintaining a full-time cross-functional team of subject-matter experts from those organizations; and
(B)
select team members, and designate a team leader, from among those personnel nominated by the heads of such organizations.
(4)
Budget review
(A)
Transmittal of proposed budgets
The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), shall require the Secretaries of the military departments and the heads of the Defense Agencies with responsibilities associated with any activity specified in paragraph (2) to transmit the proposed budget for such activities for a fiscal year and for the period covered by the future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of this title for that fiscal year to the Principal Cyber Advisor for review under subparagraph (B) before submitting the proposed budget to the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller).
(B)
Review of proposed budgets
The Principal Cyber Advisor shall review each proposed budget transmitted under subparagraph (A) and, not later than January 31 of the year preceding the fiscal year for which the budget is proposed, shall submit to the Secretary of Defense a report containing the comments of the Principal Cyber Advisor with respect to all such proposed budgets, together with the certification of the Principal Cyber Advisor regarding whether each proposed budget is adequate.
(C)
Report required
Not later than March 31 of each year, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a report specifying each proposed budget that the Principal Cyber Advisor did not certify to be adequate. The report of the Secretary shall include the following matters:
(i)
A discussion of the actions that the Secretary proposes to take, together with any recommended legislation that the Secretary considers appropriate, to address the inadequacy of the proposed budgets specified in the report.
(ii)
Any additional comments that the Secretary considers appropriate regarding the inadequacy of the proposed budgets.
(b)
Senior military advisor for cyber policy and deputy principal cyber advisor
(1)
Advisor
(A)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the Joint Staff, designate an officer within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy to serve within that Office as the Senior Military Advisor for Cyber Policy, and concurrently, as the Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor of the Department of Defense.
(B)
Officers eligible for designation
The officer designated pursuant to this paragraph shall be designated from among commissioned regular officers of the armed forces in a general or flag officer grade who are qualified for designation.
(C)
Grade
The officer designated pursuant to this paragraph shall have the grade of major general or rear admiral (upper half) while serving in that position, without vacating the officer’s permanent grade.
(2)
Scope of positions
(A)
In general
The officer designated pursuant to paragraph (1) is each of the following:
(i)
The Senior Military Advisor for Cyber Policy to the Principal Cyber Advisor.
(ii)
The Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of Defense.
(B)
Direction and control and reporting
In carrying out duties under this section, the officer designated pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be subject to the authority, direction, and control of, and shall report directly to, the Principal Cyber Advisor.
(3)
Duties
(A)
Duties as senior military advisor for cyber policy
The duties of the officer designated pursuant to paragraph (1) as Senior Military Advisor for Cyber Policy are as follows:
(i)
To serve as the principal military advisor on military cyber forces and military cyber activities to the Principal Cyber Advisor.
(ii)
To assess and advise the Principal Cyber Advisor on aspects of policy relating to activities of cyberspace operations forces, resources, personnel, cyber force readiness, cyber workforce development, and defense of Department of Defense networks.
(iii)
To advocate, in consultation with the Joint Staff, and senior officers of the armed forces and the combatant commands, for consideration of military issues within the Office of the Principal Cyber Advisor, including coordination and synchronization of activities of cyberspace operations forces.
(B)
Duties as deputy principal cyber advisor
The duties of the officer designated pursuant to paragraph (1) as Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor are as follows:
(i)
To synchronize, coordinate, and oversee implementation of the cyber strategy of the Department of Defense and other relevant policy and planning.
(ii)
To advise the Secretary of Defense on cyber programs, projects, and activities of the Department, including with respect to policy, training, resources, personnel, manpower, and acquisitions and technology.
(iii)
To oversee implementation of Department policy and operational directives on cyber programs, projects, and activities, including with respect to resources, personnel, manpower, and acquisitions and technology.
(iv)
To assist in the overall supervision of military cyber activities relating to offensive missions.
(v)
To assist in the overall supervision of Department defensive cyber operations, including activities of component-level cybersecurity service providers and the integration of such activities with activities of the Cyber Mission Force.
(vi)
To advise senior leadership of the Department on, and advocate for, investment in capabilities to execute Department missions in and through cyberspace.
(vii)
To identify shortfalls in capabilities to conduct Department missions in and through cyberspace, and make recommendations on addressing such shortfalls in the Program Budget Review process.
(viii)
To coordinate and consult with stakeholders in the cyberspace domain across the Department in order to identify other issues on cyberspace for the attention of senior leadership of the Department.
(ix)
On behalf of the Principal Cyber Advisor, to lead the cross-functional team established pursuant to subsection (a)(3) in order to synchronize and coordinate activities of cyberspace operations forces of the Department.
(c)
Cyberspace operations forces defined
In this section, the term  cyberspace operations forces  means the military, civilian, and contractor personnel of the Department of Defense in any component of the Department of Defense organized, trained, and equipped to plan, conduct, or enable offensive cyberspace operations, defensive cyberspace operations, and Department of Defense information network operations, as designated by the Secretary of Defense.
 .
(2)
Conforming repeals
Section 392a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(A)
by striking the section heading and inserting the following:
392a.
