H.R. 3838

[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 3838 Engrossed in House (EH)]

<DOC>

119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. R. 3838

_______________________________________________________________________

AN ACT

To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2026 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.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

(a) In General.--This Act may be cited as the ``Streamlining 
Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery and National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026''.
(b) Reference.--Any reference in this or any other Act to the 
``National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026'' shall be 
deemed to be a reference to the ``Streamlining Procurement for 
Effective Execution and Delivery and National Defense Authorization Act 
for Fiscal Year 2026''.

SEC. 2. ORGANIZATION OF ACT INTO DIVISIONS; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Divisions.--This Act is organized into six 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.
(5) Division E--Other Matters.
(6) Division F--Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025.
(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.
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 UH-60 Blackhawk aircraft.
Sec. 112. Authorization to initiate early production of future long-
range assault aircraft.
Sec. 113. Limitation on reductions to Army Prepositioned Stocks--Afloat 
program sealift capability.
Sec. 114. Limitation on availability of funds for the Next Generation 
Command and Control (NGC2) of the Army.
Sec. 115. Report on fielding of Link 16 military tactical data network.
Subtitle C--Navy Programs

Sec. 121. Contract authority for Ford class aircraft carrier program.
Sec. 122. Contract authority for Columbia class submarine program.
Sec. 123. Authority for advance procurement of certain components to 
support continuous production of Virginia 
class submarines.
Sec. 124. Authority to use incremental funding to enter into a contract 
for the construction of a Guided Missile 
Destroyer (DDG).
Sec. 125. Multiyear procurement authority for Yard, Repair, Berthing, 
and Messing Barges.
Sec. 126. Vessel construction manager for follow-on ships of the 
Landing Ship Medium program.
Sec. 127. Limitation on construction of Modular Attack Surface Craft.
Sec. 128. Inclusion of amphibious warfare ship spares and repair parts 
as a separate line item in Navy budget 
justification materials.
Sec. 129. Strategy for Navy investment in and support for the maritime 
industrial base.
Sec. 130. Modification to requirements for recapitalization of tactical 
fighter aircraft of the Navy Reserve.
Sec. 131. Report on procurement strategy for submarine cable laying and 
repair ships.
Subtitle D--Air Force Programs

Sec. 141. Modification of minimum inventory requirements for air 
refueling tanker aircraft.
Sec. 142. Extension of requirements relating to C-130 aircraft.
Sec. 143. Modification to minimum inventory requirement for A-10 
aircraft.
Sec. 144. Preservation of certain retired KC-10 aircraft.
Sec. 145. Prohibition on availability of funds for contract termination 
or production line shutdown for E-7A 
Wedgetail aircraft.
Sec. 146. Limitation on procurement of KC-46 aircraft pending 
certification on correction of 
deficiencies.
Sec. 147. Requirements relating to executive airlift aircraft.
Sec. 148. Report on the F-47 advanced fighter aircraft program.
Sec. 149. Extension of prohibition on certain reductions to B-1 bomber 
aircraft squadrons.
Sec. 150. Plan for recapitalization and modernization of the fighter 
fleet of the Air National Guard.
Subtitle E--Defense-wide, Joint, and Multiservice Matters

Sec. 151. Amendments to prohibition on operation, procurement, and 
contracting related to foreign-made light 
detection and ranging.
Sec. 152. Annual GAO reviews of the F-35 aircraft program.
Sec. 153. Sense of Congress on domestic procurement of defense articles 
for AUKUS partnership.
Sec. 154. Prohibition on availability of funds for non-tactical 
electric vehicles or components produced by 
child and slave labor.
Sec. 155. Report on next generation fuel cells.
TITLE II--RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND EVALUATION

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

Sec. 201. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 202. Funding for virtual engineering for Army readiness and 
sustainment.
Sec. 203. Funding for humanitarian airborne mobile infrastructure 
capability.
Sec. 204. Funding for fuel cell multi-modular use utilizing hydrogen.
Sec. 205. Funding for advanced group 1 small unmanned aerial systems 
for special operations forces.
Sec. 206. Funding for National Defense Education Program.
Sec. 207. Funding for the development, test, and integration of 
adaptable radar capabilities.
Sec. 208. Funding for advanced drone development for special operations 
and low-intensity conflict.
Sec. 209. Funding for quantum communications corridor for Navy 
research, development, test, and 
evaluation.
Sec. 210. Funding for smart susceptor technology.
Subtitle B--Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations

Sec. 211. Modification to authority to award prizes for advanced 
technology achievements.
Sec. 212. Modification to mechanisms to provide funds to defense 
laboratories and other entities for 
research and development of technologies 
for military missions.
Sec. 213. Modification to authority for acquisition, construction, or 
furnishing of test facilities and 
equipment.
Sec. 214. Extension of limitation on availability of funds for 
fundamental research collaboration with 
certain academic institutions.
Sec. 215. Modification to policies for management and certification of 
Link 16 military tactical data link 
network.
Sec. 216. Support for research and development of bioindustrial 
manufacturing processes.
Sec. 217. Extension of authority for assignment to Defense Advanced 
Research Projects Agency of private sector 
personnel with critical research and 
development expertise.
Sec. 218. Post-employment restrictions for participants in certain 
defense research.
Sec. 219. National Security and Defense Artificial Intelligence 
Institute.
Sec. 220. Responsible development and deployment of biotechnology 
within the Department of Defense.
Sec. 221. Department of Defense biotechnology workforce training.
Sec. 222. Biotechnology supply chain resiliency program.
Sec. 223. Review and alignment of standards, guidance, and policies 
relating to digital engineering.
Sec. 224. Application of software innovation and data management plans 
to modernize test and evaluation 
infrastructure.
Sec. 225. Demonstration of near real-time monitoring capabilities to 
enhance weapon system platforms.
Sec. 226. Western regional range complex demonstration.
Sec. 227. Reimbursement of National Guard for research, development, 
test, and evaluation expenses.
Sec. 228. Prohibition on availability of funds for animal research in 
collaboration with foreign countries of 
concern.
Sec. 229. Prohibition on availability of funds for gain of function 
research.
Sec. 230. Limitation on availability of funds pending compliance with 
requirements relating to the Joint 
Energetics Transition Office.
Sec. 231. Prioritization of partnerships with institutions of higher 
education in certain research areas.
Sec. 232. Research, development, and implementation of unattended 
robotic process automation.
Sec. 233. Pilot program on modernized health and usage monitoring 
systems to address obsolescence in Marine 
Corps rotary-wing and tiltrotor aircraft.
Sec. 234. Pilot program on modernized health and usage monitoring 
systems to address obsolescence in army 
rotary-wing aircraft.
Sec. 235. Initiative on studying advanced artificial intelligence, 
national security, and strategic 
competition.
Sec. 236. Joint Reserve Detachment of the Defense Innovation Unit.
Sec. 237. Development of internet access technologies by the Defense 
Innovation Unit.
Sec. 238. Limitation on availability of funds for realignment of the 
research, development, test, and evaluation 
function for Army ammunition.
Subtitle C--Plans, Reports, and Other Matters

Sec. 241. Feasibility study on incorporating militarily-relevant 
applications of emerging biotechnology into 
wargaming exercises.
Sec. 242. Feasibility study on use of cloud laboratories.
Sec. 243. Quarterly reports on termination of critical technology 
research awards.
Sec. 244. Report on Department of Defense market research of critical 
technology and capabilities.
Sec. 245. Report on low-cost undersea effectors.
Sec. 246. Report on electronic warfare capability for unmanned surface 
vessels.
Sec. 247. Department of Defense biotechnology strategy.
Sec. 248. Plan to support advanced manufacturing and materials for 
hypersonics research and development.
Sec. 249. Strategy for the development of friction stir additive 
manufacturing technologies.
Sec. 250. Report on research relating to the upper atmosphere and near-
space environment.
TITLE III--OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

Sec. 301. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle B--Energy and Environment

Sec. 311. Inclusion of nuclear energy and nuclear technologies in 
eligible investments made by Office of 
Strategic Capital.
Sec. 312. Inclusion of information about PFAS investigation and 
remediation in annual report on defense 
environmental programs.
Sec. 313. Modification of requirements relating to replacement of 
fluorinated aqueous film-forming foam.
Sec. 314. Provision of alternative drinking water to certain 
communities with private drinking water 
wells contaminated with perfluoroalkyl 
substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Sec. 315. Responsibilities of executive agent for installation and 
operational nuclear energy.
Sec. 316. Establishment of Advanced Nuclear Technologies Transition 
Working Group.
Sec. 317. Department of Air Force program of record for commercial 
weather data.
Sec. 318. Pilot program on Navy installation nuclear energy.
Sec. 319. Pilot program to install propane-powered generators at a 
domestic defense industrial base facility.
Sec. 320. Strategy to accelerate remediation of contamination from 
perfluoroalkyl substances and 
polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Sec. 321. Study on small modular nuclear reactors.
Sec. 322. Coordinator for engagement with defense communities affected 
by PFAS.
Sec. 323. Revising the prohibition on contracts for performance of 
firefighting or security-guard functions.
Sec. 324. Elimination of preference for motor vehicles using electric 
or hybrid propulsion systems and related 
requirements of the Department of Defense.
Subtitle C--Logistics and Sustainment

Sec. 331. Extension of authorization of depot working capital funds for 
unspecified minor military construction.
Sec. 332. Designation of senior officials responsible for integration 
of global contested logistics posture 
management.
Sec. 333. Modification of minimum capital investment for certain depots 
of Department of Defense.
Sec. 335. Modification to annual report on Navy Shipyard Infrastructure 
Optimization Program.
Sec. 336. Strategy to improve infrastructure of certain depots of the 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 337. Pilot program for arsenal workload sustainment.
Sec. 338. Depot-level maintenance coordination in multinational 
exercises.
Sec. 339. Maintenance inspection capabilities and requirements.
Sec. 340. Joint Strike Fighter sustainment.
Sec. 341. Modernization of Army arsenals.
Sec. 342. Limitation on use of funds to reduce the number of civilian 
personnel employed at Pine Bluff Arsenal, 
Arkansas, Blue Grass Army Depot, Kentucky, 
and Red River Army Depot, Texas.
Sec. 343. Capital expenditure write-offs for Department of Defense 
depots and arsenals.
Sec. 344. Authority to establish Advanced Technology Centers to enhance 
workforce training in certain critical 
skills.
Subtitle D--Organizational Matters

Sec. 351. Establishment of Army museum system.
Sec. 352. Authorization to maintain a library in the Department of the 
Navy.
Sec. 353. Authorization to maintain a Navy art gallery.
Sec. 354. Establishment of United States Navy Museum System.
Sec. 355. Establishment of Center for the Study of the National Guard.
Sec. 356. Recognition of certain aspects of the National Navy UDT-SEAL 
Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida, as a 
national memorial, national memorial 
garden, and national K9 memorial.
Subtitle E--Studies, Reports, and Briefings

Sec. 361. Assessments and plan for increasing access to nutritious food 
on military installations.
Sec. 362. Quarterly reports on munitions response projects at sites 
formerly used by the Department of Defense.
Sec. 363. Report on causes and effects of declining aircraft readiness 
rates.
Sec. 364. Driver simulators in military vehicles.
Sec. 365. Department of Defense report on creatine supplements in Meals 
Ready-to-Eat.
Sec. 366. Study and report on effects of Defense Logistics Agency class 
IX recovery rates on military depots and 
arsenals.
Sec. 367. Briefing on sustainment and funding of Department of the Army 
directed energy programs of record.
Sec. 368. Report on reducing frequency of permanent changes of station 
and naval vessel to onshore rotations.
Sec. 369. Report on encroachment management related to the Nevada Test 
and Training Range.
Sec. 370. Report on local coordination efforts to address contamination 
caused by activities at former George Air 
Force Base.
Sec. 370A. Reserve mobilization exercise.
Sec. 370B. Report on use of ultra-short takeoff and landing aircraft 
for last mile logistics and disaster 
response operations.
Subtitle F--Other Matters

Sec. 371. Authority to evacuate family pets and contract working dogs 
during noncombatant evacuations of foreign 
countries.
Sec. 372. Manned rotary wing aircraft safety.
Sec. 373. Inclusion of territories in certain intergovernmental support 
agreements for installation-support 
services.
Sec. 374. Transportation of domestic animals by foreign air carrier.
Sec. 375. Adjustment and diversification assistance for State and local 
governments affected by Army Transformation 
Initiative.
Sec. 376. Availability of milk at dining facilities on military 
installations.
Sec. 377. Minimum standards for military working dog kennels and 
facilities.
Sec. 378. Restroom access at military installations for certain 
transportation service providers.
Sec. 379. Regulations applicable to wearing optional combat boots.
Sec. 380. Initiative to control spread of greater banded hornet in 
Guam.
Sec. 381. Limitation on use of funds for Army initial entry rotary wing 
training.
Sec. 382. Prohibition on Department of Defense ban of clean agent fire 
suppression products.
Sec. 383. Inapplicability of recommendations, procedures, and plans of 
commission relating to assigning, 
modifying, or removing of names, symbols, 
displays, monuments, and paraphernalia to 
assets of the Department of Defense that 
commemorate the Confederate States of 
America to civil works projects of 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 384. Availability of funds for procurement of certain supplies and 
materials under Innovative Readiness 
Training program.
Sec. 385. Funding for flight hours for expeditionary combat aviation 
brigades.
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.
Sec. 415. Excluding members of the National Guard performing certain 
duty from counting for active-duty end 
strengths.
Subtitle C--Authorization of Appropriations; Reports

Sec. 421. Military personnel.
Sec. 422. Streamlining of total force reporting requirements.
TITLE V--MILITARY PERSONNEL POLICY

Subtitle A--Officer Policy

Sec. 501. Treatment of Space Force officers for purposes of laws 
relating to authorized number and 
distribution of officers in general officer 
grades.
Sec. 502. Redistribution of general officers on active duty from the 
Air Force to the Space Force.
Sec. 503. Authority to waive prohibition on officers serving on 
successive selection boards for boards to 
consider officers for promotion to major 
general or rear admiral.
Sec. 504. Chaplains: career flexibility; detail as students at schools 
for education required for appointment.
Sec. 505. Ranks of Judge Advocates General.
Sec. 506. Procedures for selection of Space Force officers for 
promotion to major general.
Sec. 507. Establishment of blast safety officer positions.
Sec. 508. Designation of at least one general officer of the Marine 
Corps Reserve as a joint qualified officer.
Sec. 509. Modification to grade and allowances available to Attending 
Physician to the Congress.
Subtitle B--Reserve Component Management

Sec. 511. Grades of certain chiefs of reserve components.
Sec. 512. Pilot authority for extended length of orders to active duty 
for preplanned missions in support of the 
combatant commands.
Sec. 513. Prohibition on consideration of amount of time of service in 
activation of reserve members.
Sec. 514. Active and inactive transfers of officers of the Army 
National Guard and Air Force National 
Guard.
Sec. 515. National Guard: Active Guard and Reserve duty in response to 
a State disaster.
Sec. 516. FireGuard Program: program of record; authorization.
Sec. 517. Study and report on National Guard capabilities in cyber 
incident response.
Sec. 518. Report on effect of equipment shortfalls on National Guard 
ability to assist in disaster response.
Sec. 519. Assistance for certain youth and charitable organizations.
Sec. 520. Feasibility study regarding funeral honors duty.
Subtitle C--General Service Authorities and Military Records

Sec. 521. Women's initiative teams.
Sec. 522. Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record: codification; 
expansion.
Sec. 523. Codification of additional basic branches of the Army.
Sec. 524. Requirement of equal opportunity, racial neutrality, and 
exclusive use of merit in military 
personnel actions.
Sec. 525. Prohibition on use of Federal funds for diversity, equity, 
and inclusion.
Sec. 526. Prohibition of new COVID-19 vaccine mandate for members of 
the Armed Forces.
Sec. 527. Recommendation with respect to the retired rank of General 
John D. Lavelle.
Sec. 528. Report on missing members found deceased.
Sec. 529. Report on adequacy of reimbursement for costs of permanent 
change of station.
Subtitle D--Recruitment and Accession

Sec. 531. Recruitment: improvements relating to secondary schools and 
institutions of higher education.
Sec. 532. Alternative service in the defense industrial base by 
individuals denied enlistment.
Sec. 533. Medical accession standards for members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 534. Selective Service System: automatic registration.
Sec. 535. Waivers for potential enlistees into the Armed Forces to 
reapply for enlistment following a positive 
toxicology test for tetrahydrocannabinol.
Subtitle E--Member Training and Education

Sec. 541. Training requirements for occupational specialties with 
civilian equivalents.
Sec. 542. Inclusion of Space Force education programs in definitions 
regarding professional military education.
Sec. 543. Center for Strategic Deterrence and Weapons of Mass 
Destruction Studies.
Sec. 544. Service Academies; appointments and additional appointees.
Sec. 545. Modifications to alternative obligation for cadets and 
midshipmen.
Sec. 546. Modification to the designation of Members of the House of 
Representatives to the Boards of Visitors 
of Service Academies.
Sec. 547. Detail of members of the Space Force as instructors at Air 
Force Institute of Technology.
Sec. 548. Repeal of annual certifications related to the Ready, 
Relevant Learning initiative of the Navy.
Sec. 549. Pilot program for generative artificial intelligence and 
spatial computing for performance training 
and proficiency assessment.
Sec. 549A. Prohibition on use of Federal funds to endorse critical race 
theory.
Sec. 549B. Prohibition on the reduction of funding for foreign language 
training for members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 549C. Limitation on authority to reorganize the Senior Reserve 
Officers' Training Corps of the Army.
Sec. 549D. Report on interoperability of cyber training of the Armed 
Forces.
Sec. 549E. Modification to maximum years of service for eligibility 
detail as a student at a law school.
Sec. 549F. Director of Admissions of the United States Naval Academy.
Sec. 549G. Report on Air National Guard C-130J Formal Training Unit.
Sec. 549H. Accreditation of National Guard Marksmanship Training 
Center.
Sec. 549I. Requirements with respect to motorcycle safety training.
Sec. 549J. Pilot program on psychological performance training at the 
United States Air Force Academy.
Sec. 549K. Prohibition of participation by men in women's sports at the 
Service Academies.
Subtitle F--Military Justice and Other Legal Matters

Sec. 551. Ensuring the availability of legal advice to commanders.
Sec. 552. Modifications to offense of wrongful broadcast or 
distribution of intimate visual images 
under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Sec. 553. Punitive article under the Uniform Code of Military Justice 
for offenses relating to child pornography.
Sec. 554. Authorization of death penalty for offense of rape of a child 
under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Sec. 555. Increase in maximum sentence for the offense of voluntary 
manslaughter under the Uniform Code of 
Military Justice.
Sec. 556. Analysis of the advisability of modifying the definition of 
abusive sexual contact under the Uniform 
Code of Military Justice.
Sec. 557. Revision to sexual assault prevention and response training 
guidance.
Sec. 558. Reports and briefings on efforts to prevent and respond to 
sexual assault, sexual harassment, and 
intimate-partner violence within the 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 559. Study and recommendations regarding misconduct prevention in 
Okinawa, Japan.
Sec. 560. Automatic expungement of certain titling and indexing 
records.
Subtitle G--Career Transition

Sec. 561. Establishment of separation oath for members of the Armed 
Forces.
Sec. 562. Presentation by a veterans service organization in TAP 
preseparation counseling.
Sec. 563. Expansion of eligibility of veterans for certain military 
adaptive sports program.
Sec. 564. Transition Assistance Program: Department of Labor Employment 
Navigator and Partnership Pilot Program.
Sec. 565. Skillbridge: apprenticeship programs.
Sec. 566. Female members of certain Armed Forces and civilian employees 
of the Department of Defense in STEM.
Sec. 567. Transition Assistance Program: amendments; pilot program; 
reports.
Sec. 568. Assistance to members with special operations medical 
training in obtaining credit towards a 
degree in a medical field.
Sec. 569. Improvement of transition of air traffic controllers in the 
Armed Forces to the civilian workforce in 
air traffic control occupations.
Sec. 570. Extension of period of availability of Military OneSource 
program for retired and discharged members 
of the Armed Forces and their immediate 
families.
Sec. 570A. Amendments to pathways for counseling in Transition 
Assistance Program.
Subtitle H--Family Programs and Child Care

Sec. 571. Notification of suspected child abuse at providers of child 
care services or youth programs.
Sec. 572. Pilot program to increase payments for child care services in 
high-cost areas.
Sec. 573. Pilot program to increase payments for child care services in 
high-cost areas.
Sec. 574. Extension of pilot program to provide financial assistance to 
members of the Armed Forces for in-home 
child care.
Sec. 575. Military OneSource: information regarding maternal health 
care.
Sec. 576. Prohibition on availability of funds for termination of DODEA 
and child care workers.
Sec. 577. Report on military child development center staffing and 
access across the Armed Forces.
Sec. 578. Prohibitions on provision of gender transition services 
through an Exceptional Family Member 
Program of the Armed Forces.
Subtitle I--Dependent Education

Sec. 581. Ensuring access to DODEA schools for certain members of the 
reserve components.
Sec. 582. Certain assistance to local educational agencies that benefit 
dependents of military and civilian 
personnel.
Sec. 583. Verification of reporting of eligible federally connected 
children for purposes of Federal impact aid 
programs.
Sec. 584. Authorization of dual or concurrent enrollment programs for 
students of Defense Dependent Schools.
Subtitle J--Decorations and Awards, Reports, and Other Matters

Sec. 591. Authorization for award of Medal of Honor to James Capers, 
Jr., for acts of valor as a member of the 
Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.
Sec. 592. Authorization to award the Medal of Honor to retired Colonel 
Philip J. Conran for acts of valor in Laos 
during the Vietnam war.
Sec. 593. Authorization of award of medal of honor to Gregory McManus 
for acts of valor.
Sec. 594. Briefing on support needed for Joint Task Force-Southern 
Border.
Sec. 595. Report on adequacy of commissaries and dining facilities on 
military installations that support certain 
missions.
Sec. 596. Operation Midnight Hammer Medal.
Sec. 597. Authorization for award of Medal of Honor to E. Royce 
Williams for acts of valor during the 
Korean War.
Sec. 598. Extension and modification of program to commemorate 50th 
anniversary of Vietnam War.
Sec. 599. Authorization of award of medal of honor to Thomas Helmut 
Griffin for acts of valor as a member of 
the Army during the Vietnam War.
Sec. 599A. Prohibitions relating to questions and answers about sex, 
gender, and gender identity in forms and 
surveys of the Department of Defense.
TITLE VI--COMPENSATION AND OTHER PERSONNEL BENEFITS

Subtitle A--Basic Pay and Retired Pay

Sec. 601. Codification of applicability to Space Force of certain pay 
and allowance authorities.
Subtitle B--Bonus and Incentive Pays

Sec. 611. One-year extension of certain expiring bonus and special pay 
authorities.
Sec. 612. Incentive pay: explosive ordnance disposal duty.
Sec. 613. Standardization of cyber assignment incentive pay for members 
of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 614. Extending certain travel allowance for members of the Armed 
Forces assigned to Alaska.
Sec. 615. Pilot program on improving retention of members with degrees 
in their fields of specialty.
Subtitle C--Allowances

Sec. 621. Basic needs allowance: exclusion of basic allowance for 
housing from the calculation of gross 
household income of an eligible member of 
the Armed Forces.
Sec. 622. Family separation allowance: increase.
Sec. 623. Report regarding the basic allowance for subsistence and 
military food programs.
Sec. 624. Basic allowance for housing: study to evaluate alternative 
rate calculation.
Sec. 625. Study on adjustments to basic allowance for housing 
calculation.
Sec. 626. Temporary adjustment to a rate of the basic allowance for 
housing for members of the uniformed 
services: lower threshold; permanent 
authority.
Subtitle D--Leave

Sec. 631. Bereavement leave for a member of the Armed Forces in the 
case of a loss of pregnancy or stillbirth.
Sec. 632. Convalescent leave for cadets and midshipmen.
Sec. 633. Improved parental leave for members of the armed forces.
Subtitle E--Family and Survivor Benefits

Sec. 641. Annual review of financial assistance limits for child care 
and youth program services providers.
Sec. 642. Waiver of requirements for air transportation of deceased 
members of the Armed Forces when necessary 
to meet mission requirements.
Subtitle F--Defense Resale Matters

Sec. 651. Use of commissary stores: civilian employees of Military 
Sealift Command.
Sec. 652. MWR retail facilities: use by civilian employees of the Armed 
Forces.
Sec. 653. Single-use shopping bags in commissary stores.
Sec. 654. Pilot program on nutrition ratings for food sold in 
commissaries.
Subtitle G--Other Benefits, Reports, and Briefings

Sec. 661. Provision of information regarding relocation assistance 
programs for members receiving orders for a 
change of permanent station.
Sec. 662. Expansion of pilot program to increase access to food on 
military installations.
Sec. 663. Casualty assistance program: review; implementation plan.
Sec. 664. Report on military camping and recreational park program.
TITLE VII--HEALTH CARE PROVISIONS

Subtitle A--TRICARE and Other Health Benefits

Sec. 701. Dental readiness.
Sec. 702. Inclusion of certain tests as part of the periodic health 
assessment provided to members of the Armed 
Forces.
Sec. 703. Fertility treatment for certain members of the Armed Forces 
and dependents.
Sec. 704. TRICARE coverage for increased supply for contraception.
Sec. 705. Pilot program on access to obstetrical and gynecological care 
under TRICARE Prime program.
Sec. 706. Pilot program to make midwife services available through 
TRICARE to certain individuals.
Sec. 707. Pilot program to treat pregnancy as a qualifying event for 
enrollment in TRICARE Select.
Sec. 708. Pilot program to assist certain members of the Armed Forces 
and dependents with additional supplemental 
coverage relating to cancer.
Sec. 709. Medical testing and related services for firefighters of 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 710. Continuous glucose monitoring pilot program.
Sec. 711. Tricare coverage for anesthesia for in-office dental 
procedures for pediatric dentistry.
Sec. 712. Notification to TRICARE beneficiaries of coverage transition 
requirements.
Sec. 713. Prohibition on coverage of gender-related medical treatment 
under TRICARE.
Subtitle B--Health Care Administration

Sec. 721. Military-civilian medical surge program.
Sec. 722. Reimbursement for travel expenses relating to specialty care 
for certain members of the Armed Forces and 
dependents.
Sec. 723. Payment adjustments for outpatient services for certain 
children's hospitals.
Sec. 724. Verification of licensure of health-care professionals of the 
military departments.
Sec. 725. Expansion of health care license portability for members of 
the National Guard performing training or 
duty.
Sec. 726. Licensure requirement for health-care professionals of 
partner countries.
Sec. 727. Modification of limitation on reduction of military medical 
manning end strength.
Sec. 728. Prohibition on painful research on domestic cats and dogs.
Sec. 729. Pilot program to test standalone technology to improve 
efficiencies in supply-chain management, 
medical readiness, and medical processes.
Sec. 730. Availability of sexual assault nurse examiner services at 
military medical treatment facilities.
Sec. 731. Uniform protocols on screening for unwanted sexual behavior.
Sec. 732. Access to sexual assault forensic examinations for civilian 
employees and contractors.
Sec. 733. Mandatory training on health effects of perfluoroalkyl or 
polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Sec. 734. Requirements relating to wellness checks for health and 
welfare of certain members of the Armed 
Forces.
Sec. 735. Extension of notice and wait period for proposed 
restructuring, realignment, or modification 
to military medical treatment facilities.
Sec. 736. Annual publication of information relating to the treatment 
of civilians in military medical treatment 
facilities.
Sec. 737. Availability of Defense Health Program and other funds for 
certain medical countermeasures.
Subtitle C--Studies, Briefings, Reports, and Other Matters

Sec. 741. Military medical cooperation arrangements among Five Eyes 
countries.
Sec. 742. Strategy for treating traumatic brain injuries through 
digital health technologies.
Sec. 743. Report on traumatic brain injuries among certain pilots 
serving on active duty.
Sec. 744. Study on prevalence and mortality of cancer among military 
rotary-wing pilots and aviation support 
personnel.
Sec. 745. Study on effects of service in the special operations forces 
to health of members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 746. Pilot program on use of fish skin regeneration products in 
treating burn and blast injuries.
Sec. 747. Pilot program on remote blood pressure monitoring for certain 
pregnant and post-partum TRICARE 
beneficiaries.
Sec. 748. Pilot program to help certain members of the Armed Forces 
stop smoking.
Sec. 749. Pilot program on secure, mobile personal health record for 
members of the Armed Forces participating 
in the Transition Assistance Program.
Sec. 750. Report on transitioning of mail-order pharmacy program of 
TRICARE program to an in-house mail order 
service.
Sec. 751. Strategic plan to address mental health of members of the 
Armed Forces.
Sec. 752. Study on implementation of accreditation requirements for 
military dental treatment facilities.
Sec. 753. Assessment and program on use of radiation-shielding personal 
protective equipment to prevent or reduce 
the severity of acute radiation syndrome 
and associated mortality.
Sec. 754. Prescription drop boxes.
Sec. 755. Department of Defense medical supply chain risk 
identification and transparency 
enhancement.
Sec. 756. Assessment and report on health care services available to 
civilian and military personnel at Naval 
Air Weapons Station China Lake.
Sec. 757. Review and Update of Online Information Relating to Suicide 
Prevention and Behavioral Health.
Sec. 758. Study on psychological effects of and mental health impacts 
of combat remotely piloted aircraft 
operations.
Sec. 759. Pilot program on pre-programming of suicide prevention 
resources into smart devices issued to 
members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 760. Study on opioid prescribing practices.
Sec. 761. Timeliness of electronic medical records during transition 
from the Armed Forces.
Sec. 762. Study on TRICARE program contract transition.
Sec. 763. Report on use of oculometric brain health assessment systems 
for Department of Defense.
Sec. 764. Plan and report by Defense Health Agency relating to 
chiropractic clinics at military 
installations.
TITLE VIII--ACQUISITION POLICY, ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT, AND RELATED 
MATTERS

Subtitle A--Acquisition Policy and Management

Sec. 801. Multiyear procurement authority for covered weapon systems.
Sec. 802. Elimination of late cost and pricing data submission defense.
Sec. 803. Reporting of price increases.
Sec. 804. Assumption of uninsurable risk on certain contracts.
Sec. 805. Changes to reference documents.
Sec. 806. Major system cost growth oversight.
Sec. 807. Contested logistics exercise requirement.
Sec. 808. Financing for programs with priority ratings under the 
defense priorities and allocation system.
Sec. 809. Prioritization of domestic boron.
Sec. 810. Establishment of Schedule V for veteran employment and 
philanthropy reporting by defense 
contractors and grantees.
Subtitle B--Amendments to General Contracting Authorities, Procedures, 
and Limitations

Sec. 811. Additional amendments related to undefinitized contractual 
actions.
Sec. 812. Modification to award amount for program to accelerate the 
procurement and fielding of innovative 
technologies.
Sec. 813. Other transaction authority reporting.
Sec. 814. Amendment to procurement of services data analysis and 
requirements validation.
Sec. 815. Acquisition thresholds for certain materials.
Sec. 816. Additional materials prohibited from non-allied foreign 
nations.
Sec. 817. Extension of authority for pilot program for development of 
technology-enhanced capabilities with 
partnership intermediaries.
Sec. 818. Government Accountability Office bid protest process 
enhancement.
Sec. 819. Report on the use of other transaction authority.
Sec. 820. Application of certain documentation and oversight 
requirements to certain projects performed 
through other transaction authority.
Sec. 821. Prohibition on acquisition of information or communication 
technology from Chinese entities.
Sec. 822. Amendment to definition of conventional ammunition.
Sec. 823. Prohibitions relating to covered distributed ledger 
technology and blockchain equipment or 
services.
Sec. 824. Amendment to requirement for domestic stainless steel 
flatware and dinnerware.
Subtitle C--Provisions Relating to Workforce Development

Sec. 831. Improvements to public-private talent exchange.
Sec. 832. Modification to assignment period for critical acquisition 
positions.
Sec. 833. Development of the advanced manufacturing workforce.
Sec. 834. Competitive acquisition leadership appointments.
Sec. 835. Development and employment of members of the Defense Civilian 
Training Corps.
Sec. 836. Reform of contractor performance information requirements.
Sec. 837. Restructuring of performance evaluation metrics for the 
acquisition workforce.
Sec. 838. Ensuring Department of Defense contractor compliance with 
disability hiring goals.
Sec. 839. Comptroller General review of matters relating to individuals 
assigned to a critical acquisition 
position.
Sec. 840. Comptroller General review of the management, training, and 
development of the acquisition workforce.
Sec. 841. Report on strengthening the Defense Acquisition University.
Subtitle D--Provisions Relating to Supply Chains and Domestic Sourcing

Sec. 851. Repeal of exception for small purchases under the Berry 
Amendment.
Sec. 852. Supply chain illumination incentives.
Sec. 853. Modification to enhanced domestic content requirement for 
major defense acquisition programs.
Sec. 854. Strategy to eliminate sourcing of optical glass from certain 
nations.
Sec. 855. Voluntary registration of compliance with covered sourcing 
requirements for covered products.
Sec. 856. Acceleration of qualification of compliant sources.
Sec. 857. Enhanced security strategy for private fifth generation 
information and communications 
capabilities.
Sec. 858. Preference for domestic procurement of professional services.
Sec. 859. Shipping container supply chain.
Sec. 860. Assessment of critical defense mineral supply chain 
vulnerabilities.
Sec. 860A. Assessment of military medical supply chains.
Sec. 860B. Permanent magnet traceability pilot program.
Sec. 860C. Applicability of Berry Amendment exceptions to certain 
seafood purchases.
Sec. 860D. Assessment of critical infrastructure owned by the 
Department of Defense dependent on foreign 
materials or components.
Sec. 860E. Strategy to eliminate sourcing of computer displays from 
certain nations.
Sec. 860F. Critical and rare earth mineral supply chain study.
Subtitle E--Prohibitions and Limitations on Procurement

Sec. 861. Requirements relating to long-term concessions agreements 
with certain retailers.
Sec. 862. Prohibition on contracting with entities with segregated 
facilities.
Sec. 863. Requirement for contractors to provide reasonable access to 
repair materials.
Sec. 864. Prohibition on acquisition of advanced batteries from certain 
foreign sources.
Sec. 865. Prohibition on acquisition of molybdenum from non-allied 
foreign nations.
Sec. 866. Requirement to buy disposable food service products from 
American sources; exceptions.
Sec. 867. Prohibition on Department of Defense contracts with certain 
foreign-owned online tutoring services.
Sec. 868. Modifications to certain procurements from certain Chinese 
entities.
Sec. 869. Prohibition on the purchase of photovoltaic modules from 
foreign entities of concern.
Sec. 870. Prohibition on computers or printers acquisitions involving 
entities owned or controlled by China.
Sec. 870A. Prohibition on entering into contracts with a person engaged 
in a boycott of the State of Israel.
Sec. 870B. Requirements for prime contractors of certain 
telecommunications contracts.
Sec. 870C. Report on compliance progress with sensitive material 
acquisition prohibition.
Sec. 870D. Prohibition on procurement of certain organic light emitting 
diode display technologies.
Subtitle F--Industrial Base Matters

Sec. 871. Modification to demonstration and prototyping program to 
advance international product support 
capabilities in a contested logistics 
environment.
Sec. 872. Modification to procurement requirements relating to rare 
earth elements and strategic and critical 
materials.
Sec. 873. Applicability of the prohibition on acquiring certain metal 
products.
Sec. 874. Recycling critical mineral.
Sec. 875. Organic small unmanned aircraft system manufacturing 
capacity.
Sec. 876. Protecting AI and cloud competition in defense contracts.
Sec. 877. Bioindustrial commercialization program.
Sec. 878. Common repository for supplier information.
Sec. 879. Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network.
Sec. 880. Review and assessment of non-domestic additive manufacturing 
equipment and associated software supplying 
the defense industrial base.
Sec. 880A. Assessment of industrial base for turbojet pyrotechnic 
devices.
Sec. 880B. Modifications to Defense Industrial Base Fund.
Subtitle G--Small Business Matters

Sec. 881. Department of Defense contracting goals for small business 
concerns owned and controlled by veterans.
Sec. 882. Permanent extension of phase flexibility and inclusion of 
small business technology transfer program.
Sec. 883. Authority to make additional sequential Phase II awards under 
the Small Business Innovation Research 
program or Small Business Technology 
Transfer program.
Sec. 884. Congressional notification requirements for small business 
concerns for any significant contract 
termination.
Sec. 885. Authorization of use of APEX Accelerators.
Sec. 886. CMMC Certification Assessment support.
Sec. 887. Study on certain contracts and awards to small business 
concerns.
Subtitle H--Other Matters

Sec. 891. Special Operations Command Urgent Innovative Technologies and 
Capabilities Pilot Program.
Sec. 892. Inventory of technical data rights for weapon system 
sustainment.
Sec. 893. Establishing biobased product merit guidance.
Sec. 894. Comptroller General assessment of competitive effects of 
mergers and acquisitions of defense 
contractors.
Sec. 895. Report on limitations relating to the production of clothing 
and textiles for procurement by the 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 896. Report by Secretary of Defense on foreign acquisition of 
dual-use technologies.
Sec. 897. Inspector General of the Department of Defense annual report 
on oversight of fraud, waste, and abuse.
Sec. 898. Report on supply of rare earth materials and elements.
Sec. 898A. Requirements management tools in Department of Defense 
acquisition programs.
Sec. 898B. Report on Defense Department's lithium supply chain and 
applications for future advanced military 
capabilities.
Sec. 898C. Cybersecurity regulatory plan.
Sec. 898D. Report on waivers of security requirements for certain 
software contracts.
Subtitle I--Robot Security

Sec. 899. Definitions.
Sec. 899A. Prohibition on procurement of covered unmanned ground 
vehicle systems from covered foreign 
entities.
Sec. 899B. Prohibition on operation of covered unmanned ground vehicle 
systems from covered foreign entities.
Sec. 899C. Prohibition on use of Federal funds for procurement and 
operation of covered unmanned ground 
vehicle systems manufactured by certain 
foreign entities.
TITLE IX--DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT

Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary of Defense and Related Matters

Sec. 901. Prohibition of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs of 
the Department of Defense.
Sec. 902. Modification to authorities of the Under Secretary of Defense 
for Research and Engineering.
Sec. 903. Modification to authorities of the Director of Operational 
Test and Evaluation.
Sec. 904. Additional authorities for the Office of Strategic Capital.
Sec. 905. Further modifications to capital assistance program of the 
Office of Strategic Capital.
Subtitle B--Other Department of Defense Organization and Management 
Matters

Sec. 911. Membership of Commandant of the Coast Guard on the Joint 
Chiefs of Staff.
Sec. 912. Joint Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office.
Sec. 913. Authority to establish regional outreach centers for the 
Defense Innovation Unit.
Sec. 914. Oversight of the United States Africa Command.
Sec. 915. Limitation on availability of funds for the Army pending 
submittal of plan on the proposed 
integration of the Joint Munitions Command 
and the Army Sustainment Command.
Sec. 916. Limitation on authority to reduce in rank the billets of the 
commanding officers of certain military 
installations of the Air Force.
Sec. 917. Determination of lead organization responsible for approval 
and validation of certain unmanned aircraft 
systems and components.
Sec. 918. Department of Defense advisory subcommittee to review 
technologies, processes, and investment 
related to combined joint all-domain 
command and control.
Sec. 919. Eligibility of Chief of the National Guard Bureau for 
appointment as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs 
of Staff.
TITLE X--GENERAL PROVISIONS

Subtitle A--Financial Matters

Sec. 1001. General transfer authority.
Sec. 1002. Responsibilities of Under Secretary of Defense 
(Comptroller).
Sec. 1003. Additional elements for Department of Defense Financial 
Improvement and Audit Remediation Plan and 
report.
Sec. 1004. Consolidation of reporting requirements relating to 
Department of Defense financial improvement 
and audit remediation plan.
Sec. 1005. Concurrent reporting date for annual update to Defense 
Business Systems Audit Remediation Plan and 
Department of Defense annual financial 
statements.
Sec. 1006. Limitation on availability of funds for travel expenses of 
Office of Secretary of Defense until 
completion of certain audit requirements.
Sec. 1007. Reporting requirements for amounts made available pursuant 
to title II of Public Law 119-21.
Sec. 1008. Department of Defense spending reductions in absence of 
submitted financial statements or failure 
to achieve unqualified or qualified 
independent audit opinion.
Sec. 1009. Clean audit for the Department of Defense.
Sec. 1010. Use of technology using artificial intelligence to 
facilitate audit of the financial 
statements of the Department of Defense for 
fiscal year 2026.
Subtitle B--Naval Vessels

Sec. 1011. Inclusion of certain design information in annual naval 
vessel construction plans.
Sec. 1012. Limitation on use of funds in the National Defense Sealift 
Fund to purchase certain used foreign 
constructed vessels.
Sec. 1013. Requirements for amphibious warfare ship force structure.
Sec. 1014. Definition of short-term work for purposes of Navy 
construction of combatant and escort 
vessels and assignment of vessel projects.
Sec. 1015. Navy Senior Technical Authority.
Sec. 1016. Alternative contracting authority for United States Naval 
Ships.
Sec. 1017. Inclusion of Navy amphibious ship maintenance as a separate 
line item in operation and maintenance 
budget.
Sec. 1018. Metrics for basic and functional design for ship 
construction.
Sec. 1019. Authority for single award indefinite delivery indefinite 
quantity contract for destroyer 
maintenance.
Sec. 1020. Evaluation of sites for shipbuilding and ship repair.
Sec. 1021. Limitation on use of funds to retire or decommission Navy 
oceanographic research vessels.
Sec. 1022. Sense of Congress regarding naming of vessel for Battle of 
Dai Do.
Sec. 1023. Overhaul, repair, and maintenance of vessels in the 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana 
Islands.
Sec. 1024. Maritime redundant and resilient communications.
Sec. 1025. Report on Navy ship repair capabilities in Guam.
Sec. 1026. Sense of Congress regarding naming an aircraft carrier after 
the United States.
Subtitle C--Counterterrorism

Sec. 1031. Revisions to Department of Defense authority for joint task 
forces to support law enforcement agencies 
or Federal agencies conducting 
counterterrorism and counter transnational 
organized crime activities.
Sec. 1032. 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. 1033. 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. 1034. 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. 1035. Extension of prohibition on use of funds to close or 
relinquish control of United States Naval 
Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Sec. 1036. Limitation on authority of Armed Forces to detain citizens 
of the United States.
Subtitle D--Miscellaneous Authorities and Limitations

Sec. 1041. Modification of authority to provide assistance in support 
of Department of Defense accounting for 
missing United States Government personnel.
Sec. 1042. Expedited access to certain military installations of the 
Department of Defense for Members of 
Congress and certain Congressional 
employees.
Sec. 1043. Authority of Secretary of Defense to enter into contracts to 
provide certain assistance to secure the 
southern land border of the United States.
Sec. 1044. Limitation on use of funds to relocate or otherwise remove 
the Maritime Industrial Base Program.
Sec. 1045. Limitation on retirement of Gray Eagle unmanned aircraft 
systems.
Sec. 1046. Oversight of the United States Southern Command.
Sec. 1047. Authority to transfer T-37 aircraft to Arizona Aviation 
Historical Group.
Sec. 1048. Authorization of Eastern Regional Range Complex for multi-
domain operations and robotic autonomous 
systems training, testing, and 
experimentation.
Sec. 1049. Prohibition on availability of funds for institutions of 
higher education that allow antisemitic 
demonstrations.
Sec. 1050. Limitation on use of funds pending certification of 
compliance with certain congressional 
notice requirements.
Sec. 1051. Prohibition on the use of funds from carrying out a hiring 
freeze, reduction in force, or hiring delay 
without cause at a public shipyard.
Sec. 1052. Limitation on use of funds for deactivation of Expeditionary 
Combat Aviation Brigades.
Sec. 1053. Use of nonelectric vehicles by employees at Yuma Proving 
Ground.
Sec. 1054. Process to furnish certain demographic data regarding 
members of the Armed Forces to State 
educational agencies.
Sec. 1055. Revocation of Security Clearances for Certain Persons.
Sec. 1056. Ceremonial horses adoption program of the Army.
Sec. 1057. Elimination of discretion of military chain of command and 
senior civilian leadership with respect to 
display of flags.
Subtitle E--Reports