Cyber governance structures on military cyber force matters
 ;
(B)
by striking subsections (a) and (b);
(C)
by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (a);
(D)
in paragraph (2) of subsection (a), as redesignated—
(i)
in subparagraph (A), by striking  military cyberspace operations forces  and inserting  cyberspace operations forces ; and
(ii)
in subparagraph (B), by striking  military cyberspace operations  and inserting  activities of cyberspace operations forces ; and
(E)
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
(b)
Cyberspace operations forces defined
In this section, the term  cyberspace operations forces  has the meaning given that term in section 146 of this title.
 .
(3)
Transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and obligations
All functions, personnel, assets, and obligations of the Department of Defense Chief Information Officer and the Principal Cyber Advisor of the Department of Defense are transferred to the Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.
(4)
Conforming amendments
(A)
Special operations command
Section 167b(d)(2)(A) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking  section 392a(a)  and inserting  section 146(a) .
(B)
Funding assessments for zero trust strategy, principles, and a model architecture
Section 1528(e)(2) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 2224 note) is amended by striking  section 392a(c)(4)  and inserting  section 392a(a)(4) .
(c)
Merger of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities
(1)
Consolidation required
The Secretary of Defense shall consolidate the positions of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities into a single position, to be known as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and Mission Capabilities.
(2)
Transfer of functions
All functions, personnel, assets, and obligations of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities are transferred to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and Mission Capabilities established pursuant to paragraph (1).
(3)
References
Any reference in any law, regulation, guidance, instruction, or other document of the Federal Government to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies or the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities shall be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies and Mission Capabilities.
(d)
Executive Schedule Level III
Section 5314 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting after  Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security.  the following:
   Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.   .
(e)
Executive Schedule Level IV
Section 5315 of title 5, United States Code is amended by inserting after  Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security.  the following:
   Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Information, and Networks.   .
(f)
Effective date
Subsections (a) through (e), and the amendments made by those subsections, shall take effect on January 20, 2029.
(g)
Report required
Not later than January 31, 2028, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on how the Department of Defense intends to execute the amendments made by subsections (a) through (e) that includes—
(1)
a proposed organizational chart that includes the Deputy Assistant Secretaries of Defense, the Defense Agencies, the Department of Defense Field Activities, and other offices under the new organizational structure; and
(2)
any recommendations the Secretary considers appropriate to improve the organizational structure of the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
B
Combatant Commands
911.
Unified combatant command for Africa
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
168.
Unified combatant command for Africa
(a)
Establishment
(1)
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in Africa (in this section referred to as the  United States Africa Command ).
(2)
The principal mission of the United States Africa Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance the national interests of the United States with respect to Africa in collaboration with international partners.
(b)
Assignment of forces
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Africa Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
(c)
Grade of commander
The Commander of the United States Africa Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
(d)
Authority of combatant commander
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Africa Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in Africa.
 .
912.
Unified combatant command for the Middle East and Central Asia
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 911, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
168a.
Unified combatant command for the Middle East and Central Asia
(a)
Establishment
(1)
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in the central region (in this section referred to as the  United States Central Command ).
(2)
The principal mission of the United States Central Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to the central region in collaboration with international partners.
(b)
Assignment of forces
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Central Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
(c)
Grade of commander
The Commander of the United States Central Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
(d)
Authority of combatant commander
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Central Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in the central region.
(e)
Central region defined
In this section, the term  central region  means the region comprising the Middle East, including Egypt, and Central Asia.
 .
913.
Unified combatant command for Europe
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 912, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
168b.
Unified combatant command for Europe
(a)
Establishment
(1)
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in Europe (in this section referred to as the  United States European Command ).
(2)
The principal mission of the United States European Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to Europe in collaboration with international partners.
(b)
Assignment of forces
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States European Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
(c)
Grade of commander
The Commander of the United States European Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
(d)
Authority of combatant commander
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States European Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in Europe.
 .
914.
Unified combatant command for North America
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 913, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
168c.
Unified combatant command for North America
(a)
Establishment
(1)
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in North America (in this section referred to as the  United States Northern Command ).
(2)
The principal missions of the United States Northern Command are—
(A)
to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to North America in collaboration with international partners; and
(B)
to plan, organize, and execute missions relating to homeland defense and defense support for civil authorities.
(3)
The area of responsibility of the United States Northern Command includes Canada, the United States, Mexico, Greenland, the United States Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos Islands.
(b)
Assignment of forces
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Northern Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
(c)
Grade of commander
The Commander of the United States Northern Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
(d)
Authority of combatant commander
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Northern Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in North America.
 .
915.
Unified combatant command for Central America, South America, and the Caribbean
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 914, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
168d.
Unified combatant command for Central America, South America, and the Caribbean
(a)
Establishment
(1)
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean (in this section referred to as the  United States Southern Command ).
(2)
The principal mission of the United States Southern Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to Central America, South America, and the Caribbean in collaboration with international partners.
(b)
Assignment of forces
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Southern Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
(c)
Grade of commander
The Commander of the United States Southern Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
(d)
Authority of combatant commander
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Southern Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
 .
916.
Unified combatant command for the Indo-Pacific Region
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 915, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
168e.
Unified combatant command for the Indo-Pacific region
(a)
Establishment
(1)
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, shall establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for activities of the Department of Defense in the Indo-Pacific region (in this section referred to as the  United States Indo-Pacific Command ).
(2)
The principal mission of the United States Indo-Pacific Command is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate military planning, operations, and security cooperation to defend and advance national interests of the United States with respect to the Indo-Pacific region in collaboration with international partners.