Sec. 1061. Mobility capability requirements study.
Sec. 1062. Extension of briefing requirement regarding civil 
authorities at the Southwest border.
Sec. 1063. Prohibition on lobbying activities with respect to the 
Department of Defense by certain officers 
of the Armed Forces and civilian employees 
of the department following separation from 
military service or employment with the 
Department.
Sec. 1064. Annual report on requests of combatant commands for remote 
sensing data.
Sec. 1065. Notification of waivers under Department of Defense 
Directive 3000.09.
Sec. 1066. Annual report on Guam civilian-military projects.
Sec. 1067. Annual report on military power and illicit activities of 
certain drug cartels.
Sec. 1068. Department of Defense briefing on pulsed lasers.
Sec. 1069. Reports on installation of certain collision avoidance 
systems in military rotary-wing aircraft.
Sec. 1070. Cybersecurity and Resilience Annex in Strategic Rail 
Corridor Network Assessments.
Sec. 1070A. Report on DOD-funded institutions of higher education 
hosting Confucius Institutes.
Sec. 1070B. Report on aviation fleet maintenance, aircraft availability 
rates, and plans to reduce downtime.
Sec. 1070C. Study on improvement of Army contracted sealift assets.
Sec. 1070D. Study on public, private, and allied shipyard capabilities 
for Indo-Pacific region conflicts.
Sec. 1070E. Utilization of office space by the Department of Defense.
Sec. 1070F. Biennial assessment of the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons 
Division.
Sec. 1070G. Extension of biennial assessments of Air Force Test Center.
Sec. 1070H. Report on proposed Western Hemisphere Command.
Sec. 1070I. Report on modernization requirements for the Thunderbirds 
demonstration team.
Sec. 1070J. Report on proliferation of Chinese medical device 
technology in the United States.
Sec. 1070K. Report on establishing communication enclaves between the 
Department of Defense and Congress.
Sec. 1070L. Report on cost of living adjustment.
Sec. 1070M. Responsible use of artificial intelligence for logistics, 
intelligence, maintenance, cyber defense, 
and other mission areas.
Sec. 1070N. GAO review and report on biological weapons experiments on 
and in relation to ticks, tick-borne 
disease.
Sec. 1070O. Assessment of integration of Joint Combatant Commander 
Exercise Team into large scale exercises of 
United States Indo-Pacific Command.
Sec. 1070P. Report on development and deployment of the Naval 
Autonomous Data Collection System.
Sec. 1070Q. Report on options for establishing a digital engagement 
framework for addressing recruitment, 
retention, and readiness challenges.
Sec. 1070R. Report on red flags missed in fraud scheme perpetrated by 
Janet Yamanaka Mello.
Subtitle F--Other Matters

Sec. 1071. Air Force Technical Training Center of Excellence.
Sec. 1072. National Commission on the Future of the Navy study of 
maritime industrial base.
Sec. 1073. Extension of the National Commission on the Future of the 
Navy.
Sec. 1074. Reauthorization of the Servicewomen's Commemorative 
Partnership.
Sec. 1075. Federal agency support for Afghanistan War Commission.
Sec. 1076. Provision of contract authority to Afghanistan War 
Commission.
Sec. 1077. Framework for technology transfer and foreign disclosure 
policies.
Sec. 1078. Budgeting and funding requirements for Northern Strike 
Exercise.
Sec. 1079. Procurement and distribution of sports foods and dietary 
supplements to members of the Armed Forces 
assigned to the United States Special 
Operations Command.
Sec. 1080. Pilot program on enhanced use of advanced sensor networks to 
improve Air Force counter-unmanned aircraft 
system capabilities for base defense.
Sec. 1081. Pilot program and other requirements for accelerating 
protection of certain facilities and assets 
from unmanned aircraft.
Sec. 1082. Counter-unmanned aircraft system readiness.
Sec. 1083. Pilot program on digital force protection for Special 
Operations Forces.
Sec. 1084. Pilot program for blockchain-enabled inventory management.
Sec. 1085. Acceleration of accreditation and access to sensitive 
compartmented information facilities for 
industry.
Sec. 1086. Standardization of data analysis and visualization across 
the Department of Defense.
Sec. 1087. Process for complaints and investigations of transportation 
service providers and transportation 
officers.
Sec. 1088. Construction of 9/11 Pentagon Memorial Visitor Education 
Center.
Sec. 1089. Prohibition on use of live animals in trauma training.
Sec. 1090. Virtual reality technology pilot program.
Sec. 1091. Expeditious disclosure of records relating to Tower 22 
attack.
Sec. 1092. Updates and preservation of memorials to chaplains at 
Arlington National Cemetery.
Sec. 1093. Critical infrastructure compatibility tabletop exercise.
Sec. 1094. Defense critical infrastructure protection interagency 
review.
TITLE XI--CIVILIAN PERSONNEL

Subtitle A--General Provisions

Sec. 1101. Living quarter allowance for Department of Defense civilian 
employees with permanent duty station in 
Guam.
Sec. 1102. Appointment of retired members of the armed forces to 
competitive service and excepted service 
positions in the Department of Defense.
Sec. 1103. Pay for crews of vessels.
Sec. 1104. Exception to limitation on rate of basic pay for crews of 
vessels.
Sec. 1105. One-year extension of authority to waive annual limitation 
on premium pay and aggregate limitation on 
pay for Federal civilian employees working 
overseas.
Sec. 1106. One-year extension of temporary authority to grant 
allowances, benefits, and gratuities to 
civilian personnel on official duty in a 
combat zone.
Sec. 1107. Defense workforce integration.
Sec. 1108. Modifications to total force management requirements.
Sec. 1109. Exemption from civilian hiring freeze for delayed DOD 
appointments due to active duty.
Sec. 1110. Limitation on use of funds to limit collective bargaining.
Sec. 1111. Personnel actions against DOD SES career appointees.
Sec. 1112. Study on locality pay Department of Defense employees.
Sec. 1113. Feasibility study on Department of Defense civilians forward 
deployed into combat zones and toxic 
exposure.
Sec. 1114. Definition of defense industrial base facility for purposes 
of direct hire authority.
Sec. 1115. Payment of retention bonuses to DOD civilian employees in 
Guam.
Sec. 1116. DOD prevailing rate employee pay increase.
Subtitle B--Defense Hiring Modernization Act of 2025

Sec. 1121. Short title.
Sec. 1122. Amendments to title 5, United States Code.
TITLE XII--MATTERS RELATING TO FOREIGN NATIONS

Subtitle A--Assistance and Training

Sec. 1201. Authority to build capacity for space domain awareness.
Sec. 1202. Modification of authority to build capacity of foreign 
security forces.
Sec. 1203. Modifications to Irregular Warfare Center and Regional 
Defense Fellowship Program.
Sec. 1204. Modification of public reporting of Chinese military 
companies operating in the United States.
Sec. 1205. Research, development, test, and evaluation of emerging 
technologies to further the warfighting 
capabilities of the United States and 
certain partner countries.
Sec. 1206. Cybersecurity integration.
Sec. 1207. Modification of Department of Defense State Partnership 
Program.
Subtitle B--Matters Relating to Israel

Sec. 1211. War Reserve Stockpile authority for Israel.
Sec. 1212. Modification and extension of United States-Israel anti-
tunnel cooperation.
Sec. 1213. Extension and modification of United States-Israel 
cooperation to counter unmanned systems in 
all warfighting domains.
Sec. 1214. Sense of congress on international defense exhibitions.
Sec. 1215. Study and report on international security measures on the 
border between Gaza and Egypt.
Sec. 1216. Establishment of defense innovation unit office in Israel.
Sec. 1217. U.S.-Israel defense industrial base harmonization.
Sec. 1218. Report on U.S.-Israel military exercises.
Subtitle C--Matters Relating to the Near and Middle East

Sec. 1231. Repeal of war-related reporting requirements for concluded 
operations.
Sec. 1232. Extension of authority for reimbursement of certain 
coalition nations for support provided to 
United States military operations.
Sec. 1233. Extension and modification of authority to provide 
assistance to vetted Syrian groups and 
individuals.
Sec. 1234. Extension and modification of authority to provide 
assistance to counter the Islamic State of 
Iraq and Syria.
Sec. 1235. Counter-terrorism support.
Sec. 1236. Prohibition on funding to Badr Organization.
Sec. 1237. Intelligence sharing with resistance units in Afghanistan.
Sec. 1238. Extension and modification of annual report on military 
power of Iran.
Subtitle D--Reports and Strategies

Sec. 1241. Modification and extension of annual report on military and 
security developments involving the Russian 
Federation.
Sec. 1242. Report on United States deterrence and defense posture in 
the European region.
Sec. 1243. Extension and modification of annual report on military and 
security developments involving the 
People's Republic of China.
Sec. 1244. Report relating to AUKUS Pillar 1.
Sec. 1245. Report on strategy for increasing membership in the 
comprehensive security integration and 
prosperity agreement.
Sec. 1246. Inclusion of special operations forces in planning and 
strategy relating to the Arctic region.
Sec. 1247. Strategy.
TITLE XIII--OTHER MATTERS RELATING TO FOREIGN NATIONS

Subtitle A--Matters Relating to Europe

Sec. 1301. Allied contributions to United States force posture on 
NATO's eastern flank.
Sec. 1302. Extension and modification of Ukraine Security Assistance 
Initiative.
Sec. 1303. Extension of report relating to allied and partner support 
to Ukraine.
Sec. 1304. Oversight of United States force posture in Europe.
Sec. 1305. Sense of Congress on NATO military readiness.
Sec. 1306. Baltic Security Initiative.
Subtitle B--Matters Relating to the Indo-Pacific Region

Sec. 1311. Extension and modification of Pacific Deterrence Initiative.
Sec. 1312. Extension of authority to transfer funds for Bien Hoa dioxin 
cleanup.
Sec. 1313. Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative.
Sec. 1314. Extension of deterrence pilot program.
Sec. 1315. Strategy to strengthen multilateral deterrence in the Indo-
Pacific.
Sec. 1316. Sense of Congress on defense alliance and partnership with 
South Korea.
Sec. 1317. Report on civilian-military relations in the Freely 
Associated States.
Sec. 1318. Annual report on presence and activities of European Union 
and NATO militaries in the Indo-Pacific 
Region.
Sec. 1319. Strategy to enhance Indo-Pacific defense industrial 
cooperation.
Sec. 1320. Annual report on Taiwan capabilities and intelligence 
support.
Sec. 1321. Strategic partnership on defense industrial priorities 
between the United States and Taiwan.
Sec. 1322. Reporting Requirement on Obstacles to Taiwanese Procurement.
Sec. 1323. Invitation to Taiwan to the rim of the Pacific exercise.
Sec. 1324. Support for Taiwan to improve the resilience and security of 
its energy infrastructure.
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--Other Matters

Sec. 1411. Extension of authorities for funding and management of joint 
Department of Defense-Department of 
Veterans Affairs Medical Facility 
Demonstration Fund for Captain James A. 
Lovell Health Care Center, Illinois.
Sec. 1412. Amendment to National Defense Stockpile shortfall briefings.
Sec. 1413. Beginning balances of the Defense Logistics Agency Working 
Capital Fund for audit purposes.
Sec. 1414. Authorization of appropriations for Armed Forces Retirement 
Home.
Sec. 1415. Report on prioritization of recovery of rare earth elements 
from end-of-life equipment.
TITLE XV--CYBERSPACE-RELATED MATTERS

Subtitle A--Cyber Operations

Sec. 1501. Accountability of the Authorization to Operate processes.
Sec. 1502. Codification of the National Centers of Academic Excellence 
in Cybersecurity.
Sec. 1503. Assessment of Cyber Operational Support to geographic 
combatant commands.
Sec. 1504. Limitation on the divestment, consolidation, and curtailment 
of certain electronic warfare test and 
evaluation activities.
Sec. 1505. Incentivization plan for critical skills for members of the 
Armed Forces to carry out Department of 
Defense cyber operations.
Sec. 1506. Evaluation of Joint Task Force-Cyber for the Indo-Pacific 
Area of responsibility.
Subtitle B--Cybersecurity

Sec. 1511. Annual report on weapon systems data accessibility and 
security.
Sec. 1512. Incorporation of artificial intelligence considerations into 
annual cybersecurity training.
Sec. 1513. Update to cyber security requirements for telecommunications 
contracts.
Sec. 1514. Federal contractor vulnerability disclosure policy.
Sec. 1515. Strategy to defend against risks posed by the use of 
artificial intelligence.
Subtitle C--Information Technology and Data Management

Sec. 1521. Biological data for artificial intelligence.
Sec. 1522. Procurement of best-in-class cyber data products and 
services.
Subtitle D--Artificial Intelligence

Sec. 1531. Artificial intelligence and machine learning security in the 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 1532. Pilot program for data-enabled fleet maintenance.
Sec. 1533. Generative artificial intelligence for national defense.
Sec. 1534. Reports on AI use for business processes.
Subtitle E--Reports and Other Matters

Sec. 1541. Modification to certification requirement regarding 
contracting for military recruiting.
Sec. 1542. Occupational resiliency of the Cyber Mission Force.
Sec. 1543. Assessment of cyber-phyiscal ranges as potential National 
Cyber Range complexes.
Sec. 1544. Report on replacement of Time Division Multiplexing lines at 
armories of the Air National Guard and the 
Army National Guard.
TITLE XVI--SPACE ACTIVITIES, STRATEGIC PROGRAMS, AND INTELLIGENCE 
MATTERS

Subtitle A--Space Activities

Sec. 1601. Acquisition career path in the Space Force.
Sec. 1602. Advance payments for commercial satellite communication 
services.
Sec. 1603. Noise mitigation regarding space launches.
Sec. 1604. Tactical surveillance, reconnaissance and tracking program.
Sec. 1605. Reports on Spaceport of the Future initiative.
Sec. 1606. Use of middle tier acquisition program for proliferated 
warfighter space architecture of Space 
Development Agency.
Sec. 1607. Auxiliary payload for Next Generation Polar Overhead 
Persistent Infrared satellites.
Sec. 1608. Assistance by United States Space Command to track fentanyl 
trafficking.
Subtitle B--Defense Intelligence and Intelligence-Related Activities

Sec. 1611. Clandestine activities vendor database.
Sec. 1612. Modification of authority of Army counterintelligence agents 
to execute warrants and make arrests.
Sec. 1613. Modifications to and codification of the Department of 
Defense insider threat program.
Sec. 1614. Facility clearance acceleration for members of defense 
industrial consortiums.
Sec. 1615. Requirement to authorize additional security clearances for 
certain contractors.
Sec. 1616. Prohibition on access to Department of Defense cloud-based 
resources by individuals who are not 
citizens of the United States or allied 
countries.
Sec. 1617. National Security Agency support for defense industrial base 
and critical infrastructure cybersecurity 
operations.
Sec. 1618. Report on Russian active measures in NATO territory.
Sec. 1619. Report on delays in accreditation of sensitive compartmented 
information facilities.
Subtitle C--Nuclear Forces

Sec. 1621. Establishment of Air Force Global Strike Command.
Sec. 1622. Matters relating to the nuclear-armed, sea-launched cruise 
missile.
Sec. 1623. Prohibition on reduction of intercontinental ballistic 
missiles of the United States.
Sec. 1624. Strategy to sustain Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic 
missile and maximize end-of-life margin.
Sec. 1625. Report on Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear 
Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological 
Defense Policy and Programs.
Sec. 1626. Improvements to certain Department of Defense 
indemnification procedures to enable 
procurement of commercial advanced nuclear 
technologies.
Sec. 1627. Review of the occupational health and safety conditions of 
operational facilities associated with the 
LGM-30G Minuteman III intercontinental 
ballistic missile system.
Sec. 1628. Report on dismantlement of legacy nuclear weapons.
Subtitle D--Missile Defense Programs

Sec. 1641. Modification to national missile defense policy to reflect 
Golden Dome for America policy.
Sec. 1642. Golden Dome for America.
Sec. 1643. Prohibition privatized or subscription-based missile defense 
intercept capabilities.
Sec. 1644. Funding for sea-based launch for missile defense targets.
Sec. 1645. Submission of summary of certain Guam missile defense 
report.
Sec. 1646. Middle East integrated air and missile defense.
Subtitle E--Other Matters

Sec. 1651. Cooperative threat reduction funds.
Sec. 1652. Limitation on authority to reduce sustainment for or halt 
operation of the AN/FPS-108 COBRA DANE 
radar.
Sec. 1653. Sense of Congress with respect to arrow interceptor 
production capacity and inventory.
TITLE XVII--OTHER DEFENSE MATTERS

Subtitle A--Miscellaneous Authorities and Limitations

Sec. 1701. Copyright to a literary work produced by a civilian faculty 
member of the Uniformed Services University 
of Health Sciences in the course of such 
employment: free use by the Federal 
Government.
Sec. 1702. Combating illicit tobacco products.
Sec. 1703. Made-in-America defense articles and services expedited 
through direct commercial sales.
Sec. 1704. Modifications to authority for transfer and sale of certain 
surplus firearms, ammunition, and parts.
Sec. 1705. Mapping and report on strategic ports.
Sec. 1706. Continuous assessment of impact of international state arms 
embargoes on Israel and actions to address 
defense capability gaps.
Subtitle B--Other Matters

Sec. 1721. Technical and conforming amendments.
Sec. 1722. Transfer or possession of defense items for national defense 
purposes.
Sec. 1723. Evaluation of risks posed by communications equipment and 
services produced by foreign adversary 
entities.
Sec. 1724. Sense of Congress with respect to execution of warrants of 
the International Criminal Court.
Sec. 1725. Briefing on expediting arms transfers to Israel.
Sec. 1726. Feasibility study on extending critical minerals procurement 
authorities to other Federal agencies.
Sec. 1727. Report on plan to increase exportation of defense-related 
components and materials.
Sec. 1728. GAO study on Department of Defense reliance on Chinese-
sourced materials.
Sec. 1729. Report on interagency coordination targeting fentanyl and 
precursor chemicals.
Sec. 1730. Government Accountability Office audit of national security 
foreign exchange programs.
Sec. 1731. Authorizing United States Coast Guard rotary aircraft work 
at Department of Defense depots.
Sec. 1732. Briefing on supply chain exposure.
Sec. 1733. Recognition and honoring of service of individuals who 
served in the United States Cadet Nurse 
Corps during World War II.
Sec. 1733A. Interest on funds provided to Federal Communications 
Commission.
Sec. 1733B. Report on Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix.
Sec. 1733C. Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.
Sec. 1733D. Strategy to counter Iranian and Hezbollah influence 
operations in Latin America.
Sec. 1733E. Strategy to encourage defections from the Government of 
Iran.
Sec. 1733F. Repeal of Authorizations for Use of Military Force relating 
to Iraq.
Sec. 1733G. Penalties for unlawful entry and violation of security 
regulations.
Subtitle C--Tracking Hostile Industry Networks and Kit While Thwarting 
Weapons Imports From Chinese Entities Act of 2025

Sec. 1734. Report on arms sales of the People's Republic of China.
Sec. 1735. Strategy to combat arms sales of the People's Republic of 
China.
Subtitle D--SAFE Research Act

Sec. 1736. Short title.
Sec. 1737. Prohibition on certain federal awards.
Sec. 1738. Disclosures.
Sec. 1739. Concurrent and post-award restrictions.
Sec. 1740. Definitions.
TITLE XVIII--STREAMLINING PROCUREMENT FOR EFFECTIVE EXECUTION AND 
DELIVERY

Subtitle A--Alignment of the Defense Acquisition System

Sec. 1801. Alignment of the defense acquisition system with the needs 
of members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 1802. Program executive officer responsibilities.
Sec. 1803. Product support manager responsibilities and requirements.
Sec. 1804. Amendments to life-cycle management and product support.
Sec. 1805. Modifications relating to life-cycle and sustainment 
provisions.
Sec. 1806. Major capability activity areas and pathfinder programs.
Sec. 1807. Project Spectrum.
Subtitle B--Requirements Process Reform

Sec. 1811. Joint Requirements Council.
Sec. 1812. Establishment of the Requirements, Acquisition, and 
Programming Integration Directorate.
Sec. 1813. Establishment of the Mission Engineering and Integration 
Activity.
Subtitle C--Streamlining Acquisition Processes

Sec. 1821. Adjustments to certain acquisition thresholds.
Sec. 1822. Clarification of conditions for payments for commercial 
products and commercial services.
Sec. 1823. Alternative capability-based pricing.
Sec. 1824. Matters related to cost accounting standards.
Sec. 1825. Review of commercial buying practices.
Subtitle D--Matters Relating to Commercial Innovation

Sec. 1831. Amendment to other transaction authority.
Sec. 1832. Data-as-a-service solutions for weapon system contracts.
Sec. 1833. Requirements for modular open system approach and 
modifications to rights in technical data.
Sec. 1834. Bridging Operational Objectives and Support for Transition 
program.
Sec. 1835. Transition to advanced manufacturing for certain critical 
items.
Subtitle E--Modifications to Strengthen the Industrial Base

Sec. 1841. Amendments to the procurement technical assistance program.
Sec. 1842. Defense Industrial Resilience Consortium.
Sec. 1843. Qualification, acceptance, and supply chain management of 
products manufactured using advanced 
manufacturing.
Sec. 1844. Report on surge capacity in the defense industrial base.
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 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. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2025 
project at Smith Barracks, Germany.
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 fiscal year 2022 
project at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry 
Point, North Carolina.
Sec. 2205. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 
2022 projects.
Sec. 2206. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 
2023 projects.
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 fiscal year 2017 project 
at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany.
Sec. 2305. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2019 
projects.
Sec. 2306. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2020 
projects.
Sec. 2307. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2022 
projects.
Sec. 2308. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2023 
projects.
Sec. 2309. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2025 
project at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, 
Wyoming.
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 fiscal year 2019 project 
at Iwakuni, Japan.
Sec. 2405. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2022 
projects.
Sec. 2406. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2023 
projects.
Sec. 2407. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2024 
project at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.
Sec. 2408. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2024 
project at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, 
Missouri.
Sec. 2409. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2025 
project at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.
Sec. 2410. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2025 
project at Joint Base Mcguire-Dix-
Lakehurst, New Jersey.
TITLE XXV--INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

Subtitle A--North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment 
Program

Sec. 2501. Authorized NATO construction and land acquisition projects; 
authorization of appropriations.
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. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2023 
project at Tucson International Airport, 
Arizona.
Sec. 2609. Authority to carry out fiscal year 2026 project at Army 
Reserve Center Conroe, Texas.
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 Programs

Sec. 2801. Facility construction or repair: transactions other than 
contracts and grants.
Sec. 2802. Supervision of military construction projects.
Sec. 2803. Improvements to water management and security on military 
installations.
Sec. 2804. Authority to use progressive design-build procedures for 
military construction projects.
Sec. 2805. Pilot program on use of additive construction technologies 
at Army installations.
Sec. 2806. Consideration of modular construction methods for military 
construction projects with protective 
design elements.
Sec. 2807. Multiyear contracting authority for certain military 
construction projects.
Sec. 2808. Guidance for military construction projects for innovation, 
research, development, test, and 
evaluation.
Sec. 2809. Authorize cost-plus incentive fee contracting for SIOP 
infrastructure.
Subtitle B--Military Housing Reforms

Sec. 2811. Improvements to Department of Defense Housing Requirements 
and Market Analysis.
Sec. 2812. Use of imitative substitute building materials for 
preservation of certain units of military 
housing under jurisdiction of the 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 2813. Modification of certain requirements with respect to closure 
of maintenance work orders for privatized 
military housing.
Sec. 2814. Inclusion of additional landlord financial information in 
certain annual report on privatized 
military housing.
Sec. 2815. Continuation of certain reporting requirements with respect 
to privatized military housing.
Sec. 2816. Pilot program for emerging mold remediation technologies.
Sec. 2817. Standardization of mold remediation guidelines across 
military departments.
Sec. 2818. Inspections by qualified home inspector of privatized 
military housing.
Sec. 2819. Plan to improve accuracy, integration, and interoperability 
of Department of Defense data with respect 
to real property, infrastructure, military 
unaccompanied housing.
Sec. 2820. Radon testing of military housing owned or controlled by the 
Federal Government.
Sec. 2820A. Annual report on military families on housing waitlists.
Sec. 2820B. Implementation of Comptroller General recommendations 
relating to critical military housing 
supply and affordability.
Subtitle C--Real Property and Facilities Administration

Sec. 2821. Modification to assistance for public infrastructure 
projects and services.
Sec. 2822. Modification of requirement with respect to minimum capital 
investment for facilities sustainment, 
restoration, and modernization for military 
departments.
Sec. 2823. Extension of authority to carry out Department of Defense 
pilot program for use of cost savings 
realized.
Sec. 2824. Department of Defense intergovernmental support agreements 
for ordnance disposal.
Sec. 2825. Authorities available for Energy Resilience and Conservation 
Investment program projects on privatized 
utility systems.
Sec. 2826. Repeal of construction requirements related to antiterrorism 
and force protection or urban-training 
operations.
Sec. 2827. Repeal of pilot program authorizing overhead cost 
reimbursements from major range and test 
facility base users at certain Department 
of the Air Force installations.
Sec. 2828. Department of Defense procedures with respect to planning 
coordination for grid resiliency on 
military installations.
Sec. 2829. Master plans for Service Academies.
Sec. 2830. Review of Unified Facilities Criteria applicable to military 
construction projects; report.
Sec. 2831. Annual report on cost premium for construction of certain 
facilities.
Sec. 2832. Historical marker commemorating effects of radiation 
exposure at Holloman Air Force Base and 
White Sands Missile Range.
Sec. 2833. Name of Department of the Army military installation, 
Augusta, Georgia.
Sec. 2834. Name of the Department of the Army military installation 
located in Muscogee County and 
Chattahoochee County, Georgia.
Sec. 2835. Access to Military Installations for Certain Surviving Gold 
Star Family Members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 2836. Department of Defense report on housing policy in Guam.
Sec. 2837. Clarification of land conveyance, Fort Hood, Texas.
Sec. 2838. Report on improving Tribal access to defense infrastructure 
programs.
Sec. 2839. Prohibition on the use of single-sex facilities on military 
installations that do not correspond to the 
sex of an individual.
Subtitle D--Land Conveyances

Sec. 2841. Extension of sunset for land conveyance, Sharpe Army Depot, 
Lathrop, California.
Sec. 2842. Land conveyance, Former Curtis Bay Depot, Maryland.
Sec. 2843. Land conveyance, Sigsbee Park Annex, Naval Air Station, Key 
West, Florida.
Subtitle E--Modifications to Unspecified Minor Military Construction

Sec. 2851. Deadline for congressional notification of decisions to 
carry out certain unspecified minor 
military construction projects.
Sec. 2852. Modification to unspecified minor military construction 
authority for laboratory revitalization 
projects.
Sec. 2853. Modification of authority for Indo-Pacific posture 
unspecified minor military construction 
projects.
Sec. 2854. Amendments to defense laboratory modernization program.
Sec. 2855. Transfer of defense laboratory modernization program 
authority to provision of law with respect 
to military construction projects for 
research, test, development, and 
evaluation.
Sec. 2856. Authority of a Secretary concerned to carry out certain 
unspecified minor military construction 
projects.
Sec. 2857. Department of Defense pilot program for additive 
manufacturing technologies in military 
construction projects.
Sec. 2858. Establishment of strategic spaceport program.
Subtitle F--Limitations and Other Matters

Sec. 2861. Modification to definition of military installation 
resilience.
Sec. 2862. Requirements relating to funds for construction and 
improvement of commissary store facilities.
Sec. 2863. Expansion of exceptions to restriction on development of 
public infrastructure in connection with 
realignment of marine corps forces in Asia 
Pacific region.
Sec. 2864. Cooperative agreements with respect to management of land 
and cultural resources located on military 
installations.
Sec. 2865. Limitation on the use of funds for implementing certain 
energy efficiency building codes.
Sec. 2866. Limitation on use of funds for contravention or reversal of 
implementation of recommendations of 
commission on the naming of certain items 
of the Department of Defense.
Sec. 2867. Limitation on use of funds to reduce capabilities or 
staffing of Department of Defense military 
treatment facilities located inside the 
United States.
Sec. 2868. Notice relating to contracts or other agreements to 
establish an enduring location in a foreign 
country.
Sec. 2869. Designation of official responsible for coordination of 
defense sites within area of responsibility 
of Joint Region Marianas.
Sec. 2870. Report on threat of fiber optic-controlled drones.
Sec. 2871. Prohibition of use on military installations of social media 
controlled by foreign adversaries.
Sec. 2872. Study and report on certain investments in critical 
infrastructure in Hawaii.
Sec. 2873. Survey of certain counties for placement of facilities.
Sec. 2874. Study and report on defense access roads program of the 
Department of Defense in the Indo-Pacific 
region.
Sec. 2875. Designation of Creech Air Force Base as a remote or isolated 
installation.
Sec. 2876. Sense of Congress relating the defense community 
infrastructure program.
Sec. 2877. Report on Interagency Regional Coordinator for Resilience 
pilot project.
Sec. 2878. Establishment of Air Force and Space Force Museum System.
Sec. 2879. Extension of Department of the Army Pilot Program for 
Development and Use of Online Real Estate 
Inventory Tool.
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

Sec. 3111. Plutonium pit production capacity.
Sec. 3112. Stockpile responsiveness and rapid capabilities programs of 
the National Nuclear Security 
Administration.
Subtitle C--Reports and Other Matters

Sec. 3121. Modification to reporting requirements with respect to 
nuclear weapons stockpile stewardship, 
management, and responsiveness plan.
Sec. 3122. Assessment of the National Nuclear Security Administration 
Spent Fuel Handling Recapitalization 
Project.
Sec. 3123. Limitation relating to reclassification of high-level waste.
Sec. 3124. Notification requirement with respect to nuclear power in 
Guam.
Sec. 3125. Plan to modernize nuclear security enterprise.
Sec. 3126. Expansion of other transaction authority for National 
Nuclear Safety Administration.
TITLE XXXII--DEFENSE NUCLEAR FACILITIES SAFETY BOARD

Sec. 3201. Authorization.
TITLE XXXIV--NAVAL PETROLEUM RESERVES

Sec. 3401. Authorization of appropriations.
TITLE XXXV--MARITIME ADMINISTRATION

Subtitle A--Maritime Administration

Sec. 3501. Authorization of appropriations for Maritime Administration.
Subtitle B--Maritime Infrastructure

Sec. 3511. Clarification regarding use of port infrastructure 
development program funds to replace 
Chinese port crane hardware or software.
Sec. 3512. Clarification of certain authorities relating to deepwater 
ports.
Sec. 3513. Eligibility of shore power projects under port 
infrastructure development program.
Subtitle C--Reports

Sec. 3521. Report on use of commercial contracting agent for crewing 
and operation of military sealift command 
vessels.
Subtitle D--Other Matters

Sec. 3531. United States Merchant Marine Academy campus modernization 
plan.
Sec. 3532. Cargoes procured, furnished, or financed by United States 
Government.
Sec. 3533. Treatment of the University of Louisiana Maritime Academy as 
a State maritime academy.
Sec. 3534. Design and construction of missile instrumentation range 
safety vessels.
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.
DIVISION E--OTHER MATTERS

TITLE LI--PROHIBITIONS RELATING TO CENTRAL BANK DIGITAL CURRENCY

Sec. 5101. Short title.
Sec. 5102. Prohibition on Federal reserve banks relating to certain 
products or services for individuals and 
prohibition on directly issuing a central 
bank digital currency.
Sec. 5103. Prohibition on Federal reserve banks indirectly issuing a 
central bank digital currency.
Sec. 5104. Prohibition with respect to central bank digital currency.
Sec. 5105. Sense of Congress.
DIVISION F--COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2025

Sec. 6101. Short title.
Sec. 6102. Authorization of appropriations.

SEC. 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.

DIVISION A--DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATIONS

TITLE I--PROCUREMENT

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

SEC. 101. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2026 
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.

Subtitle B--Army Programs

SEC. 111. MULTIYEAR PROCUREMENT AUTHORITY FOR UH-60 BLACKHAWK AIRCRAFT.

(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 the fiscal year 
2027 program year, for the procurement of UH-60 Blackhawk aircraft.
(b) 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 
or funds for that purpose for such later fiscal year.
(c) Authority for Advance Procurement.--The Secretary of the Army 
may enter into one or more contracts, beginning in fiscal year 2026, 
for advance procurement associated with the aircraft for which 
authorization to enter into a multiyear procurement contract is 
provided under subsection (a), which may include procurement of 
economic order quantities of material and equipment for such aircraft 
when cost savings are achievable.

SEC. 112. AUTHORIZATION TO INITIATE EARLY PRODUCTION OF FUTURE LONG-
RANGE ASSAULT AIRCRAFT.

(a) Authorization.--The Secretary of the Army may enter into 
contracts, in advance of full-rate production, for the procurement of 
future long-range assault aircraft as part of an accelerated low-rate 
early production effort.
(b) Objectives.--In carrying out the early production effort 
described in subsection (a), the Secretary of the Army shall pursue the 
following objectives:
(1) To expedite delivery of future long-range assault 
aircraft operational capability to the warfighter.
(2) To maintain momentum and learning continuity between 
test article completion and full production ramp-up.
(3) To stabilize and retain the specialized workforce and 
industrial base supporting future long-range assault aircraft, 
including critical suppliers and production facilities in 
Texas, Kansas, and other States.
(4) To mitigate cost escalation risks and improve program 
affordability across the life cycle.
(c) Considerations.--In executing the authority provided by 
subsection (a), the Secretary shall--
(1) prioritize program continuity, cost-efficiency, and 
workforce retention across the supply chain for tiltrotor 
aircraft;
(2) ensure that aircraft procured as part of the early 
production effort described in subsection (a) incorporate 
lessons learned from test article evaluations; and
(3) maintain flexibility in design to accommodate future 
upgrades through the modular open systems architecture and 
digital backbone.
(d) Briefing to Congress.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall provide 
to the congressional defense committees a briefing detailing--
(1) the implementation plan and timeline for the 
procurement and early production effort described in subsection 
(a);
(2) the status of industrial base readiness and supply 
chain coordination; and
(3) estimated long-term cost savings and operational 
benefits derived from such early production effort.

SEC. 113. LIMITATION ON REDUCTIONS TO ARMY PREPOSITIONED STOCKS--AFLOAT 
PROGRAM SEALIFT CAPABILITY.

(a) Limitation.--The Secretary of the Army may not reduce, 
withdraw, or otherwise degrade the sealift capability of the Army 
Prepositioned Stocks--Afloat program (referred to in this section as 
``APS-3'') until the date on which the Secretary submits to the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives a report that includes--
(1) a comprehensive plan for the Army Prepositioned Stocks 
program through fiscal year 2030, addressing modernization, 
sustainment, and capacity objectives for all subprograms and 
capabilities, including APS-3;
(2) estimated costs, schedule projections, and risk 
assessments for executing the plan under paragraph (1);
(3) a detailed description of any alternative solution or 
capability that the Army envisions would succeed or supplement 
APS-3, including operational employment concepts, an 
acquisition strategy, and a strategy for integration with joint 
and coalition logistics forces;
(4) an assessment of the risks, costs, and benefits 
associated with a potential deactivation or reduction in APS-3 
capabilities; and
(5) any legislative or regulatory authorities required to 
implement--
(A) the plan under paragraph (1); and
(B) any alternative solution or capability 
identified under paragraph (3).
(b) Definition.--In this section, the term ``sealift capability'' 
means the vessels, associated equipment, and any port-of-embarkation 
and port-of-debarkation infrastructure dedicated to APS-3.

SEC. 114. LIMITATION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION 
COMMAND AND CONTROL (NGC2) OF THE ARMY.

Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise 
made available for fiscal year 2026 for the Department of the Army for 
the Army's Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) strategy, not 
more than 50 percent may be obligated or expended until the Secretary 
of the Army submits to the congressional defense committees a report 
that includes the following:
(1) The Army's detailed funding plans for current and new 
procurements for its tactical network, and a cost and 
capability assessment of current and proposed solutions.
(2) Testing and fielding plans for any new procurements for 
such network, including an explanation of--
(A) how any new programs meet the resiliency 
requirements specified in section 168 of the National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public 
Law 116-92; 133 Stat. 1251); and
(B) how any new programs will utilize NSA High 
Assurance certified encryption and decryption.
(3) Plans to integrate existing programs of record with new 
programs of record and plans to ensure systems are 
interoperable with both fielded systems the systems of foreign 
partners.

SEC. 115. REPORT ON FIELDING OF LINK 16 MILITARY TACTICAL DATA NETWORK.

Not later than December 1, 2025, the Secretary of the Army shall 
submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the plan of 
the Army to require and accelerate the fielding of Link 16 military 
tactical data networking capabilities throughout the Army, including on 
UH-60M and CH-47F aircraft--
(1) for command and control and fires;
(2) to ensure maximum interoperability, lethality, and 
survivability of combat and combat support elements supporting 
the Joint Force within highly contested airborne combat 
environments in the area of responsibility of the United States 
Indo-Pacific Command; and
(3) to meet joint all-domain command and control goals 
worldwide.

Subtitle C--Navy Programs

SEC. 121. CONTRACT AUTHORITY FOR FORD CLASS AIRCRAFT CARRIER PROGRAM.

(a) Contract Authority.--The Secretary of the Navy may enter into 
one or more contracts for the procurement of not more than two Ford 
class aircraft carriers.
(b) Authority for Advance Procurement and Economic Order 
Quantity.--The Secretary of the Navy may enter into one or more 
contracts for advance procurement, advance construction, and material 
and equipment in economic order quantities associated with the 
procurement of the Ford class aircraft carriers for which contracts are 
authorized under subsection (a).
(c) Use of Incremental Funding.--With respect to a contract entered 
into under subsection (a) or (b), the Secretary of the Navy may use 
incremental funding to make payments under the contract.
(d) Liability.--Any contract entered into under subsection (a) or 
(b) 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 any contract entered into shall be limited to 
the total amount of funding obligated to the contract at time 
of termination.

SEC. 122. CONTRACT AUTHORITY FOR COLUMBIA CLASS SUBMARINE PROGRAM.

(a) Contract Authority.--The Secretary of the Navy may enter into a 
contract, beginning with fiscal year 2026, for the procurement of up to 
five Columbia class submarines.
(b) Incremental Funding.--With respect to a contract entered into 
under subsection (a), the Secretary of the Navy may use incremental 
funding to make payments under the contract.
(c) Funding and 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 any contract entered into shall be limited to 
the total amount of funding obligated to the contract at time 
of termination.

SEC. 123. AUTHORITY FOR ADVANCE PROCUREMENT OF CERTAIN COMPONENTS TO 
SUPPORT CONTINUOUS PRODUCTION OF VIRGINIA CLASS 
SUBMARINES.

(a) In General.-- The Secretary of the Navy may enter into one or 
more contracts, prior to ship authorization, for the advance 
procurement of covered components for Virginia class submarines, 
including procurement of such components in economic order quantities 
when cost savings are achievable.
(b) Funding and 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 to the Federal Government for 
termination of the contract shall be limited to the total 
amount of funding obligated for the contract at the time of 
termination.
(c) Budget Requests.--In the budget justification materials 
submitted in support of the budget of the Department of Defense (as 
submitted with the budget of the President under section 1105(a) of 
title 31, United States Code) for fiscal year 2027 and each fiscal year 
thereafter, the Secretary of the Navy shall include a separate budget 
display identifying the amounts requested pursuant to this section set 
forth by the specific program, project, or activity under the Virginia 
class submarine program for which such funds are requested.
(d) Covered Components Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered components'' means the following components for Virginia 
class submarines:
(1) Propulsion plant equipment.
(2) Diesel Systems and associated components.
(3) Castings, forgings, and tank structures.
(4) Air flasks.
(5) Payload tubes.
(6) Major Valves And Associated Components.
(7) Hatches.
(8) Steering and drive components.
(9) Major Pumps And Motors.
(10) Snorkel mast and components.
(11) Torpedo tubes.
(12) Atmosphere control equipment.

SEC. 124. AUTHORITY TO USE INCREMENTAL FUNDING TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT 
FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A GUIDED MISSILE DESTROYER (DDG).

(a) In General.--Amounts authorized to be appropriated by this Act 
or otherwise made available for the Navy for Shipbuilding and 
Conversion for fiscal year 2026 may be used by the Secretary of the 
Navy to enter into an incrementally funded contract for the 
construction of one Guided Missile Destroyer (DDG).
(b) Availability of Funds.--A contract entered into under 
subsection (a) shall provide that any obligation of the United States 
to make a payment under the contract is subject to the availability of 
appropriations for that purpose, and that total liability to the 
Government for the termination of the contract shall be limited to the 
total amount of funding obligated at time of termination.

SEC. 125. MULTIYEAR PROCUREMENT AUTHORITY FOR YARD, REPAIR, BERTHING, 
AND MESSING BARGES.

(a) Authority for Multiyear Procurement.--Subject to section 3501 
of title 10, United States Code, the Secretary of the Navy may enter 
into one or more multiyear contracts, beginning with the fiscal year 
2026 program year, for the procurement of Yard, Repair, Berthing, and 
Messing Barges and associated material.
(b) Authority for Advance Procurement.--The Secretary of the Navy 
may enter into one or more contracts, beginning in fiscal year 2026, 
for advance procurement associated with the barges for which 
authorization to enter into a multiyear procurement contract is 
provided under subsection (a), which may include procurement of 
economic order quantities of material and equipment for such barges 
when cost savings are achievable.
(b) Availability of Funds and Termination 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.

SEC. 126. VESSEL CONSTRUCTION MANAGER FOR FOLLOW-ON SHIPS OF THE 
LANDING SHIP MEDIUM PROGRAM.

(a) In General.--After the construction of the lead ship of the 
Landing Ship Medium program has commenced, the Secretary of the Navy 
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 one or more contracts for the construction of 
not more than 8 additional landing ships under the program.
(b) Requirements for Additional Ships.--The additional landing 
ships authorized to be constructed under subsection (a), shall be 
nondevelopmental items constructed using a design that is--
(1) the same as the design of the lead ship; or
(2) derived from such design.
(c) Lead Ship Defined.--In this section, the term ``lead ship'' 
means the first landing ship procured as a commercial or 
nondevelopmental item as authorized under section 128(b) of the 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 
118-159).

SEC. 127. LIMITATION ON CONSTRUCTION OF MODULAR ATTACK SURFACE CRAFT.

The Secretary of the Navy may not enter into a contract or other 
agreement that includes a scope of work, including priced or unpriced 
options, for the construction, advance procurement, or long-lead 
material of the lead ship of the Modular Attack Surface Craft program 
until the Secretary certifies to the congressional defense committees 
that such ship will be designed and constructed for the primary purpose 
of operating autonomously.

SEC. 128. INCLUSION OF AMPHIBIOUS WARFARE SHIP SPARES AND REPAIR PARTS 
AS A SEPARATE LINE ITEM IN NAVY BUDGET JUSTIFICATION 
MATERIALS.

(a) In General.--In the budget justification materials submitted to 
Congress in support of the Department of the Defense budget for fiscal 
year 2027 and each fiscal year thereafter (as submitted with the budget 
of the President under section 1105(a) of title 31, United States 
Code), the Secretary of the Navy shall include one or more dedicated 
line items for spare parts and repair parts for amphibious warfare 
ships in the budget display for other procurement, Navy.
(b) Amphibious Warfare Ship Defined.--In this section, the term 
``amphibious warfare ship'' has the meaning given that term in section 
8062(h) of title 10, United States Code.

SEC. 129. STRATEGY FOR NAVY INVESTMENT IN AND SUPPORT FOR THE MARITIME 
INDUSTRIAL BASE.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall develop and 
implement a strategy for investing in and supporting the maritime 
industrial base to address cost and schedule challenges for surface and 
submarine shipbuilding programs.
(b) Elements.--The strategy under subsection (a) shall--
(1) focus on ensuring reliable supplies of sequence 
critical components for submarine and surface shipbuilding 
programs; and
(2) include measures--
(A) to identify key performance indicators to 
measure return on investment;
(B) to centralize data collection to support 
further analysis of maritime industrial base 
performance; and
(C) to apply artificial intelligence to monitor and 
predict potential supply chain challenges, including 
potential disruptions, material shortages, delivery 
delays, and other such factors.
(c) Report.--Following completion of the strategy required under 
subsection (a), but not later than 210 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report on the strategy. The report 
shall include--
(1) a summary of the strategy;
(2) timelines for implementation of the strategy; and
(3) an explanation of how the strategy is expected to 
address cost and schedule challenges for surface and submarine 
shipbuilding programs.

SEC. 130. MODIFICATION TO REQUIREMENTS FOR RECAPITALIZATION OF TACTICAL 
FIGHTER AIRCRAFT OF THE NAVY RESERVE.

Section 127 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159) is amended by striking subsection (c) 
and inserting the following:
``(c) Covered F-18 Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term 
`covered F-18 aircraft' means--
``(1) the eight F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft procured 
using funds authorized and appropriated for the Navy during 
fiscal year 2023; or
``(2) in lieu of an aircraft described in paragraph (1), 
any Block II or newer F/A-18E/F tactical fighter aircraft 
that--
``(A) has a minimum of 2,000 flight hours of 
service-life remaining airframe flight time prior to 
the need for a required high flight-hour inspection and 
Service Life Modification process; and
``(B) is included in the Naval Aviation Master 
Aviation Plan and designated for the Navy Reserve.
``(d) Master Aviation Plan.--In conjunction with the activities 
required under this section, the Secretary of the Navy shall ensure 
that the Naval Aviation Master Aviation Plan remains up-to-date and 
relevant with respect to aviation units of the Navy Reserve.''.

SEC. 131. REPORT ON PROCUREMENT STRATEGY FOR SUBMARINE CABLE LAYING AND 
REPAIR SHIPS.

(a) In General.--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 report on the strategy of the Navy 
for procuring at least two cable laying and repair ships to replace the 
USNS Zeus as it nears the end of its expected service life.
(b) Elements.--The report under subsection (a) shall include--
(1) a description of the full scope of the planned 
capabilities for the next generation of cable laying and repair 
ships to meet anticipated Navy requirements, including the 
feasibility of establishing organic capabilities;
(2) a projected timeline for the procurement of such ships, 
including the expected time until such ships will be 
operational;
(3) an explanation of how the Navy plans to meet Service 
requirements for submarine cable laying and repair during the 
period before which the Navy is able to field new capabilities.
(c) Form of Report.--The report required under subsection (a) shall 
be submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex.

Subtitle D--Air Force Programs

SEC. 141. MODIFICATION OF MINIMUM INVENTORY REQUIREMENTS FOR AIR 
REFUELING TANKER AIRCRAFT.

(a) Minimum Inventory Requirement.--Section 9062(j) of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``a total aircraft 
inventory of air refueling tanker aircraft of not less than 466 
aircraft'' and inserting ``a total aircraft inventory of air 
refueling tanker aircraft--
``(A) of not less than 466 aircraft during the 
period ending on September 30, 2026;
``(B) of not less than 485 aircraft during the 
period beginning on October 1, 2026, and ending on 
September 30, 2027; and
``(C) of not less than 504 aircraft beginning on 
October 1, 2027.''; and
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``below 466'' and 
inserting ``below the applicable level specified in paragraph 
(1)''.
(b) Prohibition on Reduction of KC-135 Aircraft in PMAI of the 
Reserve Components.--
(1) In general.--None of the funds authorized to be 
appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal 
year 2026 for the Air Force may be obligated or expended to 
reduce the number of KC-135 aircraft designated as primary 
mission aircraft inventory within the reserve components of the 
Air Force.
(2) Primary mission aircraft inventory defined.--In this 
subsection, the term ``primary mission aircraft inventory'' has 
the meaning given that term in section 9062(i)(2)(B) of title 
10, United States Code.

SEC. 142. EXTENSION OF REQUIREMENTS RELATING 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 amended 
by section 145(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159), is amended by striking ``2025'' and 
inserting ``2026''.
(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 amended by section 145(b) of the National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159), is 
amended by striking ``2025'' and inserting ``2026''.

SEC. 143. MODIFICATION TO MINIMUM INVENTORY REQUIREMENT FOR A-10 
AIRCRAFT.

(a) In General.--Section 134(d) of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114-328; 130 Stat. 
2038) is amended by striking ``96 A-10 aircraft designated as primary 
mission aircraft inventory until a period of 90 days has elapsed 
following the date on which the Secretary submits to the congressional 
defense committees the report under subsection (e)(2)'' and inserting 
``96 A-10 aircraft designated as primary mission aircraft inventory 
until October 1, 2026''.
(b) Prohibition on Retirement.--
(1) In general.--During the period beginning on October 1, 
2025 and ending on September 30, 2026, the Secretary of the Air 
Force may not--
(A) retire an A-10 aircraft;
(B) reduce funding for unit personnel or weapon 
system sustainment activities for A-10 aircraft in a 
manner that presumes future congressional authority to 
divest such aircraft;
(C) keep an A-10 aircraft in a status considered 
excess to the requirements of the possessing command 
and awaiting disposition instructions (commonly 
referred to as ``XJ'' status); or
(D) decrease the total aircraft inventory of A-10 
aircraft below 162 aircraft.
(2) Exception.--The prohibition under paragraph (1) shall 
not apply to individual A-10 aircraft that the Secretary of the 
Air Force determines, on a case-by-case basis, to be no longer 
mission capable and uneconomical to repair because of aircraft 
accidents, mishaps, or excessive material degradation and non-
airworthiness status of certain aircraft.
(c) Briefing Required.--Not later than March 31, 2026, the 
Secretary of the Air Force shall provide to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on 
the status of A-10 aircraft inventory and the proposed plan for 
divesting all A-10 aircraft prior to fiscal year 2029. The briefing 
shall cover, at a minimum, the following:
(1) The number of A-10 Total Aircraft Inventory aircraft 
disaggregated by Combat Coded Aircraft, Primary Mission 
Aircraft Inventory, Backup Aircraft Assigned, Attrition 
Reserve, tail number, and location.
(2) The planned divestment date of each such aircraft.
(3) The detailed plan for how and when the Secretary 
proposes to proceed with divestment of aircraft for each A-10 
unit prior to fiscal year 2029.
(4) The aircraft transition plan for replacing A-10 
aircraft with new or existing replacement aircraft in each unit 
that is divesting of the A-10 aircraft, which shall include an 
explanation of--
(A) how the Secretary plans to minimize adverse 
personnel impacts within such units, including adverse 
impacts with respect to retention, currency, 
proficiency, qualifications, certifications, and 
training; and
(B) how the Secretary plans to minimize or 
eliminate any scheduling gap that may occur with 
respect to a unit divesting from the A-10 aircraft and 
transitioning to a new or existing replacement 
aircraft.
(5) The information and content format that was provided in 
the briefing to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate 
and the House of Representatives by the Headquarters Air Force, 
Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs (HAF/A8), on 
February 13, 2023, titled ``A-10 Divestment Placemats''.
(6) Any other information the Secretary determines 
releveant.

SEC. 144. PRESERVATION OF CERTAIN RETIRED KC-10 AIRCRAFT.

(a) In General.--Subject to subsections (b) and (c), the Secretary 
of the Air Force shall preserve each KC-10 aircraft that is retired by 
the Secretary during a period in which the total inventory of air 
refueling aircraft of the Air Force is less than 504.
(b) Manner of Preservation.--The retired KC-10 aircraft preserved 
under subsection (a) shall be preserved such that each aircraft--
(1) is stored in flyable condition;
(2) can be returned to service as an air refueling aircraft 
(which shall include retaining the air refueling boom on the 
aircraft); and
(3) is not used to supply parts to other aircraft unless 
specifically authorized by the Secretary of Defense upon a 
request by the Secretary of the Air Force.
(c) Authority to Dispose of Preserved Aircraft.--A KC-10 aircraft 
preserved under subsection (a) may be disposed of in accordance with 
chapter 5 of title 40, United States Code.

SEC. 145. PROHIBITION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR CONTRACT TERMINATION 
OR PRODUCTION LINE SHUTDOWN FOR E-7A WEDGETAIL AIRCRAFT.

None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or 
otherwise made available for fiscal year 2026 for the Department of 
Defense may be obligated or expended--
(1) to terminate the mid-tier acquisition rapid prototype 
contract for the E-7A aircraft; or
(2) to terminate the operations of, or to prepare to 
terminate the operations of, a production line for the E-7A 
aircraft.

SEC. 146. LIMITATION ON PROCUREMENT OF KC-46 AIRCRAFT PENDING 
CERTIFICATION ON CORRECTION OF DEFICIENCIES.

(a) Limitation.--The Secretary of Defense may not accept or take 
delivery of covered KC-46 aircraft in excess of the maximum quantity 
specified in subsection (c) until the Secretary--
(1) certifies to the congressional defense committees that 
the Secretary has developed and is implementing a plan of 
corrective actions and milestones to resolve all Category 1 
deficiencies identified with respect to KC-46 aircraft; and
(2) submits such plan to such committees, which shall 
include--
(A) an estimate of the total amount of funds 
required to complete implementation of the plan;
(B) realistic event-driven schedules to achieve the 
objectives of the plan; and
(C) a schedule risk assessment to a minimum of 80 
percent confidence level.
(b) Form.--The plan described in subsection (a)(2) shall be 
submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex.
(c) Maximum Quantity.--The maximum quantity of covered KC-46 
aircraft specified in this subsection is 183 aircraft.
(d) Covered KC-46 Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered KC-46 aircraft'' means new production KC-46 aircraft the 
procurement of which is fully funded by the United States.

SEC. 147. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO EXECUTIVE AIRLIFT AIRCRAFT.

(a) Analysis of Alternatives.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Air Force shall 
conduct an analysis of alternatives to identify potential 
solutions for the recapitalization of the executive airlift 
aircraft fleet of the Air Force. In conducting such analysis, 
the Secretary shall seek to identify aircraft solutions that 
have capabilities comparable to the capabilities of commercial 
passenger aircraft in terms of range.
(2) Timeline.--The Secretary of the Air Force shall--
(A) initiate the analysis of alternatives required 
under paragraph (1) not later than 30 days after the 
date of the enactment of this Act; and
(B) complete such analysis not later than April 1, 
2026.
(3) Report.--Not later than 60 days after completing the 
analysis of alternatives required under paragraph (1), the 
Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a 
report on the results of the analysis.
(b) Prioritization Standards.--Not later than December 1, 2025, the 
Secretary of the Air Force shall establish standards for prioritizing 
access to executive airlift aircraft among authorized users of such 
aircraft within the Federal Government.
(c) Personnel.--
(1) In general.--Not later than January 1, 2026, the 
Secretary of Defense shall assign a career appointee (as that 
term is defined in section 3132(a) of title 5, United States 
Code) in the Senior Executive Service at the Department of 
Defense to coordinate--
(A) the efficient tasking of executive airlift 
aircraft; and
(B) compliance with rules, regulations, policies 
and guidance relating to such aircraft, including the 
prioritization standards developed under subsection 
(b).
(2) Qualifications.--The career appointee assigned under 
paragraph (1) shall, as determined by the Secretary, have 
knowledge and experience relating to executive airlift 
aircraft, including familiarity with the executive airlift 
fleets of the Armed Forces and knowledge of policies and 
procedures for the prioritization of executive airlift users.

SEC. 148. REPORT ON THE F-47 ADVANCED FIGHTER AIRCRAFT PROGRAM.

(a) In General.--Not later than March 1, 2027, the Secretary of the 
Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report 
on the F-47 advanced fighter aircraft program.
(b) Elements.--The report required under subsection (a) shall 
include following:
(1) A description of the F-47 aircraft program, including 
system requirements, employment concepts, and projected costs, 
schedule, and funding requirements over the period covered by 
the program objective memorandum process for fiscal years 2028 
through 2034.
(2) The acquisition strategy for the F-47 program of 
record, including consideration of implementing a middle tier 
acquisition pathway or major capability acquisition pathway (as 
such terms are defined in Department of Defense Instruction 
5000.85, titled ``Major Capability Acquisition'' and issued on 
August 6, 2020 (or a successor instruction)).
(3) A proposed fielding strategy for the F-47 aircraft, 
including--
(A) estimated force structure requirements;
(B) strategic basing considerations;
(C) an estimate of military construction 
requirements;
(D) an estimate of personnel training requirements; 
and
(E) an integrated total force fielding concept, 
including an analysis of Air National Guard and Air 
Force Reserve operational integration and associations.
(c) Form.--The report required under subsection (a) shall be 
submitted in unclassified form but may contain a classified annex.

SEC. 149. EXTENSION OF PROHIBITION ON CERTAIN REDUCTIONS TO B-1 BOMBER 
AIRCRAFT SQUADRONS.

Subsection (d)(1) of section 133 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117-81; 135 Stat. 
1574), as most recently amended by section 146 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159; 138 Stat. 
1810), is further amended by striking ``September 30, 2026'' and 
inserting ``September 30, 2030''.

SEC. 150. PLAN FOR RECAPITALIZATION AND MODERNIZATION OF THE FIGHTER 
FLEET OF THE AIR NATIONAL GUARD.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Air Force, in consultation 
with the Director of the Air National Guard, shall develop a plan for 
the recapitalization and modernization of the fighter fleet of the Air 
National Guard.
(b) Element.--The plan required under subsection (a) shall 
include--
(1) measures to sustain and recapitalize the fighter fleet 
of the Air National Guard, including each of the 25 Air 
National Guard fighter aircraft squadrons;
(2) a timeline for the recapitalization of such fighter 
fleet, disaggregated by fighter aircraft squadron and fiscal 
year;
(3) the estimated costs of the proposed recapitalization 
plan; and
(4) an explanation of the expected impact of the plan on 
operational and personnel readiness.
(c) Report.--Not later than July 1, 2026, the Secretary of the Air 
Force shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
Representatives a report on the plan developed under subsection (a).

Subtitle E--Defense-wide, Joint, and Multiservice Matters

SEC. 151. AMENDMENTS TO PROHIBITION ON OPERATION, PROCUREMENT, AND 
CONTRACTING RELATED TO FOREIGN-MADE LIGHT DETECTION AND 
RANGING.

Section 164(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159) is amended to read as follows:
``(a) Prohibitions.--The Secretary of Defense may not--
``(1) operate, enter into or renew a contract for, the 
procurement of--
``(A) a covered light detection and ranging 
technology (referred to in this section as `LiDAR 
technology') that--
``(i) is manufactured in a covered foreign 
country or by an entity domiciled in a covered 
foreign country;
``(ii) uses operating software developed in 
a covered foreign country or by an entity 
domiciled in a covered foreign country; or
``(iii) uses network connectivity or data 
storage located in or administered by an entity 
domiciled in a covered foreign country; or
``(B) a system or systems that incorporates, 
interfaces with, or otherwise uses LiDAR technology as 
described in subparagraph (A); or
``(2) enter into or renew a contract with an entity that 
operates a covered LiDAR technology to perform a Department of 
Defense contract.''.

SEC. 152. ANNUAL GAO REVIEWS OF THE F-35 AIRCRAFT PROGRAM.

(a) Annual Reviews and Reports.--Not later than March 1, 2026, and 
on an annual basis thereafter until the termination date specified in 
subsection (c), the Comptroller General of the United States shall--
(1) complete a review of the F-35 aircraft program; and
(2) submit to the congressional defense committees a report 
on the results of the review.
(b) Elements.--Each review and report under subsection (a) shall 
include an assessment of--
(1) the cost, scope, and schedule of the F-35 aircraft 
program and its subprograms;
(2) the status of the efforts of the Department of Defense 
to modernize the F-35 aircraft; and
(3) such other matters relating to the F-35 aircraft 
program as the Comptroller General determines appropriate.
(c) Termination Date.--The requirements of this section shall 
terminate on the date on which all development, production, and 
fielding activities under the F-35 aircraft acquisition program have 
ceased.

SEC. 153. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON DOMESTIC PROCUREMENT OF DEFENSE ARTICLES 
FOR AUKUS PARTNERSHIP.

(a) In General.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) researching, producing, and procuring defense articles 
for the AUKUS partnership from within the United States boosts 
local economies and improves national security by enhancing 
domestic defense article production capabilities; and
(2) the Secretary of Defense should promote and prioritize 
domestic manufacturing, supply chains, and research for defense 
articles intended for use by members of the AUKUS partnership.
(b) AUKUS Partnership Defined.--In this section, the term ``AUKUS 
partnership'' means the enhanced trilateral security partnership 
between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States announced 
in September 2021.

SEC. 154. PROHIBITION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR NON-TACTICAL 
ELECTRIC VEHICLES OR COMPONENTS PRODUCED BY CHILD AND 
SLAVE LABOR.

None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or 
otherwise made available for the Department of Defense may be obligated 
or expended for the procurement of non-tactical electric vehicles, 
advanced-biofuel-powered vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, or any 
components or spare parts associated with such vehicles that are not in 
compliance with the prohibition on the acquisition of products produced 
by forced or indentured child labor under subpart 22.15 of the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (or any successor regulations).

SEC. 155. REPORT ON NEXT GENERATION FUEL CELLS.

Not later than March 15, 2026, the Secretary of Defense shall 
submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the 
development and integration of next-generation self-sealing fuel cells 
(referred to in this section as ``NexGen fuel cells'') into the 
rotorcraft fleets of the Army, Navy, and Air Force). The report shall 
include each of the following:
(1) An assessment of any negative effects on readiness 
associated with using the fuel cells in use as of the date on 
the enactment of this Act that are based on World War II-era 
technology and manufacturing processes.
(2) An identification of any readiness, fiscal, and other 
benefits of incorporating NexGen fuel cells into the rotorcraft 
fleets the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
(3) Plans or concepts for developing and incorporating 
NexGen fuel cells into the H-60 fleets of the Army, Navy, and 
Air Force.
(4) Such other matters the Secretary determines relevant.

TITLE II--RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND EVALUATION

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

SEC. 201. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2026 
for the use of the Department of Defense for research, development, 
test, and evaluation, as specified in the funding table in section 
4201.

SEC. 202. FUNDING FOR VIRTUAL ENGINEERING FOR ARMY READINESS AND 
SUSTAINMENT.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Next-
Generation Combat Vehicle Advanced Technology, line 052, as specified 
in the corresponding funding table in section 4201, for Virtual 
Engineering for Army Readiness and Sustainment, is hereby increased by 
$7,000,000.
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for Operation and Maintenance, Army, for Land Forces 
Systems Readiness, line 080, as specified in the corresponding funding 
table in section 4301, is hereby reduced by $7,000,000.

SEC. 203. FUNDING FOR HUMANITARIAN AIRBORNE MOBILE INFRASTRUCTURE 
CAPABILITY.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Army for 
Ground Advanced Technology, line 043, as specified in the corresponding 
funding table in section 4201, for Humanitarian Airborne Mobile 
Infrastructure Capability, is hereby increased by $4,200,000.
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for Operation and Maintenance, Army, for Land Forces 
Systems Readiness, line 080, as specified in the corresponding funding 
table in section 4301, is hereby reduced by $4,200,000.

SEC. 204. FUNDING FOR FUEL CELL MULTI-MODULAR USE UTILIZING HYDROGEN.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Army for 
Ground Advanced Technology, line 043, as specified in the corresponding 
funding table in section 4201, for Fuel Cell Multi-Modular Use (FC-MMU) 
Utilizing Hydrogen, is hereby increased by $10,000,000.
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for Operation and Maintenance, Army, for Land Forces 
Systems Readiness, line 080, as specified in the corresponding funding 
table in section 4301, is hereby reduced by $10,000,000.

SEC. 205. FUNDING FOR ADVANCED GROUP 1 SMALL UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEMS 
FOR SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for research, development, test, and evaluation, Defense-
wide, as specified in the corresponding funding table in section 4201, 
Special Operations Command, intelligence systems development, line 290 
(program element 1160405BB), is hereby increased by $3,000,000 (with 
the amount of such increase to be made available for ultra-lightweight 
Group 1 small unmanned aerial systems--advanced Group 1 small unmanned 
aerial systems).
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for operation and maintenance, Army, as specified in the 
corresponding funding table in section 4301, for maneuver units, line 
010, is hereby reduced by $3,000,000.

SEC. 206. FUNDING FOR NATIONAL DEFENSE EDUCATION PROGRAM.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for research, development, test, and evaluation, Defense-
wide, as specified in the corresponding funding table in section 4201, 
for basic research, National Defense Education Program, line 6, is 
hereby increased by $5,000,000 (with the amount of such increase to be 
used to strengthen and expand STEM education opportunities and 
workforce initiatives targeted at military students).
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 4301 for Operation and Maintenance, Defense-wide, for 
Washington Headquarters Services, line 530, as specified in the 
corresponding funding table in section 4301, is hereby reduced by 
$5,000,000.

SEC. 207. FUNDING FOR THE DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND INTEGRATION OF 
ADAPTABLE RADAR CAPABILITIES.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Defense-
Wide, line 75, as specified in the corresponding funding table in 
section 4201, for development, test, and integration of adaptable radar 
capabilities is hereby increased by $6,000,000.
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for Operation and Maintenance, Army for Additional 
Activities, line 140, as specified in the corresponding funding table 
in section 4301 for program decrease is hereby reduced by $6,000,000.

SEC. 208. FUNDING FOR ADVANCED DRONE DEVELOPMENT FOR SPECIAL OPERATIONS 
AND LOW-INTENSITY CONFLICT.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for research, development, test, and evaluation, Defense 
Wide, as specified in the corresponding funding table in section 4201, 
for SO/LIC ADVANCED DEVELOPMENT for drone development is hereby 
increased by $7,500,000.
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for SERVICEWIDE TRANSPORTATION, ARMY, line 390 as specified 
in the corresponding funding table in section 4301, for program 
decrease is hereby reduced by $7,500,000.

SEC. 209. FUNDING FOR QUANTUM COMMUNICATIONS CORRIDOR FOR NAVY 
RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND EVALUATION.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, Navy, for 
Future Naval Capabilities Applied Research, Line 012, as specified in 
the corresponding funding table in section 4201, is hereby increased by 
$50,000,000 for the development of a quantum communications corridor 
linking certain Department of Defense installations, national 
laboratories, and universities conducting Department of Defense 
research.
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for Operation and Maintenance, Army, for Force Readiness 
Operations Support, Line 070, as specified in the corresponding funding 
table in section 4301, is hereby reduced by $50,000,000.

SEC. 210. FUNDING FOR SMART SUSCEPTOR TECHNOLOGY.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 201 for Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, 
Manufacturing Technology Program, line 28, as specified in the 
corresponding funding table in section 4201, for Smart Susceptor 
Technology is hereby increased by $5,000,000.
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to by appropriated in 
section 301 for Operations and Maintenance, Defense-Wide, for 
Washington Headquarters Services, line 530, as specified in the 
corresponding funding table in section 4301, is hereby reduced by 
$5,000,000.

Subtitle B--Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations

SEC. 211. MODIFICATION TO AUTHORITY TO AWARD PRIZES FOR ADVANCED 
TECHNOLOGY ACHIEVEMENTS.

(a) Secretarial Authority.--Subsection (a) of section 4025 of title 
10, United States Code, is amended by striking ``, acting through the 
Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Under 
Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and the service 
acquisition executive for each military department,''.
(b) Maximum Amount of Award Prizes.--Subsection (c) of such section 
is amended to read as follows:
``(c) Limitation.--No prize competition may result in the award of 
a prize with a fair market value of more than $20,000,000 without the 
approval of the Secretary of Defense.''.
(c) Congressional Notification Threshold.--Subsection (g)(1) of 
such section is amended by striking ``$10,000,000'' and inserting ``the 
amount specified in subsection (c)''.

SEC. 212. MODIFICATION TO MECHANISMS TO PROVIDE FUNDS TO DEFENSE 
LABORATORIES AND OTHER ENTITIES FOR RESEARCH AND 
DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNOLOGIES FOR MILITARY MISSIONS.

Section 4123 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by inserting ``and test 
organizations'' after ``defense laboratories'';
(2) by inserting ``or test organization'' after 
``laboratory'' each place it appears; and
(3) in subsection (a)(3), by inserting ``or test 
organizations'' after ``laboratories''.

SEC. 213. MODIFICATION TO AUTHORITY FOR ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION, OR 
FURNISHING OF TEST FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.

(a) Jointly Funded Projects.--Section 4174 of title 10, United 
States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``A contract of a 
military department'' and inserting ``A covered contract''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsections:
``(d)(1) In a case in which research, developmental, or test 
facilities and equipment described in this section are used to support 
multiple contracts or programs across different military departments, 
other Federal agencies outside the Department of Defense, or eligible 
non-Federal entities, a jointly funded project may be established.
``(2) Under a jointly funded project, the Secretary of Defense (or 
the Secretary's designee) shall enter into a written agreement with 
each entity participating in the project. Each such agreement shall, at 
a minimum, address the following:
``(A) Cost sharing arrangements, including the proportion 
of total project costs to be borne by each entity.
``(B) Allocation of access to the facilities and equipment, 
including prioritization procedures in cases of competing 
demands.
``(C) Management and oversight responsibilities, including 
the designation of a lead agency.
``(D) Ownership and intellectual property rights related to 
the facilities, equipment, and any resulting data or 
inventions.
``(E) Dispute resolution mechanisms.
``(3) A non-Federal entity, including a private company, academic 
institution, or non-profit organization, may participate in a jointly 
funded project under this subsection only if the Secretary of Defense 
determines such participation is in the national security interest and 
consistent with applicable laws and regulations.
``(4) The Secretary of Defense shall issue regulations to implement 
this subsection. Such regulations shall include specific criteria for 
evaluating proposed jointly funded projects, standardized agreement 
templates, and procedures for ensuring the transparency and 
accountability of such projects.
``(e) In this section, the term `covered contract' means--
``(1) a contract of a military department; or
``(2) a contract for a jointly funded project as described 
subsection (c).''.
(b) Regulations Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue or 
revise regulations (as necessary) to clarify that the authority for 
acquisition, construction, or furnishing of test facilities and 
equipment under section 4174 of title 10, United States Code, applies 
to contracts funded using funds appropriated or otherwise made 
available for--
(1) research, development, test, and evaluation, including 
science and technology funds designated as budget activity 1 
(basic research), budget activity 2 (applied research), and 
budget activity 3 (advanced technology development) (as those 
budget activity classifications are set forth in volume 2B, 
chapter 5 of the Department of Defense Financial Management 
Regulation (DOD 7000.14-R)); and
(2) operation and maintenance, to the extent that such 
funds are used to support activities authorized under such 
section.

SEC. 214. EXTENSION OF LIMITATION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR 
FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH COLLABORATION WITH CERTAIN ACADEMIC 
INSTITUTIONS.

Section 238(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159; 138 Stat. 1842) is amended by inserting 
``or fiscal year 2026'' after ``fiscal year 2025''.

SEC. 215. MODIFICATION TO POLICIES FOR MANAGEMENT AND CERTIFICATION OF 
LINK 16 MILITARY TACTICAL DATA LINK NETWORK.

Section 228(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31; 10 U.S.C. 4571 note) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``the Nevada Test and 
Training Range, Restricted Area 2508, Warning Area 151/470, 
Warning Area 386, and the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex'' 
and inserting ``military special use airspace including all 
prohibited areas, restricted areas, warning areas, and military 
operational areas'';
(2) in paragraph (2), in the matter before subparagraph 
(A), by striking ``training, and large-scale exercises.'' and 
inserting ``regular training, and large-scale exercises. Under 
such processes, approval of Link 16 operations shall be 
presumed and denial of Link 16 operations shall be accompanied 
with substantiated evidence demonstrating compromise of safety 
due to electromagnetic interference.''; and
(3) in paragraph (5), by inserting ``regular'' before 
``training''.

SEC. 216. SUPPORT FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF BIOINDUSTRIAL 
MANUFACTURING PROCESSES.

Section 215 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization 
Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117-263; 10 U.S.C. 4841 note) is 
amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (d) through (f) as 
subsections (e) through (g), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following new 
subsection:
``(d) Applicability of Funding.--The activities described in 
subsection (c), including the design and construction of facilities, 
are applicable to funds authorized to be appropriated for the 
Department of Defense for research, development, test, and 
evaluation.''.

SEC. 217. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY FOR ASSIGNMENT TO DEFENSE ADVANCED 
RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY OF PRIVATE SECTOR PERSONNEL WITH 
CRITICAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT EXPERTISE.

(a) Extension.--Subsection (e) of section 232 of the Carl Levin and 
Howard P. ``Buck'' McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2015 (Public Law 113-291; 10 U.S.C. note prec. 4091) is amended by 
striking ``September 30, 2025'' and inserting ``September 30, 2030''.
(b) Technical Amendment.--Subsection (f)(2) of such section is 
amended by striking ``section 2302'' and inserting ``section 3014''.

SEC. 218. POST-EMPLOYMENT RESTRICTIONS FOR PARTICIPANTS IN CERTAIN 
DEFENSE RESEARCH.

(a) Principal Investigators in Covered Defense Research Projects.--
Except as provided under subsection (c), as a condition of becoming or 
remaining a principal investigator of a covered defense research 
project, a person shall agree that during the 3-year period beginning 
on the last day the person is a principal investigator of such 
research, such person may not seek or accept employment, or conduct any 
activity, for which a foreign entity of concern provides financial 
compensation or in-kind benefits.
(b) Employees of Department of Defense Laboratories.--Except as 
provided under subsection (c), as a condition of becoming or remaining 
an employee at a laboratory of the Department of Defense, a person 
shall agree that during the 3-year period beginning on the last day the 
person is an employee at such laboratory, such person may not seek or 
accept employment, or conduct any activity, for which a foreign entity 
of concern provides financial compensation or in-kind benefits.
(c) Waiver Authority.--The Secretary of Defense may waive the 
restrictions under subsections (a) and (b) with respect to a United 
States person if, not later than 30 days before issuing the waiver, the 
Secretary submits to the congressional defense committees a notice of 
the waiver that includes--
(1) an unclassified justification for the waiver; and
(2) a description of any Department of Defense funds 
provided to the person for which the waiver is issued or to the 
research in which the person participated.
(d) Certification.--Not later than 270 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a 
process, under the initiative established in 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), to ensure that, when a 
person who previously made an agreement in subsection (a) or (b) 
applies for funding to conduct a covered defense research project in 
the future--
(1) the employer of such person can certify that the person 
complied with the requirements in subsections (a) and (b); and
(2) that a person whose employer cannot make the 
certification in paragraph (1) is ineligible to participate in 
the covered defense research project.
(e) Determination of Critical and Emerging Technology.--Not later 
than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually 
thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall--
(1) determine which technologies are critical or emerging 
from among the technologies for which the Department funds 
research; and
(2) shall make the results of such determination publicly 
available.
(f) Applicability.--This section shall apply with respect to 
research that begins on or after the date that is one year after the 
date of the enactment of this Act.
(g) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``foreign entity 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)) and includes a foreign entity that is identified on 
the list published under section 1286(c)(9)(A) of the John S. 
McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 
(Public Law 115-232; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note).
(2) The term ``covered defense research project'' means a 
research project that--
(A) is operated by an institution of higher 
education or a subsidiary of an institution of higher 
education;
(B) is funded, in whole or in part, by the 
Department of Defense; and
(C) involves a critical or emerging technology.
(3) The term ``critical or emerging technology'' means a 
technology that the Secretary determines to be critical or 
emerging in accordance with subsection (e).
(4) 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).

SEC. 219. NATIONAL SECURITY AND DEFENSE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE 
INSTITUTE.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense may establish at least 
one National Security and Defense Artificial Intelligence Institute 
(referred to in this section as an ``Institute'') at an eligible host 
institution.
(b) Institute Described.--A National Security and Defense 
Artificial Intelligence Institute referred to in subsection (a) is an 
artificial intelligence research institute that--
(1) is focused on a cross-cutting challenge or foundational 
science for artificial intelligence systems in the national 
security and defense sector;
(2) establishes partnerships among public and private 
organizations, including, as appropriate, Federal agencies, 
institutions of higher education, including community colleges, 
nonprofit research organizations, Federal laboratories, State, 
local, and Tribal governments, and industry, including the 
Defense Industrial Base and startup companies;
(3) has the potential to create an innovation ecosystem, or 
enhance existing ecosystems, to translate Institute research 
into applications and products used to enhance national 
security and defense capabilities;
(4) supports interdisciplinary research and development 
across multiple institutions of higher education and 
organizations; and
(5) supports workforce development in artificial 
intelligence related disciplines in the United States.
(c) Financial Assistance Authorized.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense may award 
financial assistance to an eligible host institution, or 
consortia thereof, to establish and support one or more 
Institutes.
(2) Use of funds.--Financial assistance awarded under 
paragraph (1) may be used by an Institute for--
(A) managing and making available to researchers 
accessible, curated, standardized, secure, and privacy 
protected data sets from the public and private sectors 
for the purposes of training and testing artificial 
intelligence systems and for research using artificial 
intelligence systems with regard to national security 
and defense;
(B) developing and managing testbeds for artificial 
intelligence systems, including sector-specific test 
beds, designed to enable users to evaluate artificial 
intelligence systems prior to deployment;
(C) conducting research and education activities 
involving artificial intelligence systems to solve 
challenges with national security implications;
(D) providing or brokering access to computing 
resources, networking, and data facilities for 
artificial intelligence research and development 
relevant to the Institute's research goals;
(E) providing technical assistance to users, 
including software engineering support, for artificial 
intelligence research and development relevant to the 
Institute's research goals;
(F) engaging in outreach and engagement to broaden 
participation in artificial intelligence research and 
the artificial intelligence workforce; and
(G) such other activities as may determined by the 
Secretary of Defense.
(3) Duration.--Financial assistance under paragraph (1) 
shall be awarded for a five-year period, and may be renewed for 
not more than one additional five-year period.
(4) Application for financial assistance.--A eligible host 
institution or consortia thereof seeking financial assistance 
under paragraph (1) shall submit to the Secretary of Defense an 
application at such time, in such manner, and containing such 
information as the Secretary may require.
(5) Competitive, merit review.--In awarding financial 
assistance under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall 
use a competitive, merit-based review process.
(6) Collaboration.--In awarding financial assistance under 
paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense may collaborate other 
departments and agencies of the Federal Government with 
missions that relate to or have the potential to be affected by 
the national security implications of artificial intelligence 
systems.
(7) Limitation.--No financial assistance authorized in this 
section shall be awarded to an entity outside of the United 
States. All recipients of financial assistance under this 
section, including subgrantees, shall be based in the United 
States and shall meet such other eligibility criteria as may be 
established by the Secretary of Defense.
(d) Definition.--In this section, the term ``eligible host 
institution'' means an institution of higher education in the United 
States that conducts research sponsored by the Department of Defense.

SEC. 220. RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY 
WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

(a) Requirement.--
(1) Policies and guidelines.--The Secretary of Defense 
shall issue policies and guidelines on the responsible 
development and deployment of biotechnology within the 
Department of Defense.
(2) Executive agent.--The Secretary shall designate a 
senior civilian official within the Office of the Secretary of 
Defense to serve as the executive agent to develop the policies 
and guidelines under paragraph (1).
(3) Coordination.--The Secretary shall ensure that the 
policies and guidelines under paragraph (1) are developed in 
consultation with--
(A) the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and 
Engineering;
(B) the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy; and
(C) individuals representing industry, academia, 
and civil society.
(4) Public availability.--The Secretary shall make the 
policies and guidelines under paragraph (1) publicly available.
(b) Matters Included.--The policies and guidelines under subsection 
(a)(1) shall include the following:
(1) Definitions related to the responsible development and 
use of biotechnology.
(2) An assessment of whether, and to what extent, existing 
statutes, regulations, directives, manuals, or instructions 
limit the ability of the Department of Defense to provide 
guidelines for the responsible development of emerging 
biotechnology.
(3) Guidelines encouraging the safe use of biotechnology 
products under appropriate regulatory and other oversight 
processes.
(4) Policies relating to informed consent of members of the 
Armed Forces participating in the development of biotechnology 
products that have not received regulatory approval.
(5) Policies relating to whether, and under which 
conditions, irreversible or heritable treatments of potential 
biotechnology applications are acceptable.
(6) Policies relating to the potential effects of 
biotechnologies on the environment.
(7) Policies relating to the compliance by and obligations 
of the Department of Defense with respect to the Convention on 
the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling 
of Bacteriological and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction 
(commonly referred to as the ``Biological Weapons 
Convention'').
(8) Such other matters as the Secretary of Defense 
determines relevant.
(c) Report.--
(1) In general.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall 
submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the 
policies and guidelines under subsection (a)(1), including the 
methodologies used to develop the policies and guidelines.
(2) Form.--The report required under paragraph (1) shall be 
submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified 
annex.
(3) Public availability.--The Secretary of Defense shall 
make report required under paragraph (1) publicly available, 
except such publicly available version of the report may not 
include any classified annex provided under paragraph (2).
(d) Briefing.--During the two-year period beginning on the date 
that is one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary of Defense shall provide to the congressional defense 
committees an annual briefing on the implementation of the policies and 
guidelines under subsection (a)(1), including a description of any 
needed resources for such implementation.

SEC. 221. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE BIOTECHNOLOGY WORKFORCE TRAINING.

(a) Requirement.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish and 
carry out a training program--
(1) for members of the covered Armed Forces, civilian 
employees of the Department of Defense, and contractors of such 
Department whose duties the Secretary determines include--
(A) creating or deploying novel biotechnologies;
(B) analyzing, preparing for, or responding to 
biological threats; or
(C) planning, research and development, 
engineering, or testing and evaluation of systems 
(including quality control and assurance, procurement 
and contracting, logistics, and cost estimating) 
regarding biotechnology; and
(2) on biotechnology and other relevant critical and 
emerging technologies.
(b) Consultation.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall consult with 
leadership and workforce training managers in the Department to 
develop and implement such training program and identify the 
individuals described in subsection (a) based on--
(A) the needs and priorities of the Department; and
(B) the relevance of the training to the 
individuals' positions.
(2) Material.--The material covered in the training 
programs shall be customized by Department leadership to align 
with specific needs and mission requirements.
(3) Skills.--The Secretary shall define the essential 
skills for biotechnology personnel to better understand what 
Federal personnel should undergo training and how to customize 
training for groups.
(c) Requirements.--
(1) In general.--The training program established under 
this section shall, at a minimum, include information on--
(A) the fundamental science underlying 
biotechnology, artificial intelligence and other 
relevant critical and emerging technologies;
(B) concepts relating to the technological features 
of biotechnology systems;
(C) applications of biotechnology in defense, 
health, agriculture, energy, environment, and other 
relevant areas;
(D) the ways in which artificial intelligence, 
quantum computing, and other technologies are leveraged 
to advance biotechnology;
(E) mechanisms by which the Federal Government 
supports, funds, purchases, and deploys biotechnology 
and its applications;
(F) ways in which the Federal Government can 
benefit from biotechnology;
(G) ethical, social, and legal aspects of 
biotechnology including ways of incorporating a wide 
range of stakeholder perspectives throughout research 
and innovation cycles;
(H) ways to mitigate the risks described in 
previous subparagraphs, including efforts to create and 
identify biotechnologies that are reliable, safe, and 
trustworthy; and
(I) future trends in biotechnology, including 
intersections with artificial intelligence, quantum 
computing, autonomous systems, robotics, advanced 
manufacturing, and other relevant technologies, as well 
as trends for economic and national security, and 
innovation.
(2) Participation.--Any individual described under 
subsection (b)(1) shall complete training under this section 
annually.
(3) Interactive.--The Secretary shall ensure interactive 
learning with scholars and experts from private, public and 
nonprofit sectors is included under the training programs. The 
Secretary shall provide access to courses through institutions 
of professional military education, such as the National 
Defense University.
(4) Updates.--The training programs established under this 
section shall be updated each year to review and cover advances 
in biotechnology and its convergence with other critical and 
emerging technologies.
(5) Continuing education.--The Secretary shall update the 
training programs established under this section to provide 
continuing technology education for individuals described in 
subsection (a) and include requirements for refresher training 
on the latest advances in biotechnology science, laboratory 
work, equipment and software.
(d) Performance Measurements.--The Secretary shall establish 
mechanisms to measure participation in training programs required under 
this section, and to receive and consider feedback from program 
participants to improve training.
(e) Report.--Not later than six months after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a report that 
includes a plan to establish and implement the training programs 
required under this section.
(f) Sunset.--This section and the training programs required to be 
carried out by this section shall terminate on the date that is five 
years after such programs are established under subsection (a).
(g) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``artificial intelligence'' has the meaning 
given that term in section 5002 of the National Artificial 
Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020 (division E of Public Law 
116-283).
(2) The term ``covered Armed Force'' means the Army, Navy, 
Marine Corps, Air Force, or Space Force.

SEC. 222. BIOTECHNOLOGY SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCY PROGRAM.

(a) Authorization.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense, in coordination 
with the Secretaries of the military departments and the heads 
of relevant Defense Agencies, may establish and implement a 
program (referred to in this section as the ``Program'') to 
develop, scale, and transition biotechnology research from the 
military service laboratories, including biotechnology-based 
chemicals, materials, fuels, and other products relevant to the 
mission of the Department of Defense that support the 
resilience, sustainability, and responsiveness of the defense 
supply chain.
(2) Activities.--Under the Program, the Secretary of 
Defense may carry out the following activities:
(A) Conduct an assessment of supply chain 
vulnerabilities in the Department of Defense.
(B) Direct the military service laboratories to 
establish mechanisms to collaboratively--
(i) conduct applied research, including 
experimentation, advanced technological 
development, advanced component development, 
and rapid prototyping in bioindustrials, 
biomanufacturing, and related disciplines to 
support defense missions;
(ii) develop, prototype, test, and 
transition biologically derived materials and 
products to reduce reliance on foreign supply 
chains and vulnerable supply chains;
(iii) upgrade, expand, or construct 
physical and digital infrastructure, including 
laboratory facilities, of the Department and 
its partners to support bioindustrial research, 
development, testing, prototyping, and 
production;
(iv) as needed, enter into contracts, 
cooperative agreements, grants, or other 
transactions with relevant Federal entities and 
non-Federal entities such as commercial 
entities, research institutions, and academic 
organizations to execute the activities under 
this paragraph; and
(v) support education, training, and 
workforce development initiatives to build and 
sustain a skilled bioindustrial and 
biomanufacturing workforce.
(C) Collaborate across the military departments, 
Defense Agencies, and other Federal entities to ensure 
alignment with national bioindustrial and supply chain 
strategies.
(D) Promote the development and utilization of 
next-generation feedstocks and processes in ways that 
support local economic growth.
(E) Modernize infrastructure through investment in 
facilities that enable rapid prototyping and advanced 
materials testing.
(F) Establish performance metrics and benchmarks to 
measure progress toward operational integration and 
transition to programs of record.
(3) Other considerations.--In the event the Secretary 
carries out the Program, the Secretary of Defense shall--
(A) prioritize technologies and capabilities that 
address critical defense supply chain vulnerabilities 
and enhance military readiness, including technologies 
and capabilities necessary to--
(i) reduce logistics through field-enabled 
manufacturing of materials such as 
construction-grade bio-cement and deployable 
infrastructure components;
(ii) enhance performance through 
development of novel materials including 
protective coatings and biologically derived 
composites; or
(iii) improve cost efficiency of 
manufacturing and reduce dependency on foreign 
supply chains;
(B) consult with representatives of industry, 
academia, and other Federal agencies with relevant 
expertise, to accelerate development and transitions; 
and
(C) ensure the Program supports the development and 
fielding of emerging technologies such as 
biotechnologies that provide operational and strategic 
advantages to the Armed Forces, including through--
(i) cross-service and public-private 
partnerships; and
(ii) applied research, pilot-scale 
production, and technology transition efforts 
focused on biomanufacturing and materials 
innovation.
(b) Plan and Reports.--
(1) Initial plan.--Not later than 90 days after electing to 
commence the Program, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to 
the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives a plan for the allocation of appropriations to 
fund the Program.
(2) Annual reports.--Not later than one year after 
commencing the Program, and annually thereafter until the 
Program terminates under subsection (c), the Secretary of 
Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and the House of Representatives a report detailing all 
activities carried out under the program. Each report shall 
include, to the extent applicable, the following:
(A) A summary of key research, development, and 
prototyping efforts initiated or continued during the 
year covered by the report, including technical 
objectives, anticipated defense applications, and 
funding.
(B) A list of significant partnerships or 
agreements executed with industry, academic 
institutions, and other Federal agencies, including the 
purpose, national security nexus, and funding level of 
each such partnership or agreement.
(C) An assessment of infrastructure enhancements 
undertaken to support bioindustrial development and 
scale-up, including facility modernization and 
equipment acquisition.
(D) An evaluation of program performance against 
established milestones or metrics, including progress 
toward the transition of technologies to operational 
use or acquisition programs.
(E) An identification of major technical, 
logistical, or policy challenges encountered, and 
actions taken to mitigate such challenges.
(F) Any recommendations for additional authorities, 
funding mechanisms, or interagency coordination 
necessary to enhance the effectiveness of the Program.
(3) Form.--Each report under this subsection shall be 
submitted in unclassified form but may contain a classified 
annex.
(c) Sunset.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the 
authority to carry out the Program shall terminate on the date 
that is 10 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(2) Extension.--The Program may be continued after the 
termination date specified in paragraph (1) if, before such 
date, the President--
(A) determines that continuation of the Program is 
necessary to meet national economic or national 
security needs; and
(B) submits notice of such determination to the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the 
House of Representatives.

SEC. 223. REVIEW AND ALIGNMENT OF STANDARDS, GUIDANCE, AND POLICIES 
RELATING TO DIGITAL ENGINEERING.