(b)
Assignment of forces
Active and reserve forces of the armed forces shall be assigned to the United States Indo-Pacific Command through the Global Force Management Process, as approved by the Secretary of Defense.
(c)
Grade of commander
The Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command shall hold the grade of general or, in the case of an officer of the Navy, admiral while serving in that position, without vacating that officer’s permanent grade. The Commander of such Command shall be appointed to that grade by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for service in that position.
(d)
Authority of combatant commander
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command shall be responsible for, and shall have the authority to conduct, all affairs of such Command relating to planning, operations, and security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense in the Indo-Pacific region.
 .
917.
Establishment of United States Robotic and Autonomous Systems Command
Chapter 6 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 167 the following new section:
167a.
Unified combatant command for robotic and autonomous systems
(a)
Establishment
With the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, through the Secretary of Defense, may establish under section 161 of this title a unified combatant command for robotic and autonomous systems, to be known as the  United States Robotic and Autonomous Systems Command  (in this section referred to as  RASCOM ).
(b)
Mission
(1)
In general
In addition to the authority prescribed in section 164(c) of this title, if RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM shall be responsible for, and have the authority to conduct, all functions relating to robotic and autonomous systems assigned by the Secretary of Defense, including force generation, joint training, interoperability, doctrine development, and operational employment through other combatant commands.
(2)
Exclusions
The Commander of RASCOM shall not be responsible for—
(A)
space systems;
(B)
autonomous cyber capabilities;
(C)
nuclear command, control, and communications systems;
(D)
integrated air and missile defense sensing; or
(E)
Integrated Tactical Warning and Attack Assessment capabilities.
(c)
Service component commands and force generation
(1)
Establishment
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force shall each establish a service component command under RASCOM to support force generation, organization, training, and equipping of forces for robotic and autonomous systems operations.
(2)
Career paths and training pipelines
(A)
In general
Each service component command established under paragraph (1) shall include dedicated career paths, military occupational specialties (or equivalent ratings), promotion tracks, and training pipelines for personnel assigned to robotic and autonomous systems duties.
(B)
Inclusion in manpower reports
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments concerned, shall ensure that the career paths, specialties, tracks, and pipelines described in subparagraph (A) are integrated into the personnel management systems of the respective armed forces and reported in the annual manpower reports required under section 115a of this title.
(d)
Subordinate unified commands
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM shall establish subordinate unified commands to operate under the operational control of each geographic combatant command or other combatant command identified by the Secretary of Defense for the purpose of integrating robotic and autonomous systems capabilities into theater operations. Such subordinate unified commands shall be funded and resourced through RASCOM.
(e)
Limitation on exercise of command authority
(1)
In general
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM may not command or exercise operational control over operations or forces within the area of responsibility of any other combatant command unless—
(A)
the combatant commander of that command transfers operational control to the Commander of RASCOM; or
(B)
specifically directed by the Secretary of Defense.
(2)
Rule of construction
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the Secretary of Defense under section 162 or 164 of this title.
(f)
Joint subordinate unified command
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM shall establish a joint subordinate unified command to be responsible for—
(1)
generating requirements for robotic and autonomous systems;
(2)
ensuring interoperability and establishing standards across the joint force;
(3)
planning and conducting joint exercises and training;
(4)
developing tactics, techniques, and procedures;
(5)
exercising special test and evaluation authorities for acquisition projects as provided in subsection (h); and
(6)
establishing standards for human systems integration in coordination with the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs and the Surgeons General of the military departments.
(g)
Operational test and evaluation authority
(1)
In general
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Commander of RASCOM shall—
(A)
serve as the principal operational test and evaluation functional authority for all programs involving robotic and autonomous systems; and
(B)
in that capacity—
(i)
determine operational effectiveness and operational suitability; and
(ii)
have authority to designate and establish test ranges, develop test plans, and issue independent reports on such programs.
(2)
Exclusion of programs on oversight list of Director of Operational Test and Evaluation
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit the oversight responsibilities of the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation with respect to programs on the oversight list of the Director.
(h)
Limited acquisition authority
(1)
In general
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense may delegate contracting authorities to the Commander of RASCOM sufficient to enable the Commander—
(A)
subject to paragraph (2), to procure limited quantities of robotic and autonomous systems equipment and associated capabilities (including unmanned platforms, attritable systems, swarms, mission kits, and related artificial intelligence-enabled autonomy, command and control, and counter-unmanned systems) for experimental, test and evaluation, rapid prototyping, and initial fielding purposes; and
(B)
to procure, operate, and sustain robotic and autonomous systems equipment and capabilities that one or more military departments have included in a marketplace, catalog, or other pre-priced contracting vehicle with established pricing and agreed-upon terms and conditions.
(2)
Limitation
The Commander may not enter into a contract under paragraph (1)(A) to procure robotic and autonomous systems equipment and associated capabilities the cost of which exceeds $20,000,000.
(i)
Major force program
(1)
In general
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall establish and maintain a separate major force program category for RASCOM in—
(A)
the future-years defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 of this title; and
(B)
all budget justification materials submitted to Congress in support of the budget of the Department of Defense for a fiscal year (as submitted to Congress with the budget of the President under section 1105(a) of title 31).