(a) Review Required.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, each Secretary of a military 
department, in coordination with the officials specified in 
subsection (c), shall complete a comprehensive review of the 
standards, guidance, and policies relating to digital 
engineering within the covered Armed Forces under the 
jurisdiction of that Secretary.
(2) Elements.--Each review under paragraph (1) shall 
include, with respect to the covered Armed Forces under the 
jurisdiction of the Secretary concerned, the following:
(A) A review of the reference architectures, 
standards, and best practices for the use of digital 
engineering tools (including digital twins and digital 
threads) as in effect at the time of the review, 
including standards for the use of such tools at all 
stages of program design, development, and testing.
(B) Identification of the current standards guiding 
the use of such digital engineering tools, at all 
stages of program design, development, and testing.
(C) Assessment of--
(i) the extent to which the use of such 
standards and related governance structures is 
consistent across the covered Armed Forces 
under the jurisdiction of the Secretary 
concerned; and
(ii) the level of interoperability of such 
standards across such Armed Forces.
(D) Identification of best practices for digital 
engineering within each such Armed Force.
(E) Recommendations for improvements to the use of 
digital engineering tools in each such Armed Force.
(b) Development of Standard Reference Architecture.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date on 
which the Secretary of a military department completes the 
review required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall 
develop and implement a standard reference architecture to 
guide the use of, and best practices for, digital engineering 
for program design, development, and testing within each 
covered Armed Force under the jurisdiction of that Secretary. 
Each reference architecture shall include--
(A) a framework and clear requirements for 
developing and deploying digital engineering tools 
across program lifecycles; and
(B) defined standards for data management and 
modeling.
(2) Periodic review.--Not less frequently than once every 
three years following implementation of the standard reference 
architecture required under paragraph (1), each Secretary of a 
military department shall--
(A) conduct periodic reviews of the reference 
architecture to ensure it effectively addresses 
advancements in technology and evolving operational 
needs; and
(B) if necessary, modify the reference architecture 
to address such advancements and needs.
(3) Approval and certification required.--Before a 
reference architecture may be implemented under this 
subsection, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and 
Sustainment, in coordination with the Under Secretary of 
Defense for Research and Engineering and the Director of 
Operational Test and Evaluation, shall--
(A) review and approve the reference architecture; 
and
(B) submit certification of such approval to the 
head of the covered Armed Force involved.
(4) Recommendations for further standardization.--Based on 
the reviews conducted under paragraph (3), the Under Secretary 
of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in coordination 
with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and 
Engineering and the Director of Operational Test and 
Evaluation, shall--
(A) identify and develop recommendations regarding 
areas in which further standardization of reference 
architectures across the covered Armed Forces may be 
feasible; and
(B) submit such recommendations to the Secretaries 
of the military departments.
(c) Officials Specified.--The officials specified in this 
subsection are the following--
(1) The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and 
Sustainment.
(2) The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and 
Engineering.
(3) The Director of Operational Test and Evaluation.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``covered Armed Forces'' means the Army, Navy, 
Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force.
(2) The term ``reference architecture'' means an 
authoritative source of information about a specific subject 
area that guides and constrains the instantiations of multiple 
architectures and solutions, as described in the guidance of 
the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense titled 
``Reference Architecture Description'', dated June 2010, or any 
successor to such guidance.

SEC. 224. APPLICATION OF SOFTWARE INNOVATION AND DATA MANAGEMENT PLANS 
TO MODERNIZE TEST AND EVALUATION INFRASTRUCTURE.

(a) Establishment of Digital Test and Evaluation Environment.--
(1) Program.--The Director of the Test Resource Management 
Center, in coordination with the officials specified in 
paragraph (4), shall establish and maintain a digital test and 
evaluation environment for developmental and operational 
testing of warfighting capabilities.
(2) Requirements.--The digital test and evaluation 
environment required under paragraph (1) shall--
(A) incorporate commercially-derived data 
management, analysis, and operations software tools to 
enable rapid test and evaluation;
(B) enable real-time and iterative data collection, 
management, analysis, and feedback loops across the 
life cycle of tested systems;
(C) provide secure environments for testing systems 
with operational security sensitivities; and
(D) use a modular open system approach (as defined 
in section 4401 of title 10, United States Code) to 
ensure the environment can be accessed by multiple 
vendors and is interoperable with multiple data 
sources, data formats, and digital tools.
(3) Use of software acquisition pathway.--In procuring 
software and covered hardware (as defined in section 3603 of 
title 10, United States Code) for the digital test and 
evaluation environment required under paragraph (1), the 
Director of the Test Resource Management center shall use a 
software acquisition pathway described in section 3603 of title 
10, United States Code.
(4) Officials specified.--The officials specified in this 
paragraph are--
(A) the Director of the Defense Innovation Unit;
(B) the Director of Operational Test and 
Evaluation; and
(C) each chief of a covered Armed Force.
(b) Data Management Plans.--
(1) In general.--Before a covered Armed Force may conduct a 
test and evaluation event, an appropriate official from the 
Armed Force shall submit to the Director of Operational Test 
and Evaluation and the Director of the Test Resource Management 
Center a data management plan for the event. Such data 
management plan may be included as part of the Test and 
Evaluation Master plan submitted for the event pursuant to 
Department of Defense Directive 5000.100.
(2) Plan requirements.--The Director of Operational Test 
and Evaluation and the Director of the Test Resource Management 
Center shall jointly develop standard requirements for the data 
management plans required under paragraph (1). Each such data 
management plan shall include, with respect to the test and 
evaluation event covered by the plan--
(A) identification of relevant data to be collected 
during the event;
(B) methodologies for analyzing data after testing 
is complete; and
(C) any other information the Directors determine 
appropriate.
(c) Pilot Program to Accelerate Test.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Defense Innovation 
Unit and the Director of the Test Resource Management Center, 
in coordination with the Director of Operational Test and 
Evaluation, shall jointly carry out a pilot program to 
determine how commercial software can be used to accelerate and 
improve testing for priority mission areas--
(A) to accelerate continuous integration and 
continuous testing of warfighting capabilities by 
applying industry best practices and tooling for 
scalability, advanced analysis, and data sharing on 
identified priority use cases; and
(B) to enable continuous and iterative testing 
throughout capability design, development, engineering, 
and fielding.
(2) Reports required.--The Director of the Defense 
Innovation Unit and the Director of the Test Resource 
Management Center, in coordination with the Director of 
Operational Test and Evaluation, shall--
(A) not later than 120 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, submit to the congressional 
defense committees an interim report that includes an 
implementation plan for the pilot program under 
paragraph (1); and
(B) following submittal of the report under 
subparagraph (A), but not later than 270 days after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, submit to the 
committees a report on the progress of the pilot 
program, which shall include a description of--
(i) the metrics used to measure the 
performance of commercial software under the 
program;
(ii) the initial findings of the program; 
and
(iii) based on such findings, any 
identified roadblocks or limitations to using 
commercial software and digital tools for 
accelerated testing.
(3) Termination.--The authority to carry out the pilot 
program under this subsection shall terminate five years after 
the date of the enactment of this Act.
(d) Covered Armed Force Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered Armed Force'' means the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, 
and Space Force.

SEC. 225. DEMONSTRATION OF NEAR REAL-TIME MONITORING CAPABILITIES TO 
ENHANCE WEAPON SYSTEM PLATFORMS.

(a) Program Establishment.--Subject to the availability of 
appropriations, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the 
Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and the 
chiefs of the Armed Forces, shall carry out a program to equip selected 
weapon system platforms with onboard, near real-time, end-to-end serial 
bus and radio frequency monitoring capabilities to ensure continuous 
operational oversight and cybersecurity health and resiliency.
(b) Phases.--The Secretary of Defense shall implement the program 
under subsection (a) in phases as follows:
(1) Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary shall--
(A) select not fewer than 3 and not more than 5 
weapon system platform fleets for initial participation 
in the program, prioritizing the MH-60R and MQ-9 
aircraft fleets; and
(B) complete the initial deployment of monitoring 
capabilities to such platforms.
(2) Not later than one year after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary shall extend monitoring capabilities 
to the complete fleets of selected platforms and complete 
initial data collection and analysis from all participating 
platforms.
(3) Not later than one year after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary shall, subject to the availability 
of appropriations--
(A) select not fewer than 3 and not more than 5 
weapon system platform fleets, in addition to those 
selected under paragraph (1), for participation in the 
program, prioritizing platforms that demonstrate the 
highest potential for cybersecurity improvement and 
operational readiness gains based on program data 
analysis; and
(B) complete initial deployment of monitoring 
capabilities to such additional platforms.
(4) Not later than 18 months after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall complete a 
comprehensive evaluation of the monitoring capabilities 
demonstrated under the program, including cybersecurity 
effectiveness, potential applicability of data to maintenance 
improvements, and development of scalability recommendations 
for potential Department-wide implementation.
(c) Data Collection and Analysis.--
(1) Chiefs of the armed forces requirements.--Each chief of 
an Armed Force with a weapon system platform participating in 
the program under subsection (a) shall collect and provide to 
the Secretary of Defense data regarding the platform and the 
monitoring capabilities demonstrated under the program, 
including data on--
(A) cyber threat detection effectiveness;
(B) maintenance efficiency improvements;
(C) safety incident investigation and predictive 
maintenance accuracy;
(D) operational readiness and mission capable rates 
improvements; and
(E) interoperability and data sharing capabilities 
across platforms and services.
(2) Departmental analysis.--The Secretary shall analyze the 
data provided under paragraph (1) to assess--
(A) integration challenges and suggestions for 
overcoming such challenges in a future Department-wide 
program;
(B) scalability requirements for broader 
Department-wide implementation; and
(C) novel approaches for utilizing existing 
resources in an austere fiscal environment to expand 
capabilities across the Department.
(d) AI Inventory System.--In conjunction with the activities 
required under this section, the Secretary of Defense may develop and 
implement an artificial intelligence capability to create up-to-date 
and accurate records of the weapons inventory of the Department of 
Defense.
(e) Budget Integration.--In the budget justification materials 
submitted to Congress in support of the Department of Defense budget 
for fiscal year 2028 (as submitted with the budget of the President 
under section 1105(a) of title 31), the Secretary of Defense shall 
include proposed funding levels for the program expansion authorized 
under subsection (b)(3).
(f) Reporting Requirements.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for each of the 
following five years, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report on the status of the program. 
Each report shall include, with respect to the period covered by the 
report--
(1) implementation plans for the program;
(2) identification of the weapon system platforms selected 
for participation in the program; and
(3) analysis of any data collected under the program.

SEC. 226. WESTERN REGIONAL RANGE COMPLEX DEMONSTRATION.

(a) Demonstration Required.--The Secretary of Defense shall carry 
out a demonstration of a joint multi-domain kinetic and non-kinetic 
testing and training environment across military departments by 
interconnecting existing ranges and training sites in the western 
States to improve joint multi-domain training and further testing, 
research, and development.
(b) Use of Existing Ranges and Capabilities.--The demonstration 
carried out pursuant to subsection (a) shall use existing ranges and 
range capability, unless capability gaps are identified in the process 
of planning specific demonstration activities.
(c) Activities.--The demonstration carried out pursuant to 
subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1) Electromagnetic spectrum operations.
(2) Electromagnetic warfare.
(3) Operations that blend kinetic and non-kinetic effects.
(4) Operations in the information environment.
(5) Joint All Domain Command and Control (commonly known as 
``JADC2'').
(6) Information warfare, including the following:
(A) Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
(B) Offensive and defensive cyber operations.
(C) Electromagnetic warfare.
(D) Space operations.
(E) Psychological operations.
(F) Public affairs.
(G) Weather operations.
(d) Timeline for Completion of Initial Demonstration.--In carrying 
out subsection (a), the Secretary shall seek to complete an initial 
demonstration, interconnecting two or more ranges or testing sites of 
two or more military departments in the western States, subject to 
availability of appropriations, not later than one year after the date 
of the enactment of this Act.
(e) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall provide the congressional 
defense committees a briefing on--
(1) a phased implementation plan and design to connect 
ranges and testing sites in the western States, including the 
initial demonstration required by subsection (d);
(2) how the design architecture of the plan is in alignment 
with recommendations of the 2020 Department of Defense 
Electromagnetic Spectrum Superiority Strategy; and
(3) how the design architecture will support high-
periodicity training, testing, research, and development.
(f) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``information environment'' means the 
aggregate of individuals, organizations, and systems that 
collect, process, and disseminate, or act on information.
(2) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Defense.
(g) Termination.--This section shall terminate on September 30, 
2028.

SEC. 227. REIMBURSEMENT OF NATIONAL GUARD FOR RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, 
TEST, AND EVALUATION EXPENSES.

(a) Availability.--Amounts authorized to be appropriated after the 
date of the enactment of this Act for the Department of Defense for 
research, development, test, and evaluation shall be available for 
reimbursement of pay, allowances, and other expenses which would 
otherwise be incurred against appropriations for the reserve components 
of the Armed Forces, including the National Guard, in cases in which 
members of the such reserve components provide support to research, 
development, test, and evaluation projects in which their involvement 
furthers the project because of a member's or unit's availability, 
qualifications, experience, or education.
(b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed--
(1) to authorize a deviation from established personnel and 
training procedures of the reserve components of the Armed 
Forces, including the National Guard; or
(2) to authorize the direct engagement of members or units 
of such components to conduct independent research, 
development, test and evaluation projects.

SEC. 228. PROHIBITION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR ANIMAL RESEARCH IN 
COLLABORATION WITH FOREIGN COUNTRIES OF CONCERN.

(a) Prohibition.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated 
by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2026 for the 
Department of Defense may be obligated or expended--
(1) to carry out research, development, test, evaluation, 
or training activities involving animals--
(A) in collaboration with a foreign country of 
concern; or
(B) at any facility located in, or owned or 
controlled (directly or indirectly) by, a foreign 
country of concern; or
(2) to enter into a contract or other agreement, or make a 
grant, pursuant to which such activities would be carried out.
(b) Foreign Country of Concern Defined.--In this section, the term 
``foreign country 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 (Public Law 116-283; 15 U.S.C. 
4651).

SEC. 229. PROHIBITION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR GAIN OF FUNCTION 
RESEARCH.

(a) Prohibition.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated 
by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2026 for the 
Department of Defense may be obligated or expended--
(1) to conduct gain-of-function research on any potential 
pandemic pathogen at any facility operated by or on behalf of 
the Department; or
(2) to award contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, or 
any other form of financial assistance to any institution of 
higher education, nonprofit organization, private entity, or 
other research institute that is conducting gain-of-function 
research on potential pandemic pathogens.
(b) Waiver.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense may waive the 
prohibition under subsection (a) on a case-by-case basis, with 
respect to an individual research project, grant, contract, or 
cooperative agreement, if the Secretary determines that such a 
waiver is in the national interests of the United States.
(2) Congressional notice.--Not later than 30 days before 
the date on which an award is made, a project is initiated, or 
an agreement entered into, with respect to which a waiver is 
made under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall submit 
to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House 
of Representatives notice of such waiver.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``gain-of-function research'' means any 
research that may be reasonably anticipated to confer an 
attribute to a pathogen such that the pathogen would have 
enhanced pathogenicity or transmissibility in mammals.
(2) The term ``potential pandemic pathogen'' means a 
pathogen that, as a result of any gain-of-function research--
(A) is likely more transmissible or likely capable 
of wide and uncontrollable spread in human populations;
(B) is likely more virulent or likely to cause 
modest or greater morbidity or mortality in humans; or
(C) is likely to pose a severe threat to public 
health, the capacity of the public health systems to 
function, or national security.

SEC. 230. LIMITATION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS PENDING COMPLIANCE WITH 
REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO THE JOINT ENERGETICS TRANSITION 
OFFICE.

(a) Limitation.--Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this 
Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2026 for the Department 
of Defense and available for the Office of the Under Secretary of 
Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment for travel expenses, not more 
than 75 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which 
the Secretary of Defense--
(1) establishes a Joint Energetics Transition Office as 
required under section 148 of title 10, United States Code; and
(2) submits to the congressional defense committees the 
reports required under subsections (b) and (c) of section 241 
of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 
(Public Law 118-31; 136 Stat. 208).
(b) Waiver Authority.--The Secretary of Defense may waive the 
prohibition under subsection (a) if the Secretary--
(1) determines that extenuating circumstances justify such 
a waiver; and
(2) provides to the congressional defense committees a 
briefing on the reasons for such determination.

SEC. 231. PRIORITIZATION OF PARTNERSHIPS WITH INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER 
EDUCATION IN CERTAIN RESEARCH AREAS.

(a) In General.--In exercising the authority to enter into 
partnerships to support the research, development, test, and evaluation 
activities of the Department of Defense, the Secretary of Defense shall 
prioritize partnerships with institutions of higher education 
conducting research on hypersonics, biotechnology, and artificial 
intelligence.
(b) 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 that identifies any ongoing partnerships with 
institutions of higher education as described in subsection (a).

SEC. 232. RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND IMPLEMENTATION OF UNATTENDED 
ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall carry out 
activities to support the research, development, implementation, and 
oversight of unattended robotic process automation within the 
Department of Defense. Such activities shall include--
(1) the allocation of funding for research and development 
initiatives to enhance the capabilities of unattended robotic 
process automation in combat, intelligence analysis, and 
defense infrastructure management;
(2) the development and implementation of a framework for 
expanding unattended robotic process automation technologies 
across mission-critical operations, logistics, and 
administrative processes of the Department, with priority given 
to interoperability, cybersecurity protections, and real-time 
adaptability of automated systems;
(3) the implementation of policies and processes to ensure 
that any deployment of unattended robotic process automation 
adheres to existing cybersecurity and defense data protection 
regulations; and
(4) the establishment of a task force to oversee the 
implementation, effectiveness, and long-term integration of 
unattended robotic process automation within the Department.
(b) Reporting.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report on the progress of the 
Secretary in carrying out the activities required under subsection (a). 
Such report shall include--
(1) performance metrics for such activities;
(2) an analysis of the cost-effectiveness of such 
activities; and
(3) an assessment of the potential risks associated with 
the expansion of unattended robotic process automation within 
the Department of Defense.

SEC. 233. PILOT PROGRAM ON MODERNIZED HEALTH AND USAGE MONITORING 
SYSTEMS TO ADDRESS OBSOLESCENCE IN MARINE CORPS ROTARY-
WING AND TILTROTOR AIRCRAFT.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall establish and 
carry out a pilot program to evaluate commercially available, next-
generation Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (referred to in this 
section as ``HUMS'') technologies intended to address obsolescence 
issues affecting legacy HUMS currently installed on Marine Corps 
rotary-wing and tiltrotor aircraft.
(b) Objectives.--In conducting the pilot program, the Secretary of 
the Navy shall assess whether modernized HUMS technologies--
(1) effectively mitigate obsolescence risks associated with 
legacy HUMS systems;
(2) enhance the operational readiness, availability, and 
sustainment of Marine Corps rotary-wing and tiltrotor aircraft; 
and
(3) deliver advanced predictive analytics capabilities, 
reducing maintenance burden and lifecycle costs.
(c) Duration.--The pilot program shall be carried out for a period 
not exceeding one year.
(d) Report.--Not later than 90 days after completion of the pilot 
program, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional 
defense committees a report summarizing--
(1) the pilot program results, including effectiveness in 
addressing obsolescence, improving predictive maintenance, and 
enhancing readiness and aircraft availability; and
(2) recommendations regarding broader adoption of evaluated 
HUMS technologies across the Marine Corps rotary-wing and 
tiltrotor aircraft fleet.
(e) Funding.--
(1) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the 
funding tables in division D, the amount authorized to be 
appropriated in section 201 for Research, Development, Test, 
and Evaluation, Defense-wide, for Management Support, Aviation 
Safety, Line 201 (PE 0606301D8Z), as set forth in the funding 
table in section 4201, is hereby increased by $5,000,000.
(2) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the 
funding tables in division D, the amount authorized to be 
appropriated in section 101 for Procurement for Other 
Procurement, Army, IAMD Battle Command System, Line 116, as 
specified in the corresponding funding table in section 4101, 
is hereby reduced by $5,000,000.
(f) Coordination.--The pilot program shall be conducted in 
coordination with appropriate Marine Corps aviation stakeholders, 
including operational and technical authorities responsible for 
aviation maintenance and readiness.

SEC. 234. PILOT PROGRAM ON MODERNIZED HEALTH AND USAGE MONITORING 
SYSTEMS TO ADDRESS OBSOLESCENCE IN ARMY ROTARY-WING 
AIRCRAFT.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Army shall establish and 
carry out a pilot program to evaluate commercially available, next-
generation Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (referred to in this 
section as ``HUMS'') technologies to address obsolescence issues 
affecting legacy monitoring systems installed on Army rotary-wing 
aircraft.
(b) Objectives.--In carrying out the pilot program, the Secretary 
of the Army shall assess whether modernized HUMS technologies--
(1) effectively mitigate obsolescence risks associated with 
legacy HUMS systems;
(2) significantly enhance operational readiness of rotary-
wing aircraft;
(3) provide effective predictive maintenance capabilities 
resulting in reduced maintenance costs and increased aircraft 
availability; and
(4) extend operational lifespan of existing rotary-wing 
platforms.
(c) Duration.--The pilot program shall be carried out for a period 
not exceeding one year.
(d) Platform Selection.--In selecting rotary-wing aircraft for 
participation in the pilot program, the Secretary of the Army is 
encouraged to prioritize platforms whose evaluation would yield broadly 
applicable results, including potential relevance to rotary-wing 
aircraft operated by other branches of the Armed Forces.
(e) Report.--Not later than 90 days after completion of the pilot 
program, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report 
that includes--
(1) an assessment of the tested HUMS technologies' 
effectiveness in addressing obsolescence and improving 
readiness; and
(2) recommendations for potential broader adoption across 
the Army rotary-wing fleet, including consideration of 
applicability to similar rotary-wing aircraft operated by other 
branches of the Armed Forces.
(f) Funding.--
(1) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the 
funding tables in division D, the amount authorized to be 
appropriated in section 201 for Research, Development, Test, 
and Evaluation, Defense-wide, for Management Support, Aviation 
Safety, Line 201 (PE 0606301D8Z), as set forth in the funding 
table in section 4201, is hereby increased by $5,000,000.
(2) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the 
funding tables in division D, the amount authorized to be 
appropriated in section 101 for Procurement for Other 
Procurement, Army, IAMD Battle Command System, Line 116, as 
specified in the corresponding funding table in section 4101, 
is hereby reduced by $5,000,000.
(g) Coordination.--The pilot program shall be conducted in 
coordination with the Future Vertical Lift Cross-Functional Team and 
the Program Executive Office Aviation.

SEC. 235. INITIATIVE ON STUDYING ADVANCED ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, 
NATIONAL SECURITY, AND STRATEGIC COMPETITION.

(a) Initiative Required.--The Secretary of Defense shall establish 
and carry out an initiative (referred to in this section as the 
``Initiative'') to prepare the Department of Defense to fully harness 
the transformative potential of advanced artificial intelligence, 
assess the national security and defense implications of advanced 
artificial intelligence, and analyze strategic competition factors 
relating to the People's Republic of China's pursuit of advanced 
artificial intelligence.
(b) Designation of Lead Office.--The Secretary of Defense shall 
designate an appropriate agency or office within the Department of 
Defense to have primary responsibility for carrying out the initiative 
described in subsection (a). Any such designation shall not prohibit 
other agencies or offices within the Executive Branch from being 
consulted or otherwise supporting the efforts of the lead office.
(c) Duties.--Under the Initiative, the agency or office designated 
by the Secretary of Defense under subsection (b) shall do the 
following:
(1) Review industry documents and assessments of advanced 
artificial intelligence, including preparedness frameworks, 
scaling policies, and risk management frameworks of advanced 
artificial intelligence developers.
(2) Engage with leading artificial intelligence developers 
and researchers to characterize and anticipate the capabilities 
of highly advanced artificial intelligence relevant to national 
security to inform military planning, societal preparedness, 
and Department of Defense adopt plans, including via 
interviews, site visits, roundtables, expert discussions, and 
other forms of engagement with relevant experts.
(3) Identify strategies for the Department of Defense to 
encourage adoption and fully leverage advanced artificial 
intelligence systems, assess the comparative adoption to other 
nations, and manage national security threats from advanced 
artificial intelligence competition. In assessing adoption 
strategies, the Secretary shall evaluate the implications of 
advanced artificial intelligence for the national defense and 
form a plan for addressing implications for the Department of 
Defense's processes, systems, functions, capabilities, and 
adoption pathways. The plan shall include--
(A) an assessment of the steps needed to prepare 
the Department of Defense workforce to leverage the 
transformative potential of advanced artificial 
intelligence;
(B) an assessment of Department of Defense 
processes and workflows that are most likely to be 
substantially impacted by the introduction of advanced 
artificial intelligence within or outside the structure 
of each process or workflow, and the offices that will 
be primarily responsible for managing the evolution of 
those processes;
(C) identifying internal Department of Defense 
policies that require revision, elimination, or 
creation to effectively and responsibly harness 
advanced artificial intelligence;
(D) a framework for developing the artificial 
intelligence infrastructure to scale the use of 
advanced artificial intelligence, including 
requirements for--
(i) artificial intelligence factories that 
manage the entire artificial intelligence life 
cycle;
(ii) data foundries that effectively and 
efficiently manage government, commercial, and 
synthetic data;
(iii) edge infrastructure for employing 
advanced artificial intelligence in warfighting 
use cases at all levels of command; and
(iv) other critical enabling 
infrastructure, such as information technology 
systems and energy sources;
(E) recommendations for resourcing the materiel and 
nonmateriel solutions identified in subparagraphs (A) 
through (D); and
(F) recommendations for resourcing critical 
artificial intelligence assurance activities, such as 
test and evaluation, continuous monitoring, governance, 
and the creation of assurance case artifacts.
(4) Examine the potential implications of advanced 
artificial intelligence on key areas of national defense, 
including chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear 
capabilities, advanced cyber capabilities, model autonomy, 
strategic deception, advanced research and development 
capabilities for producing increasingly powerful artificial 
intelligence, military applications of artificial intelligence 
for warfighting functions, and other areas in which advanced 
artificial intelligence may pose a threat to national security 
or national defense.
(5) In consultation with the Director of National 
Intelligence, monitor and assess the progress of the People's 
Republic of China in developing advanced artificial 
intelligence and assess the implications of such development 
for strategic competition. In assessing such progress, the 
Secretary shall examine key factors in areas critical for 
People's Republic of China progress toward advanced artificial 
intelligence, including--
(A) an assessment of the People's Republic of 
China's overall efforts toward advanced artificial 
intelligence, including overall progress, activities to 
develop or acquire such systems, relative progress 
compared to United States entities, efforts to prevent 
loss of control from such systems, and attitudes of the 
Chinese Communist Party and other influential figures 
toward advanced artificial intelligence risks and 
safety approaches;
(B) identification of the primary entities in the 
People's Republic of China that are leading in the 
development of advanced artificial intelligence;
(C) identification of the top researchers in the 
People's Republic of China who are most essential for 
the development of advanced artificial intelligence;
(D) identification of specific data centers, energy 
infrastructure, and other resources most critical to 
the People's Republic of China's progress toward 
advanced artificial intelligence (including plans for 
future data centers);
(E) identification and assessment of the top 
methods to robustly detect advanced artificial 
intelligence development by the People's Republic of 
China, including methods to assess the degree to which 
the People's Republic of China is developing advanced 
artificial intelligence capabilities that pose 
significant risks to the national security of the 
United States;
(F) identification of the top methods that can be 
used to disrupt advanced artificial intelligence 
projects of the People's Republic of China and an 
assessment of their efficacy and limitations;
(G) an assessment of efforts originating in the 
People's Republic of China to acquire technology and 
information from entities operating within the United 
States or other nations to advance progress toward 
advanced artificial intelligence, including advanced 
semiconductors, research findings, or insights relating 
to training or inference; and
(H) a comparative assessment of efforts in the 
People's Republic of China and United States to 
characterize and mitigate security risks from advanced 
artificial intelligence systems, including an 
evaluation of how leading researchers and policymakers 
in each country conceptualize the national security 
risks posed by uncontrolled or misaligned advanced 
artificial intelligence.
(6) In consultation with the Director of National 
Intelligence and the Secretary of Homeland Security, assess the 
security capabilities of leading United States artificial 
intelligence developers, with a focus on their ability to 
protect advanced artificial intelligence systems, model 
weights, and key insights from the People's Republic of China 
and other highly resourced adversaries.
(7) Assess the national security risks posed by 
uncontrolled or misaligned advanced artificial intelligence. 
The assessment, focusing on the People's Republic of China and 
the United States, shall include--
(A) an examination of emerging capabilities 
relevant to misaligned or uncontrolled artificial 
intelligence, including automated artificial 
intelligence research, recursive self-improvement, 
ability to deceive humans, agentic capabilities, and 
other capabilities or processes that could undermine 
robust or trustworthy human oversight;
(B) a review of research on AI misalignment, 
alignment faking, deception, and other related areas in 
which artificial intelligence systems appear to act in 
ways that diverge from the intentions or values of 
their developers or in ways that diverge from United 
States values or interests;
(C) an assessment of current capabilities within 
the United States Government to detect and monitor the 
threats described above, including evaluations of the 
ability to identify early warning signs or imminent 
threats relating to recursive self-improvement, 
offensive cyber use, alignment faking, or other system 
misbehavior;
(D) recommendations for improving the 
identification, mitigation, and response to risks from 
uncontrolled or misaligned artificial intelligence 
systems, with particular attention to interagency 
coordination and collaboration with the private sector, 
academic institutions, and allied governments; and
(E) implications for the Department of Defense's 
approach toward adopting or deploying advanced 
artificial intelligence.
(8) Create materials and prepare plans to address acute 
national security risks or crises involving advanced artificial 
intelligence, including risks from uncontrolled or misaligned 
advanced artificial intelligence systems, which shall include--
(A) developing and conducting unclassified and 
classified scenario exercises, wargames, tabletop 
exercises, and other similar efforts to understand how 
advanced artificial intelligence capabilities could 
present acute national security risks or crises or pose 
a risk to existing operational plans of the Department 
of Defense;
(B) developing preparedness plans detailing 
governmental response strategies to scenarios described 
in subparagraph (A), including detailed information 
describing how the Department of Defense would 
coordinate with relevant entities of the United States 
(such as advanced artificial intelligence developers, 
compute cluster providers, and government officials) in 
the event of an acute national security risk or crisis; 
and
(C) identifying potential gaps in the Department of 
Defense's authorities, relationships, personnel, or 
other factors that could affect the Department's 
ability to address scenarios described in subparagraph 
(A) or execute strategies described in subparagraph 
(B).
(9) Develop potential strategies and recommendations to 
prevent adversaries from acquiring advanced artificial 
intelligence that would pose a grave national security threat 
if acquired or stolen. As part of this effort, the Secretary 
shall assess the potential of a hypothetical centralized, 
highly secure, Department of Defense-led project to securely 
develop advanced artificial intelligence. This evaluation shall 
consider factors including the governance structure, 
cybersecurity and physical security protocols, 
counterintelligence and antiespionage measures against the 
People's Republic of China and other foreign adversaries, 
chain-of-command, size and location of the project, resources 
and personnel required, contingency and emergency response 
plans, geopolitical considerations, and other elements to 
ensure that the project supports United States national 
security objectives. Additional strategies may include export 
controls, counterespionage measures, and approaches for 
protecting sensitive information relevant to national security 
or advanced artificial intelligence development and deployment.
(10) Provide policy and resourcing recommendations to the 
Secretary of Defense, the President, and Congress relating to 
the topics covered by the Initiative.
(d) Reports and Briefings.--
(1) Initial report and briefing.--Not later than 90 days 
after the date of the enactment of this Act--
(A) the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the 
House of Representatives a report detailing the 
organizational structure, staffing requirements, and 
initial objectives of the Initiative; and
(B) provide to the Committees a briefing on the 
matters set forth in the report.
(2) Annual reports and briefings.--Not later than 180 days 
after the submission of the initial report under paragraph (1), 
and every 180 days thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall--
(A) submit to the Committees on Armed Services of 
the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on 
the activities carried out under the Initiative since 
the date of the last report under this subsection, 
including any findings, assessments, and 
recommendations with respect to the national security 
implications of advanced artificial intelligence; and
(B) provide to the Committees a briefing on the 
matters set forth in the report.
(e) Sunset.--The authority to carry out this section shall 
terminate 10 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(f) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``artificial intelligence'' has the meaning 
given that term in section 238(g) of the John S. McCain 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public 
Law 115-232; 10 U.S.C. note prec. 4061).
(2) The term ``advanced artificial intelligence'' means 
artificial general intelligence and other advanced artificial 
intelligence systems at the frontier of performance, including 
systems that match or exceed human expert performance in key 
skills, tasks, or knowledge areas, such as in the areas of 
chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear capabilities, 
cyber offense, model autonomy, persuasion, research and 
development, self-improvement, or military strategy.

SEC. 236. JOINT RESERVE DETACHMENT OF THE DEFENSE INNOVATION UNIT.

Section 1766(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``may establish'' and inserting ``shall establish and 
maintain''.

SEC. 237. DEVELOPMENT OF INTERNET ACCESS TECHNOLOGIES BY THE DEFENSE 
INNOVATION UNIT.

(a) In General.--The Director of the Defense Innovation Unit 
(referred to in this section as the ``Unit'') shall undertake efforts 
to support the development of low-cost, easily scalable, and rapidly 
deployable technologies to counter internet shutdowns or limitations on 
network access abroad, particularly those imposed by adversary 
countries, to enable populations to overcome such restrictions.
(b) Objectives.--In carrying out the responsibilities under 
subsection (a), the Director of the Unit shall prioritize the following 
objectives:
(1) Identifying and supporting the development of 
technologies capable of overcoming internet blackouts and 
network disruptions imposed by an adversary country and 
facilitating internet and network access, including--
(A) low Earth orbit satellite internet 
infrastructure;
(B) mesh networking solutions;
(C) portable and deployable communication systems; 
and
(D) virtual private networks.
(2) Collaborating with industry, academia, and relevant 
stakeholders to accelerate the research, development, and 
deployment of such technologies.
(3) Conducting pilot programs and field experiments to test 
the effectiveness and scalability of developed solutions in 
real-world settings.
(4) Providing technical assistance and resources to partner 
organizations, governments, and nongovernmental entities 
engaged in efforts to expand internet access.
(5) Identifying and evaluating off-the-shelf technologies 
that could be rapidly procured and deployed to address internet 
access challenges in targeted regions.
(c) Collaboration With Defense Acquisition University.--The 
Director of the Unit shall collaborate with the head of the Defense 
Acquisition University to leverage expertise in acquisition processes 
and practices related to carrying out the objectives under subsection 
(b) with the aim of--
(1) integrating best practices in defense acquisition into 
the research, development, and deployment processes of 
technologies developed by the Unit to facilitate internet 
access;
(2) ensuring that technologies developed by the Unit align 
with acquisition priorities and strategies of the Department of 
Defense;
(3) providing training and educational opportunities for 
Unit personnel on acquisition principles, regulations, and 
procedures, with a focus on technology development for 
countering censorship and related restrictions;
(4) fostering dialogue and exchange of knowledge between 
acquisition professionals and innovation specialists to enhance 
the effectiveness and efficiency of defense technology 
acquisition related to internet access technologies; and
(5) collaborating on the development of acquisition 
strategies that prioritize the rapid acquisition and deployment 
of technologies aimed at countering censorship and restrictions 
on internet access.
(d) Reporting.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, and on an annual basis thereafter, the Director 
of the Unit shall submit to the Secretary of Defense and the 
congressional defense committees a report detailing the progress, 
challenges, and outcomes of the efforts undertaken pursuant to this 
section.

SEC. 238. LIMITATION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR REALIGNMENT OF THE 
RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND EVALUATION FUNCTION FOR 
ARMY AMMUNITION.

(a) Limitation.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by 
this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2026 for the 
Department of Defense may be obligated or expended to realign the 
research, development, test, and evaluation function for Army 
ammunition away from the current Joint Program Executive Office 
Armaments and Ammunition or Joint Capabilities Portfolio Executive 
Ammunition construct until a period of 180 days has elapsed following 
the date on which the report required under subsection (b) is submitted 
to the congressional defense committees.
(b) Report Required.--Not later than November 1, 2026, the 
Secretary of the Army shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report that includes the following with respect to the 
proposed realignment of functions described in subsection (a):
(1) An explanation of whether Army personnel, including 
contractors, would be required to relocate to a new location 
and if so an estimate of how many personnel would relocate and 
to what locations.
(2) An explanation of whether the Army expects to build new 
facilities and infrastructure at new locations to accomplish 
the research, development, test, and evaluation function for 
Army ammunition and, if so, identification of--
(A) what new facilities and infrastructure would 
have to be constructed; and
(B) where such facilities and infrastructure would 
be constructed.
(3) A detailed estimate of the costs of relocating 
personnel and equipment and constructing new facilities and 
infrastructure.
(4) A detailed explanation of the efficiencies, if any, 
that the Army expects to realize by realigning the research, 
development, test, and evaluation function for Army ammunition 
to Capabilities Portfolio Executive Fires.
(5) In consultation with the with the Secretary of the Navy 
and the Secretary of the Air Force, a determination as to 
whether realigning the research, development, test, and 
evaluation function for Army ammunition to Capabilities 
Portfolio Executive Fires will hinder or impede the joint 
construct that Joint Program Executive Office Armaments and 
Ammunition has traditionally maintained with the Navy, Marine 
Corps, and Air Force.

Subtitle C--Plans, Reports, and Other Matters

SEC. 241. FEASIBILITY STUDY ON INCORPORATING MILITARILY-RELEVANT 
APPLICATIONS OF EMERGING BIOTECHNOLOGY INTO WARGAMING 
EXERCISES.

(a) In General.--The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shall 
conduct a review to determine the feasibility and advisability 
modifying the design of wargaming exercises to ensure that such 
exercises incorporate militarily-relevant applications of emerging 
biotechnology.
(b) Elements.--In conducting the review required under subsection 
(a), the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shall take into 
account--
(1) biotechnology-enabled enhancements that improve the 
cognitive and physical performance of warfighters;
(2) biotechnology-enabled chemicals and materials intended 
to provide a strategic advantage on the battlefield;
(3) adversaries' use of biotechnology for military purposes 
beyond traditional biological weapons; and
(4) any other militarily-relevant applications of 
biotechnology determined appropriate by the Chairman.
(c) Consultation.--In conducting the review under subsection (a), 
the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shall consult with--
(1) the commanders of the combatant commands; and
(2) other stakeholders within and outside the Department of 
Defense, as necessary, to identify recent militarily-relevant 
advancements in the field of biotechnology that could 
potentially be incorporated into exercises.
(d) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shall 
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House 
of Representatives a report on the results of the review conducted 
under subsection (a). The report shall include--
(1) a detailed summary of any recommended modifications to 
wargaming exercises; and
(2) if applicable, a plan for regularly updating the design 
of such exercises to keep pace with advances in biotechnology.
(e) Wargaming Exercise Defined.--In this section, the term 
``wargaming exercise'' means a military exercise conducted to test or 
improve tactical expertise, and includes the Globally Integrated 
Wargames.

SEC. 242. FEASIBILITY STUDY ON USE OF CLOUD LABORATORIES.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a review to 
determine the feasibility and advisability of using cloud laboratories 
at the Department of Defense to provide authorized researchers with 
access to high-quality experimental instrumentation and data collection 
for purposes of generating high-quality data.
(b) Elements.--In conducting the review required under subsection 
(a), the Secretary of Defense shall take into account--
(1) best practices for cloud computing methods to safely 
store sensitive data, such as biological data;
(2) considerations related to cybersecurity, biosecurity, 
research security, and data privacy;
(3) estimated costs for the construction and sustainment of 
cloud laboratories;
(4) estimated timelines for establishing cloud 
laboratories; and
(5) consideration of how cloud laboratories can improve the 
quality and quantity of data to improve research and 
development of novel technologies.
(c) 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 on the results of the review conducted under 
subsection (a).
(d) Cloud Laboratory Defined.--In this section, the term ``cloud 
laboratory'' means a physical laboratory equipped with automation and 
data storage to conduct experiments.

SEC. 243. QUARTERLY REPORTS ON TERMINATION OF CRITICAL TECHNOLOGY 
RESEARCH AWARDS.

(a) Reports Required.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, and on a quarterly basis thereafter, the 
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report that includes the following:
(1) With respect to the quarter preceding the date of the 
report, identification of each covered award that was 
terminated by the Department of defense on the basis that the 
award no longer effectuates the programs goals or agency 
priorities as provided under the Department of Defense Research 
and Development General Terms and Conditions (dated March 
2025), or any related or successor guidance.
(2) For each covered award identified under paragraph (1)--
(A) an explanation of whether or not that award was 
meeting relevant objectives and requirements; and
(B) a justification for the termination of the 
award.
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``covered award'' means an award made by the 
Department of Defense relating to the research or development 
of any of the 14 critical technology areas.
(2) The term ``14 critical technology areas'' means the 
critical technology areas described in the memorandum of the 
Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering issued 
on February 1, 2022, titled ``USD(R&E) Technology Vision for an 
Era of Competition'', or any successor guidance.

SEC. 244. REPORT ON DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE MARKET RESEARCH OF CRITICAL 
TECHNOLOGY AND CAPABILITIES.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with 
the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and the 
Under Secretary of Acquisition and Sustainment, shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report that--
(1) reviews and assesses the ability of the Department of 
Defense to conduct effective and thorough market research on 
critical existing and emerging defense technologies; and
(2) makes recommendations for the improvement of such 
market research capabilities.
(b) Contents.--The report under subsection (a) shall include the 
following:
(1) An assessment of the strategic market evaluation 
practices across developmental innovation and acquisition 
offices, including practices that are aligned for purposes of 
investigating existing commercial technology capabilities in 
critical technologies and capabilities.
(2) Recommendations on ways to improve market research and 
commercial sector due diligence within key Department of 
Defense innovation and acquisition offices, with a particular 
focus on deeper engagement with existing private sector 
entities.
(3) An assessment of the current status of development 
maturity and growth in critical technological market areas.
(4) An assessment of regulatory, legal, and administrative 
barriers in testing and evaluation of such critical 
technologies that may delay their maturation and development, 
such as--
(A) a lack of authority to operate new technologies 
domestically; and
(B) barriers to direct commercial sales and foreign 
military sales for such critical technologies.
(5) An assessment of how the barriers described in 
paragraph (4) may be addressed to direct additional investment 
and speed development.
(6) An assessment of current practices of accumulating and 
storing market research data across the Department of Defense 
enterprise, from early-stage research and development efforts 
to mature commercial solutions.
(7) Recommendations, with respect to each critical 
technology sector, for enhancing private sector participation, 
lowering barriers to entry for commercial sector entities, 
decreasing capital costs required for development, and 
shortening internal Department of Defense timelines for major 
acquisition decisions.
(8) Recommendations for the creation of standardized best 
practices for market research and commercial sector due 
diligence within key innovation and acquisition organizations 
in the Department of Defense.
(c) Consultation.--In preparing the report under subsection (a) the 
Secretary shall seek input from relevant individuals and organizations 
in commercial industry and the venture capital sector.

SEC. 245. REPORT ON LOW-COST UNDERSEA EFFECTORS.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the Defense Innovation Unit's (DIU) Low Cost Undersea 
Effectors Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO), which seeks to 
demonstrate affordable, mission-specific small and medium 
unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) capable of supporting 
subsea and seabed warfare, intelligence, surveillance, 
reconnaissance (ISR), and expeditionary warfare, offers the 
potential to deliver kinetic effects, ISR, and expeditionary 
capabilities at low cost, with reduced training and logistics 
burdens, and in quantities sufficient to enable distributed 
maritime operations;
(2) the Low-Cost Undersea Effectors CSO should be fully 
funded and executed to its intended scope, with particular 
emphasis on transitioning viable systems to scaled production 
rapidly;
(3) the Secretary of the Navy should plan for and execute 
procurement of successful systems emerging from the Low-Cost 
Undersea Effectors CSO, including by leveraging Other 
Transaction Authority, rapid acquisition authorities, and 
appropriate research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) 
and procurement accounts; and
(4) early adoption of commercially derived, low-cost 
unmanned underwater vehicles will complement, rather than 
compete with, traditional programs of record, and will enable 
novel operational concepts ensuring our national security edge 
in undersea warfare.
(b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary of the Navy, in coordination with DIU, shall 
provide a briefing to the congressional defense committees on the Low-
Cost Undersea Effectors CSO, including--
(1) the funding plan and execution status for the Low-Cost 
Undersea Effectors CSO;
(2) Navy plans to begin limited procurement of successful 
CSO awardees for operational experimentation and fleet 
integration;
(3) pathways for scaling production of low-cost UUVs; and
(4) steps to ensure small business and non-traditional 
defense contractors remain central to future acquisition in 
this domain.

SEC. 246. REPORT ON ELECTRONIC WARFARE CAPABILITY FOR UNMANNED SURFACE 
VESSELS.

(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days from the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for 
Research, Development, and Acquisition shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees an unclassified report on planned 
development of a configurable, low-cost, expendable electronic warfare 
capability to support unmanned surface vessel survivability.
(b) Elements.--The report required under subsection (a) shall 
include the following:
(1) An assessment of currently available electronic warfare 
capabilities for unmanned surface vessels and limitations of 
current technology.
(2) A determination of funding availability for fiscal 
years 2026 through 2030 by program element to support the rapid 
development of configurable low-cost electronic warfare 
capabilities for multi-class unmanned surface vessels.
(3) A determination of funding availability from Public Law 
119-21.
(4) An assessment of current and future satellite radar 
detection capabilities in finding and tracking ocean-going 
unmanned surface vessels by any country determined by the 
Secretary of State to be a foreign adversary with such 
capabilities.
(5) A list of possible technical requirements for a multi-
class, affordable, low-power, and expendable electronic warfare 
system.
(6) A rapid acquisition strategy for this capability.

SEC. 247. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE BIOTECHNOLOGY STRATEGY.