(2)
Requirements for budget justification materials
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the major force program category for RASCOM required by paragraph (1) shall—
(A)
be presented distinctly in the budget justification materials described in paragraph (1)(B); and
(B)
include all resources required for the force generation, training, equipping, and sustainment of robotic and autonomous systems capabilities.
(j)
Reporting requirement
(1)
In general
If RASCOM is established under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall, not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, and annually thereafter for the following five fiscal years, submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the implementation and status of RASCOM.
(2)
Elements
Each report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(A)
A description of the establishment and manning of RASCOM, each service component command, and the subordinate unified commands, including timelines for full operational capability.
(B)
An assessment of the status of dedicated career paths, training pipelines, and force generation activities across the armed forces.
(C)
A summary of interoperability standards, tactics, techniques, and procedures developed, and joint exercises conducted.
(D)
An evaluation of RASCOM’s performance as the operational test and evaluation functional authority, including any recommendations for adjustments to the exception for major defense acquisition programs on the oversight list of the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation.
(E)
A detailed accounting of resources allocated through the major force program established under subsection (i), including any challenges in execution or service equities.
(F)
Any other matters the Secretary determines appropriate, including recommendations for legislative changes to improve the effectiveness of RASCOM.
(k)
Robotic and autonomous systems defined
In this section, the term  robotic and autonomous systems  includes unmanned aerial, maritime, ground, and subsurface platforms, attritable systems, swarms, and associated artificial intelligence-enabled autonomy and counter-unmanned systems capabilities.
 .
C
Other Department of Defense Organization and Management Matters
921.
Organization of responsibilities relating to unmanned systems
(a)
Department of the Navy requirements
(1)
Plan for consolidation of responsibilities
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan to consolidate the responsibilities for generating, organizing, training, and equipping all unmanned systems in the Department of the Navy (other than Group 4 and Group 5 unmanned aerial systems) under a single accountable official for integrating Marine Corps stand-in forces and Navy hedge forces with unmanned systems across all domains.
(2)
Plan for reorganization of Office of Chief of Naval Operations
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Chief of Naval Operations shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan for the reorganization of the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, including an assessment of the feasibility and advisability of—
(A)
disestablishing the Director for Integrated Warfare (OPNAV N9I);
(B)
the establishment of a dedicated resource sponsor for robotic autonomous systems with full programming, budgeting, and acquisition oversight responsibilities for all unmanned systems (excluding Group 4 and Group 5 unmanned aerial systems); and
(C)
alignment of programs and budget line items between that Office and the portfolio acquisition executives.
(b)
Department of the Air Force requirements
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees a plan to consolidate the responsibilities for generating, organizing, training, and equipping Group 1 through Group 3 unmanned aerial systems or runway-independent unmanned systems associated with Mission Area 1 under a single accountable official for unmanned systems requirements, doctrine, and force generation.
(c)
Joint Working Group within the Requirements and Resourcing Alignment Board
(1)
In general
The Requirements and Resourcing Alignment Board shall include a joint working group on robotic autonomous systems.
(2)
Responsibilities
The working group established under paragraph (1) shall be responsible for integrating investment strategies, identifying cross-service efficiencies, and providing recommendations to the Board with respect to robotic autonomous systems priorities.
(3)
Report required
Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Board shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the working group established under paragraph (1).
(d)
Unmanned aerial systems groups defined
In this section, the terms  Group 1 ,  Group 2 ,  Group 3 ,  Group 4 , and  Group 5 , with respect to unmanned aerial systems, have the meanings given those terms in Joint Publication 3–30, entitled  Joint Air Operations  and dated July 25, 2019, or a successor publication.
922.
Composition of cross-functional team for emerging threat relating to anomalous health incidents; reports
(a)
Team composition
Subsection (c) of section 910 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 111 note) is amended—
(1)
in the subsection heading, by inserting
and composition   after
leadership  ;
(2)
by striking  The Secretary  and inserting the following:
(1)
Leadership
The Secretary
 ; and
(3)
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
(2)
Composition
At a minimum, the cross-functional team shall be staffed by at least one full-time employee designated by each of the following:
(A)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.
(B)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.
(C)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security.
(D)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
(E)
The Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency.
(F)
The Director of the Defense Health Agency.
(G)
The Director of the National Security Agency.
 .
(b)
Quarterly reports
Subsection (e) of such section is amended—
(1)
in the subsection heading, by inserting
and reports   after
Briefings  ; and
(2)
by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following new paragraph (2):
(2)
Quarterly reports
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, and every 90 days thereafter until March 1, 2030, the head of the cross-functional team shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that includes the following:
(A)
A description of any activities carried out to fulfill the duties specified in subsection (b) during the 90-day period preceding submission of the report.
(B)
A description of any organizational updates to the team, including the status of employees assigned to the team under subsection (c)(2).
(C)
The number of anomalous health incidents reported during the 90-day period preceding submission of the report, and the date and location of each such incident.
(D)
An assessment of the status of funding, by fiscal year, for research described in subsection (b)(2) and a description of the topics covered by such research.
 .
923.
Comptroller General review of Anomalous Health Incidents Cross-Functional Team
(a)
In general
The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a review of the Anomalous Health Incidents Cross-Functional Team of the Department of Defense established under section 910 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 111 note) (in this section referred to as the  cross-functional team ).