(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, 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, submit to the 
Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed 
Services of the House of Representatives a strategy on the national 
security implications of emerging biotechnologies, including the future 
role that biotechnology will play in defense, and means to improve 
industry, interagency, and international relationships in this sector.
(b) Elements.--The strategy required pursuant to subsection (a) 
shall include the following elements:
(1) How the Department of Defense will develop and expand a 
network of commercial facilities for the biomanufacture of 
products that are critical for defense needs.
(2) Review and update of military specifications in order 
to better incorporate or substitute current products with 
biotechnology-based products.
(3) Updated plans and policies for the Department to enter 
into advance market commitments and offtake agreements for 
biotechnology products that have defense applications.
(4) A description of how the Department could better 
incorporate military-relevant applications of emerging 
biotechnology into wargaming exercises, tabletop exercises, or 
other net assessment analyses.
(5) The benefits and costs of issuing a research grand 
challenge, or a series of challenges, that focus on making 
biotechnology predictably engineerable and how the Department 
would implement such research grand challenge, or challenges.
(6) Development of a biotechnology regulation science and 
technology program within the Department, including development 
of digital infrastructure to support simplified regulation and 
the development of biometrology tools.
(7) Updated plans and policies for inter-governmental 
support that the Department could provide in encouraging member 
countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to 
aggregate demand and pool purchasing power for biotechnology 
products.
(8) Review of plans and guidance on how the Department can 
work to develop, integrate, and disseminate biotechnology 
research initiatives across member countries of the North 
Atlantic Treaty Organization, and how the Department might 
coordinate with international stakeholders to utilize the 
combined research capabilities of such member countries to 
drive a biotechnology development approach.

SEC. 248. PLAN TO SUPPORT ADVANCED MANUFACTURING AND MATERIALS FOR 
HYPERSONICS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

(a) Plan Required.--The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition 
and Sustainment shall develop a plan for allocating up to $20,000,000 
to develop a comprehensive set of advanced manufacturing practices and 
advanced materials for hypersonics research and development.
(b) Elements.--At a minimum, the plan under subsection (a) shall--
(1) address--
(A) intelligence-optimized robotic forming;
(B) additive and subtractive manufacturing methods;
(C) precision joining (laser, e-beam, friction 
stir) for dissimilar metals and metal/CMC interfaces; 
and
(D) advanced materials and processing; and
(2) define qualification artifacts (process allowable, non-
destructive inspection procedures, and digital-thread data 
standards) and pilot lines executed by consortia of primes, 
startups, and Federal labs, with TRL/MRL, cost, and lead-time 
objectives.
(c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, 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 plan developed 
under subsection (a).

SEC. 249. STRATEGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF FRICTION STIR ADDITIVE 
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGIES.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and 
Engineering shall submit to the congressional defense committees a 
comprehensive report outlining the strategy of the Department of 
Defense for the research, development, and deployment of friction stir 
additive manufacturing technologies.
(b) Elements.--The report required by subsection (a) shall include 
the following:
(1) An assessment of the strategic importance of developing 
and deploying friction stir additive manufacturing technologies 
for national defense, including their potential to enhance 
supply chain resilience, manufacturing agility, and operational 
readiness.
(2) A detailed summary of current and planned Department of 
Defense programs and initiatives that are supporting the 
development, testing, or implementation of friction stir 
additive manufacturing technologies.
(3) An analysis of key areas of operational impact of such 
technologies, including--
(A) expeditionary manufacturing and sustainment 
capabilities;
(B) deployable micro-factory systems for forward 
operating bases or contested environments; and
(C) development of ultra-large-scale friction stir 
additive manufacturing techniques for critical defense 
infrastructure and platforms.

SEC. 250. REPORT ON RESEARCH RELATING TO THE UPPER ATMOSPHERE AND NEAR-
SPACE ENVIRONMENT.

(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the upper atmosphere and near-space environment are 
important to Air Force and Joint operations worldwide and the 
operational and threat environments that U.S. assets are likely 
to encounter;
(2) research is needed to study atmospheric phenomenology 
and develop technologies for continuous monitoring and 
detection of encroachment and adversarial effects in the 
atmosphere;
(3) research on atmospheric signatures and dynamics in the 
upper atmosphere and the development of predictive techniques 
to ensure observational and operational superiority would be 
beneficial for Air Force missions; and
(4) the Secretary of the Air Force should conduct 
additional research in these areas.
(b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with 
the Secretary of the Air Force, shall submit to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report that 
includes the following:
(1) An assessment of intelligence activities and other 
competitive activities undertaken by foreign nations with 
respect to the upper atmosphere and near-space environment.
(2) A comprehensive strategy to address the upper 
atmosphere and near-space environment, which shall include 
requirements for high-altitude, long-duration, and heavy-lift 
propulsion systems and platforms.

TITLE III--OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

SEC. 301. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

Funds are hereby authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2026 
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.

Subtitle B--Energy and Environment

SEC. 311. INCLUSION OF NUCLEAR ENERGY AND NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGIES IN 
ELIGIBLE INVESTMENTS MADE BY OFFICE OF STRATEGIC CAPITAL.

Section 149(f)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraphs (U) through (GG) as 
subparagraphs (W) through (II), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (T) the following new 
subparagraphs:
``(U) Nuclear energy.
``(V) Nuclear technologies.''.

SEC. 312. INCLUSION OF INFORMATION ABOUT PFAS INVESTIGATION AND 
REMEDIATION IN ANNUAL REPORT ON DEFENSE ENVIRONMENTAL 
PROGRAMS.

Section 2711 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following 
new paragraph:
``(6) Information on the costs associated with 
investigating and remediating per- and polyfluoroalkyl 
substances contamination, including--
``(A) detailed information regarding the total 
potential total costs to the Department of 
investigating and remediating such contamination at all 
locations where investigation and remediation is 
expected to be funded by the Department; and
``(B) the cost assumption analysis required under 
subsection (d).''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(d) PFAS Cost Assumption Analysis.--The Secretary shall carry out 
an annual cost assumption analysis with respect to the most important 
contributors to the costs to the Department of investigating and 
remediating per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances contamination that--
``(1) includes--
``(A) an assessment of any changes in regulatory 
standards, treatment technologies, and site 
prioritization that could affect future costs;
``(B) examples of how modifying assumptions about 
contamination extent, remediation timelines, or 
emerging disposal methods could affect projected costs; 
and
``(C) an identification of any funding shortfalls 
or other constraints that could affect the 
investigation and remediation of such contamination; 
and
``(2) incorporates a risk and uncertainty analysis with 
respect to the effects of potential changes in the most 
important contributors to the costs to the Department of 
investigating and remediating per- and polyfluoroalkyl 
substances contamination, including--
``(A) variability in the extent of such 
contamination based on ongoing site assessments, 
inspections, and investigations;
``(B) shifts in regulatory requirements that could 
alter investigation and remediation strategies; and
``(C) advances in technologies for the treatment 
and disposal such contamination that could reduce or 
increase long-term costs.''.

SEC. 313. MODIFICATION OF REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO REPLACEMENT OF 
FLUORINATED AQUEOUS FILM-FORMING FOAM.

Section 322 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2020 (Public Law 116-92; 10 U.S.C. 2661 note prec.) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``October 1, 2023'' and inserting 
``October 1, 2026''; and
(B) by striking ``in excess of one part per billion 
of'' and inserting ``detectable'';
(2) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ``October 1, 2024'' 
and inserting ``October 1, 2026'';
(3) by striking subsection (d) and inserting the following:
``(d) Exemptions.--Subsections (b) and (c) shall not apply to 
firefighting foam for use--
``(1) onboard oceangoing vessels, including use in pier-
side inspection, testing, and maintenance;
``(2) that is necessary to conduct testing to meet military 
specification qualification requirements and ensure quality 
standards of the inventory of the Department;
``(3) during research, development, test, and evaluation of 
fluorine-free fire-fighting agents;
``(4) on naval nuclear submarine propulsion plants; or
``(5) in tactical vehicles and equipment that is 
incompatible with fluorine-free fire-fighting agents.''; and
(4) in subsection (e)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph 
(A), by inserting ``the limitation under 
subsection (b) or'' before ``the prohibition''; 
and
(ii) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) in clause (ii), by inserting 
``or to maintain military readiness'' 
after ``safety'';
(II) by striking clause (iii) and 
redesignating clauses (iv) and (v) as 
clauses (iii) and (iv), respectively; 
and
(III) in clause (iii), as so 
redesignated, by striking ``and does 
not require revision''; and
(B) in paragraph (2)(C), by striking ``Secretary of 
Defense'' and inserting ``Under Secretary of Defense 
for Acquisition and Sustainment''.

SEC. 314. PROVISION OF ALTERNATIVE DRINKING WATER TO CERTAIN 
COMMUNITIES WITH PRIVATE DRINKING WATER WELLS 
CONTAMINATED WITH PERFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES OR 
POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES.

(a) Requirement.--Beginning on the date of the enactment of this 
Act, for each household that is located in a community with a private 
drinking water well in which contamination from a perfluoroalkyl 
substance, polyfluoroalkyl substance, or mixture thereof resulting from 
activities of the Department of Defense exceeds the maximum contaminant 
level for such substance or mixture, respectively, and that has not 
received a permanent safe drinking water solution described in 
subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall provide to such 
household an alternative source of drinking water (which may include 
the provision of bottled water) until such time as--
(1) the degree of cleanup of such contamination has at 
least attained such respective maximum contaminant level, 
consistent with section 121(d) of the Comprehensive 
Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 
(42 U.S.C. 9621(d)); or
(2) the Secretary provides such household with a permanent 
safe drinking water solution described in subsection (b).
(b) Permanent Safe Drinking Water Solutions Described.--A permanent 
safe drinking water solution described in this subsection is the 
connection of a household to a public water system, installation at a 
household of an onsite filtration system capable of treating the 
contamination specified in subsection (a), or provision to a household 
of another permanent alternative source of drinking water.
(c) Coordination With Existing Authorities.--The Secretary of 
Defense shall carry out this section in a manner consistent with the 
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act 
of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) and any other authority under 
environmental law, including by coordinating efforts under subsection 
(a) with ongoing efforts to address contamination under such 
authorities.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The terms ``maximum contaminant level'' and ``public 
water system'' have the meanings given those terms in section 
1401 of the Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300f).
(2) The term ``private drinking water well'' means a 
drinking water well that is not a public water system and is 
not connected to a public water system.

SEC. 315. RESPONSIBILITIES OF EXECUTIVE AGENT FOR INSTALLATION AND 
OPERATIONAL NUCLEAR ENERGY.

(a) Executive Agent.--The Secretary of Defense, in coordination 
with the Secretary of the Army, the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition and Sustainment, the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Research and Engineering, and the Director of the Strategic 
Capabilities Office of the Department of Defense, shall ensure that, 
not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, 
there is designated an executive agent of the Department of Defense for 
installation and operational nuclear energy.
(b) Responsibilities.--The responsibilities of the executive agent 
specified in subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1) In coordination with the commanders of the combatant 
commands and the Joint Chiefs of Staff, assessing installation 
energy and operational energy needs, and establishing and 
maintaining requirements for the use of nuclear energy to meet 
such needs, for the purpose of furthering mission critical 
activities of the Department of Defense and enhancing national 
security.
(2) Consulting with project developers and other experts 
from the commercial nuclear industry, potential private owners 
and operators of nuclear reactors to be deployed at military 
installations, and other persons determined appropriate by the 
executive agent, to assess the technological capabilities, 
development status, costs, timelines, risks, and potential need 
for design evolution of nuclear reactors to meet the needs of 
the Department of Defense referred to paragraph (1).
(3) In coordination with the Secretary of Energy, the 
Secretaries of the military departments, and the Nuclear 
Regulatory Commission, assessing the technology readiness, 
licensability, deployability, operability, and maintainability 
of nuclear reactors with respect to potential deployment at 
military installations.
(4) In coordination with the Secretary of Defense and the 
Secretaries of the military departments, integrating technical 
and project resources across the Department of Defense for the 
use of nuclear reactors to meet the needs of the Department of 
Defense referred to in paragraph (1), including by developing a 
plan to aggregate the demand for, and the acquisition and 
deployment of, nuclear reactors across military installations 
and military departments.
(5) In coordination with the Secretary of Energy and the 
Nuclear Regulatory Commission--
(A) evaluating the regulatory framework and other 
requirements applicable to the use of nuclear reactors 
to meet such needs; and
(B) establishing training programs and plans 
relating to the acquisition and operation of nuclear 
reactors to meet such needs.
(6) Identifying the timelines and resource requirements 
necessary for the acquisition and operation of nuclear reactors 
to meet such needs, including--
(A) any support necessary from the national 
laboratories of the Department of Energy; and
(B) any funding necessary to carry out interim 
pilot programs for the limited deployment of nuclear 
reactors until such timelines and resource requirements 
are met.
(7) Including resource requirements identified pursuant to 
paragraph (6), and any other resource requirements necessary to 
carry out this subsection, in applicable planning, programming, 
budgeting, and execution processes of the Department of 
Defense, including by preparing, as applicable--
(A) a program objective memorandum for any new 
resource so required; and
(B) a budget justification for any new resource so 
required for inclusion in the budget materials 
submitted by the Secretary of Defense to Congress in 
support of the President's annual budget request 
(submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of 
title 31, United States Code).
(8) Providing technical support for programs of the 
military departments relating to the deployment of nuclear 
reactors for installation energy resilience.
(c) Annual Reports.--Not later than September 30, 2026, and 
annually thereafter for a period of five years, the executive agent 
specified in subsection (a) shall submit to the Secretary of Defense 
and the congressional defense committees a report describing the 
actions taken to implement this section during the one-year period 
ending on the date of the submission of such report.
(d) Plan for Program of Record.--
(1) Submission.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in 
coordination with the executive agent specified in subsection 
(a), shall submit to the congressional defense committees a 
plan to establish a program of record of the Department of 
Defense for the use of nuclear energy to meet installation 
energy and operational energy needs.
(2) Elements.--The plan under paragraph (1) shall include 
the following:
(A) An identification of requirements necessary for 
the establishment of the program of record specified in 
such paragraph.
(B) A budget estimate for such program of record 
through 2030 or through the conclusion of the five-year 
period following the first date on which a nuclear 
reactor is deployed at a military installation, 
whichever is later.
(C) A summary of actions taken to implement the 
responsibilities under subsection (b) and information 
derived as a result of such actions.
(D) Use cases for nuclear reactors, developed in 
coordination with the commanders of combatant commands 
with respect to installation and operational needs 
(including needs relating to the electrification of 
operational energy, elimination of fuel supply 
vulnerabilities, military installation resilience, 
sustainment of military installations, enablement of 
multi-domain operations, and advanced weaponry).
(E) An identification of the minimum potential 
number of military installations at which nuclear 
reactors would be necessary to deploy in order to 
establish a cost-effective program, and projected dates 
by which such nuclear reactors would achieve initial 
operational capability.
(F) An estimate of fuel requirements necessary to 
support the deployment of various models of nuclear 
reactors at military installations, to inform future 
acquisition planning.
(e) Compliance With Applicable Directive.--The Secretary shall 
carry out this section in compliance with Directive 5101.1.
(f) Support Within Department of Defense.--In accordance with 
Directive 5101.1, the Secretary shall ensure that the military 
departments, the Defense Agencies, and other elements of the Department 
of Defense provide the executive agent specified in subsection (a) with 
the appropriate support and resources needed to perform the roles, 
responsibilities, and authorities of the executive agent.
(g) Definitions.--In this section--
(1) The term ``Directive 5101.1'' means Department of 
Defense Directive 5101.1, or any successor directive relating 
to the responsibilities of an executive agent of the Department 
of Defense.
(2) The terms ``energy resilience'' and ``military 
installation resilience'' have the meanings given those terms 
in section 101 of title 10, United States Code.
(3) The term ``executive agent'' has the meaning given the 
term ``DoD Executive Agent'' in Directive 5101.1.
(4) The term ``operational energy'' has the meaning given 
that term in section 2924 of title 10, United States Code.

SEC. 316. ESTABLISHMENT OF ADVANCED NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGIES TRANSITION 
WORKING GROUP.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a 
working group to be known as the ``Advanced Nuclear Technologies 
Transition Working Group''.
(b) Membership.--The working group shall be composed of the 
following members, or designees thereof:
(1) The Secretary of Defense.
(2) The Secretaries of the military departments.
(3) The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
(4) The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and 
Sustainment.
(5) The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and 
Engineering.
(6) The Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.
(7) The Director of the Defense Innovation Unit.
(8) The Director of the Strategic Capabilities Office.
(9) The head of any other organizational entity of the 
Department of Defense the Chairperson determines appropriate.
(c) Chairperson.--The Secretary of Defense, or a designee thereof, 
shall serve as the Chairperson of the working group.
(d) Duties.--The duties of the working group shall include the 
following:
(1) Developing and implementing a strategy to accelerate 
the procurement and fielding of commercially available advanced 
nuclear technologies using available authorities.
(2) Identifying critical installation energy and 
operational energy needs of military installations and the 
combatant commands that may be addressed through the use of 
advanced nuclear technologies, ensuring such needs are 
considered in relation to efforts and planned efforts of the 
Department of Defense, and developing an accelerated pathway to 
leverage advanced nuclear technologies to address any gap in 
such needs.
(3) Coordinating efforts among the members of the working 
group for the demonstration and transition of advanced nuclear 
technologies, including by increasing opportunities for 
collaboration between the Department of Defense and potential 
partners within the commercial nuclear industry with respect to 
research and development, testing and evaluation, and 
procurement activities relating to such technologies.
(4) Coordinating with the heads of other relevant Federal 
departments and agencies regarding the conduct of interagency 
activities and development of best practices to address 
obstacles to the rapid fielding of advanced nuclear 
technologies, including any such obstacle relating to workforce 
development, regulatory frameworks, licensing requirements, 
access to fuel sources, safety or security standards, or 
decommissioning.
(5) Establishing opportunities for engagement with 
developers of advanced nuclear technologies within the 
commercial nuclear industry to assess the availability 
(including, as applicable, the timeline for availability) of 
micro-reactor and small modular reactor capabilities for 
potential application to meet the needs of the Department of 
Defense.
(e) Meetings.--The working group shall meet at the call of the 
Chairperson and not less frequently than quarterly.
(f) Briefings and Reports.--
(1) Initial briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Chairperson shall provide to 
the congressional defense committees a briefing on the 
organization, plans, milestones, and activities of the working 
group.
(2) Annual report.--Not later than September 30, 2026, and 
annually thereafter until the date of termination under 
subsection (g), the Chairperson shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report describing, with 
respect to the year preceding the date of submission of the 
report, the plans, milestones, and activities of the working 
group, including a description of the status during such year 
of any project relating to advanced nuclear technologies, any 
funding or other requirement associated with such a project, 
and any plan to transition a capability under such a project.
(g) Termination.--The working group shall terminate on September 
30, 2029.
(h) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``micro-reactor'' means an advanced nuclear 
reactor, as such term is defined in section 951(b)(1) of the 
Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16271(b)(1)), with a rated 
capacity of less than 50 electrical megawatts.
(2) The term ``operational energy'' has the meaning given 
that term in section 2924 of title 10, United States Code.
(3) The term ``small modular reactor'' means an advanced 
nuclear reactor, as such term is defined in section 951(b)(1) 
of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16271(b)(1))--
(A) with a rated capacity of less than 500 
electrical megawatts; and
(B) that may be constructed and operated in 
combination with similar reactors at a single site.
(4) The term ``working group'' means the working group 
established under subsection (a).

SEC. 317. DEPARTMENT OF AIR FORCE PROGRAM OF RECORD FOR COMMERCIAL 
WEATHER DATA.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than September 30, 2027, the 
Secretary of the Air Force shall establish a program of record of the 
Department of the Air Force to--
(1) acquire and use commercial weather data to--
(A) support operational weather forecasting; and
(B) enhance mission planning and execution in data-
sparse and contested environments;
(2) integrate such commercial weather data and related 
systems into meteorological and decision support frameworks of 
the Air Force; and
(3) ensure resilience against adversarial advancements in 
space-based environmental monitoring.
(b) Submission to Congress.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the 
Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees, with respect to the program of record to be established 
under subsection (a), the following:
(1) A transition plan for the adoption of such program of 
record, including projected costs and funding requirements over 
the period covered by the program objective memorandum process 
for fiscal years 2027 through 2031.
(2) An acquisition strategy for such program of record, 
including an outline of potential middle tier of acquisition 
pathways or major capability acquisition pathways (as such term 
is defined in Department of Defense Instruction 5000.85, titled 
``Major Capability Acquisition'' and issued on August 6, 2020 
(or successor instruction)).
(3) A budget justification for inclusion of such program of 
record in the budget materials submitted by the Secretary of 
Defense to Congress in support of the President's annual budget 
request (submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of 
title 31, United States Code) for fiscal year 2027, to secure 
sustained funding.

SEC. 318. PILOT PROGRAM ON NAVY INSTALLATION NUCLEAR ENERGY.

(a) Pilot Program Required.--Beginning not later than 180 days 
after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Assistant Secretary of 
the Navy for Energy, Installations, and Environment shall carry out a 
ten-year pilot program at not fewer than two naval installations for 
the purpose of determining how small modular reactors or mobile 
reactors could be used--
(1) to meet the installation energy needs of the Navy 
during the ten-year period beginning on the date of the 
enactment of this Act; and
(2) to inform the development of concepts for the use of 
nuclear power facilities to support increased energy security 
for Navy and Marine Corps installations.
(b) Installation Prioritization.--In selecting naval installations 
for the pilot program required by subsection (a), the Assistant 
Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations, and Environment shall 
prioritize an installation that--
(1) has entered into, as of the date of the enactment of 
this Act, a memorandum of agreement with a private power 
provider or reactor technology vendor to explore the use of a 
small modular reactor or mobile reactor designed for 
standardized and scaleable production for installation energy 
requirements; and
(2) contributes support to naval operations at mid-Atlantic 
region installations.
(c) Public-private Partnerships.--
(1) Available infrastructure.--The Assistant Secretary of 
the Navy for Energy, Installations, and Environment may carry 
out the pilot program required by subsection (a) by assessing 
and making recommendations regarding how to make available the 
facilities of a Navy or Marine Corps program selected for 
participation in the pilot program.
(2) Data centers.--As part of the pilot program, the 
Assistant Secretary shall evaluate and make recommendations 
regarding how to make available Navy or Marine Corps facilities 
to co-locate data centers with the assessed, representative 
small modular reactors or mobile reactors.
(3) Contracts.--The pilot program does not require the 
Secretary of the Navy to enter into any new contract, such as 
an energy savings performance contract.
(d) Reporting Requirements.--
(1) Annual report.--In each report submitted under section 
2925 of title 10, United States Code, during the period 
beginning on the date that is one year after the date of 
enactment of this Act and ending on September 30, 2032, the 
Secretary of the Navy shall include, for the year covered by 
the report, each of the following:
(A) A five-year funding plan for all Navy nuclear 
shore and installation power programs for the Navy, 
including nuclear efforts provided for in the context 
of the Navy Shore Energy Program and any identified 
funding shortfalls.
(B) An identification of authorities required and 
remaining barriers to the provision of nuclear power 
from a military installation to civilian energy grids.
(C) A review of lessons learned from related 
efforts conducted by the other military departments, 
the Defense Innovation Unit, and any other entities the 
Secretary considers relevant.
(D) An analysis of efforts taken by the Navy to use 
nuclear power on Navy installations to support data 
center power demands.
(E) Any other details the Secretary of the Navy 
considers relevant.
(2) Final report.--Upon conclusion of the pilot program, 
the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional 
defense committees a report that includes, or include in the 
report required under section 2925 of title 10, United States 
Code, for the fiscal year during which the pilot program 
concludes, the following:
(A) An identification of the funding that would be 
required to convert the pilot program to a program of 
record.
(B) An identification of all available funding 
provided in the budget of the Navy for the fiscal year 
during which the report is submitted for nuclear power 
at Navy and Marine Corps installations.
(e) Early Termination.--The Secretary of the Navy may terminate the 
pilot program before the expiration of the five-year period referred to 
in subsection (a) if the Secretary provides notice of such early 
termination to the congressional defense committees.
(f) Mid-Atlantic Region Installation Defined.--The term ``mid-
Atlantic region installation'' means any installation covered under the 
geographic parameters of the Navy Region Mid-Atlantic on the date of 
the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 319. PILOT PROGRAM TO INSTALL PROPANE-POWERED GENERATORS AT A 
DOMESTIC DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL BASE FACILITY.

(a) Program Required.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for 
Energy, Installations and the Environment shall carry out a pilot 
program under which the Assistant Secretary shall install propane-
powered generators at an organic industrial base facility. Under the 
pilot program, such generators shall--
(1) be used in tandem with an on-site microgrid in order to 
improve the resiliency and redundancy of power generation at 
the facility; and
(2) be powered by conventional or renewable propane.
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``microgrid'' has the meaning given such term 
in section 641(b)(6) of the United States Energy Storage 
Competitiveness Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17231(b)(6)).
(2) The term ``propane'' has the meaning given such term in 
section 3(6) of the Propane Education and Research Act of 1996 
(15 U.S.C. 6402(6)).
(c) Termination.--The authority to carry out the pilot program 
under this section shall terminate on the date that is five years after 
the date of the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 320. STRATEGY TO ACCELERATE REMEDIATION OF CONTAMINATION FROM 
PERFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES.

(a) Strategy.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a strategy to accelerate the 
remediation efforts of the Department of Defense with respect to 
contamination from perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl 
substances, which shall include--
(1) criteria of the Department for the prioritization of 
military installations and National Guard facilities with 
respect to which such efforts are planned or underway, based on 
relative risk to human health, demonstrated environmental 
impact, and proximity to any community affected, or at risk of 
being affected, by such contamination;
(2) timelines for completing each phase of the cleanup 
process under CERCLA with respect to such contamination for 
each such military installation or National Guard facility;
(3) a plan for deploying additional technologies, 
personnel, or other resources to reduce delays to such 
remediation efforts, including an identification of--
(A) the number of laboratories accredited by the 
environmental laboratory accreditation program of the 
Department to test for the presence of perfluoroalkyl 
substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances; and
(B) the number of laboratories in the process of 
being so accredited; and
(4) benchmarks for evaluating the performance of each 
military department or Defense Agency with respect to response 
efforts to address contamination from perfluoroalkyl substances 
and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
(b) Public Dashboard.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall publish on a publicly 
accessible website of the Department an online dashboard that provides 
information on the actions of the Department, including each military 
department, relating to contamination from perfluoroalkyl substances 
and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The dashboard shall be updated on a 
semiannual basis and shall include a summary of--
(1) funding levels and expenditures relating to response 
efforts to address such contamination, dissagregated by each 
military installation or National Guard facility with respect 
to which such efforts are planned or underway;
(2) the status of response efforts to address such 
contamination under the applicable phase of the cleanup process 
under CERCLA, including the status of any interim removal 
actions, at each such site;
(3) projected and actual timelines for the completion of 
remediation with respect to such contamination at each such 
site; and
(4) points of contact for community engagement.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The terms ``CERCLA'', ``National Guard facility'', 
``removal'', and ``response'' have the meanings given those 
terms in section 2700 of title 10, United States Code.
(2) The term ``Defense Agency'' has the meaning given such 
term in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code.

SEC. 321. STUDY ON SMALL MODULAR NUCLEAR REACTORS.

(a) Study Required.--The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a 
comprehensive study on the feasibility, costs, and benefits of 
deploying small modular nuclear reactors (in this section referred to 
as ``SMRs'') to provide secure, resilient, and reliable power for 
Department of Defense installations.
(b) Elements.--The study shall include the following:
(1) An assessment of potential sites for SMR deployment at 
Department of Defense installations.
(2) An evaluation of the benefits of SMR deployment to 
mission readiness, energy resilience, and cost savings.
(3) An analysis of regulatory, safety, and security 
considerations related to SMR deployment.
(4) A review of ongoing pilot projects and partnerships 
with the Department of Energy and private industry related to 
SMR deployment.
(5) An assessment of how SMR deployment could enhance 
future military readiness and national security by mitigating 
emerging threats to energy infrastructure, including cyber, 
physical, and natural hazards.
(c) Report to Congress.--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 House of Representatives and the 
Senate a report on the findings of the study, including recommendations 
for future implementation of such findings.

SEC. 322. COORDINATOR FOR ENGAGEMENT WITH DEFENSE COMMUNITIES AFFECTED 
BY PFAS.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall designate an 
official of the Department of Defense as the ``Coordinator for 
Engagement with Defense Communities Affected by PFAS''.
(b) Responsibilities.--The responsibilities of the Coordinator 
designated under subsection (a) are--
(1) to improve the outreach, education, and communication 
efforts of the Department with respect to current or former 
defense communities located in the United States that have been 
affected by the contamination or leakage of perfluoroalkyl and 
polyfluoroalkyl substances (referred to in this section as 
``PFAS''); and
(2) to serve as a dedicated liaison between the Department 
and State and local governments, advocacy organizations, and 
individual citizens in the current and former defense 
communities where the Department has ongoing or incomplete PFAS 
remediation projects.
(c) Definition of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.--
For the purposes of this section, the terms ``perfluoroalkyl 
substance'' and ``polyfluoroalkyl substance'' have the meanings given 
such terms in section 333(b) of the National Defense Authorization Act 
for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283; 134 Stat. 3531; 10 U.S.C. 
3062 note).

SEC. 323. REVISING THE PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTS FOR PERFORMANCE OF 
FIREFIGHTING OR SECURITY-GUARD FUNCTIONS.

Section 2465 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (4), by inserting ``or security-
guard'' after ``firefighting'' each place such term 
appears; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(5) An installation access control security guard 
contract to be carried out at an installation with less than 
300 permanently assigned enlisted members in grades below E-7 
and entitled to basic pay.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Inapplicability During War or National Emergency.--The 
provisions of this section shall not apply during war or during a 
period of war or national emergency declared by the President or an Act 
of Congress.''.

SEC. 324. ELIMINATION OF PREFERENCE FOR MOTOR VEHICLES USING ELECTRIC 
OR HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMS AND RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF 
THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

Chapter 173 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in section 2911(e)--
(A) by striking paragraph (4);
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (5) through (9) as 
paragraphs (4) through (8), respectively;
(C) by striking paragraph (10); and
(D) by redesignating paragraphs (11) through (15) 
as paragraphs (9) through (13), respectively; and
(2) by striking section 2922g.

Subtitle C--Logistics and Sustainment

SEC. 331. EXTENSION OF AUTHORIZATION OF DEPOT WORKING CAPITAL FUNDS FOR 
UNSPECIFIED MINOR MILITARY CONSTRUCTION.

Section 2208(u)(4) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``September 30, 2025'' and inserting ``September 30, 2027''.

SEC. 332. DESIGNATION OF SENIOR OFFICIALS RESPONSIBLE FOR INTEGRATION 
OF GLOBAL CONTESTED LOGISTICS POSTURE MANAGEMENT.

(a) Designation of Senior Military Department Officials.--Chapter 
131 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end 
the following new section:
``Sec. 2229b. Responsibility for contested logistics posture management
``(a) Designation of Responsible Official.--The Chair of the Joint 
Chiefs of Staff shall designate the member or employee of the Joint 
Staff with primary responsibility for the core logistics capabilities 
of supply, maintenance operations, prepositioned stocks, deployment and 
distribution, health services support, engineering, logistics services, 
and operational contract to serve as the official within the Department 
with principal responsibility for the integration of global contested 
logistics posture management across the military departments. In 
carrying out such responsibility, such official shall coordinate with 
the senior military department officials designated under subsection 
(c).
``(b) Responsibilities.--The official designated under subsection 
(a) shall coordinate and deconflict the activities of the military 
departments with respect to each of the following:
``(1) The locations of sites outside the continental United 
States at which stocks of supplies and equipment as well as the 
composition of those stocks.
``(2) The provision of adequate intra-theater sea and air 
capability to move material and personnel throughout the 
theater.
``(3) The monitoring and coordination of resourcing 
decisions by the military departments in support of operational 
plans and contingencies.
``(4) The identification of shortcomings in the provision 
of resources identified in paragraphs (2) and (3).
``(c) Senior Military Department Officials.--(1) Each secretary of 
a military department shall designate, from among officials serving in 
the department, an official to have principal responsibility for 
contested logistics posture management for that department.
``(2) Each senior official designated under paragraph (1) shall be 
responsible for--
``(A) ensuring that the department concerned is adequately 
prepared to provide coordinated logistics support to the armed 
forces of that department in contested environments outside the 
continental United States, including by--
``(i) establishing or arranging for access to 
locations through which supplies and equipment can be 
provided to such forces;
``(ii) developing any necessary infrastructure; and
``(iii) to the extent feasible, prepositioning 
supplies and equipment at such locations; and
``(B) ensuring that the logistics capabilities described in 
subparagraph (A) meet the requirements of the operational and 
contingency plans of such forces.
``(3) Each senior official designated under paragraph (1) may 
designate an official of the military department concerned to serve as 
a deputy to assist the senior official in carrying out the 
responsibilities under this section.
``(d) Contested Logistics Posture Strategy.--(1) The official 
designated under subsection (a), in coordination with each senior 
official designated under subsection (b) and any other Department 
official identified by the Secretary, shall develop and implement a 
strategy for carrying out the responsibilities described in subsection 
(c)(2).
``(2) The strategy required under paragraph (1) shall include each 
of the following:
``(A) A description of--
``(i) the locations of sites outside the 
continental United States at which stocks of supplies 
and equipment are prepositioned as of the date of the 
strategy;
``(ii) the status and disposition of such 
prepositioned stocks; and
``(iii) the operational or contingency plan such 
stocks are intended to support.
``(B) An identification of--
``(i) any shortcomings associated with the sites 
and prepositioned stocks described in subparagraph (A) 
that must be addressed to optimally execute operational 
and contingency plans; and
``(ii) any additional sites, infrastructure, or 
equipment that may be needed to address such 
shortcomings and support such plans.
``(C) A description of any additional funding or other 
resources required--
``(i) to address the shortcomings identified under 
subparagraph (B)(i); and
``(ii) to provide for the additional sites, 
infrastructure, and equipment identified under 
subparagraph (B)(ii).
``(D) A prioritized list of investment recommendations for 
each item described in subparagraph (C).
``(E) An identification of each case in which the military 
department concerned lacks the authority or ability to access a 
location outside the United States for purposes of providing 
logistics support as required under operational and contingency 
plans, set forth separately by location.
``(F) An assessment of any existing and projected threats 
to sites outside the continental United States that are 
expected to support such operational and contingency plans.
``(3) The strategy required under paragraph (1) shall cover the 
period of two years following the date of the strategy and shall be 
updated on an biennial basis.''.
(b) Deadline for Designation.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, each Secretary of a military 
department shall make the designation required under section 2229b(b) 
of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a).
(c) Deadline; Reports.--
(1) Deadline.--The development of the strategy required 
under subsection (d) of section 2229b of title 10, United 
States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall be completed by 
not later than January 31, 2027.
(2) Initial report.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the official designated under 
subsection (a) of such section 2229b shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report that includes--
(A) the names of the officials designated under 
subsection (b) of such section; and
(B) a plan for the completion of the development of 
the strategy required under subsection (d) of such 
section.
(3) Biennial interim reports.--During the period beginning 
on the date of the submission of the initial report under 
paragraph (2) and ending on the date of the completion of the 
development of the strategy required under subsection (d) of 
such section 2229b, the official designated under subsection 
(a) of such section shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees semi-annual reports each of which shall include--
(A) an update on the progress made toward the 
completion of the development of the strategy; and
(B) an assessment of the progress of the official 
with respect to the responsibilities of the official 
under subsection (b) of such section.

SEC. 333. MODIFICATION OF MINIMUM CAPITAL INVESTMENT FOR CERTAIN DEPOTS 
OF DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

Section 2476(a)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``the preceding three fiscal years'' and inserting ``the 
preceding fiscal year, the current fiscal year, and the estimated 
amount for the following fiscal year''.

SEC. 335. MODIFICATION TO ANNUAL REPORT ON NAVY SHIPYARD INFRASTRUCTURE 
OPTIMIZATION PROGRAM.

Section 355(c)(2)(A) of the National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117-81; 10 U.S.C. 8013 note) is amended by 
inserting ``and the incorporation of digital infrastructure (including 
hardware, software, and cloud storage) and platforms'' before ``; 
and''.

SEC. 336. STRATEGY TO IMPROVE INFRASTRUCTURE OF CERTAIN DEPOTS OF THE 
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

Section 359 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2020 (Public Law 116-92; 133 Stat. 1323; 10 U.S.C. 2476 note) is 
amended--
(1) by striking subsection (c); and
(2) by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) as subsections 
(c) and (d), respectively.

SEC. 337. PILOT PROGRAM FOR ARSENAL WORKLOAD SUSTAINMENT.

(a) Establishment of Pilot Program.--Not later than 90 days after 
the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall 
establish a pilot program to incentivize public-private partnerships at 
arsenals of the Department of the Army, to be known as the ``Arsenal 
Workload Sustainment Pilot Program'' (in this section referred to as 
the ``pilot program'').
(b) Prioritization.--
(1) In general.--In carrying out the pilot program, the 
Secretary shall prioritize the award of a contract to a non-
public partner that will use a Government owned, Government 
controlled arsenal of the Department of the Army.
(2) Selection.--The Secretary shall select to participate 
in the pilot program non-public partners that the Secretary 
determines demonstrate that the performance of any work under 
the pilot program shall be performed equally by employees of 
the Department of Defense and the non-public partner.
(c) Regulations.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue regulations to 
implement subsection (b).
(d) Report.--
(1) Submission.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report on the activities 
conducted under the pilot program, including a description of 
any operational challenges identified in the course of such 
conduct.
(2) Elements.--The report under paragraph (1) shall include 
the following:
(A) A breakout, by relevant budget account, of the 
workload achieved during the prior fiscal year at each 
Government owned, Government controlled arsenal of the 
Department of the Army for which a contract was awarded 
under the pilot program, whether directly or pursuant 
to such contract.
(B) An assessment of relevant budget accounts where 
any such arsenal may be used to meet future procurement 
needs of the Department of Defense, irrespective of 
cost.
(C) An outlook of expected workload at each such 
arsenal during the period covered by the future-years 
defense program submitted to Congress under section 221 
of title 10, United States Code.
(D) The capital investments required to be made at 
each such arsenal to ensure compliance and operational 
capacity.
(e) Termination.--The authority to carry out the pilot program 
shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the 
establishment of the pilot program.
(f) Non-public Partner Defined.--In this section, the term ``non-
public partner'' means an entity, individual, university, or nonprofit 
organization that is not part of the United States Government.

SEC. 338. DEPOT-LEVEL MAINTENANCE COORDINATION IN MULTINATIONAL 
EXERCISES.

(a) In General.--Each year, the Secretary of the Air Force shall 
incorporate in at least one multinational exercise conducted in the 
area of operations of the United States Indo-Pacific Command--
(1) depot-level maintenance, repair, and sustainment 
considerations, including binational or multinational planning 
sessions with covered nations on--
(A) identifying opportunities to cooperate on 
depot-level maintenance and repair in ways that 
minimize transportation requirements in such area of 
operations and determining the authorities necessary to 
deliver the necessary joint capabilities;
(B) facilitating real-time coordination between the 
United States and covered nations to maintain munitions 
stock levels and resupply routes in the such area of 
operations;
(C) mutual recognition of airworthiness and 
maintenance certification between the United States and 
covered nations; and
(D) emergency tabletop exercises, such as when an 
aircraft of a covered nation breaks down on United 
States territory, and vice versa, in a contested 
logistics environment; and
(2) coordination with the Air Force Sustainment Center, 
including the participation of representatives of--
(A) the United States Indo-Pacific Command;
(B) United States Air Force Pacific;
(C) the United States Air Mobility Command; and
(D) the Air Force Sustainment Center.
(b) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to 
Congress a report summarizing the lessons learned from carrying out an 
exercise in accordance with subsection (a) with respect to the Republic 
of Korea and the Commonwealth of Australia. Such report shall include 
each of the following:
(1) A list of candidate systems for co-sustainment with 
Korea and Australia.
(2) A list of depot-level repair workload opportunities to 
undertake with Korea and Australia, including testing equipment 
or line replaceable units.
(3) Opportunities to incorporate Korean and Australian 
industry partners in depot-level maintenance repair activities, 
including through public-private partnerships.
(4) An identification of any potential logistical 
challenges that could arise with the host country, including 
with respect to workforce, housing, and location of workload.
(5) An identification of any potential impediments 
involving intellectual property or data rights between original 
equipment manufacturers and the Department of the Air Force or 
between the Department of the Air Force and named partner 
countries.
(6) An identification of any potential impediments related 
to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and related 
statutes.
(7) Any additional recommendations to Congress that would 
ease the facilitation of depot-level maintenance repair 
partnerships with Korea and Australia, including changes to 
existing status of forces agreements.
(8) An analysis of current maintenance and repair 
capabilities and gaps in the organic industrial base of Korea 
and Australia.
(9) An assessment of the types of maintenance and repair 
activities (depot-level, preventative, corrective) that may be 
most appropriate for partnership with Korea and Australia.
(10) An assessment of how partnerships may contribute to 
allied contingency operations, interoperability, and regional 
posture resilience in the Indo-Pacific region.
(11) A consideration of planning factors related to the 
evolving force generation models, future-generation aircraft 
programs, deployment schedules, statutory maintenance 
thresholds, and other relevant operational requirements of the 
Department of the Air Force.
(c) Covered Nation Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
nation'' means any of the following:
(1) The Commonwealth of Australia.
(2) Canada.
(3) Japan.
(4) New Zealand.
(5) The Republic of Korea.
(6) The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern 
Ireland.
(7) Any other nation designated a covered nation for the 
purposes of this section by the Secretary of the Air Force.

SEC. 339. MAINTENANCE INSPECTION CAPABILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Requirement.--Subject to the requirements of subsection (b), 
the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that when the Department of 
Defense conducts maintenance of aviation critical safety items and 
mission critical parts, such maintenance--
(1) includes the use of a technical data requirement or 
organic or commercially available diagnostic tool, if such a 
requirement or tool is required and available; and
(2) is not conducted solely through visual inspection 
unless--
(A) no such requirement or tool is available; or
(B) only a visual inspection is required under a 
technical data requirement.
(b) Sustainment.--The Secretary shall ensure that the acquisition 
of appropriate technical data requirements and diagnostic tools for the 
conduct of maintenance of aviation critical safety items and mission 
critical parts are planned as part of the sustainment of the systems 
containing such items and parts.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``aviation critical safety item'' means any 
part, assembly, installation equipment, launch equipment, 
recovery equipment, or support equipment for an aircraft or 
aviation weapon system the failure, malfunction, or absence of 
which could cause--
(A) a catastrophic or critical failure resulting in 
the loss of or serious damage to the aircraft or weapon 
system;
(B) an unacceptable risk of personal injury or loss 
of life; or
(C) an uncommanded engine shutdown that jeopardizes 
safety.
(2) The term ``corrosion'' means the deterioration of a 
material or its properties, including non-metallic materials, 
due to a reaction of that material with the chemical 
environment.
(3) The term ``diagnostic tool'' means a non-destructive 
inspection tool capable of--
(A) detecting corrosion, cracks, component damage, 
adhesion failure, and standard wear and tear; and
(B) leveraging artificial intelligence and machine 
learning to build a predictive maintenance database 
when necessary to improve maintainability.

SEC. 340. JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER SUSTAINMENT.

(a) Requirements.--By not later than September 30, 2028, the 
Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of the Navy 
and the Secretary of the Air Force, shall ensure that--
(1) sufficient wartime spares, support equipment, and depot 
level capabilities are projected to be available for the F-35 
Joint Strike Fighter to--
(A) sustain F-35 Joint Strike Fighter operations 
for at least 90 days in the most stressing operational 
plan required of each such Secretary; and
(B) meet the fleet wide minimum readiness targets 
established by each such Secretary; and
(2) each F-35 Joint Strike Fighter contractor has provided 
to the Secretary of the Navy or the Secretary of the Air Force, 
as applicable, and such Secretary has validated as accurate, 
all information that is necessary for the Department of Defense 
to successfully complete the financial reporting and 
accountability requirements for F-35 property, including--
(A) the incorporation of information relating to 
the management and reporting of Government property 
that has been provided for contractor performance, as 
defined and agreed upon in the contract entered into by 
the contractor; and
(B) the remediation of all material weaknesses of 
the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program identified in the 
Department of Defense Agency Financial Report for 
Fiscal Year 2024 that are within the control and 
responsibility of the contractor.
(b) Treatment of Individual Contracts.--The information required 
under subsection (a)(2) may be provided on an individual contract 
basis.
(c) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive a requirement under subsection 
(a) if the Secretary--
(1) determines that such waiver is in the national security 
interests of the United States; and
(2) provides to the congressional defense committees notice 
of such determination, which shall include an identification of 
the concern of the Secretary, a remedial action plan, and a 
proposed timeline to meet the requirements of such subsection.
(d) Report.--Not later than February 1, 2026, the Secretary of 
Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of the Navy and the 
Secretary of the Air Force, shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program that 
includes a description of each of the following:
(1) The top scarce supply assets and plans to reach 
sustainable supply positions by not later than September 30, 
2028.
(2) The readiness condition of afloat and deployment spares 
packages and efforts available to refresh outdated supplies and 
spares.
(3) The fiscal programming, by fiscal year, necessary to 
reduce deficient parts and depot capabilities to meet the joint 
strike fighter planning targets by not later than September 30, 
2028.

SEC. 341. MODERNIZATION OF ARMY ARSENALS.

(a) In General.--In order to accelerate the modernization of the 
organic industrial base of the Army and to expand capacity across the 
munitions industrial base to meet the munitions requirements of the 
Army, the Secretary of the Army shall--
(1) assess existing Army facilities, as well as existing 
environmental permits, security arrangements, and personnel, to 
identify facilities that could be used or modified for the 
production of munitions; and
(2) in identifying facilities under paragraph (1), ensure 
that such facilities have enough property that is available and 
suitable for future industrial or technical development.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the 
Secretary should expedite the use or modification of Army facilities to 
the fullest extent possible in order to increase the rate of production 
of munitions.

SEC. 342. LIMITATION ON USE OF FUNDS TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF CIVILIAN 
PERSONNEL EMPLOYED AT PINE BLUFF ARSENAL, ARKANSAS, BLUE 
GRASS ARMY DEPOT, KENTUCKY, AND RED RIVER ARMY DEPOT, 
TEXAS.

None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or 
otherwise made available for the Department of Defense for fiscal year 
2026 may be used to reduce the number of civilian personnel employed at 
the Pine Bluff Arsenal, Arkansas, Blue Grass Army Depot, Kentucky, 
Corpus Christi Army Depot, Texas, or Red River Army Depot, Texas, until 
the date on which the Secretary of the Army--
(1) certifies to the congressional defense committees that 
such a reduction complies with--
(A) civilian personnel reduction limitations 
required by section 2687 of title 10, United States 
Code;
(B) the requirement under section 7532 of title 10, 
United States Code, to have supplies needed for the 
Department of the Army made in factories or arsenals 
owned by the United States; and
(C) overall limitations on depot-level maintenance 
and repair workload that may be performed by non-
Federal Government personnel under a contract pursuant 
to section 2466 of title 10, United States Code; and
(2) submits to the congressional defense committees a 
report that includes--
(A) a detailed cost analysis associated with each 
of subparagraphs (A) through (C) of paragraph (1);
(B) detailed estimates of the costs that will be 
incurred if the Army moves the white phosphorus 
ammunition mission away from Pine Bluff Arsenal, 
including the cost and time associated with acquiring 
the necessary environmental permits; and
(C) current capability gaps within the Army that 
could be filled through the Army organic industrial 
base, including with respect to s-UAS, battery 
technology, and brushless motors.

SEC. 343. CAPITAL EXPENDITURE WRITE-OFFS FOR DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 
DEPOTS AND ARSENALS.

With respect to any depot or arsenal of the Department of Defense, 
the Secretary of Defense may write off any depreciated cost or debt 
associated with capital that does not generate revenue due to 
Government-directed mission changes. The Secretary may delegate the 
authority under this section to the Secretary of a military department.

SEC. 344. AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CENTERS TO ENHANCE 
WORKFORCE TRAINING IN CERTAIN CRITICAL SKILLS.

(a) Authority.--The Secretary of Defense may establish Advanced 
Technology Centers at community colleges with workforce programs that 
include a critical national production facility. An Advanced Technology 
Center established under this subsection shall provide workforce 
training in covered critical skills.
(b) Covered Critical Skills.--In this section, the term ``covered 
critical skills'' means any of the following:
(1) Advanced composite material layup.
(2) Advanced coatings applications.
(3) Computer numerical control manufacturing.
(4) Aircraft mechanical assembly and integrated circuit 
development, including with respect to aircraft such as B-21 
and F-35.
(5) welding, pipefitting, and metal fabrication related to 
vessel construction, repair and maintenance.

Subtitle D--Organizational Matters

SEC. 351. ESTABLISHMENT OF ARMY MUSEUM SYSTEM.

Chapter 775 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 7715. Army museum system
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Army shall support a system 
of official Army museums within the United States Army Center of 
Military History. Such system shall include the National Museum of the 
United States Army and may contain other museums honoring individual 
installations, units, and branches, as designated by the Secretary of 
the Army, that meet criteria established under subsection (b).
``(b) Criteria for Designation.--The Secretary of the Army shall 
establish criteria for designating museums of subsection (a) for 
inclusion in the Army museum system. Such criteria shall include--
``(1) historical significance to Army operations, 
technology, or personnel;
``(2) public accessibility and educational outreach 
programs; and
``(3) alignment with the mission of the Army to preserve 
its heritage.
``(c) Criteria for Closure.--The Secretary of the Army shall 
establish criteria for closing museums within the Army museum system. 
If the Secretary decides to close a museum in such system, the 
Secretary shall submit to Congress, not later than 90 days before the 
date on which the museum closes, notice that includes--
``(1) a plan for the preservation, storage, or alternate 
display of historical collections contained in the museum;
``(2) how any issues relating to museum personnel will be 
resolved;
``(3) an identification of any efforts to maintain museum 
operations through public-private partnerships; and
``(4) an analysis of the cost to transport, consolidate, 
and preserve the historical collections contained in the 
museum.
``(d) Funding and Support.--Consistent with applicable law, the 
Secretary may enter into partnerships, including with nonprofit 
organizations, to enhance the financial sustainability and public 
engagement of the museums in the Army museum system.''.

SEC. 352. AUTHORIZATION TO MAINTAIN A LIBRARY IN THE DEPARTMENT OF THE 
NAVY.

Chapter 803 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 8030. Library
``(a) Authorization.--The Secretary of the Navy may maintain in the 
Department of the Navy a library as a centralized institution dedicated 
to preserving, curating, and providing access to historical records, 
technical documents, and educational resources pertinent to the mission 
and heritage of the Navy.
``(b) Mission.--The mission of a library maintained under this 
section shall include--
``(1) collecting and preserving naval historical records, 
manuscripts, artifacts, and publications;
``(2) supporting research, education, and training for 
historians, the general public, and personnel of the Department 
of the Navy;
``(3) enhancing the institutional knowledge and operational 
readiness of the Navy through access to technical, strategic, 
and doctrinal resources; and
``(4) promoting public understanding of the contributions 
of the Navy to national defense and maritime history.''.

SEC. 353. AUTHORIZATION TO MAINTAIN A NAVY ART GALLERY.

Chapter 803 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 
352, is further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 8030A. Art gallery
``(a) Authorization.--The Secretary of the Navy may maintain an art 
gallery to preserve, display, and promote artwork related to the 
history, heritage, and operations of the United States Navy.
``(b) Mission.--The mission of an art gallery maintained under 
subsection (a) shall include--
``(1) to collect and exhibit artworks, including paintings, 
drawings, and sculptures, that depict naval operations, 
personnel, and significant historical events;
``(2) to enhance the morale and welfare of Navy personnel 
by celebrating their service through artistic representation; 
and
``(3) to educate the public and preserve the cultural 
legacy of the Navy for future generations.''.

SEC. 354. ESTABLISHMENT OF UNITED STATES NAVY MUSEUM SYSTEM.

Chapter 861 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
inserting after section 8617 the following new section:
``Sec. 8617A. United States Navy Museum System
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Navy shall support a system 
of official Navy museums, which shall collectively be known as the 
`United States Navy Museum System'. Such system shall include the 
following museums:
``(1) The National Museum of the United States Navy.
``(2) The United States Naval Academy Museum.
``(3) The Naval War College Museum.
``(4) The Submarine Force Museum.
``(5) The National Naval Aviation Museum.
``(6) USS Constitution Naval History and Heritage Command, 
Detachment Boston.
``(7) The United States Navy Seabee Museum.
``(8) The Puget Sound Navy Museum.
``(9) The Naval Undersea Museum.
``(10) The National Museum of the American Sailor.
``(11) The Hampton Roads Naval Museum.
``(12) Such other museums as may be designated by the 
Secretary of the Navy that meet criteria established under 
subsection (b).
``(b) Criteria for Designation.--The Secretary of the Navy shall 
establish criteria for designating museums other than museums 
identified in paragraphs (1) through (11) of subsection (a) for 
inclusion in the United States Navy Museum System. Such criteria shall 
include--
``(1) historical significance to naval operations, 
technology, or personnel;
``(2) public accessibility and educational outreach 
programs; and
``(3) alignment with the mission of the Navy to preserve 
its heritage.
``(c) Funding and Support.--Consistent with applicable law, the 
Secretary may enter into partnerships, including with nonprofit 
organizations, to enhance the financial sustainability and public 
engagement of the museums in the United States Museum System.''.

SEC. 355. ESTABLISHMENT OF CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF THE NATIONAL GUARD.

(a) Establishment.--Chapter 1 of title 32, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 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' 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 National Guard 
installation.
``(b) Responsibilities.--The Center for the Study of the National 
Guard 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 National Guard 
operations carried out under titles 10 and 32, United States 
Code.
``(c) Collaboration and Support.--The Chief of the National Guard 
Bureau may--
``(1) collaborate with the Center for the Study of the 
National Guard in the collection, preservation, and 
dissemination of National Guard history;
``(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 for the Study of the National 
Guard as a public-private partnership to minimize costs to the Federal 
Government.''.
(b) Deadline for Establishment.--The Secretary of Defense shall 
establish the Center for the Study of the National Guard required under 
section 116 of title 32, United States Code, as added by subsection 
(a), by not later than the date that is 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act.
(c) Congressional Briefing.--Not later than one year after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the 
congressional defense committees a briefing that includes--
(1) a description of the selection of the academic 
institution where the Center for the Study of the National 
Guard required under section 116 of title 32, United States 
Code, as added by subsection (a), is located;
(2) an identification of the status of the establishment 
and initial operations of the Center;
(3) a description of any ongoing efforts between the 
National Guard Bureau and the Center; and
(4) the recommendations of the Secretary to enhance the 
preservation and study of National Guard history.

SEC. 356. RECOGNITION OF CERTAIN ASPECTS OF THE NATIONAL NAVY UDT-SEAL 
MUSEUM IN FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, AS A NATIONAL MEMORIAL, 
NATIONAL MEMORIAL GARDEN, AND NATIONAL K9 MEMORIAL.

The Secretary of the Navy shall recognize the National Navy SEAL 
Museum Memorial, the Memorial Garden and Living Beach, and the Naval 
Special Warfare K9 Memorial of the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum, 
located at 3300 North Highway A1A, North Hutchinson Island, in Fort 
Pierce, Florida, as a national memorial, national memorial garden, and 
national K9 memorial, respectively, of the Navy SEALs.

Subtitle E--Studies, Reports, and Briefings

SEC. 361. ASSESSMENTS AND PLAN FOR INCREASING ACCESS TO NUTRITIOUS FOOD 
ON MILITARY INSTALLATIONS.

(a) Assessments.--
(1) Requirement.--Chapter 23 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended by inserting after section 488 the following 
new section:
``Sec. 489. Biennial assessments on nutrition standards of military 
departments
``On a biennial basis, the Secretary of Defense shall--
``(1) conduct an assessment of the nutrition standards of 
each military department, including by reviewing any nutrition 
program or related policy of that military department, and the 
extent to which such standards are reflected in the food 
options accessible to members of the armed forces at the 
military installations of that military department;
``(2) submit a report containing the results of such 
assessment to the Committees on Armed Services of the House of 
Representatives and the Senate; and
``(3) publish such report on a publicly available website 
of the Department of Defense.''.
(2) First report.--Not later than December 1, 2026, the 
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the House of Representatives and the Senate, and 
publish on a publicly available website of the Department of 
Defense, the first report required under section 489 of title 
10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1).
(b) Plan.--
(1) Requirement.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Personnel and Readiness and the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition and Sustainment, in coordination with the Assistant 
Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs and such 
other entities as the Secretary of Defense determines 
appropriate, shall jointly submit to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the House of Representatives and the Senate and 
publish on a publicly available website of the Department of 
Defense a plan to increase access to nutritious food on 
military installations, consistent with recommendations 
included in the report of the Government Accountability Office 
titled ``DOD Food Program: Additional Actions Needed to 
Implement, Oversee, and Evaluate Nutrition Efforts for Service 
Members'', and dated June 24, 2024 (GAO-24-106155).
(2) Elements.--The plan under paragraph (1) shall include a 
strategy developed by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for 
Manpower and Reserve Affairs for increasing nutritious menu 
options at venues that are located on military installations, 
offer food services to members of the Armed Forces, and are not 
funded with appropriated amounts (referred to in the report 
specified in such paragraph as ``nonappropriated fund food 
venues'').

SEC. 362. QUARTERLY REPORTS ON MUNITIONS RESPONSE PROJECTS AT SITES 
FORMERLY USED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

(a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the last day of each 
fiscal quarter that begins after the date of the enactment of this Act, 
until the termination date specified in subsection (c), the Secretary 
of the Army, acting through the Commanding General of the United States 
Army Corps of Engineers, shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report on the status of munitions response projects at 
sites formerly used by the Department of Defense.
(b) Elements.--Each report submitted under subsection (a) shall 
include, for the quarter covered by the report, the following 
information:
(1) The number of new task order awards for munitions 
response projects at sites formerly used by the Department of 
Defense issued and the total dollar value of such awards.
(2) The number of optional tasks exercised as part of such 
projects and the total dollar value of such exercised tasks.
(3) The number of contract modifications or requests for 
equitable adjustment issued as part of such projects and the 
total dollar value of such modifications and adjustments.
(4) The number of task orders for such projects with 
expiring funds and the total value of any associated 
deobligations.
(5) The number of active munitions response projects at 
such sites and the contract phase of each project, including 
whether the project is in the remedial investigation, 
feasibility study, proposed plan, or decision document or 
record of decision phase.
(6) The number of active such projects placed on hold and, 
for each such project, a summary of the reason for the hold, 
including delays related to regulatory agencies, rights-of-
entry issues, Federal land manager actions, or discrepancies in 
the number of subsurface anomalies between the statement of 
work and field conditions.
(c) Termination Date.--The termination date specified in this 
subsection is the date that is five years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act.

SEC. 363. REPORT ON CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF DECLINING AIRCRAFT READINESS 
RATES.

(a) Report Required.--Not later than May 31, 2026, the Secretary of 
the Air Force shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the 
House of Representatives and the Senate a report on the declining rates 
of aircraft readiness within the fleet of the Air Force (with an 
emphasis on fighter aircraft within such fleet) and factors 
contributing to that decline. Such report shall include, with respect 
to such aircraft, the following:
(1) A review of mission capability rates over the five 
fiscal years preceding the date of the submission of the 
report, including an assessment of key factors contributing to 
any decline in such rates, such as maintenance backlogs, 
shortages in aircraft parts, or depot capacity constraints.
(2) An analysis of the manner and extent to which 
reductions to the flying hours program of the Air Force or gaps 
in funding for weapon system sustainment activities may have 
contributed to lower sortie generation, increased aircraft 
downtime, and declining rates of aircraft readiness in general.
(3) An assessment of how personnel and units of the Air 
Force communicate aircraft status for operations and 
maintenance purposes, including any discrepancies between pilot 
debriefs, maintenance write-ups, and data recorded in the 
Defense Readiness Reporting System of the Department of 
Defense.
(4) An assessment of how high-tempo rotational deployments 
strain the availability of aircraft, accelerate the degradation 
of aircraft, and affect the long-term readiness of the fleet.
(5) An analysis of how low rates of aircraft readiness 
negatively affect the training and readiness of new fighter 
pilots, including by limiting training opportunities, reducing 
instructor availability, and generating operational shortfalls.
(6) Proposed actions to reverse the declining rates of 
aircraft readiness, improve the effectiveness of aircraft 
sustainment, and ensure more accurate readiness reporting, 
including any recommendations for relevant legislative actions.
(b) Form.--The report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted 
in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.

SEC. 364. DRIVER SIMULATORS IN MILITARY VEHICLES.

(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The report of the Government Accountability Office 
titled ``Military Vehicles: Army and Marine Corps Should Take 
Additional Actions to Mitigate and Prevent Training Accidents'' 
(GAO-21-361) stated, ``Driver inattentiveness, lapses in 
supervision, and lack of training were among the most common 
causes of these accidents, according to GAO analysis of Army 
and Marine Corps data.''
(2) Such report further determined that the Army and Marine 
Corps, ``have not developed a well-defined process with 
performance criteria and measurable standards to train their 
tactical vehicle drivers from basic qualifications to 
proficiency in diverse driving conditions, such as driving at 
night or over varied terrain.''
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) acquisition program baseline budget requests submitted 
in the budget submission of the President for manned military 
ground vehicles should include funding specifically allocated 
to the development, procurement, fielding, and sustainment of 
driver training simulators with sufficient fidelity to provide 
accurate visual, auditory, haptic, tactile, and vestibular 
stimulation to the trainee learning to operate the vehicle; and
(2) driver training simulators should be--
(A) incorporated into the lifecycle support for 
ground vehicles and should adequately simulate all of 
the environmental conditions in which drivers will be 
required to operate military ground vehicles in support 
of the tactical concept of employment of those 
vehicles;
(B) available for both initial entry level driver 
training and for periodic sustainment training of 
military vehicle drivers; and
(C) available for each vehicle type in sufficient 
enough numbers at each military installation to support 
driver training for the number of licensed drivers at 
the installation until such vehicle type is removed 
from service.
(c) Report to Congress.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the 
Secretary of the Army and the Secretary of the Navy shall jointly 
submit to the congressional defense committees a report containing an 
assessment of fielded military vehicle programs for which no driver 
simulator has been fielded to support the vehicle fleet. Such report 
shall include an updated cost analysis requirement document that 
includes necessary programming for driver simulators and a phasing plan 
for the procurement and fielding of driver simulators.

SEC. 365. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE REPORT ON CREATINE SUPPLEMENTS IN MEALS 
READY-TO-EAT.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with 
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 evaluating the feasibility, safety, and 
potential benefits of including creatine supplements in Meals Ready-to-
Eat (MREs) for members of the Armed Forces.
(b) Elements.--The report required under subsection (a) shall 
include the following:
(1) An assessment of the benefits and risks of creatine 
supplements, including any impact on the strength, muscle 
health, physical performance, injury prevention, recovery, and 
overall readiness of members of the Armed Forces.
(2) An evaluation of the logistical considerations for 
including creatine supplements in MREs, including any 
implications for storage, distribution, shelf life, and cost.
(3) Recommendations regarding the advisability and manner 
of including creatine supplements in MREs.

SEC. 366. STUDY AND REPORT ON EFFECTS OF DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY CLASS 
IX RECOVERY RATES ON MILITARY DEPOTS AND ARSENALS.

(a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the 
Director of the Defense Logistics Agency and each Secretary of a 
military department, shall conduct a study on--
(1) the methodology used by Defense Logistics Agency to 
establish class IX recovery rates; and
(2) the effects such rates have on the organic industrial 
base, with emphasis on military depots and arsenals.
(b) Elements.--The study required by subsection (a) shall address 
each of the following:
(1) The methodology used by the Defense Logistics Agency to 
set recovery rates for class IX items for all customers.
(2) How class IX recovery rates affect the cost structures, 
budgeting, and execution of workload at military depots and 
arsenals.
(3) Any differences between the effects of recovery rates 
on depot-level maintenance compared to other customers of the 
Defense Logistics Agency.
(4) Any unintended consequences resulting from such cost 
recovery practices, including delays, cost overruns, or 
degraded readiness in depot and arsenal operations.
(5) Recommendations for improving alignment between Defense 
Logistics Agency pricing policies and the sustainment, 
affordability, and readiness goals of military depots and 
arsenals.
(c) Report.--Not later than 270 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report on the findings of the study 
required under subsection (a), which shall include the recommendations 
of the Secretary for any legislative or policy changes to address the 
matters addressed by the study.

SEC. 367. BRIEFING ON SUSTAINMENT AND FUNDING OF DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 
DIRECTED ENERGY PROGRAMS OF RECORD.

Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this 
section, the Chief of Staff of the Army, in coordination with the head 
of Army Aviation and Missile Command, shall provide to the Committee on 
Armed Services of the House of Representatives a briefing on the 
sustainment and funding plan for directed energy programs of record of 
the Department of the Army. Such briefing shall include an assessment 
of comparative cost efficiencies and operational advantages to--
(1) support readiness;
(2) reduce dependence on original equipment manufacturers; 
and
(3) develop a workforce trained to address the requirements 
and safety aspects of directed energy technology.

SEC. 368. REPORT ON REDUCING FREQUENCY OF PERMANENT CHANGES OF STATION 
AND NAVAL VESSEL TO ONSHORE ROTATIONS.

(a) Report Required.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the Under 
Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, in coordination with 
the Secretaries of the military departments, shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report on options to reduce the 
frequency of permanent changes of station of members of the Armed 
Forces and the rotations of such members between assignments to naval 
vessels and onshore assignments (commonly referred to as ``sea-shore 
rotations'').
(b) Elements.--The report under subsection (a) shall include the 
following:
(1) An analysis of the costs associated with the permanent 
changes of station and rotations specified in subsection (a), 
disaggregated by military department and occupational 
specialty, over the five fiscal years preceding the date of the 
report.
(2) An assessment of the potential cost savings of the 
Department of Defense to be realized through a reduction in the 
frequency of such permanent changes of station and rotations.
(3) An evaluation of the effects of a reduction in such 
frequency on retention of members of the Armed Forces, 
employment for the spouses of such members, and education of 
the children of such members.
(4) An identification of billets, duty stations, and 
communities with respect to which extended tour lengths or 
rotation adjustments would be operationally feasible while 
sustaining mission readiness and career progression 
requirements.
(5) Recommendations for any legislative or policy changes 
necessary to conduct a pilot program for, or otherwise 
implement, extensions to tour lengths or rotation adjustments.

SEC. 369. REPORT ON ENCROACHMENT MANAGEMENT RELATED TO THE NEVADA TEST 
AND TRAINING RANGE.

Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this 
Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit a report to the 
congressional defense committees--
(1) outlining ongoing encroachment management projects, 
landscape partnerships, and stakeholder engagements to ensure 
the long term viability of the Nevada Test and Training Range; 
and
(2) that describes--
(A) the resources needed for such projects, 
partnerships, and stakeholder engagements;
(B) the specific issues of such encroachment;
(C) the coordination process between the Department 
of Defense, Department of Interior, Department of 
Energy, local community leaders, and the Committee on 
Foreign Investment in the United States regarding 
foreign land acquisitions; and
(D) areas for Congressional engagement.

SEC. 370. REPORT ON LOCAL COORDINATION EFFORTS TO ADDRESS CONTAMINATION 
CAUSED BY ACTIVITIES AT FORMER GEORGE AIR FORCE BASE.

Not later than January 31, 2026, the Secretary of the Air Force 
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the 
efforts of the Department of the Air Force to coordinate with local 
officials to identify potential solutions for addressing the 
contamination caused by activities in connection with the former George 
Air Force Base. Such report shall include the following:
(1) A description of ongoing and planned efforts to address 
such contamination.
(2) A description of opportunities for partnership with 
Federal, State, and local entities with respect to such 
efforts.
(3) Plans of the Department to ensure that the 
responsibilities for the cleanup of such contamination is not 
shifted to affected communities and that such cleanup does not 
restrict economic development.
(4) An assessment of the estimated costs, timelines, and 
feasibility of each proposed solution for addressing such 
contamination.

SEC. 370A. RESERVE MOBILIZATION EXERCISE.

(a) Indo-pacific Mobilization and Readiness Study Required.--Not 
later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Chairman of the Joint 
Chiefs of Staff and the Commander of United States Indo-Pacific 
Command, shall conduct a comprehensive joint mobilization and 
sustainment readiness study (modeled on the 1978 ``Nifty Nugget'' 
exercise) to assess the capability of the Armed Forces to respond to a 
high-intensity contingency in the Indo-Pacific region.
(b) Elements of the Study.--The study required under subsection (a) 
shall include the following:
(1) An assessment of the ability to rapidly mobilize, 
deploy, and sustain active and reserve component forces in 
response to a conflict scenario involving the Taiwan Strait, 
South China Sea, or similar Indo-Pacific flashpoint.
(2) An evaluation of strategic lift and sustainment 
capabilities across military departments, including maritime 
sealift, airlift, rail, road networks, and prepositioned 
stocks.
(3) Identification of critical logistics vulnerabilities, 
mobilization bottlenecks, and command and control challenges.
(4) Analysis of interagency coordination procedures and 
integration with civilian emergency support capabilities.
(5) An evaluation of joint and allied interoperability, 
with particular attention to coordination mechanisms with 
Japan, Australia, the Philippines, and Taiwan.
(c) Civilian Skills Inventory of the Reserve Component.--The 
Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Personnel and Readiness, shall conduct a civilian skills inventory of 
the Reserve Components of the Armed Forces to identify and assess the 
non-military qualifications and talents of reservists, including--
(1) foreign language proficiency and cultural expertise;
(2) advanced academic credentials, including master's 
degrees, doctoral degrees, and scientific research experience;
(3) industrial and technical skills, including 
cybersecurity, software development, engineering, logistics, 
manufacturing, and data science;
(4) critical infrastructure and emergency response 
expertise; and
(5) private-sector leadership and innovation experience 
relevant to defense mobilization and sustainment.
(d) Reporting Requirements.--Not later than one year after the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report that includes--
(1) the results, findings, and recommendations of the Indo-
Pacific mobilization and readiness study required under 
subsection (a);
(2) a summary of the civilian skills inventory of the 
Reserve Component, including recommendations for how such 
skills can be leveraged to support contingency planning, civil-
military integration, and surge operations;
(3) a comparative analysis of best practices by each Armed 
Force with respect to--
(A) mobilizing Reserve Component forces for wartime 
or emergency augmentation;
(B) identifying, tracking, and utilizing civilian-
acquired skills of reservists; and
(C) executing logistical lift and sustainment 
operations, including Navy-led maritime port 
operations, Army-managed rail and overland transport, 
Air Force strategic airlift capacity, and Marine Corps 
expeditionary logistics; and
(4) an estimate of--
(A) the number of Reserve Component personnel 
likely to be available and required to reinforce 
forward-deployed active duty units during the first 30, 
60, and 90 days of a major Indo-Pacific contingency; 
and
(B) the number of Reserve Component personnel 
required to support full-scale mobilization and 
logistics surge operations within the United States, 
including domestic transportation nodes, sustainment 
hubs, ports of embarkation, mobilization training 
centers, and other homeland support functions necessary 
to enable and sustain global operations.

SEC. 370B. REPORT ON USE OF ULTRA-SHORT TAKEOFF AND LANDING AIRCRAFT 
FOR LAST MILE LOGISTICS AND DISASTER RESPONSE OPERATIONS.

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, in coordination with the Commander 
of United States Special Operations Command, shall submit to the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives 
a report on the integration potential and value of ultra-short takeoff 
and landing aircraft. The report required under this section shall 
include--
(1) an assessment of the comparative cost efficiencies and 
operational advantages provided by ultra-short takeoff and 
landing aircraft in contested logistics and disaster response 
scenarios;
(2) identification of critical capability gaps in last-mile 
or last-tactical-mile logistics where such aircraft could serve 
as a force multiplier;
(3) an evaluation of specific mission sets and end users 
across the Indo-Pacific theater that could benefit from the 
deployment of such aircraft, especially mission sets related to 
homeland disaster response, humanitarian relief, wildfire 
suppression, or emergency resupply;
(4) options and timelines to accelerate the development, 
testing, and integration of such aircraft into U.S. Air Force 
and U.S. Special Operations Command capability portfolios; and
(5) an assessment of current testing and development, the 
development of operational concept development (CONOPS), and 
Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) formulation for 
ultra-short takeoff and landing aircraft.

Subtitle F--Other Matters

SEC. 371. AUTHORITY TO EVACUATE FAMILY PETS AND CONTRACT WORKING DOGS 
DURING NONCOMBATANT EVACUATIONS OF FOREIGN COUNTRIES.

Section 2387 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by striking ``: requirement to 
transfer animals to 341st Training Squadron after service 
life'';
(2) in the heading for subsection (a), by striking ``In 
General'' and inserting ``Requirement to Transfer'';
(3) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d); and
(4) by inserting after subsection (b) the following new 
subsection (c):
``(c) Authority to Evacuate.--(1) Subject to the limitations under 
paragraph (2), in the event of a situation during which the Department 
of Defense evacuates noncombatants from a foreign country, the 
Secretary of Defense may enter into agreements with appropriate 
nonprofit entities under which such entities provide for the evacuation 
of--
``(A) the family pets of citizens of the United States who 
are evacuated by the Department; and
``(B) contract working dogs located in such country.
``(2) The limitations under this paragraph are as follows:
``(A) The Department of Defense is not responsible for 
providing veterinary care for a family pet or contract working 
dog by reason of the evacuation of the pet or dog pursuant to 
paragraph (1).
``(B) The Secretary may not exercise the authority under 
paragraph (1) if the exercise of such authority would result in 
a reduction in the number of individuals who would otherwise be 
evacuated.''.

SEC. 372. MANNED ROTARY WING AIRCRAFT SAFETY.

Chapter 157 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 2653. Aircraft safety: requirements for highly trafficked 
domestic airspace
``(a) Limitation on Operation.--Notwithstanding section 1046 of the 
John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 
(Public Law 115-232, 49 U.S.C. 40101 note), except as provided in 
subsection (b), the Secretary of a military department may not 
authorize any manned rotary wing aircraft of the Department of Defense 
to operate a training mission in a highly trafficked domestic airspace 
unless such aircraft, while being operated, is actively providing 
warning to nearby commercial aircraft, in a manner compatible with the 
traffic alert and collision avoidance system of such commercial 
aircraft, of the proximity of the Department of Defense aircraft.
``(b) Waiver Authority.--The Secretary of a military department, 
with the concurrence of the Secretary of Transportation, may waive the 
limitation under subsection (a) with respect to the operation of an 
aircraft if the Secretary determines that--
``(1) such waiver is in the national security interests of 
the United States; and
``(2) a commercial aviation compatibility risk assessment 
has been conducted with respect to the operation of the 
aircraft pursuant to the waiver to mitigate the risk associated 
with such operation.
``(c) Limitation on Delegation.--The Secretary of a military 
department may not delegate the waiver authority under subsection (b) 
to an official whose rank is below a general or flag officer.
``(d) Definition of Highly Trafficked Domestic Airspace.--The term 
`highly trafficked domestic airspace' means--
``(1) the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area Special Flight 
Rules Area, as such term is defined in section 93.335 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor regulation; 
or
``(2) an area surrounding class B, C, or D airspace of a 
commercial service airport, as such term is defined in section 
47102 of title 49.''.

SEC. 373. INCLUSION OF TERRITORIES IN CERTAIN INTERGOVERNMENTAL SUPPORT 
AGREEMENTS FOR INSTALLATION-SUPPORT SERVICES.

Section 2679(f)(3) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' before ``the United States Virgin 
Islands''; and
(2) by inserting ``the State of Yap of the Federated States 
of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau,'' after ``Virgin 
Islands,''.

SEC. 374. TRANSPORTATION OF DOMESTIC ANIMALS BY FOREIGN AIR CARRIER.

(a) In General.--Notwithstanding subsections (a) and (c) of section 
40118 of title 49, United States Code, the Secretary of Defense is 
authorized to pay for the transportation by a foreign air carrier of 
Department of Defense personnel and any in-cabin or accompanying 
checked baggage or cargo if--
(1) no air carrier holding a certificate under section 
41102 of such title 49 is willing and able to transport up to 3 
domestic animals accompanying such Federal personnel; and
(2) the transportation is from a place--
(A) outside the United States to a place in the 
United States;
(B) in the United States to a place outside the 
United States; or
(C) outside the United States to another place 
outside the United States.
(b) Limitation.--An amount paid pursuant to subsection (a) for 
transportation by a foreign carrier may not be greater than the amount 
that would otherwise have been paid had the transportation been on an 
air carrier holding a certificate under section 41102 had that carrier 
been willing and able to provide such transportation. If the amount 
that would otherwise have been paid to such an air carrier is less than 
the cost of transportation on the applicable foreign carrier, the 
Department personnel may pay the difference of such amount.
(c) Domestic Animal Defined.--In this section, the term ``domestic 
animal'' means a dog or a cat.

SEC. 375. ADJUSTMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION ASSISTANCE FOR STATE AND LOCAL 
GOVERNMENTS AFFECTED BY ARMY TRANSFORMATION INITIATIVE.

(a) Provision of Assistance.--Beginning not later than 30 days 
after the date of the enactment of this Act, subject to the 
availability of appropriations for such purpose, the Secretary of 
Defense may provide adjustment and diversification assistance, pursuant 
to section 2391(b) of title 10, United States Code, to State and local 
governments affected by the actions taken under the Army Transformation 
Initiative with respect to--
(1) Red River Army Depot, Texas;
(2) Pine Bluff Arsenal, Arkansas; and
(3) such other Army installations as are identified by the 
Secretary.
(b) Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment 
of the Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional 
defense committees a report that includes--
(1) an identification of the amount of adjustment and 
diversification assistance anticipated to be provided during 
fiscal year 2026 to State and local governments for each Army 
installation; and
(2) an identification of options to address any capability 
gaps of the Army that could be filled through the Army organic 
industrial base.

SEC. 376. AVAILABILITY OF MILK AT DINING FACILITIES ON MILITARY 
INSTALLATIONS.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that milk is 
available to members of the Armed Forces at dining facilities on 
military installations.
(b) Prohibition.--The Secretary may not, to carry out this section, 
purchase milk from an entity owned or controlled by a foreign 
adversary, as determined by the Secretary of Commerce under section 7.4 
of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation).
(c) Definition of Milk.--In this section, the term ``milk'' has the 
meaning given such term in section 133.3 of title 21, Code of Federal 
Regulations (or any successor regulation) and includes fluid or 
powdered milk.

SEC. 377. MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR MILITARY WORKING DOG KENNELS AND 
FACILITIES.

(a) Establishment of Minimum Standards.--Not later than 180 days 
after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, 
in consultation with the Secretary of each military department, 
veterinary experts, and military working dog program managers, shall 
establish and implement minimum standards for kennels and other 
facilities used to house military working dogs. Such minimum standards 
shall include each of the following:
(1) Requirements for space and design to ensure each 
military working dog has sufficient space to stand, turn 
around, lie down comfortably, and engage in natural behaviors.
(2) Standards for environmental conditions to ensure 
adequate ventilation, temperature control, and protection from 
extreme weather conditions.
(3) Standards for sanitation and hygiene to ensure kennels 
and other facilities can be easily cleaned and disinfected.
(4) Requirements related to safety and security to prevent 
military working dogs from escaping and being injured and 
preventing access to kennels and other facilities by 
unauthorized individuals.
(5) Standards for access to veterinary care to address the 
routine and emergency medical care needs of military working 
dogs, either at a military veterinary treatment facility or 
through sufficient on-site veterinary capabilities.
(6) Requirements related to daily access to exercise areas.
(7) Required annual inspections to ensure compliance with 
such standards.
(8) Such other standards and requirements as the Secretary 
of Defense determines are appropriate.
(b) Implementation and Compliance.--
(1) Existing facilities.--
(A) Assessment.--Not later than one year after the 
date of the establishment of the standards required 
under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense, acting 
through the Executive Agent for the Department of 
Defense Military Working Dog Program, shall ensure that 
each kennel and other facility used to house military 
working dogs under the jurisdiction of the Department 
of Defense are assessed to determine the extent to 
which such kennels and facilities are in compliance 
with such standards.
(B) Modification.--Not later than three years after 
the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary, 
acting through the Executive Agent, shall ensure that 
each such kennel and facility is modified to the extent 
required to comply with such standards.
(2) New facilities.--The Secretary, acting through the 
Executive Agent, shall ensure that any kennel or other facility 
used to house military working dogs under the jurisdiction of 
the Department that is constructed or renovated after the date 
of enactment of this Act is in compliance with such standards 
before such kennel or facility is used to house such a military 
working dog.
(c) Waiver Authority.--The Secretary of Defense may waive a 
specific requirement or standard developed under subsection (a), on a 
case-by-case basis, if the Secretary determines that such a waiver is 
required to provide for a temporary deployment or exigent 
circumstances. The Secretary may not issue a waiver under this 
subsection unless the Secretary--
(1) provides for the implementation of alternative measures 
to ensure the welfare of any dogs affected by the waiver; and
(2) submits to the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and House of Representatives a report containing notice 
of the waiver, a justification for such waiver, and a 
description of the alternative measures provided under 
paragraph (1).

SEC. 378. RESTROOM ACCESS AT MILITARY INSTALLATIONS FOR CERTAIN 
TRANSPORTATION SERVICE PROVIDERS.

(a) Restroom Access.--The Secretary of Defense shall take such 
steps as may be necessary to ensure that, with respect to each covered 
location, there is a restroom--
(1) located at or in close proximity to the covered 
location;
(2) to which any covered driver, while providing a 
transportation protective service involving the transport of 
sensitive cargo to or from the covered location on behalf of 
the Department of Defense, is authorized access;
(3) that to the extent practicable, provides for privacy, 
hand washing, accessibility, and gender-specific needs; and
(4) in the case of a portable restroom, that is vented and 
equipped with adequate lighting (which may be achieved through 
supplementation with a temporary lighting source, as 
necessary).
(b) Location.--The location of a restroom under subsection (a)(1) 
may not be a location to which access by the covered driver would 
result in--
(1) a security risk, as determined by the Secretary;
(2) a health or safety risk to the covered driver; or
(3) a violation of any other regulation or policy of the 
Department.
(c) Notification of Noncompliance.--In carrying out subsection (a), 
the Secretary shall--
(1) establish a process by which a covered driver may 
provide to the Secretary timely notification of any covered 
location with respect to which access to a restroom is not 
provided consistent with such subsection; and
(2) upon receiving such a notification, coordinate with the 
commander of the military installation concerned or other 
appropriate officer or employee of the Department to ensure 
such access is provided.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The terms ``arms, ammunition, and explosives'', ``safe 
haven'', ``secure holding area'', ``secure holding location'', 
and ``transportation protective service'' have the meanings 
given those terms in the publication of the Military Surface 
Deployment and Distribution Command of the Department of 
Defense issued October 4, 2024, and titled ``Military Freight 
Traffic Unified Rules Publication-1 (MFTURP-1)'', or any 
successor thereto.
(2) The term ``commercial motor vehicle'' has the meaning 
given that term in section 31101 of title 49, United States 
Code.
(3) The term ``covered driver'' means an operator of a 
commercial motor vehicle--
(A) authorized to provide a transportation 
protective service on behalf of the Department of 
Defense; and
(B) subject to requirements for qualifications and 
maximum hours of service under section 31502(b) of 
title 49, United States Code.
(4) The term ``covered location'' means a safe haven, 
secure holding area, or secure holding location at a military 
installation or other facility of the Department of Defense.
(5) The terms ``facility'' and ``military installation'' 
have the meanings given those terms in section 2801(c) of title 
10, United States Code.
(6) The term ``sensitive cargo'' means--
(A) arms, ammunition, and explosives;
(B) classified material; or
(C) any other cargo, or category thereof, the 
Secretary of Defense determines sensitive for purposes 
of this section.

SEC. 379. 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 to prohibit any member of the Armed Forces from wearing 
optional combat boots as part of a required uniform unless the optional 
combat boots are entirely manufactured in the United States and 
entirely made of--
(1) materials grown, reprocessed, reused, or produced in 
the United States; and
(2) components that are manufactured entirely in the United 
States and entirely made of materials described in paragraph 
(1).
(b) Waiver.--The requirements of subsection (a) may be waived if a 
member of the Armed Forces provides a medical justification authorized 
by the commanding officer of such member to wear optional combat boots 
as part of a required uniform.
(c) Exception.--The requirements of subsection (a) shall not apply 
to a member of the Armed Forces within a combat arms military 
occupational specialty who is in a deployed status.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) 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.
(2) The term ``required uniform'' means a uniform a member 
of the Armed Forces is required to wear as a member of the 
Armed Forces.

SEC. 380. INITIATIVE TO CONTROL SPREAD OF GREATER BANDED HORNET IN 
GUAM.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall enhance efforts to 
manage, control, and interdict the greater banded hornet on military 
installations in Guam.
(b) Authorized Activities.--The efforts required under subsection 
(a) shall include the following:
(1) Carrying out science-based management and control 
programs to reduce the effect of the greater banded hornet on 
military installations and to prevent the introduction or 
spread of the greater banded hornet to areas where such hornet 
has not yet been established.
(2) Providing support for interagency and intergovernmental 
response efforts to control, interdict, monitor, and eradicate 
the greater banded hornet on military installations in Guam.
(3) Pursuing chemical, biological, and other control 
techniques, technology transfer, and best practices to support 
management, control, interdiction and, where possible, 
eradication of the greater banded hornet in Guam.
(4) Establishing an early detection and rapid response 
mechanism to monitor and deploy coordinated efforts if the 
greater banded hornet, or an other newly detected invasive 
alien species, is detected at new sites on military 
installations in Guam.
(5) Carrying out such other activities as the Secretary 
determines appropriate to manage, control, and interdict the 
greater banded hornet on military installations in Guam.
(c) Annual Briefings.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for each of the next 
three years, the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, 
Installations, and Environment shall provide to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the House of Representatives and the Senate a briefing on 
the implementation of this section, which shall include detailed 
information about the efforts of the Secretary to manage, control, and 
interdict the greater banded hornet on military installations in Guam.

SEC. 381. LIMITATION ON USE OF FUNDS FOR ARMY INITIAL ENTRY ROTARY WING 
TRAINING.

None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or 
otherwise made available for fiscal year 2026 for the Army may be 
obligated or expended for the Next Generation Initial Entry Rotary Wing 
training program (Flight School Next) at Fort Novosel, Alabama, until--
(1) the Secretary of the Army submits to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a 
business case analysis that includes an analysis of the Army 
initial entry rotary wing training currently provided at Fort 
Novosel, Alabama, and options for changing such training in 
order to increase the quality of the training, reduce costs, 
and gain efficiencies; and
(2) the Secretary provides to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a 
briefing on the business case analysis submitted under 
paragraph (1).

SEC. 382. PROHIBITION ON DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE BAN OF CLEAN AGENT FIRE 
SUPPRESSION PRODUCTS.

(a) Prohibition.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Secretary of Defense may not prohibit the use of a clean agent fire 
suppression product on the basis of the presence of a fluorine-carbon 
bond within such product if there is no covered alternative product 
and--
(1) the use of the clean agent fire suppression product is 
required by an applicable Federal or State law or regulation; 
or
(2) the Secretary determines failure to use the clean agent 
fire suppression product may cause--
(A) a catastrophic or critical failure resulting in 
the loss of or serious damage to property; or
(B) an unacceptable risk of personal injury or loss 
of life.
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``clean agent fire suppression product'' means 
a fire suppression product that involves an electrically 
nonconducting, volatile, or gaseous fire extinguishing agent 
that does not leave a residue upon evaporation.
(2) The term ``covered alternative product'' means an 
alternative product--
(A) the use of which is not prohibited by Federal 
or State law or regulation;
(B) that is readily available in sufficient 
quantity and at a comparable cost to the product it is 
intended to replace; and
(C) that performs as well as or better than such 
product in a specific application.

SEC. 383. INAPPLICABILITY OF RECOMMENDATIONS, PROCEDURES, AND PLANS OF 
COMMISSION RELATING TO ASSIGNING, MODIFYING, OR REMOVING 
OF NAMES, SYMBOLS, DISPLAYS, MONUMENTS, AND PARAPHERNALIA 
TO ASSETS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE THAT COMMEMORATE 
THE CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA TO CIVIL WORKS PROJECTS 
OF DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

Notwithstanding subsection (a) of section 370 of the William M. 
(Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2021 (Public Law 116-283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note), any recommendation, 
procedure, or plan of the commission established under subsection (b) 
of such section shall not apply to a civil works project of the 
Department of Defense.

SEC. 384. AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR PROCUREMENT OF CERTAIN SUPPLIES AND 
MATERIALS UNDER INNOVATIVE READINESS TRAINING PROGRAM.

Funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act for fiscal year 
2026 for operation and maintenance for the Innovative Readiness 
Training program established pursuant to section 2012 of title 10, 
United States Code, may be obligated or expended to procure supplies 
and materials necessary for the completion of any training project 
approved under such section, provided that any such procurement--
(1) directly relates to the training objectives of the 
project; and
(2) is accounted for in accordance with applicable 
regulations of the Department of Defense.

SEC. 385. FUNDING FOR FLIGHT HOURS FOR EXPEDITIONARY COMBAT AVIATION 
BRIGADES.

(a) Increase.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for Operation and Maintenance, Army Reserve, Aviation 
Assets Line 050, as specified in the corresponding funding table in 
section 4301, for flight hour funding for Expeditionary Combat Aviation 
Brigades, is hereby increased by $35,000,000.
(b) Offset.--Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in the funding 
tables in division D, the amount authorized to be appropriated in 
section 301 for Operation and Maintenance, as specified in the 
corresponding funding table in section 4301 for Army-Servicewide 
Transportation, line 390, is hereby reduced by $35,000,000.