(b)
Elements
The review required by subsection (a) shall include an assessment of, at a minimum, the following:
(1)
The activities of the cross-functional team conducted in fulfillment of each of the duties under section 910(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117–81; 10 U.S.C. 111 note), during the period beginning on February 1, 2024, and ending on February 1, 2026.
(2)
The composition and resourcing of the cross-functional team during that period, including increases or decreases in the number of assigned or detailed personnel.
(3)
Any findings by the cross-functional team regarding the causes and sources of anomalous health incidents, including identification of any individuals, entities, capabilities, or phenomena to which such incidents may plausibly be attributed.
(4)
The decision-making process and justification for the transfer of the cross-functional team from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy to the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
(5)
Support provided to the cross-functional team by the Defense Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, the National Ground Intelligence Center, and other elements of the defense intelligence enterprise since the establishment of the cross-functional team.
(6)
Recommendations for clarifying or strengthening the duties of the cross-functional team under section 910(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022.
(7)
Any other matters the Comptroller General considers relevant.
(c)
Briefing and results
The Comptroller General shall—
(1)
not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, brief the congressional defense committees, the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate, and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives on the review conducted under subsection (a); and
(2)
provide the final results of the review to those committees in a format, and at a time, mutually agreed upon by those committees and the Comptroller General.
924.
Establishment of Center for the Study of the National Guard
Chapter 1 of title 32, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
116.
Center for the Study of the National Guard
(a)
Establishment
The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, shall establish a center, to be known as the  Center for the Study of the National Guard  (in this section referred to as the  Center ), at an appropriate academic institution that—
(1)
maintains an established relationship with the National Guard Bureau;
(2)
possesses a strong academic program in military history; and
(3)
is situated in proximity to a major installation of the National Guard.
(b)
Responsibilities
The Center shall—
(1)
serve as the principal repository for historical documents, oral histories, and other records related to the National Guard;
(2)
conduct research, analysis, and educational programs related to the history, evolution, and operational contributions of the National Guard;
(3)
facilitate outreach efforts to increase public awareness of the role of the National Guard in national defense and domestic response operations; and
(4)
support the Department of Defense in shaping policy decisions and strategic planning related to operations of the National Guard carried out under this title.
(c)
Collaboration and support
The Chief of the National Guard Bureau may—
(1)
collaborate with the Center in the collection, preservation, and dissemination of information about the history of the National Guard;
(2)
provide historical documents, records, and resources to support the research and archival efforts of the Center; and
(3)
facilitate joint initiatives between the National Guard Bureau and the Center to enhance historical preservation, education, and public awareness.
(d)
Public-private partnership
The Secretary of Defense shall seek to establish and maintain the Center as a public-private partnership to minimize costs to the Federal Government.
 .
925.
 Civil-Military Coordination Center
(a)
Authorization
The Secretary of Defense may maintain and continue to operate, until December 31, 2027, the Civil-Military Coordination Center established by the Secretary before the date of the enactment of this Act (in this section referred to as the  Center ), as—
(1)
an implementation body for the Board of Peace that oversees the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, dated September 29, 2025; and
(2)
a joint civil-military coordination body within the Department of Defense.
(b)
Plan for continuing operations
(1)
In general
Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a plan detailing the requirements for the Center to serve as a joint civil-military coordination body within the Department of Defense for activities related to Israel and the territory of the Gaza Strip in order to support the planning and coordination of civil-military activities relating to security, stabilization, and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
(2)
Goals
The plan required by paragraph (1) shall have the goals of ensuring—
(A)
the complete and permanent disarmament of Hamas;
(B)
the permanent exclusion of leaders and members of Hamas from governance at every administrative level;
(C)
the elimination of access by Hamas to financial and material resources, including by preventing Hamas and its affiliates from diverting or exploiting humanitarian aid; and
(D)
training an international stabilization force.
(3)
Elements
The plan required by paragraph (1) shall address the following with respect to the Center:
(A)
The mission structure and organization of the Center.
(B)
The number and rank of United States personnel required to operate the Center.
(C)
The responsibilities of the director of the Center.
(D)
The relationship of the Center to the Board of Peace and relevant allies and partners of the United States.
(E)
The funding that would be required from the United States to operate the Center and implement the goals described in paragraph (2).
(F)
The number of personnel operating out of the Center as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
(G)
The roles and responsibilities of the Center as of such date of enactment with respect to—
(i)
enforcing the ceasefire in Gaza;
(ii)
coordinating the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza; and
(iii)
coordination with the Government of Israel and any Palestinian entities.
(H)
The goals of the coordination described in subparagraph (G)(iii).
(I)
The level of support provided, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, to the International Stabilization Force, including activities, mission objectives, and United States personnel involved.
(J)
The level of support provided, as of such date of enactment, for the generation of Palestinian security forces, including activities, mission objectives, and United States personnel involved.
(K)
The feasibility of permanently authorizing the Center.
(c)
Report required
(1)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 180 days thereafter, the Secretary, in coordination with the Commander of the United States Central Command, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services Committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the Center that includes the following:
(A)
The number of members of the Armed Forces assigned to the Center.
(B)
The number of members of the Armed Forces assigned to the International Stabilization Force mission.
(C)
A statement of any casualties among employees or contractors of the United States Government assigned to the Center during the year preceding submission of the report.