TITLE IV--MILITARY PERSONNEL AUTHORIZATIONS

Subtitle A--Active Forces

SEC. 401. END STRENGTHS FOR ACTIVE FORCES.

The Armed Forces are authorized strengths for active duty personnel 
as of September 30, 2026, as follows:
(1) The Army, 454,000.
(2) The Navy, 344,600.
(3) The Marine Corps, 172,300.
(4) The Air Force, 321,500.
(5) The Space Force, 10,400.

Subtitle B--Reserve Forces

SEC. 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, 2026, as follows:
(1) The Army National Guard of the United States, 328,000.
(2) The Army Reserve, 172,000.
(3) The Navy Reserve, 57,500.
(4) The Marine Corps Reserve, 33,600.
(5) The Air National Guard of the United States, 106,300.
(6) The Air Force Reserve, 67,500.
(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 of 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.

SEC. 412. END STRENGTHS FOR RESERVES ON ACTIVE DUTY IN SUPPORT OF THE 
RESERVES.

Within the end strengths prescribed in section 411(a), the reserve 
components of the Armed Forces are authorized, as of September 30, 
2026, 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, 30,845.
(2) The Army Reserve, 16,511.
(3) The Navy Reserve, 10,409.
(4) The Marine Corps Reserve, 2,400.
(5) The Air National Guard of the United States, 25,171.
(6) The Air Force Reserve, 6,218.

SEC. 413. END STRENGTHS FOR MILITARY TECHNICIANS (DUAL STATUS).

The minimum number of military technicians (dual status) as of the 
last day of fiscal year 2026 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, 
21,294.
(2) For the Army Reserve, 6,258.
(3) For the Air National Guard of the United States, 
10,405.
(4) For the Air Force Reserve, 6,455.

SEC. 414. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF RESERVE PERSONNEL AUTHORIZED TO BE ON 
ACTIVE DUTY FOR OPERATIONAL SUPPORT.

During fiscal year 2026, 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.

SEC. 415. EXCLUDING MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD PERFORMING CERTAIN 
DUTY FROM COUNTING FOR ACTIVE-DUTY END STRENGTHS.

Section 115(i) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(14) Members of the National Guard on active duty or 
full-time National Guard duty for the purpose of supporting 
military intelligence operations under section 12301(d) of this 
title.''.

Subtitle C--Authorization of Appropriations; Reports

SEC. 421. MILITARY PERSONNEL.

(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--Funds are hereby authorized 
to be appropriated for fiscal year 2026 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 2026.

SEC. 422. STREAMLINING OF TOTAL FORCE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Repeal of Annual Report on Military Technicians.--Section 115a 
of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking subsection (g).
(b) Incorporation of Annual Civilian Personnel Management Report 
Into Annual Defense Manpower Profile Report.--
(1) In general.--Such section is further amended--
(A) by redesignating subsections (d) through (f) as 
subsections (e) through (g), respectively; and
(B) by inserting after subsection (c) the following 
new subsection (d):
``(d)(1) The Secretary shall include in each report under 
subsection (a) a detailed discussion of the management of the civilian 
workforce of the Department of Defense. The discussion shall include 
the matter specified in paragraph (2) for the civilian workforce of--
``(A) the Office of the Secretary of Defense;
``(B) the Defense Agencies;
``(C) the Department of Defense Field Activities; and
``(D) the military departments.''.
(2) Transfer.--Paragraph (2) of section 129(c) of such 
title--
(A) is amended, in the matter preceding 
subparagraph (A)--
(i) by striking ``Each report under 
paragraph (1) shall contain'' and inserting 
``The matter to be included in each discussion 
under paragraph (1)''; and
(ii) by striking ``under the jurisdiction 
of the official submitting the report,'' and 
inserting ``of each element of the Department 
of Defense named in such paragraph, is''; and
(B) is transferred to section 115a and inserted at 
the end of subsection (d) of such section, as added by 
paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(3) Conforming repeal of requirement for separate annual 
civilian personnel management report.--Section 129 of such 
title is amended by striking subsection (c).

TITLE V--MILITARY PERSONNEL POLICY

Subtitle A--Officer Policy

SEC. 501. TREATMENT OF SPACE FORCE OFFICERS FOR PURPOSES OF LAWS 
RELATING TO AUTHORIZED NUMBER AND DISTRIBUTION OF 
OFFICERS IN GENERAL OFFICER GRADES.

(a) Distribution of Commissioned Officers on Active Duty in General 
Officer Grades.--Section 525 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by 
inserting ``or the Space Force officer list'' after 
``officer on the active duty list'';
(B) in paragraph (5)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking 
``officers in the grade of general'' and 
inserting ``officers on sustained duty orders 
in the grade of general'';
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking 
``officers in a grade above'' and inserting 
``officers on sustained duty orders in a grade 
above''; and
(iii) in subparagraph (C), by striking 
``officers in the grade'' and inserting 
``officers on sustained duty orders in the 
grade''; and
(2) in subsection (h), by adding at the end the following 
new paragraph:
``(3)(A) The limitations of this section do not apply to a Space 
Force general officer serving in space force active status not on 
sustained duty orders, and who is on active duty for a period in excess 
of 365 days but not to exceed three years. Unless authorized by the 
Secretary of Defense, the number of Space Force general officers 
covered by this subsection and not serving in a joint duty assignment 
for purposes of chapter 38 of this title may not exceed five.
``(B) Not later than 30 days after authorizing a number of Space 
Force general officers in excess of the number specified in 
subparagraph (A), the Secretary of Defense shall provide a notification 
as required in paragraph (2).''.
(b) Exclusion of Certain Officers From Authorized Strength of Space 
Force General Officers on Active Duty.--Section 526 of such title is 
amended--
(1) in subsection (c)--
(A) in the subsection heading, by inserting ``and 
of the Space Force'' after ``Components'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``or of the 
Space Force'' after ``a reserve component'';
(C) in paragraph (2), by adding at the end the 
following new subparagraph:
``(D) The Secretary of the Air Force may authorize not more 
than two of the general officers authorized to serve in the 
Space Force under section 20110 of this title to serve on 
active duty for a period of at least 180 days and not longer 
than 365 days.''; and
(D) in paragraph (3)(A), by inserting ``(or a Space 
Force general officer in a space force active status on 
sustained duty)'' after ``a reserve component''; and
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) by striking ``or'' at the end of paragraph (1);
(B) by striking the period at the end of paragraph 
(2) and inserting ``; or''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(3) a Space Force officer in the grade of brigadier 
general or above on orders to sustained duty during the 60-day 
period preceding the end of such orders.''.
(c) Strength in Grade of Space Force General Officers in Space 
Force Active Status Not on Sustained Duty.--Chapter 2003 of such title 
is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 20110. Strength in grade: Space Force general officers in Space 
Force active status not on sustained duty
``(a) Authorized Strength.--The authorized strength of general 
officers in the Space Force serving in space force active status not on 
sustained duty is five.
``(b) Exclusions.--The following Space Force general officers shall 
not be counted for purposes of this section:
``(1) Those counted under section 526 of this title.
``(2) Those serving in a joint duty assignment for purposes 
of chapter 38 of this title, except that the number of officers 
who shall not be counted under this paragraph may not exceed 
two.
``(c) Permanent Grade.--A Space Force general officer may not be 
reduced in permanent grade because of a reduction in the number 
authorized under subsection (a).
``(d) Temporary Exclusion.--The limitation of subsection (a) does 
not apply to an officer released from a joint duty assignment or other 
non-joint active duty assignment, but only during the 60-day period 
beginning on the date the officer departs the joint duty or other 
active duty assignment. The Secretary of Defense may authorize the 
Secretary of the Air Force to extend the 60-day period by an additional 
120 days, except that not more than three Space Force officers may be 
covered by an extension under this subsection at the same time.''.

SEC. 502. REDISTRIBUTION OF GENERAL OFFICERS ON ACTIVE DUTY FROM THE 
AIR FORCE TO THE SPACE FORCE.

Section 526(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (3), by striking ``171'' and inserting 
``168''; and
(2) in paragraph (5), by striking ``21'' and inserting 
``24''.

SEC. 503. AUTHORITY TO WAIVE PROHIBITION ON OFFICERS SERVING ON 
SUCCESSIVE SELECTION BOARDS FOR BOARDS TO CONSIDER 
OFFICERS FOR PROMOTION TO MAJOR GENERAL OR REAR ADMIRAL.

Section 612(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(b)''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2) Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, the 
Secretary of a military department may waive the limitation in 
paragraph (1) in the case of a selection board that will consider 
officers for recommendation for promotion to the grade of major general 
or rear admiral if the Secretary of the military department determines 
that qualified officers on the active-duty list or Space Force officer 
list or otherwise authorized to serve on the board are not available in 
sufficient number to comprise that selection board.''.

SEC. 504. CHAPLAINS: CAREER FLEXIBILITY; DETAIL AS STUDENTS AT SCHOOLS 
FOR EDUCATION REQUIRED FOR APPOINTMENT.

(a) Career Flexibility for Chaplains.--Subsection (a) of section 
710 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(1)'' before ``Each Secretary''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2) If the Secretary of a military department carries out a 
program under paragraph (1), such Secretary shall, pursuant to this 
section, inactivate a member who completes a detail under section 2004c 
of this title upon such completion so such member may perform religious 
ministry that meets professional requirements for appointment as a 
chaplain in the military department concerned.''.
(b) Detail as Students at Schools for Education Required for 
Appointment as a Chaplain.--Chapter 101 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended by inserting after section 2004b the following new 
section 2004c:
``Sec. 2004c. Detail as students at schools for education required for 
appointment as a chaplain: commissioned officers; certain 
enlisted members
``(a) Detail Authorized.--The Secretary of each military department 
may detail commissioned officers and enlisted members of the armed 
forces as students at accredited colleges, universities, and schools of 
theology, located in the United States, for a period of training 
leading to a graduate degree that meets the educational requirements 
for appointment as a chaplain in the armed forces. No more than twenty 
officers and enlisted members from each military department may 
commence such training in any single fiscal year.
``(b) Eligibility for Detail.--To be eligible for detail under 
subsection (a), an officer or enlisted member must be a citizen of the 
United States and must--
``(1)(A) have served on active duty for a period of not 
less than two years nor more than five years and be an officer 
in the pay grade O-3 or below as of the time the training is to 
begin; or
``(B) have served on active duty for a period of not less 
than three years nor more than ten years and be an enlisted 
member in the pay grade E-4 or above as of the time the 
training is to begin;
``(2) in the case of an enlisted member, meet all 
requirements for acceptance of a commission as a commissioned 
officer in the armed forces; and
``(3) sign an agreement that unless sooner separated the 
officer or enlisted member will--
``(A) complete the educational course of chaplaincy 
training; and
``(B) if the Secretary of the military department 
concerned carries out a program under section 710 of 
this title--
``(i) agree to be inactivated for a period 
of not less than two years nor more than three 
years under subsection (a)(2) of such section 
title upon completion of a detail under this 
section; and
``(ii) accept transfer or detail as a 
chaplain in the military department concerned 
upon completion of the period described in 
clause (i).
``(c) Service Obligation.--The agreement of an officer or enlisted 
member under subsection (b) shall provide that the officer or enlisted 
member shall serve on active duty for two years for each year or part 
thereof of chaplaincy training completed under subsection (a), except 
that the agreement may authorize the officer or enlisted member to 
serve a portion of such service obligation on active duty and to 
complete the service obligation that remains upon separation from 
active duty in the Selected Reserve, in which case the officer or 
enlisted member shall serve three years in the Selected Reserve for 
each year or part thereof of the chaplaincy training of such officer or 
enlisted member under subsection (a) for any service obligation that 
was not completed before separation from active duty.
``(d) Selection of Officers and Enlisted Members for Detail.--
Officers and enlisted members detailed for chaplaincy training under 
subsection (a) shall be selected on a competitive basis by the 
Secretary of the military department concerned.
``(e) Relation of Service Obligations to Other Service 
Obligations.--Any service obligation incurred by an officer or enlisted 
member under an agreement entered into under subsection (b) shall be in 
addition to any service obligation incurred by such officer or enlisted 
any other provision of law or agreement.
``(f) Expenses.--Expenses incident to the detail of officers and 
enlisted members under this section shall be paid from any funds 
appropriated for the military department concerned.
``(g) Failure to Complete Program.--An officer or enlisted member 
who is dropped from a program of chaplaincy training to which detailed 
under subsection (a) for deficiency in conduct or studies, or for other 
reasons, may be required to--
``(1) perform active duty in an appropriate military 
capacity in accordance with the active duty obligation imposed 
by regulations issued by the Secretary of Defense, except that 
in no case shall an officer or enlisted member be required to 
serve on active duty for any period in excess of one year for 
each year or part thereof he participated in the program; or
``(2) repay the expenses incident to the detail of such 
officer or enlisted member and paid under subsection (f).
``(h) Limitation on Details.--No agreement detailing an officer or 
enlisted member of the armed forces to a chaplaincy school may be 
entered into during any period in which the President is authorized by 
law to induct persons into the armed forces involuntarily. Nothing in 
this subsection shall affect any agreement entered into during any 
period when the President is not authorized by law to so induct persons 
into the armed forces.''.

SEC. 505. RANKS OF JUDGE ADVOCATES GENERAL.

(a) Army.--Section 7037(a) of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following: ``The Judge Advocate 
General, while so serving, has the grade of lieutenant general.''.
(b) Navy.--Section 8088(b) of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following: ``The Judge Advocate 
General, while so serving, has the grade of vice admiral or lieutenant 
general, as appropriate.''.
(c) Air Force.--Section 9037(a) of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following: ``The Judge Advocate 
General, while so serving, has the grade of lieutenant general.''.

SEC. 506. PROCEDURES FOR SELECTION OF SPACE FORCE OFFICERS FOR 
PROMOTION TO MAJOR GENERAL.

(a) Selection Boards.--
(1) Boards to recommend for promotion to major general 
officers who are exceptionally well qualified.--Subsection (a) 
of section 20215 of title 10, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
``(a) Criteria for Recommendation of Officers for Promotion.--(1) A 
selection board convened under section 20211 of this title to consider 
officers for promotion to a grade below major general shall recommend 
for promotion to the next higher grade those officers considered by the 
board whom the board, giving due consideration to the needs of the 
Space Force for officers with particular skills (as noted in the 
guidelines or information furnished the board under section 615(b) of 
this title), considers best qualified for promotion within each 
competitive category considered by the board.
``(2) A selection board convened under section 20211 of this title 
to consider officers for promotion to the grade of major general shall 
recommend for promotion to such grade those officers considered by the 
board whom the board considers exceptionally well qualified for 
promotion.''.
(2) Requirement for majority action by board members.--
Subsection (c)(3) of such section is amended by inserting after 
``best qualified for promotion'' the following: ``(or, in the 
case of an officer recommended for promotion to the grade of 
major general, that the officer is exceptionally well qualified 
for promotion)''.
(3) Inapplicability of provision relating to promotion list 
order.--Subsection (g)(1) of such section is amended by adding 
at the end the following new sentence: ``This subsection does 
not apply to a selection board convened to consider officer for 
recommendation to the grade of major general.''.
(4) Reports of selection boards.--Section 20216(a)(2)) of 
such title is amended by inserting after ``best qualified for 
promotion'' the following: ``(or, in the case of officers 
recommended for promotion to the grade of major general, that 
the officers are exceptionally well qualified for promotion)''.
(5) Inapplicability of authority to adjust placement of 
officers in board report.--Section 20217 of such title is 
amended--
(A) in subsection (a), by striking ``or major 
general''; and
(B) in the section heading, by striking the last 
three words.
(b) Promotions to Major General.--
(1) Promotions to fill vacancies.--Section 20239 of such 
title is amended--
(A) in subsection (b)(3), by striking ``Except as 
provided in subsections (e) and (f)'' and inserting 
``Except as provided in subsections (d), (f), and 
(g)'';
(B) by redesignating subsections (d), (e), and (f) 
as subsections (e), (f), and (g), respectively; and
(C) by inserting after subsection (c) the following 
new subsection (d):
``(d) Promotion to Major General.--
``(1) Certificate of eligibility for promotion.--When the 
Senate gives it advice and consent to the promotion of an 
officer to the grade of major general, the Secretary of the Air 
Force shall issue to the officer a certificate of eligibility 
for promotion, dated as of the date on which the Senate gave 
its advice and consent.
``(2) Promotion to fill vacancy.--Officers who have a 
certificate of eligibility under paragraph (1) shall be 
promoted to fill vacancies as they occur in positions 
designated to carry the grade of major general. Such promotions 
shall be made in accordance with regulations prescribed by the 
Secretary of the Air Force, based upon the needs of the 
service.
``(3) Duration of certificate of eligibility.--A 
certificate of eligibility issued under paragraph (1) expires 
at the end of the period beginning on the date as of when the 
certificate of eligibility was issued and ending on the first 
day of the eighteenth month following the month during which 
the certificate was so issued.''.
(2) Removal from promotion list.--Section 20241 of such 
title is amended--
(A) by redesignating subsections (d), (e), and (f) 
as subsections (e), (f), and (g), respectively;
(B) by inserting after subsection (c) the following 
new subsection (d):
``(d) Removal Upon Expiration of Certificate of Eligibility.--If an 
officer who has been issued a certificate of eligibility for promotion 
to the grade of major general under 20239(d) of this title is not 
appointed to such grade before the expiration of the certificate of 
eligibility pursuant to such section, the officer's name shall be 
removed from the promotion list.''; and
(C) in paragraph (1) of subsection (f), as so 
redesignated--
(i) by striking ``subsection (a), (b), or 
(c)'' and inserting ``subsection (a), (b), (c), 
or (d)''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following new 
sentence: ``The authority of the Secretary of 
the Air Force under the preceding sentence does 
not apply in the case of such an officer who is 
promoted to the grade of major general 
following removal from a list under subsection 
(d).''.
(c) Technical and Conforming Amendments.--Title 10, United States 
Code, is amended as follows:
(1) Section 615(a)(1) is amended by striking ``or 20211''.
(2) Section 20203 is amended by redesignating the second 
subsection (b) and subsections (c), (d), (e), and (f) as 
subsections (c), (d), (e), (f), and (g), respectively.
(3) Section 20214 is amended by inserting before the period 
at the end the following: ``convened under section 20211 of 
this title in the same manner as to selection boards convened 
under section 611 of this title''.
(4) Section 20215(g)(1) is amended by striking ``section 
624(a)(1)'' and inserting ``section 20239(a)(1)''.
(5) Section 20217(a) is amended by striking ``section 
20215'' and inserting ``section 20216''.
(6) Section 20231 is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ``section 
14101(a)'' and inserting ``section 20211''; and
(B) in subsection (b)(1), by striking ``section 
20151'' and inserting ``section 20252''.
(7) Section 20239 is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ``modified'' 
and inserting ``adjusted'';
(B) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ``subsection 
(f)'' and inserting ``subsection (g)''.
(8) Section 20241(c) is amended by striking ``section 
20238(a)'' in paragraphs (1) and (3) and inserting ``section 
20239(a)(1)''.
(9) Section 20251(a)(2) is amended by striking ``section 
14201'' and inserting ``section 14101''.

SEC. 507. ESTABLISHMENT OF BLAST SAFETY OFFICER POSITIONS.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than September 30, 2026, the 
Secretary of Defense shall establish blast safety officer positions in 
the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force.
(b) Duties.--Duties of a blast safety officer shall include the 
following, in accordance with standards established pursuant to section 
735 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117-263; 10 U.S.C. 1071 note):
(1) Monitoring and mitigating blast and overpressure 
exposure to members of such Armed Forces during live-fire or 
explosive exercises, including breaching exercises. A blast 
safety officer may order the cessation of such an exercise if 
exposure exceeds safe thresholds.
(2) Briefing members of such Armed Forces, before an 
exercise, regarding the health risks of blast exposure and 
mitigation protocols (including minimum safe distances).
(3) Overseeing the use of personal protective equipment and 
wearable sensors by such members during such an exercise.
(4) Investigating blast overpressure incidents, reporting 
findings, and coordinating with health care providers to 
address risks to the health of affected members.
(5) Maintaining blast overpressure exposure logs to support 
future mitigation.
(6) Coordinating with range safety officers and personnel.
(c) Assignments.--The Secretary of a military department concerned 
shall assign a blast safety officer to each special mission unit in 
each such Armed Force.
(d) Training; Certification.--A blast safety officer shall receive 
training and maintain a certification in blast safety.

SEC. 508. DESIGNATION OF AT LEAST ONE GENERAL OFFICER OF THE MARINE 
CORPS RESERVE AS A JOINT QUALIFIED OFFICER.

The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that at least one general 
officer of the Marine Corps Reserve is designated as a joint qualified 
officer.

SEC. 509. MODIFICATION TO GRADE AND ALLOWANCES AVAILABLE TO ATTENDING 
PHYSICIAN TO THE CONGRESS.

(a) Grade.--
(1) Modification.--Section 715 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended by striking the first two sentences and 
inserting the following: ``An officer serving as Attending 
Physician to the Congress, while so serving, holds the grade of 
colonel, or in the case of an officer of the Navy, captain.''.
(2) Conforming amendment.--Section 525 of title 10, United 
States Code, is amended--
(A) by striking subsection (f); and
(B) by redesignating subsections (g) and (h) as 
subsections (f) and (g), respectively.
(b) Allowances.--Section 302(a)(3) of title 37, United States Code, 
is amended--
(1) by striking ``An officer'' and inserting ``(A) Subject 
to subparagraph (B), an officer''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(B) This paragraph shall not apply to an officer serving as the 
Attending Physician to the Congress.''.

Subtitle B--Reserve Component Management

SEC. 511. GRADES OF CERTAIN CHIEFS OF RESERVE COMPONENTS.

(a) In General.--
(1) Chief of army reserve.--Section 7038(b) of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended by striking paragraph (4) and 
inserting the following new paragraph:
``(4) The Chief of Army Reserve, while so serving, holds the grade 
of lieutenant general.''.
(2) Chief of navy reserve.--Section 8083(b) of such title 
is amended by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the 
following new paragraph:
``(4) The Chief of Navy Reserve, while so serving, holds the grade 
of vice admiral.''.
(3) Commander, marine forces reserve.--Section 8084(b) of 
such title is amended by striking paragraph (4) and inserting 
the following new paragraph:
``(4) The Commander, Marine Forces Reserve, while so serving, holds 
the grade of lieutenant general.''.
(4) Chief of air force reserve.--Section 9038(b) of such 
title is amended by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the 
following new paragraph:
``(4) The Chief of Air Force Reserve, while so serving, holds the 
grade of lieutenant general.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall 
take effect on the day that is one year after the date of the enactment 
of this Act and shall apply to appointments made on or after such day.

SEC. 512. PILOT AUTHORITY FOR EXTENDED LENGTH OF ORDERS TO ACTIVE DUTY 
FOR PREPLANNED MISSIONS IN SUPPORT OF THE COMBATANT 
COMMANDS.

Section 12304b of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (i) as subsection (j);
(2) by inserting after subsection (h) the following new 
subsection:
``(i) Temporary Authority for Extended Activation for Marine 
Corps.--(1) The Secretary of the Navy may exercise the authority under 
subsection (a) with respect to units of the Selected Reserve of the 
Marine Corps by substituting `545 consecutive days' for `365 
consecutive days'.
``(2) In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary of the Navy may 
not order a unit to active duty in direct support of an operation for 
more than 365 consecutive days. For purposes of this paragraph, direct 
support does not include training, exercises, or preparation activities 
prior to deployment to support an operation.
``(3) The authority under this subsection shall terminate on 
December 31, 2030.''; and
(3) in subsection (j), as redesignated by paragraph (1) of 
this section, by striking ``section 231(f)(2)'' and inserting 
``section 231''.

SEC. 513. PROHIBITION ON CONSIDERATION OF AMOUNT OF TIME OF SERVICE IN 
ACTIVATION OF RESERVE MEMBERS.

Chapter 1209 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 12324. Reserves: prohibition on consideration of amount of time 
of service in the armed forces for purposes of activation
``(a) Prohibition.--In evaluating the suitability of a member of a 
reserve component to be ordered to active duty under any provision of 
law, the Secretary concerned may not consider--
``(1) the amount of time of service in the armed forces of 
such member;
``(2) the amount of time of service on active duty of such 
member; or
``(3) the amount of time of service on active duty by such 
member that would result in such member becoming eligible for 
retired pay or retainer pay under a purely military retirement 
system (other than the retirement system under chapter 1223 of 
this title).
``(b) Information Available for Consideration.--In carrying out 
this section, the Secretary concerned--
``(1) shall ensure that no information regarding the amount 
of time of service in the armed forces of a member or the age 
of such member is made available to any person evaluating such 
member for suitability for active duty; and
``(2) may provide that information on relevant experience 
of a member, including the amount of time a member has 
performed duties relevant to the duty for which such member is 
being considered, is made available to a person evaluating such 
member for suitability for active duty.''.

SEC. 514. ACTIVE AND INACTIVE TRANSFERS OF OFFICERS OF THE ARMY 
NATIONAL GUARD AND AIR FORCE NATIONAL GUARD.

Section 303 of title 32, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new subsections:
``(d)(1) Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Army, 
an officer of the Army National Guard--
``(A) who fills a vacancy in a federally recognized unit of 
the Army National Guard may be transferred from the active Army 
National Guard to the inactive Army National Guard; or
``(B) transferred pursuant to paragraph (1) may be 
transferred from the inactive Army National Guard to the active 
Army National Guard to fill a vacancy described in such 
paragraph.
``(2) Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Air 
Force, an officer of the Air Force National Guard--
``(A) who fills a vacancy in a federally recognized unit of 
the Air Force National Guard may be transferred from the active 
Air Force National Guard to the inactive Air Force National 
Guard; or
``(B) transferred pursuant to paragraph (1) may be 
transferred from the inactive Air Force National Guard to the 
active Air Force National Guard to fill a vacancy described in 
such paragraph.''.

SEC. 515. NATIONAL GUARD: ACTIVE GUARD AND RESERVE DUTY IN RESPONSE TO 
A STATE DISASTER.

(a) In General.--Chapter 3 of title 32, United States Code, is 
amended by inserting after section 328 the following new section:
``Sec. 328A. Active Guard and Reserve duty: State disaster response 
duty
``(a) Authority.--The chief executive of a State who has declared a 
emergency in such State due to a disaster, may, with the consent of the 
Secretary of Defense, order a member of the National Guard of such 
State, who is performing Active Guard and Reserve duty pursuant to 
section 328 of this title, to perform duties in response to, or in 
preparation for, such disaster. Duty performed under this section shall 
be referred to as `State disaster response duty'.
``(b) Requirements.--State disaster response duty performed 
pursuant to this section--
``(1) shall be on a reimbursable basis, in accordance with 
subsection (c);
``(2) may be performed to the extent that the performance 
of such duty does not interfere with the performance of the 
member's primary Active Guard and Reserve duties of organizing, 
administering, recruiting, instructing, and training the 
reserve components; and
``(3) shall not exceed a total of 14 days per member per 
calendar year, except that the Secretary of Defense may, if the 
chief executive so requests before the end of the 14th such 
day, authorize an extension of the duration of such duty, not 
to exceed an additional--
``(A) 7 days, if the Secretary determines that such 
extension is appropriate; and
``(B) 46 days if the Secretary determines that such 
duty is in support of the response to a catastrophic 
incident, as such term is defined in section 501 of the 
Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 311).
``(c) Reimbursement.--(1) The Secretary of the military department 
concerned shall charge a State for the fully burdened costs of manpower 
for each day of State disaster response duty performed pursuant to this 
section.
``(2) Such charges shall be paid from the funds of the State of the 
requesting chief executive or from any other non-Federal funds.
``(3) Any amounts received by a Secretary of a military department 
under this section shall be credited, at the discretion of the 
Secretary of Defense, to--
``(A) the appropriation, fund, or account used to pay such 
costs; or
``(B) an appropriation, fund, or account available for the 
purposes for which such costs were incurred.
``(4) If the State of the requesting chief executive is more than 
90 days in arrears in reimbursing the Secretary of the military 
department concerned for State disaster response duty performed 
pursuant to this section, such duty may not be performed--
``(A) unless authorized by the Secretary of Defense; and
``(B) after the requesting chief executive obligates funds 
for the amount in arrears.
``(d) Limitation of Liability.--While performing State disaster 
response duty under this section, a member of the National Guard is not 
an instrumentality of the United States with respect to any act or 
omission in carrying out such duty. The United States shall not be 
responsible for any claim or judgment arising from the use of a member 
of the National Guard under this section.
``(e) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `Active Guard and Reserve duty' has the 
meaning given such term in section 101 of title 10.
``(2) The term `State' has the meaning given such term in 
section 901 of this title.''.
(b) Regulations.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall prescribe 
regulations under section 328A of such title, as added by subsection 
(a).

SEC. 516. FIREGUARD PROGRAM: PROGRAM OF RECORD; AUTHORIZATION.

Section 510 of title 32, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by inserting ``(1)'' before ``The Secretary'';
(B) by inserting ``of record'' after ``carry out a 
program''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(2) The FireGuard Program is authorized through December 31, 
2031.''.
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(c) Annual Briefing.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2026, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of 
the Senate and House of Representatives the first of five annual 
briefings regarding the FireGuard Program. Such a briefing shall 
include, with regards to the year preceding the date of the briefing, 
the following elements:
``(1) The States (as such term is defined in section 901 of 
this title), counties, municipalities, and Tribal governments 
that received information under the FireGuard Program.
``(2) A comparative analysis of a map of--
``(A) each wildfire, initially provided to an 
entity described in paragraph (1) through the FireGuard 
Program; and
``(B) the perimeter of such wildfire after 
containment.
``(3) An analysis of the time between the detection of a 
fire via raw satellite data and alerts being sent to local 
responders.
``(4) A review of efforts undertaken to integrate emerging 
satellite and aerial surveillance technologies from qualified 
private, nonprofit, and public sector sources.''.

SEC. 517. STUDY AND REPORT ON NATIONAL GUARD CAPABILITIES IN CYBER 
INCIDENT RESPONSE.

(a) Study Required.--The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with 
the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, the Secretary of Homeland 
Security, and the heads of other relevant federal agencies, shall 
conduct a comprehensive study to evaluate the capabilities and 
authorities of the National Guard in responding to cyber incidents 
affecting national security.
(b) Elements of Study.--The study required under subsection (a) 
shall include the following:
(1) An assessment of the current roles and responsibilities 
of the National Guard in cyber incident response, including--
(A) engagements under Federal authority, such as 
those pursuant to title 10, United States Code; and
(B) deployments under State authority, initiated by 
Governors pursuant to title 32, United States Code, or 
State law.
(2) An analysis of existing legal authorities governing the 
National Guard's participation in cyber incident response, 
including any limitations or gaps in such authorities.
(3) An evaluation of resource allocation for National Guard 
cyber response capabilities, including personnel, equipment, 
and funding.
(4) An assessment of training programs and needs for 
National Guard personnel to effectively respond to cyber 
incidents, including joint training with Federal agencies and 
private sector entities.
(5) A review of coordination mechanisms between the 
National Guard, Federal agencies (including the Department of 
Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and the 
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency), State 
governments, and private sector partners involved in cyber 
incident response.
(6) Identification of challenges or barriers to enhancing 
the National Guard's role in cyber incident response and 
recommendations to address such challenges.
(c) Report to Congress.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall 
submit to the congressional defense committees the study 
required under subsection (a).
(2) Form.--The report shall be submitted in unclassified 
form but may include a classified annex if necessary.

SEC. 518. REPORT ON EFFECT OF EQUIPMENT SHORTFALLS ON NATIONAL GUARD 
ABILITY TO ASSIST IN DISASTER RESPONSE.

Chapter 9 of title 32, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following new section:
``Sec. 909. Report on effect of equipment availability to assist in 
disaster response
``Not later than March 31 of the next fiscal year, the Secretary of 
Defense, in consultation with the Administrator of the Federal 
Emergency Management Administration, shall submit to the Committee on 
Armed Services of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Armed Services of the Senate a report with respect to each fiscal year 
on--
``(1) equipment shortfalls in the National Guard of each 
State;
``(2) the effect of such shortfalls in the ability of the 
National Guard of a State to provide assistance or conduct 
operations related to disaster response, including with respect 
to hurricanes; and
``(3) recommendations for addressing the shortfalls, 
including through modernization and preposition of equipment in 
disaster-prone States.''.

SEC. 519. ASSISTANCE FOR CERTAIN YOUTH AND CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS.

Section 508(d) of title 32, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraph (14) as paragraph (17); and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (13) the following:
``(14) The Young Marines.
``(15) The Naval Sea Cadet Corps.
``(16) The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.''.

SEC. 520. FEASIBILITY STUDY REGARDING FUNERAL HONORS DUTY.

(a) Study Required.--The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with 
the Under Secretary of Memorial Affairs of the Department of Veterans 
Affairs, shall conduct a feasibility study to--
(1) determine how the Secretary can provide funeral honors 
details under section 1491 of title 10, United States Code, 
without negatively affecting the ability of the National Guard 
Bureau to fulfil operational and mission requirements;
(2) identify policies and practices that could prevent 
lapses in such provision; and
(3) identify ways to fully compensate veterans service 
organizations for expenses incurred in assisting the Secretary 
provide funeral honors details.
(b) Report.--Not later than 90 days after completion, the Secretary 
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report 
containing the results of the study under this section.

Subtitle C--General Service Authorities and Military Records

SEC. 521. WOMEN'S INITIATIVE TEAMS.

(a) In General.--Chapter 50 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 996. Establishment of women's initiative teams
``(a) Establishment.--The Secretary concerned shall establish a 
women's initiative team in each of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine 
Corps, and Space Force to identify and address barriers, if any, to the 
service, recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in those 
armed forces.
``(b) Duties.--Each women's initiative team established under 
subsection (a) shall--
``(1) identify and address issues, if any, that hinder 
service by women in the armed force in which such team is 
established;
``(2) support the recruitment and retention of women in 
such armed force;
``(3) recommend policy changes that support the needs of 
women members of such armed force; and
``(4) foster a sense of community.
``(c) Composition.--Each women's initiative team established under 
subsection (a) shall be composed of members of the armed force in which 
such team is established of a variety of ranks, backgrounds, and 
occupational specialities.
``(d) Collaboration.--A women's initiative team established under 
subsection (a) shall work collaboratively with the leadership of the 
armed force in which such team is established and other stakeholders to 
carry out the duties described in subsection (b).''.
(b) Reports.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the date that is 
five years after such date, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to 
the congressional defense committees a report on the activities and 
progress of each women's initiative team established under section 996 
of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a). Each 
report shall include the following:
(1) A description of the structure, membership, and 
organizational alignment of each women's initiative team.
(2) A summary of key activities and initiatives undertaken 
by each team.
(3) An assessment of the impact of such activities on 
improving conditions for women, including measurable outcomes 
where available.
(4) Recommendations for legislative or policy changes to 
further support the success of the teams.

SEC. 522. INDIVIDUAL LONGITUDINAL EXPOSURE RECORD: CODIFICATION; 
EXPANSION.

(a) Expansion.--Chapter 50 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 996. Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record
``(a) Establishment.--The Secretary of Defense shall maintain a 
database that is a central portal for exposure-related data that 
compiles, collates, presents, and provides available occupational and 
environmental exposure information to support the needs of the 
Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Such 
database shall be referred to as the `Individual Longitudinal Exposure 
Record'.
``(b) Elements.--The Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record 
includes the following elements:
``(1) Service records of members of the armed forces.
``(2) All non-classified data available to the Secretary 
regarding how, where, and when members of the armed forces have 
been exposed to various occupational or environmental hazards.
``(3) Medical records of members relating to exposures 
described in paragraph (2), including diagnoses, treatment 
plans, and laboratory data.
``(c) Service Records.--If a member is a member described in 
paragraph (2) of subsection (b), the Secretary shall include the data 
described in such paragraph in the service record of such member.
``(d) Data Sharing.--The Secretary shall provide access to 
information in the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record to the 
following:
``(1) The Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
``(2) The Director of the Defense Health Agency, for use by 
health care providers, epidemiologists, and researchers of the 
Department of Defense.
``(3) The Under Secretary for Health of the Department of 
Veterans Affairs, for use by health care providers, 
epidemiologists, and researchers of such department.
``(4) The Under Secretary for Benefits of the Department of 
Veterans Affairs, for use by personnel of such department 
regarding compensation and benefits for service-connected 
disabilities or death.
``(e) Annual Report.--(1) The Secretary of Defense shall submit, to 
the committees specified in paragraph (2), an annual report regarding 
the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record.
``(2) The committees specified in this paragraph are the following:
``(A) The Committee on Armed Services of the Senate.
``(B) The Committee on Armed Services of House of 
Representatives.
``(C) The Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate.
``(D) The Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the House of 
Representatives.
``(E) The Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate.
``(F) The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1171(b)(2) of title 38, United 
States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(2) The term `Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record' 
means the database maintained under section 996 of title 10.''.

SEC. 523. CODIFICATION OF ADDITIONAL BASIC BRANCHES OF THE ARMY.

Section 7063(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (12), by striking ``; and'' and inserting 
a semicolon;
(2) by redesignating paragraph (13) as paragraph (24); and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (12) the following new 
paragraphs:
``(13) Air Defense Artillery;
``(14) Aviation;
``(15) Cavalry Scout;
``(16) Psychological Operations;
``(17) Special Forces;
``(18) Civil Affairs;
``(19) Cyber;
``(20) Electronic Warfare;
``(21) Military Intelligence;
``(22) Public Affairs;
``(23) Army Music; and''.

SEC. 524. REQUIREMENT OF EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, RACIAL NEUTRALITY, AND 
EXCLUSIVE USE OF MERIT IN MILITARY PERSONNEL ACTIONS.

(a) Merit Requirement.--All Department of Defense military 
personnel actions, including accessions, promotions, assignments, 
command selection, and military and civil schooling selection and 
training, shall be based exclusively on individual merit, fitness, 
capability, and performance.
(b) Consideration of Race Prohibited.--Consideration of an 
individual's race, ethnicity, or national origin in any military 
personnel action 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.

SEC. 525. PROHIBITION ON USE OF FEDERAL FUNDS FOR DIVERSITY, EQUITY, 
AND INCLUSION.

None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act may be 
used for matters or programs relating to diversity, equity, and 
inclusion.

SEC. 526. PROHIBITION OF NEW COVID-19 VACCINE MANDATE FOR MEMBERS OF 
THE ARMED FORCES.

The Secretary of Defense may not issue any COVID-19 vaccine mandate 
as a replacement for the mandate rescinded under section 525 of the 
James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 
(Public Law 117-263).

SEC. 527. RECOMMENDATION WITH RESPECT TO THE RETIRED RANK OF GENERAL 
JOHN D. LAVELLE.

Not later than September 30, 2026, the Secretary of Defense shall 
submit to the President and the Senate a recommendation regarding the 
restoration of the retired rank of General John D. Lavelle to general. 
Such recommendation shall be--
(1) based on--
(A) recently declassified records; and
(B) the most recent recommendation and directive of 
the Secretary of the Air Force that adopted and 
approved the findings, conclusions, and recommendations 
of the Air Force Board for Correction of Military 
Records; and
(2) supported by the entirety of the record in the matter 
of General Lavelle.

SEC. 528. REPORT ON MISSING MEMBERS FOUND DECEASED.

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress a comprehensive 
report outlining how many of the members of the Armed Forces who were 
found deceased during the 10 years preceding such date of were 
designated absent without leave or on unauthorized absence instead of 
duty status whereabouts unknown. Such report shall include the 
following elements with regards to each such member:
(1) Sex.
(2) Age.
(3) Home station.
(4) Whether the member had previously reported sexual 
assault, sexual abuse, or stalking.
(5) Reasons for the applicable such designation.
(6) Whether family or friends notified the member's 
commanding officer before such designation.

SEC. 529. REPORT ON ADEQUACY OF REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS OF PERMANENT 
CHANGE OF STATION.

(a) Report Required.--Not later than September 30, 2027, the 
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services 
of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the adequacy 
of reimbursements for expenses incurred by members of the Armed Forces 
undergoing a permanent change of station.
(b) Survey Requirements.--
(1) In general.--In preparing the report required under 
subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall--
(A) conduct a comprehensive survey of not fewer 
than 10,000 members of the Armed Forces who complete a 
permanent change of station during fiscal year 2025 or 
2026 that--
(i) collects detailed information on actual 
expenses incurred, both reimbursed and 
unreimbursed;
(ii) includes options for members to upload 
receipts and documentation electronically, 
provided that such uploads are supplemental and 
optional;
(iii) is designed to ensure statistical 
validity;
(iv) achieves response rates sufficient to 
ensure representative samples from each 
military department and pay grade category; and
(v) includes questions regarding financial 
stress, debt incurrence, and impact on military 
retention decisions;
(B) conduct follow-up surveys with a subset of 
respondents to gather additional detail on specific 
cost categories;
(C) survey military spouses separately regarding 
employment-related costs and career impacts of 
permanent changes of station; and
(D) consult with military relief societies 
regarding financial assistance patterns and trends 
relating to permanent changes of station.
(2) Inapplicability of certain federal information policy 
requirements.--The surveys required under this subsection shall 
be carried out notwithstanding subchapter I of chapter 35 of 
title 44, United States Code.
(c) Elements.--
(1) Analysis of reimbursement categories.--
(A) Analysis.--For each of the categories described 
in subparagraph (B), the report required by subsection 
(a) shall include--
(i) an identification of all expenses 
intended to be covered;
(ii) an identification of related expenses 
that are not covered;
(iii) the average actual costs incurred by 
members of the Armed Forces for both covered 
and uncovered expenses, based on survey data 
from not fewer than 10,000 permanent changes of 
station conducted during fiscal years 2025 and 
2026, accounting for peak and non-peak cycles;
(iv) a comparison of actual costs to 
reimbursement amounts;
(v) a justification for the inclusion or 
exclusion of specific expenses; and
(vi) recommendations for modifications to 
coverage or reimbursement rates.
(B) Categories.--The categories described in this 
subparagraph are as follows:
(i) Dislocation allowance.
(ii) Temporary lodging expense and 
temporary lodging allowance.
(iii) Per diem allowances.
(iv) Monetary allowance in lieu of 
transportation.
(v) Personally procured move 
reimbursements.
(vi) Household goods shipment and storage 
entitlements.
(vii) Dependent travel allowances.
(viii) Pet transportation reimbursement.
(ix) Any other allowances or reimbursements 
related to permanent changes of station.
(2) Uncovered expense analysis.--The report required under 
subsection (a) shall include an examination of expenses 
commonly incurred but not reimbursed, including--
(A) security deposits and advance rent payments;
(B) utility and telecommunication connection and 
disconnection fees;
(C) contract termination penalties;
(D) State vehicle registration and driver's license 
fees;
(E) pet transportation costs;
(F) temporary storage beyond authorized limits;
(G) childcare registration for dependents; and
(H) replacement of household items damaged or 
unsuitable for new location.
(3) Financial impact assessment.--The report required under 
subsection (a) shall include an analysis of the financial 
impact of permanent changes of station on members of the Armed 
Forces, including--
(A) average out-of-pocket expenses by pay grade;
(B) percentage of members incurring debt due to 
expenses related to a permanent change of station;
(C) impact on the emergency savings of members of 
the Armed Forces; and
(D) utilization rates of military relief society 
assistance for financial hardship relating to permanent 
changes of station.
(4) Methodology for future adjustments.--The report 
required under subsection (a) shall include recommendations for 
establishing an annual review and adjustment process for 
reimbursements for costs relating to a permanent change of 
station that accounts for--
(A) inflation and cost-of-living changes;
(B) regional variations in moving costs, including 
those related to status of forces agreements, currency 
fluctuation, local housing markets, and pet importation 
or quarantine requirements;
(C) changes in typical household composition and 
needs; and
(D) emerging categories of relocation expenses.
(d) Disaggregation Requirements.--The report required by subsection 
(a) shall include all data disaggregated by--
(1) permanent changes of station within the continental 
United States;
(2) permanent changes of station from the continental 
United States to locations outside the continental United 
States;
(3) permanent changes of station from locations outside the 
continental United States to the continental United States;
(4) permanent changes of station between locations outside 
the continental United States;
(5) pay grade of the members undergoing a permanent change 
of station;
(6) family status of the member;
(7) distance between the permanent station from which the 
member is transferring to the permanent station to which the 
member is transferring;
(8) duty status of the member;
(9) whether the member participates in the Exceptional 
Family Member Program; and
(10) origin and destination installation.
(e) Data Integration.--The report shall, to the maximum extent 
practicable, incorporate and reconcile data from existing systems of 
the Department of Defense.
(f) Data Privacy and Custody.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that 
all data collected to carry out this section remains under the 
custody and control of the Department of Defense.
(2) Use of contractors.--The Secretary shall prohibit any 
contractor supporting implementation of this section from use 
of data collected to carry out this section other than for 
purposes of this section, including with respect to use in 
artificial intelligence model training, commercial 
applications, or other derivative purposes.
(g) Interim Briefing.--Not later than March 31, 2027, the Secretary 
of Defense shall provide the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate 
and the House of Representatives an interim briefing on preliminary 
findings and anticipated recommendations of the report required under 
subsection (a).
(h) Public Availability.--
(1) Publication.--Not later than 30 days after submission 
of the report required under subsection (a), the Secretary of 
Defense shall make such report publicly available on a website 
of the Department of Defense.
(2) Accessibility.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure 
that the report required under subsection (a) is easily 
accessible to members of the Armed Forces and the families of 
such members through prominent placement on appropriate 
Department of Defense and military department websites.