(D)
A list of all the governmental, nongovernmental, and private sector stakeholder partners of the Center.
(E)
The number of humanitarian aid trucks and cumulative metric tons of supplies that have entered Gaza from entry points originating in Egypt and Israel, respectively, including, to the extent feasible, the following information:
(i)
The weight or volume of cooking gas or oil, engine oil, shelter materials, and materials that support the production or distribution of fresh water that have entered Gaza, disaggregated by category and operator.
(ii)
The weight or volume of medical supplies by type, including medications, vaccines, and equipment that have entered Gaza, disaggregated by category and operator.
(iii)
The weight or volume of food stuffs by type, including fresh produce, meat, and dry staple goods that have entered Gaza, disaggregated by category and operator.
(iv)
An accounting by weight or volume and type of humanitarian assistance goods and supplies that have not been permitted into Gaza and the rationale for not permitting such goods and supplies into Gaza.
(v)
An assessment of—
(I)
whether Hamas has in any way interfered with the distribution of the items described in any of clauses (i) through (iv); and
(II)
an assessment of the extent to which Hamas has profited, or attempted to profit, from the distribution, or planned distribution, of those items.
(F)
An identification of the general officer who is in operational command of International Stabilization Force and the country of which that officer is a citizen.
(G)
An assessment of whether the International Stabilization Force operates under a multinational, coalition, or other framework.
(H)
A description of the primary objectives and mission sets of the International Stabilization Force.
(I)
An assessment of the extent to which the International Stabilization Force is participating in the disarmament of Hamas.
(J)
A map showing the deployment of the International Stabilization Force within Gaza and the areas it controls.
(K)
An explanation of the rules of engagement of the International Stabilization Force.
(L)
A description of the nature of the relationship of the International Stabilization Force with the Palestinian police force or forces.
(2)
Form
Each report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
926.
Modifications to unmanned aircraft system definitions for Joint Interagency Task Force 401
Section 199(h) of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in paragraph (1), by inserting  detecting, identifying, monitoring, tracking,  after  safely ; and
(2)
in paragraph (3)—
(A)
by inserting  (A)  after  (3) ; and
(B)
by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
(B)
The term  unmanned aircraft system  includes a control station that enables control of an unmanned aircraft.
 .
927.
Maximizing funding efficiency for homeland defense
Section 199 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (d)—
(A)
by redesignating paragraph (7) as paragraph (8); and
(B)
by inserting after paragraph (6) the following new paragraph (7):
(7)
Identify interagency initiatives and available funding that are aligned with all applicable responsibilities of the Task Force for low-altitude airspace security aligned with covered facilities or assets (as defined in section 130i of this title) and any other initiatives the Director considers appropriate.
 ; and
(2)
in subsection (f)(2)—
(A)
in subparagraph (A), by striking  ; and  and inserting a semicolon; and
(B)
by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
(C)
to appropriately coordinate the funding and integration priorities of the Task Force with the architecture development, capability requirements, and implementation of Golden Dome for America to enhance alignment on the defense of the United States against next-generation aerial attacks, including by small unmanned aircraft from peer, near-peer, and rogue adversaries; and
 .
928.
Prohibition on the reduction of funding for foreign language training for members of the Armed Forces
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 may be obligated or expended by the Department of Defense to terminate, replace, reduce, or prepare to terminate, replace, or reduce a program of foreign language, regional expertise, and cultural capability training or instruction until 90 days after the Secretary of Defense submits to the congressional defense committees a certification that the Department of Defense has attained a high rate of readiness, as tracked in the DoD Language Readiness Index, for any foreign languages and related competencies identified on DOD Strategic Language Lists.
929.
Records retention requirement
(a)
In general
The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that all records related to United States maritime strikes in the Caribbean and the Eastern Pacific are retained by the Department of Defense, including the following records:
(1)
Strike videos.
(2)
Investigative documents.
(3)
After action reports.
(4)
Aircrew debriefing reports.
(5)
Chat log communications immediately preceding, during, or immediately after strikes.
(6)
Written concepts of operation.
(7)
Execute orders.
(8)
Legal opinions.
(b)
Retention and transfer to NARA
Records retained under subsection (a)—
(1)
shall be retained in accordance with all otherwise applicable provisions of law relating to retention and archiving of records, including chapters 29, 31, 33, and 35 of title 44, United States Code, and subchapter B of chapter XII of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations; and
(2)
may be transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration in accordance with such provisions of law.
X
General Provisions
A
Financial Matters
1001.
General transfer authority
(a)
Authority To transfer authorizations
(1)
Authority
Upon determination by the Secretary of Defense that such action is necessary in the national interest, the Secretary may transfer amounts of authorizations made available to the Department of Defense in this division for fiscal year 2027 between any such authorizations for that fiscal year (or any subdivisions thereof). Amounts of authorizations so transferred shall be merged with and be available for the same purposes as the authorization to which transferred.
(2)
Limitation
Except as provided in paragraph (3), the total amount of authorizations that the Secretary may transfer under the authority of this section may not exceed $6,000,000,000.
(3)
Exception for transfers between military personnel authorizations
A transfer of funds between military personnel authorizations under title IV shall not be counted toward the dollar limitation in paragraph (2).
(b)
Limitations
The authority provided by subsection (a) to transfer authorizations—
(1)
may only be used to provide authority for items that have a higher priority than the items from which authority is transferred; and
(2)
may not be used to provide authority for an item that has been denied authorization by Congress.
(c)
Effect on authorization amounts
A transfer made from one account to another under the authority of this section shall be deemed to increase the amount authorized for the account to which the amount is transferred by an amount equal to the amount transferred.
(d)
Notice to Congress
The Secretary shall promptly notify Congress of each transfer made under subsection (a).
1002.
Department of Defense financial statement audit readiness, reporting relief, and related reforms
(a)
Cessation and reinstatement of certain reporting requirements
(1)
Cessation
The reporting requirements specified in paragraph (2) shall not apply upon the issuance of an unmodified audit opinion on the consolidated financial statements of the Department of Defense, including the military departments and other reporting entities defined by the Office of Management and Budget.
(2)
Covered reporting requirements
The reporting requirements referred to in paragraph (1) are the following:
(A)
The requirement to submit a report and provide briefings under section 240b of title 10, United States Code, except that all other requirements of such section shall continue to apply.
(B)
The requirement to submit annual reports under section 817(d) of the Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003 (Public Law 107–314; 116 Stat. 2610).
(3)
Reinstatement
If, after the cessation of applicability under paragraph (1), the Department of Defense receives an adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion on its consolidated financial statements in a subsequent fiscal year, the reporting requirements specified in paragraph (2)(A) shall again apply until the Department receives an unmodified audit opinion in a subsequent fiscal year.
(b)
Additional requirements if an unmodified audit opinion is not achieved by December 31, 2028
(1)
In general
If the Department of Defense does not obtain an unmodified audit opinion on its consolidated financial statements for fiscal year 2028 by December 31, 2028, the requirements of this subsection shall take effect on January 1, 2029.
(2)
Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)
(A)
Qualifications
An individual nominated for appointment as Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) under section 135 of title 10, United States Code shall—
(i)
be a certified public accountant; or
(ii)
have served as a chief financial officer, or in an equivalent position at—
(I)
a Federal or State agency that received an unmodified audit opinion during such service; or
(II)
a public company that received an unmodified audit opinion during such service.
(B)
Duties
In addition to the duties specified in section 135(c) of title 10, United States Code, the Under Secretary shall perform such additional duties relating to the financial management of the Department of Defense as the Deputy Secretary of Defense, acting in the capacity of Chief Management Officer, may prescribe.
(C)
Exception
Subparagraph (A) shall not apply if the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) meets the requirements of clause (i) or clause (ii) of such subparagraph.
(3)
Assistant secretaries for financial management
(A)
Army
(i)
Qualifications
An individual nominated for appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management and Comptroller under section 7016 of title 10, United States Code, shall meet the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
(ii)
Responsibilities
In addition to the responsibilities specified in section 7016(b)(4) of title 10, United States Code, the individual described in clause (i) shall perform such additional responsibilities as the Deputy Secretary of Defense, acting in the capacity of Chief Management Officer, may prescribe.
(iii)
Exception
Clause (i) shall not apply if the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management and Comptroller meets the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
(B)
Navy
(i)
Qualifications
An individual nominated for appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller under section 8016 of title 10, United States Code, shall meet the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
(ii)
Responsibilities
In addition to the responsibilities specified in section 8016(b)(4) of title 10, United States Code, the individual described in clause (i) shall perform such additional responsibilities as the Deputy Secretary of Defense, acting in the capacity of Chief Management Officer, may prescribe.
(iii)
Exception
Clause (i) shall not apply if the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller meets the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
(C)
Air force
(i)
Qualifications
An individual nominated for appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller under section 9016 of title 10, United States Code, shall meet the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
(ii)
Responsibilities
In addition to the responsibilities specified in section 9016(b)(4) of title 10, United States Code, the individual described in clause (i) shall perform such additional responsibilities as the Deputy Secretary of Defense, acting in the capacity of Chief Management Officer, may prescribe.
(iii)
Exception
Clause (i) shall not apply if the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller meets the requirements described in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
(4)
Definitions
In this subsection, the term  public company  has the meaning given the term  issuer  in section 2(a)(7) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. 7201(7)).
(c)
Authorization of appropriations for audit acceleration
Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2027 for automation and artificial intelligence to accelerate remediation and systems modernization for the audit of Department of Defense financial statements—
(1)
$250,000,000 may be made available from Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide; and
(2)
$250,000,000 may be made available from Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, Defense-Wide.
(d)
Deputy Inspector General for Financial Statement Audits
(1)
Establishment
The Secretary of Defense shall establish within the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Defense a position of Deputy Inspector General for Financial Statement Audits.
(2)
Duties
The Deputy Inspector General shall oversee the selection and performance of independent external auditors conducting audits of the Department’s consolidated financial statements.
(3)
Qualifications
An individual serving in the position shall be a certified public accountant.
1003.
Expansion of requirements for submittal to Congress of reports and justification books
(a)
Reporting on unfunded priorities of the Armed Forces and combatant commands
Section 222a of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
in subsection (a), by inserting before  each officer  the following:  and not later than seven days after the date on which any covered document is delivered to any of the congressional defense committees, ; and
(2)
in subsection (e), by adding at the end the following:
(3)
The term  covered document  means a document referred to as a  dash one , including the following:
(A)
Military Personnel Programs (M–1).
(B)
Operation and Maintenance Programs (O–1).
(C)
Revolving and Management Fund (RF–1).
(D)
Procurement Programs (P–1).
(E)
Procurement Programs Reserve Components (P–1R).
(F)
Research Development, Test & Evaluation Programs (R–1).
(G)
Military Construction, Family Housing, and Base Realignment and Closure Program (C–1).
(H)
Any subsequent or successor document.
 .
(b)
Reporting on justification books
(1)
In general
Not later than seven days after the date on which a covered document is delivered to Congress in support of the budget of the President submitted under section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, for a fiscal year, the Secretary of Defense shall transmit to Congress the Justification Books for such covered document, as detailed in the Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation (DoD 7000.14–R).
(2)
Covered document defined
In this subsection, the term  covered document  has the meaning given that term in section 222a(e) of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a).
1004.
Financial statements: opening balances for audit purposes
Chapter 9A of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 240i the following new section:
240j.
Financial statements: opening balances for audit purposes
(a)
USSGL Account defined
In this section, the term  USSGL Account  means United States Standard General Ledger Account.
(b)
Department of the Army
For purposes of an audit conducted under this chapter on the financial statements of the Department of the Army, the opening balances as of October 1, 2025, for the Department of the Army Working Capital Fund shall be as follows:
(1)
For USSGL Account 101000, titled  Fund Balance with Treasury , $2,010,085,640.47.
(2)
For USSGL Account 310000, titled  Unexpended Appropriations—Cumulative , $104,620,026.51.
(3)
For USSGL Account 413900, titled  Contract Authority Carried Forward , $4,448,474,255.57.
(4)
For USSGL Account 420100, titled  Total Actual Resources—Collected , $1,836,976,540.16.
(5)
For USSGL Account 445000, titled  Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority , $3,668,585,253.03.
(c)
Department of the Air Force
For purposes of an audit conducted under this chapter on the financial statements of the Department of the Air Force, the opening balances as of October 1, 2025, for the Department of the Air Force Working Capital Fund shall be as follows:
(1)
For USSGL Account 310000, titled  Unexpended Appropriations—Cumulative , $74,131,256.71.
(2)
For USSGL Account 413900, titled  Contract Authority Carried Forward , $6,333,279,921.52.
(3)
For USSGL Account 420100, titled  Total Actual Resources—Collected , $2,988,803,908.21.
(4)
For USSGL Account 445000, titled  Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority , $1,930,040,147.04.
(d)
Defense Logistics Agency
For purposes of an audit conducted under this chapter on the financial statements of the Defense Logistics Agency, opening and ending balances shall be used as follows:
(1)
Defense Logistics Agency Working Capital Fund
For the Defense Logistics Agency Working Capital Fund, opening balances as of October 1, 2024, are as follows:
(A)
For USSGL Account 101000, titled  Fund Balance with Treasury , $3,483,483,641.67.
(B)
For USSGL Account 310000, titled  Unexpended Appropriations—Cumulative , $883,887,145.71.
(C)
For USSGL Account 331000, titled  Cumulative Results of Operations , $27,271,547,121.85.
(D)
For USSGL Account 413900, titled  Contract Authority Carried Forward , $13,130,151,985.39.
(E)
For USSGL Account 420100, titled  Total Actual Resources—Collected , $3,578,944,883.86.
(F)
For USSGL Account 445000, titled  Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority , $507,354,134.72.
(2)
National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund
For the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund established by section 9 of the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act (50 U.S.C. 98h), opening and ending balances are as follows:
(A)
The ending balance of $313,633,491.15 reported in the Central Accounting Reporting System of the Department of the Treasury for September 30, 2021, is the Fund Balance with Treasury ending balance on that date.
(B)
For USSGL Account 420100, titled  Total Actual Resources—Collected , the opening balance as of October 1, 2021 is $314,548,154.42.
(C)
For USSGL Account 445000, titled  Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority , the ending balance as of September 30, 2021 is $216,976,300.69.
(e)
United States Transportation Command Working Capital Fund
For purposes of an audit conducted under this chapter on the financial statements of the United States Transportation Command Working Capital Fund, opening balances as of October 1, 2025, shall be used as follows:
(1)
For USSGL Account 101000, titled  Fund Balance with Treasury , $1,703,953,150.05.
(2)
For USSGL Account 310000, titled  Unexpended Appropriations—Cumulative , $9,279,074.12.
(3)
For USSGL Account 413900, titled  Contract Authority Carried Forward , $7,579,101.52.
(4)
For USSGL Account 420100, titled  Total Actual Resources—Collected , $1,705,320,750.62.
(5)
For USSGL Account 445000, titled  Unapportioned—Unexpired Authority , $453,684,782.00.
(6)
For USSGL Account 465000, titled  Allotments—Expired Authority , $2,135,263.61.
 .
(b)
Conforming repeals of statutes codified in new section 240
j
(1)
Defense Logistics Agency Working Capital Fund
Section 1422 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (Public Law 119–60; 139 Stat. 1137) is repealed.
(2)
National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund
Section 1413 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118–31; 137 Stat. 528) is repealed.
1005.
Prohibition on provision of support to Department of Homeland Security
None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 may be obligated or expended for Department of Defe