Subtitle D--Recruitment and Accession

SEC. 531. RECRUITMENT: IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND 
INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.

(a) Recruiting at Secondary Schools.--Section 503(c)(1)(A) of title 
10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in clause (i), by striking ``the same access to 
secondary school students as is provided generally to 
postsecondary educational institutions or to prospective 
employers of those students'' and inserting ``meaningful access 
to secondary schools (including at least four visits across 
each academic year, between classes, when students are 
physically present, and in a manner that does not interfere 
with class attendance), and, after reasonable notice, in 
meeting spaces including auditoriums, at athletic functions, 
and at other group or social activities''; and
(2) in clause (iii)--
(A) by inserting ``during the first 60 days of the 
academic year, and not later than 30 days after 
receiving such request during another period of time'' 
after ``receiving such request''; and
(B) by inserting ``academic grades, sexes,'' after 
``student names,''.
(b) Recruiting at Institutions of Higher Education.--Section 983(b) 
of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``in a manner that is at 
least equal in quality and scope to the access to campuses and 
to students that is provided to any other employer'' and 
inserting ``(including at least four visits across each 
academic year, between classes, when students are physically 
present, and in a manner that does not interfere with class 
attendance), and, after reasonable notice, in meeting spaces 
including auditoriums, at athletic functions, and at other 
group or social activities''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) by inserting ``academic grades, 
sexes,'' after ``names,'';
(ii) by striking ``60th day following the 
date of a request'' and inserting ``60 days 
after receiving a request during the first 60 
days of the academic year, and not later than 
30 days after the date of a request during 
another period of time''; and
(iii) by striking ``; and'' and inserting a 
semicolon;
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at 
the end and inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new 
subparagraph:
``(C) whether the student submitted a Free 
Application for Federal Student Aid described in 
section 483 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 
U.S.C. 1090) (if collected by the institution); and'';
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(3) access by military recruiters for purposes of 
military recruiting, with respect to students (who are 17 years 
of age or older) not returning to the institution after having 
been enrolled during the previous semester--
``(A) the information required under paragraph (2); 
and
``(B) the reason why such students did not return, 
if collected by the institution.''.
(c) Types of Affiliation for JROTC Units.--
(1) Authorization.--The Secretary of Defense may establish, 
with regards to the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps 
(hereinafter, ``JROTC'') , the following types of affiliation:
(A) Host unit.--A host unit is a unit at a 
secondary educational institution that has at least one 
instructor for the unit and has entered into a 
memorandum of understanding under section 2031(b) of 
title 10, United States Code.
(B) Cross-town unit.--A cross-town unit is a unit 
that operates without an instructor pursuant to section 
2035(b)(2)(B) of title 10, United States Code, and has 
entered into an agreement with a host unit to allow 
students of the cross-town unit to participate in JROTC 
activities at the campus of the host unit.
(2) Guidance.--If the Secretary establishes the types of 
affiliation under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall prescribe 
guidance that clarifies the roles, responsibilities, and 
requirements for each such type.
(3) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the Secretary 
creates such types of affiliation, the Secretary shall submit 
to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of 
Representatives a report on such affiliations. Such a report 
shall include the following elements:
(A) The number and locations of cross-town units.
(B) Total enrollment numbers for each cross-town 
units.
(C) Recommendations for further improvements or 
changes to enhance the effectiveness of JROTC.
(d) Report on Honor Schools.--Not later than September 30, 2026, 
the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a report on schools 
designated as honor schools by the Secretaries of the Army, Navy, and 
Air Force. Such report shall include the following elements:
(1) The criteria for such designation.
(2) A list of schools so designated.
(3) The percentage of honor graduates of honor schools who, 
after nomination pursuant to subsection (b)(4) of section 7442, 
8454, or 9442 of title 10, United States Code, enroll as cadets 
or midshipmen at a Service Academy (as such term is defined in 
section 347 of title 10, United States Code).

SEC. 532. ALTERNATIVE SERVICE IN THE DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL BASE BY 
INDIVIDUALS DENIED ENLISTMENT.

(a) In General.--Section 504 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(c) Alternative Service in the Defense Industrial Base.--(1) The 
Secretary of Defense shall carry out a program to provide to an 
individual described in paragraph (2) information about with 
opportunities to work in the defense industrial base.
``(2) An individual described in this paragraph is an individual 
who seeks to originally enlist in an armed force but is denied 
enlistment.
``(3) In carrying out the program, the Secretary shall--
``(A) identify job opportunities in the defense industrial 
base;
``(B) provide available information about training or 
certification programs to obtain the skills necessary for such 
a job; and
``(C) seek to enter into agreements with entities in the 
defense industrial base.
``(4) The Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an annual 
report on the program under this subsection. Such a report shall 
include, with respect to the year preceding the date of the report, the 
following elements:
``(A) The number of individuals described in paragraph (2) 
provided information described in paragraph (3)(A).
``(B) The number of individuals described in paragraph (2) 
provided information described in paragraph (3)(B).
``(C) The number of agreements described in paragraph 
(3)(C) into which the Secretary entered.''.
(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 regarding the implementation of subsection (c) 
of such section, as added by subsection (a).

SEC. 533. MEDICAL ACCESSION STANDARDS FOR MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES.

Chapter 37 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following new section:
``Sec. 658. Medical accession standards for members of the armed forces
``(a) Establishment of Standards.--(1) The Secretaries concerned 
shall establish uniform medical accession standards for each armed 
force. Such standards shall--
``(A) apply uniformly for all commissioned officers of an 
armed force; and
``(B) apply uniformly for all enlisted members of an armed 
force across each occupational specialty.
``(2) The Secretary concerned shall make readily available and 
understandable to potential members of the armed forces the standards 
established under paragraph (1), including an explanation of the 
process established under subsection (c)(1) and the process for seeking 
approval under subsection (c)(2).
``(b) Prohibition on Certain Medical Disqualifications.--No person 
may be disqualified from serving as a member of the armed forces on the 
sole basis of a past diagnosis of a medical condition if--
``(1) the diagnosis occurred before such person reached the 
age of 13 years old;
``(2) the condition did not require treatment during the 
five-year period that ends on the date on which such person 
seeks to become a member of the armed forces;
``(3) a licensed medical professional provides a current 
evaluation affirming that such person does not meet diagnostic 
criteria for the condition and is medically fit for service as 
a member of the armed forces; and
``(4) the Secretary concerned determines such diagnosis is 
unlikely to impact the health and readiness of the armed force 
of which such person seeks to become a member.
``(c) Process for Review or Waiver of Medical Disqualifications.--
(1) The Secretary concerned shall establish a process for the review of 
medical disqualifications of persons seeking to become a member of the 
armed forces.
``(2) The Secretary concerned may approve the accession of a person 
into the armed forces without regard to a disqualifying medical 
diagnosis if the Secretary concerned determines that the accession of 
such person is in the interests of national security.
``(d) Reports.--(1) The Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees an annual report identifying--
``(A) the number of persons disqualified from service as a 
member of the armed forces during the preceding calendar year 
due to medical history;
``(B) the number and type of approvals granted under 
subsection (c)(2) during the preceding calendar year; and
``(C) any updates to the medical standards for accession 
established under subsection (a) or the process established 
under subsection (c)(1) since the submission of the preceding 
report.
``(2) For any fiscal year in which the Secretary concerned approves 
the accession of a person into the Coast Guard under subsection (c)(2), 
the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating 
shall submit, to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate, a report identifying the information 
required under paragraph (1)(B) with regards to such member.''.

SEC. 534. SELECTIVE SERVICE SYSTEM: AUTOMATIC REGISTRATION.

(a) Automatic Registration.--The Military Selective Service Act (50 
U.S.C. 3801 et seq.) is amended by striking section 3 (50 U.S.C. 3802) 
and inserting the following new section 3:
``Sec. 3. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in this title, every 
male citizen of the United States, and every other male person residing 
in the United States, between the ages of eighteen and twenty-six, 
shall be automatically registered under this Act by the Director of the 
Selective Service System.
``(2) This section shall not apply to any alien lawfully admitted 
to the United States as a nonimmigrant under section 101(a)(15) of the 
Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101) for so long as such 
alien continues to maintain a lawful nonimmigrant status in the United 
States.
``(b) Regulations prescribed pursuant to this section (a) may 
require--
``(1) a person subject to registration under this section 
to provide, to the Director, information (including date of 
birth, address, social security account number, phone number, 
and email address) regarding such person;
``(2) a Federal entity to provide, to the Director, 
information described in paragraph (1) that the Director 
determines necessary to identify or register a person subject 
to registration under this section; and
``(3) the Director to provide, to a person registered under 
this section, written notification that--
``(A) such person has been so registered; and
``(B) if such person is not required to be so 
registered, the procedure by which such person may 
correct such registration.''.
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendments.--The Military Selective 
Service Act is further amended--
(1) in section 4 (50 U.S.C. 3803)--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) by striking ``required to register'' 
each place it appears and inserting 
``registered'';
(ii) by striking ``at the time fixed for 
his registration,''; and
(iii) by striking ``who is required to 
register'' and inserting ``registered'';
(B) in subsection (k)(2), in the matter following 
subparagraph(B), by striking ``liable for 
registration'' and inserting ``registered'';
(2) in section 6(a) (50 U.S.C. 3806(a))--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``required to be'';
(ii) by striking ``subject to 
registration'' and inserting ``registered''; 
and
(iii) by striking ``liable for registration 
and training'' and inserting ``registered and 
liable for training'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``required to 
be'' each place it appears;
(3) in section 10(b)(3) (50 U.S.C. 3809(b)(3)) by striking 
``registration,'';
(4) in section 12 (50 U.S.C. 3811)--
(A) in subsection (d)--
(i) by striking ``, neglecting, or refusing 
to perform the duty of registering imposed by'' 
and inserting ``registration under''; and
(ii) by striking ``, or within five years 
next after the last day before such person does 
perform his duty to register, whichever shall 
first occur'';
(B) in subsection (e)--
(i) by striking ``the Secretary of Health 
and Human Services'' and inserting ``Federal 
agencies'';
(ii) by striking ``by a proclamation of the 
President'' and inserting ``to be registered'';
(iii) by striking ``to present themselves 
for and submit to registration under such 
section''; and
(iv) by striking ``by the Secretary''; and
(C) by striking subsection (g) (50 U.S.C. 3811(g)); 
and
(5) in section 15(a) (50 U.S.C. 3813(a)), by striking 
``upon publication by the President of a proclamation or other 
public notice fixing a time for any registration under section 
3''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take 
effect one year after the date of the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 535. WAIVERS FOR POTENTIAL ENLISTEES INTO THE ARMED FORCES TO 
REAPPLY FOR ENLISTMENT FOLLOWING A POSITIVE TOXICOLOGY 
TEST FOR TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL.

(a) Sense of Congress on Waiver System to Reapply for Enlistment 
Following a Positive Tetrahydrocannabinol Toxicology Test.--It is the 
sense of Congress that--
(1) the Departments of the Army and the Navy have taken 
positive steps in their work to design and implement a waiver 
system that permits potential enlistees into the Armed Forces 
to reapply for enlistment following a positive toxicology test 
for tetrahydrocannabinol;
(2) given the ongoing recruitment and retention challenges 
undermining the Armed Forces readiness goals, the Departments 
of the Air Force, Space Force, and Marine Corps should develop 
and implement their own permanent waiver system commensurate 
with the process employed by the Army and Navy; and
(3) the Air Force, Space Force, and Marine Corps should 
establish permanent waiver programs.
(b) Waiver Program on Individuals Previously Turned Away for 
Cannabis Use.--The Secretary of Defense shall--
(1) develop a program through which to provide waivers for 
potential enlistees into the Armed Forces who were not 
permitted to enlist following a positive toxicology test for 
tetrahydrocannabinol so that such potential enlistees are 
permitted to reapply for enlistment;
(2) assess the feasibility of contacting any such potential 
enlistees who were not permitted to enlist following a positive 
toxicology test for tetrahydrocannabinol in States where 
marijuna is legal under State laws; and
(3) to the extent feasible, develop a plan to contact such 
potential enlistees.
(c) Waivered Recruits Reporting Requirement.--No later than 180 
days after the date of the enactment of this Act, Secretary of Defense 
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that 
includes a plan to create, disseminate, and use a clear definition that 
highlights that all waivered recruits are qualified and eligible to 
enlist in the Armed Forces, even if they do not meet every enlistment 
standard, and that existing standards of enlistment allow for waivers.

Subtitle E--Member Training and Education

SEC. 541. TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES WITH 
CIVILIAN EQUIVALENTS.

Chapter 101 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
inserting after section 2009 the following new section:
``Sec. 2010. Training requirements for occupational specialties with 
civilian equivalents
``The Secretary concerned shall ensure that training provided to a 
member of the armed forces with respect to an occupational specialty in 
the armed forces for which there is a similar civilian occupation 
includes all training and appropriate certifications that will allow 
such member to enter such civilian occupation following separation from 
the armed forces without the need to satisfy any additional training or 
certification requirements.''.

SEC. 542. INCLUSION OF SPACE FORCE EDUCATION PROGRAMS IN DEFINITIONS 
REGARDING PROFESSIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION.

(a) Senior and Intermediate Level Service Schools.--Section 2151(b) 
of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by adding at the end of paragraph (1) the following new 
subparagraph:
``(E) The Space Force Senior Level Education 
Program.''; and
(2) by adding at the end of paragraph (2) the following new 
subparagraph:
``(E) The Space Force Intermediate Level Education 
Program.''.
(b) Budget Requests for Professional Military Education.--Section 
2162(d) of such title is amended by adding at the end the following new 
paragraphs:
``(9) The Space Force Senior Level Education Program.
``(10) The Space Force Intermediate Level Education 
Program.''.

SEC. 543. CENTER FOR STRATEGIC DETERRENCE AND WEAPONS OF MASS 
DESTRUCTION STUDIES.

Chapter 108 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
inserting after section 2165 the following new section:
``Sec. 2166. National Defense University: Center for Strategic 
Deterrence and Weapons of Mass Destruction Studies
``(a) Establishment.--The Secretary of Defense shall establish a 
Center for Strategic Deterrence and Weapons of Mass Destruction Studies 
within the Institute for National Strategic Studies of the National 
Defense University (in this section referred to as the `Center').
``(b) Mission.--The Center established under subsection (a) shall--
``(1) prepare national security leaders to address the 
challenges of strategic deterrence and weapons of mass 
destruction through education, research, and outreach 
activities throughout the Federal Government;
``(2) develop leaders with an understanding of strategic 
deterrence and the implications of weapons of mass destruction;
``(3) in accordance with guidance provided by the Chairman 
of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, develop and provide appropriate 
curricula, learning outcomes, and educational tools relating to 
strategic deterrence and weapons of mass destruction for use at 
institutions that provide joint professional military 
education;
``(4) serve as the primary institution within the 
Department for the study of strategic deterrence and weapons of 
mass destruction education in joint professional military 
education;
``(5) design, develop, and implement studies and analyses 
to enhance understanding of--
``(A) strategic deterrence;
``(B) the threat of weapons of mass destruction to 
the security of the United States and globally; and
``(C) responses to prevent, mitigate, or eliminate 
the threat in accordance with Department and national 
security policies and strategies; and
``(6) provide expert support on strategic deterrence and 
weapons of mass destruction issues to the Department of Defense 
and other Federal Government leaders.''.

SEC. 544. SERVICE ACADEMIES; APPOINTMENTS AND ADDITIONAL APPOINTEES.

(a) United States Military Academy.--
(1) Appointments.--Section 7442 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) by striking ``subsection (j)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (k)'';
(ii) in paragraph (1), by striking ``as 
established by competitive examinations'' and 
inserting ``as determined by candidate 
composite score rank''; and
(iii) in the matter following paragraph 
(10)--
(I) in the second sentence--
(aa) by inserting ``(in 
which event selection shall be 
in order of merit as determined 
by candidate composite score 
rank)'' after ``may be 
submitted without ranking''; 
and
(bb) by striking ``9 
ranked'' and inserting ``14 
ranked'';
(II) by inserting after the second 
sentence the following ``If alternates 
are submitted unranked, any selection 
from among such unranked alternates 
shall be in order of merit as 
determined by candidate composite score 
rank.''; and
(III) by striking ``shall be 
considered qualified alternates for the 
purpose of selection under other 
provisions of this chapter'' and 
inserting ``shall be eligible and 
considered for selection under other 
provisions of this chapter, including 
as qualified alternates and additional 
appointees'';
(B) by redesignating subsections (b) through (j) as 
subsections (c) through (k), respectively;
(C) by inserting after subsection (a) the following 
new subsection:
``(b) There shall be appointed each year at the Academy 300 
qualified alternates selected in order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank by the Secretary of the Army from 
qualified candidates nominated pursuant to paragraphs (3) through (10) 
of subsection (a) and all other qualified, non-selected candidates 
holding nominations from any other source pursuant to this chapter.'';
(D) in subsection (c), as redesignated by 
subparagraph (B)--
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``one 
hundred selected by the President'' and 
inserting ``up to one hundred qualified 
candidates selected by the President in order 
of merit as determined by candidate composite 
score rank'';
(ii) in paragraph (2)--
(I) by striking ``85'' and 
inserting ``up to 85 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end;
(iii) in paragraph (3)--
(I) by striking ``85'' and 
inserting ``up to 85 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end;
(iv) in paragraph (4)--
(I) by striking ``20'' and 
inserting ``up to 20 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end; and
(v) by striking paragraph (5);
(E) in subsection (f), as redesignated by 
subparagraph (B), by striking ``subsection (b)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (c)'';
(F) in subsection (h), as so redesignated--
(i) by striking ``subsection (b)'' each 
place it appears and inserting ``subsection 
(c)''; and
(ii) in paragraph (4), by striking 
``subsection (e)'' and inserting ``subsection 
(f)''; and
(G) by adding at the end the following new 
subsections:
``(l) Qualifications of candidates for admission shall be 
determined by use of, among other metrics, a candidate composite score 
uniformly calculated for each applicant. The academic component of such 
composite score shall be weighted at not less than 60 percent of the 
overall composite score and shall include the candidate's standardized 
test scores, which shall be weighted at not less than 45 percent of the 
overall composite score. The total of all subjective components, if 
any, of the composite score shall be weighted at not more than 10 
percent of the overall composite score. Any subjectively based 
adjustment of the candidate composite score shall be limited to not 
more than 10 percent of the score before such adjustment. Candidates' 
composite scores, only, shall be used to determine order of merit.
``(m) Not later than October 1 of each year, the Secretary of the 
Army shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and 
the House of Representatives a report, including--
``(1) with respect to the preceding admissions cycle--
``(A) the established minimum candidate composite 
score and college entrance examination rank (CEER) 
score used in such cycle; and
``(B) the total number of waivers of such minimum 
candidate composite score or CEER score, including the 
candidate composite score and CEER score of each cadet 
to whom a waiver relates, a brief explanation of the 
reasons for such waiver, and the category of 
appointment under which each such cadet was appointed 
(and if congressional, the type of slate that nominated 
the waived appointee); and
``(2) for each cadet who, during the four-year period 
preceding the date of the report, received a waiver for the 
established minimum candidate composite score or CEER score, 
the status of each such cadet, including whether the cadet is 
still at the Academy, the circumstances of such cadet's 
departure (if applicable), the cumulative academic GPA, 
cumulative military GPA, any major conduct or honor violations, 
any remedial measures undertaken, and any other noteworthy 
information concerning such cadet.''.
(2) Additional appointees.--Section 7443 of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended--
(A) in the section heading, by striking 
``appointment'' and inserting ``additional 
appointments'';
(B) in the first sentence--
(i) by inserting ``(a)'' before ``If it is 
determined''; and
(ii) by striking `` who competed for 
nomination'' and inserting ``who were eligible 
and competed unsuccessfully for nomination 
under any other provision of law'';
(C) in the second sentence--
(i) by striking ``(8)'' and inserting 
``(10)''; and
(ii) by striking ``holding competitive 
nominations'' and inserting ``who were eligible 
and competed unsuccessfully for nomination''; 
and
(D) by adding at the end the following: ``All 
provisions relating to candidate composite score in 
section 7442 of this title shall apply to calculation 
and use of candidate composite score as that term is 
used in this section.
``(b) Not later than October 1 of each year, the Secretary of the 
Army shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that 
includes, with respect to the preceding admissions cycle--
``(1) the candidate composite scores and college entrance 
examination rank (CEER) scores of the ten candidates appointed 
under this section and under section 7442(e) of this title who 
had the lowest candidate composite scores;
``(2) the total number of qualified and nominated (by any 
source), but not selected, candidates; and
``(3) the candidate composite scores and CEER scores of the 
ten qualified and nominated candidates having the highest 
candidate composite scores and who were not selected for 
appointment.''.
(b) United States Naval Academy.--
(1) Appointments.--Section 8454 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) by striking ``subsection (h)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (i)'';
(ii) in paragraph (1), by striking ``as 
established by competitive examination'' and 
inserting ``as determined by candidate 
composite score rank''; and
(iii) in the matter following paragraph 
(10)--
(I) in the second sentence--
(aa) by inserting ``(in 
which event selection shall be 
in order of merit as determined 
by candidate composite score 
rank)'' after ``may be 
submitted without ranking''; 
and
(bb) by striking ``9 
ranked'' and inserting ``14 
ranked'';
(II) by inserting after the second 
sentence the following ``If alternates 
are submitted unranked, any selection 
from among such unranked alternates 
shall be in order of merit as 
determined by candidate composite score 
rank.''; and
(III) by striking ``shall be 
considered qualified alternates for the 
purpose of selection under other 
provisions of this chapter'' and 
inserting ``shall be eligible and 
considered for selection under other 
provisions of this chapter, including 
as qualified alternates and additional 
appointees'';
(B) by redesignating subsections (b) through (h) as 
subsections (c) through (i), respectively;
(C) by inserting after subsection (a) the following 
new subsection:
``(b) There shall be appointed each year at the Academy 300 
qualified alternates selected in order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank by the Secretary of the Navy from 
qualified candidates nominated pursuant to paragraphs (3) through (10) 
of subsection (a) and all other qualified, non-selected candidates 
holding nominations from any other source pursuant to this chapter.'';
(D) in subsection (c), as redesignated by 
subparagraph (B)--
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``one 
hundred selected by the President'' and 
inserting ``up to one hundred qualified 
candidates selected by the President in order 
of merit as determined by candidate composite 
score rank'';
(ii) in paragraph (2)--
(I) by striking ``85'' and 
inserting ``up to 85 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end;
(iii) in paragraph (3)--
(I) by striking ``85'' and 
inserting ``up to 85 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end;
(iv) in paragraph (4)--
(I) by striking ``20'' and 
inserting ``up to 20 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end; and
(v) by striking paragraph (5);
(E) in subsection (f), as redesignated by 
subparagraph (B), by striking ``subsection (b)'' both 
places it appears and inserting ``subsection (c)''; and
(F) by adding at the end the following new 
subsections:
``(j) Qualifications of candidates for admission shall be 
determined by use of, among other metrics, a candidate composite score 
uniformly calculated for each applicant. The academic component of such 
composite score shall be weighted at not less than 60 percent of the 
overall composite score and shall include the candidate's standardized 
test scores, which shall be weighted at not less than 45 percent of the 
overall composite score. The total of all subjective components, if 
any, of the composite score shall be weighted at not more than 10 
percent of the overall composite score. Any subjectively based 
adjustment of the candidate composite score shall be limited to not 
more than 10 percent of the score before such adjustment. Candidates' 
composite scores, only, shall be used to determine order of merit.
``(k) Not later than October 1 of each year, the Secretary of the 
Navy shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and 
the House of Representatives a report, including--
``(1) with respect to the preceding admissions cycle--
``(A) the established minimum candidate composite 
score and college entrance examination rank (CEER) 
score used in such cycle; and
``(B) the total number of waivers of such minimum 
candidate composite score or CEER score, including the 
candidate composite score and CEER score of each 
midshipman to whom a waiver relates, a brief 
explanation of the reasons for such waiver, and the 
category of appointment under which each such 
midshipman was appointed (and if congressional, the 
type of slate that nominated the waived appointee); and
``(2) for each midshipman who, during the four-year period 
preceding the date of the report, received a waiver for the 
established minimum candidate composite score or CEER score, 
the status of each such midshipman, including whether the 
midshipman is still at the Academy, the circumstances of such 
midshipman's departure (if applicable), the cumulative academic 
GPA, cumulative military GPA, any major conduct or honor 
violations, any remedial measures undertaken, and any other 
noteworthy information concerning such midshipman.''.
(2) Additional appointees.--Section 8456 of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended--
(A) in the section heading, by inserting ``, 
additional appointments'' after ``Midshipmen''; and
(B) in subsection (b)--
(i) in the first sentence, by striking 
``who competed for nomination'' and inserting 
``who were eligible and competed unsuccessfully 
for nomination under any other provision of 
law'';
(ii) in the second sentence--
(I) by striking ``(8)'' and 
inserting ``(10)''; and
(II) by striking ``who competed for 
appointment'' and inserting ``who were 
eligible and competed unsuccessfully 
for nomination''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following: 
``All provisions relating to candidate 
composite score in section 8454 of this title 
shall apply to calculation and use of candidate 
composite score as that term is used in this 
section.
``(d) Not later than October 1 of each year, the Secretary of the 
Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that 
includes, with respect to the preceding admissions cycle--
``(1) the candidate composite scores and college entrance 
examination rank (CEER) scores of the ten candidates appointed 
under this section and under section 8454(e) of this title who 
had the lowest candidate composite scores;
``(2) the total number of qualified and nominated (by any 
source), but not selected, candidates; and
``(3) the candidate composite scores and CEER scores of the 
ten qualified and nominated candidates having the highest 
candidate composite scores and who were not selected for 
appointment.''.
(c) United States Air Force Academy.--
(1) Appointments.--Section 9442 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) by striking ``subsection (j)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (k)'';
(ii) in paragraph (1), by striking ``as 
established by competitive examination'' and 
inserting ``as determined by candidate 
composite score rank''; and
(iii) in the matter following paragraph 
(10)--
(I) in the second sentence--
(aa) by inserting ``(in 
which event selection shall be 
in order of merit as determined 
by candidate composite score 
rank)'' after ``may be 
submitted without ranking''; 
and
(bb) by striking ``9 
ranked'' and inserting ``14 
ranked'';
(II) by inserting after the second 
sentence the following ``If alternates 
are submitted unranked, any selection 
from among such unranked alternates 
shall be in order of merit as 
determined by candidate composite score 
rank.''; and
(III) by striking ``shall be 
considered qualified alternates for the 
purpose of selection under other 
provisions of this chapter'' and 
inserting ``shall be eligible and 
considered for selection under other 
provisions of this chapter, including 
as qualified alternates and additional 
appointees'';
(B) by redesignating subsections (b) through (j) as 
subsections (c) through (k), respectively;
(C) by inserting after subsection (a) the following 
new subsection:
``(b) There shall be appointed each year at the Academy 300 
qualified alternates selected in order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank by the Secretary of the Air Force from 
qualified candidates nominated pursuant to paragraphs (3) through (10) 
of subsection (a) and all other qualified, non-selected candidates 
holding nominations from any other source pursuant to this chapter.'';
(D) in subsection (c), as redesignated by 
subparagraph (B)--
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``one 
hundred selected by the President'' and 
inserting ``up to one hundred qualified 
candidates selected by the President in order 
of merit as determined by candidate composite 
score rank'';
(ii) in paragraph (2)--
(I) by striking ``85'' and 
inserting ``up to 85 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end;
(iii) in paragraph (3)--
(I) by striking ``85'' and 
inserting ``up to 85 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end;
(iv) in paragraph (4)--
(I) by striking ``20'' and 
inserting ``up to 20 qualified 
candidates''; and
(II) by inserting ``, selected in 
order of merit as determined by 
candidate composite score rank'' before 
the period at the end; and
(v) by striking paragraph (5);
(E) in subsection (f), as redesignated by 
subparagraph (B), by striking ``subsection (b)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (c)'';
(F) in subsection (h), as so redesignated--
(i) in paragraph (2), by striking 
``subsection (b)'' each place it appears and 
inserting ``subsection (c)'';
(ii) in paragraph (3)--
(I) by striking ``subsection 
(b)(5)'' and insert ``subsection (b)'';
(II) in subparagraphs (A) through 
(C), by striking ``subsection (b)'' 
each place it appears and inserting 
``subsection (c)''; and
(iii) in paragraph (4), by striking 
``subsection (e)'' and inserting ``subsection 
(f)''; and
(G) by adding at the end the following new 
subsections:
``(l) Qualifications of candidates for admission shall be 
determined by use of, among other metrics, a candidate composite score 
uniformly calculated for each applicant. The academic component of such 
composite score shall be weighted at not less than 60 percent of the 
overall composite score and shall include the candidate's standardized 
test scores, which shall be weighted at not less than 45 percent of the 
overall composite score. The total of all subjective components, if 
any, of the composite score shall be weighted at not more than 10 
percent of the overall composite score. Any subjectively based 
adjustment of the candidate composite score shall be limited to not 
more than 10 percent of the score before such adjustment. Candidates' 
composite scores, only, shall be used to determine order of merit.
``(m) Not later than October 1 of each year, the Secretary of the 
Air Force shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and the House of Representatives a report, including--
``(1) with respect to the preceding admissions cycle--
``(A) the established minimum candidate composite 
score and college entrance examination rank (CEER) 
score used in such cycle; and
``(B) the total number of waivers of such minimum 
candidate composite score or CEER score, including the 
candidate composite score and CEER score of each cadet 
to whom a waiver relates, a brief explanation of the 
reasons for such waiver, and the category of 
appointment under which each such cadet was appointed 
(and if congressional, the type of slate that nominated 
the waived appointee); and
``(2) for each cadet who, during the four-year period 
preceding the date of the report, received a waiver for the 
established minimum candidate composite score or CEER score, 
the status of each such cadet, including whether the cadet is 
still at the Academy, the circumstances of such cadet's 
departure (if applicable), the cumulative academic GPA, 
cumulative military GPA, any major conduct or honor violations, 
any remedial measures undertaken, and any other noteworthy 
information concerning such cadet.''.
(2) Additional appointees.--Section 9443 of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended--
(A) in the section heading, by striking 
``appointment'' and inserting ``additional 
appointments'';
(B) in the first sentence--
(i) by inserting ``(a)'' before ``If it is 
determined''; and
(ii) by striking ``who competed for 
nomination'' and inserting ``who were eligible 
and competed unsuccessfully for nomination 
under any other provision of law'';
(C) in the second sentence--
(i) by striking ``(8)'' and inserting 
``(10)''; and
(ii) by striking ``holding competitive 
nominations'' and inserting ``who were eligible 
and competed unsuccessfully for nomination''; 
and
(D) by adding at the end the following: ``All 
provisions relating to candidate composite score in 
section 9442 of this title shall apply to calculation 
and use of candidate composite score as that term is 
used in this section.
``(b) Not later than October 1 of each year, the Secretary of the 
Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report 
that includes, with respect to the preceding admissions cycle--
``(1) the candidate composite scores and college entrance 
examination rank (CEER) scores of the ten candidates appointed 
under this section and under section 9442(e) of this title who 
had the lowest candidate composite scores;
``(2) the total number of qualified and nominated (by any 
source), but not selected, candidates; and
``(3) the candidate composite scores and CEER scores of the 
ten qualified and nominated candidates having the highest 
candidate composite scores and who were not selected for 
appointment.''.

SEC. 545. MODIFICATIONS TO ALTERNATIVE OBLIGATION FOR CADETS AND 
MIDSHIPMEN.

(a) United States Military Academy.--Section 7448(b)(4) of title 
10, United States Code, is amended in the matter preceding subparagraph 
(A) by striking ``three'' and inserting ``five''.
(b) United States Naval Academy.--Section 8459(b)(4) of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) 
by striking ``three'' and inserting ``five''.
(c) United States Air Force Academy.--Section 9448(b)(4) of title 
10, United States Code, is amended in the matter preceding subparagraph 
(A) by striking ``three'' and inserting ``five''.

SEC. 546. MODIFICATION TO THE DESIGNATION OF MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF 
REPRESENTATIVES TO THE BOARDS OF VISITORS OF SERVICE 
ACADEMIES.

(a) United States Military Academy.--Section 7455(a)(8) of title 
10, United States Code, is amended by striking ``one other member'' and 
inserting ``two other members''.
(b) United States Naval Academy.--Section 8468(a)(8) of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``one other member'' and 
inserting ``two other members''.
(c) United States Air Force Academy.--Section 9455(a)(8) of title 
10, United States Code, is amended by striking ``one other member'' and 
inserting ``two other members''.

SEC. 547. DETAIL OF MEMBERS OF THE SPACE FORCE AS INSTRUCTORS AT AIR 
FORCE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY.

(a) In General.--Section 9414 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended--
(1) by striking the heading and inserting the following new 
heading:
``Sec. 9414. United States Air Force Institute of Technology: degree 
granting authority; faculty, reimbursement and tuition; 
acceptance of research grants'';
(2) by redesignating subsections (e) and (f) as subsections 
(f) and (g), respectively; and
(3) by inserting after subsection (d) the following new 
subsection:
``(e) Space Force Faculty.--(1) The Secretary shall detail members 
of the Space Force as instructors at the United States Air Force 
Institute of Technology to provide instruction in areas that support 
the mission of the Space Force.
``(2) The number of members of the Space Force detailed by the 
Secretary to the United States Air Force Institute of Technology as 
instructors during an academic year shall be equal to or greater than 
the product of--
``(A) the total number of members of the Space Force 
divided by the total number of members of the Space Force and 
the Air Force; and
``(B) the total number of instructors at the United States 
Air Force Institute of Technology.''.
(b) Report.--Not later than two years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to 
the congressional defense committees a report on the implementation of 
subsection (e) of section 9414 of title 10, United States Code, as 
added by subsection (a) of this section, including--
(1) an identification of the number, academic specialties, 
and courses of instruction of the members of the Space Force 
detailed as instructors at the United States Air Force 
Institute of Technology; and
(2) an assessment of the contributions of those instructors 
to Space Force objectives.

SEC. 548. REPEAL OF ANNUAL CERTIFICATIONS RELATED TO THE READY, 
RELEVANT LEARNING INITIATIVE OF THE NAVY.

Section 545 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2018 (Public Law 115-91; 10 U.S.C. 8431 note prec.) is repealed.

SEC. 549. PILOT PROGRAM FOR GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND 
SPATIAL COMPUTING FOR PERFORMANCE TRAINING AND 
PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENT.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall develop and 
implement pilot program to optimize the use of generative artificial 
intelligence and spatial computing for immersive training and 
assessment.
(b) Elements.--The pilot program required by subsection (a) shall 
include--
(1) the development of content with respect to not less 
than 5 occupational specialties; and
(2) methods to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of 
the use of generative artificial intelligence and spatial 
computing training methods in comparison to other training 
methods, particularly with respect to cost and time required to 
achieve training goals.
(c) Termination.--The pilot program required by subsection (a) 
shall terminate on the date that is one year after the date of the 
establishment of the program.
(d) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the termination of the 
pilot program required by subsection (a), the Secretary of the Navy 
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report 
describing the results of the pilot program, including an analysis of 
the effectiveness of the use of generative artificial intelligence and 
spatial computing for training and a description of any cost savings 
and savings in time required to achieve training goals.

SEC. 549A. PROHIBITION ON USE OF FEDERAL FUNDS TO ENDORSE CRITICAL RACE 
THEORY.

(a) Prohibition.--No funds authorized to be appropriated by this 
Act may be used to endorse critical race theory--
(1) at an academic institution operated by the Department 
of Defense;
(2) in training provided to a member of the Armed Forces; 
or
(3) in professional military education.
(b) Protection of Academic Freedom.--Nothing in this section shall 
be construed to supersede the institutional autonomy or academic 
freedom of instructors involved in the selection of textbooks, 
supplemental materials, or other classroom materials, or in the 
preparation or presentation of classroom instruction or lectures.
(c) Critical Race Theory Defined.--In this section, the term 
``critical race theory'' means the theory that individuals, by virtue 
of race, ethnicity, color, or national origin, bear collective guilt 
and are inherently responsible for actions committed in the past by 
other individuals of such race, ethnicity, color, or national origin.

SEC. 549B. PROHIBITION ON THE REDUCTION OF FUNDING FOR FOREIGN LANGUAGE 
TRAINING FOR MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES.

(a) Prohibition.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated 
by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2026 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 training or instruction until the Secretary of 
Defense submits to the congressional defense committees a report on the 
planned termination, replacement, or reduction, including--
(1) an identification of the programs the Secretary is 
seeking to terminate, replace, or reduce;
(2) the intent, scope, and impact of any funding reductions 
to foreign language training or instruction in relation to the 
national security interests of the United States;
(3) the impact of the termination, replacement, or 
reduction of the program on existing military linguists and 
Foreign Area Officers; and
(4) a certification that any termination, replacement, or 
reduction will not negatively impact the operations and mission 
of the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center.
(b) Programs Included.--For purposes of subsection (a), a program 
of foreign language training or instruction includes--
(1) institutional language training programs conducted by 
the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center;
(2) unit-level or operational foreign language instruction 
and sustainment training;
(3) immersive or in-country language training programs;
(4) associated curriculum development, instructional 
staffing, and digital language training support; and
(5) any other program or activity of the Department of 
Defense that provides foreign language training or instruction 
to members of the Armed Forces.

SEC. 549C. LIMITATION ON AUTHORITY TO REORGANIZE THE SENIOR RESERVE 
OFFICERS' TRAINING CORPS OF THE ARMY.

(a) Limitation.--The Secretary of the Army may not reorganize a 
unit of the program of the Army until 90 days after the Secretary, 
acting through the Army Cadet Command, submits to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a briefing. 
Elements of such a briefing shall specify the following, with regards 
to such proposed reorganization:
(1) Each position to be eliminated.
(2) A risk analysis regarding Army officer accessions that 
justifies such reorganization.
(3) Potential cost savings or expenses to the United 
States.
(4) The number of members of the program affected by the 
reorganization, including travel required travel.
(5) Any change to a scholarship awarded under section 2107 
or 2107a of title 10, United States Code.
(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.

SEC. 549D. REPORT ON INTEROPERABILITY OF CYBER TRAINING OF THE ARMED 
FORCES.

Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this 
Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report on the interoperability of the cyber training 
programs of the Armed Forces. Such report shall include--
(1) the extent to which each of the Armed Forces use a 
standardized, common core curriculum for training members of 
such Armed Force; and
(2) the recommendation of the Secretary as to whether 
establishment of a Department of Defense cyber academy to 
provide common training to all of the Armed Forces would 
improve the cyber preparedness of the United States.

SEC. 549E. MODIFICATION TO MAXIMUM YEARS OF SERVICE FOR ELIGIBILITY 
DETAIL AS A STUDENT AT A LAW SCHOOL.

(a) Modification.--Section 2004(b)(1) of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking 
``detailed pursuant to subsection (a)(1)'' and 
inserting ``with respect to whom the Secretary of a 
military department is providing funding for 
educational expenses in accordance with subsection 
(a)(2)''; and
(B) in clause (ii), by striking ``eight years'' and 
inserting ``10 years''; and
(2) in subparagraph (B) in the matter preceding clause (i), 
by striking ``detailed pursuant to subsection (a)(2)'' and 
inserting ``with respect to whom the Secretary of a military 
department is not providing funding for educational expenses in 
accordance with subsection (a)(3)''.
(b) Technical Amendment.--
(1) Correction to amendment.--Section 552(a)(2)(B) of the 
Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159; 138 
Stat. 1894) is amended to read as follows:
``(B) in paragraph (3)(C), by striking `period of 
two years for each year or part thereof of his legal 
training under subsection (a).' and inserting the 
following: `period of--
```(i) two years for each year or part 
thereof of legal training under subsection 
(a)(2); or
```(ii) one year for each year or part 
thereof of legal training under subsection 
(a)(3).'.''.
(2) Effective date.--The amendment made by paragraph (1) 
shall take effect as if included in the enactment of the 
Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159).

SEC. 549F. DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS OF THE UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY.

Chapter 853 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
inserting after section 8451a the following new section:
``Sec. 8451b. Director of admissions
``(a) Establishment and Appointment.--There is a director of 
admissions of the Naval Academy. The director of admissions shall be 
appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the 
Senate, and shall perform such duties as the Superintendent of the 
Naval Academy may prescribe with the approval of the Secretary of the 
Navy.
``(b) Grade.--(1) Subject to paragraph (2), a person appointed as 
director of admissions of the Naval Academy has the regular grade of 
commander in the Navy or lieutenant colonel in the Marine Corps.
``(2) A person serving as director of admissions shall have the 
regular grade of captain in the Navy or colonel in the Marine Corps 
upon the earlier of--
``(A) the date on which such person completes six years of 
service as the director of admissions; and
``(B) the date on which such person would have been 
promoted had the person been selected for promotion from among 
officers in the promotion zone.
``(c) Detail.--The President may detail any officer of the Navy or 
the Marine Corps in a grade above lieutenant or captain, respectively, 
to perform the duties of director of admissions without appointing the 
officer as director of admissions. Such a detail does not affect the 
position of the officer on the active-duty list.''.

SEC. 549G. REPORT ON AIR NATIONAL GUARD C-130J FORMAL TRAINING UNIT.

No later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, 
the Secretary of the Air Force, in consultation with the Chief of the 
National Guard Bureau, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services 
of the House of Representatives and Senate a written report regarding 
the Air National Guard C-130J Formal Training Unit. Elements of such 
report shall include the following:
(1) The determination and reasoning of the Secretary 
whether such unit is adequate for the Air National Guard pilot 
and loadmaster throughputs.
(2) The determination of the Secretary whether there is a 
backlog of C-130J pilots and loadmasters in the Air Force and 
Air National Guard.
(3) How many pilots and loadmasters are trained through 
such unit each year.
(4) The determination of the Secretary whether the plan for 
training through such unit for fiscal years 2027 through 2030 
is adequate for the Air National Guard recapitalization to C-
130Js.

SEC. 549H. ACCREDITATION OF NATIONAL GUARD MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING 
CENTER.

(a) Accreditation.--The Secretary of the Army shall accredit the 
National Guard Marksmanship Training Center (hereinafter, ``NGMTC''), 
located at Robinson Maneuver Training Center, Arkansas, as a U.S. Army 
Training and Doctrine Command institution.
(b) Validation.--Upon accreditation, the Secretary shall designate 
the Small Arms Weapons Expert and Squad Designated Marksman programs of 
instruction taught at NGMTC as Training Operations Management Activity 
validated, National Guard-centric courses.
(c) Additional Skill Identifier.--The Secretary shall award the 
Master Marksman Training additional skill identifier to members of the 
Army National Guard who successfully complete both programs specified 
in subsection (b).
(d) Integration With Program Objective Memorandum .--The Secretary 
shall--
(1) integrate such programs into the Army Program Objective 
Memorandum; and
(2) consider establishing a Modified Table of Organization 
and Equipment requirement associated with the additional skill 
identifier described in subsection (c) to ensure enduring 
demand and sustainment.
(e) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to transfer operational control, administrative authority, or 
ownership of the facility of the National Guard Marksmanship Training 
Center from the Arkansas National Guard to the Department of Defense, 
the Department of the Army, or the National Guard Bureau.

SEC. 549I. REQUIREMENTS WITH RESPECT TO MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TRAINING.

The Secretaries of the military departments shall ensure that all 
beginner motorcycle safety training provided to members of the Armed 
Forces meets the motorcycle safety training requirements for licensing 
of the State in which the permanent station of the member receiving the 
training is located.

SEC. 549J. PILOT PROGRAM ON PSYCHOLOGICAL PERFORMANCE TRAINING AT THE 
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY.

(a) Pilot Program Required.--The Secretary of Defense, acting 
through the Superintendent of the United States Air Force Academy, 
shall establish a pilot program to integrate psychological performance 
training into the curriculum and cadet development model at the United 
States Air Force Academy.
(b) Elements.--The pilot program established pursuant to subsection 
(a) shall include--
(1) training for cadets, faculty, Commanders, and Academy 
Military Trainers in scientifically researched and evidence-
based psychological performance skills focused on development 
of a high-performance mindset to increase readiness, warfighter 
lethality, and leadership under stress;
(2) the use of cognitive training tools and resources, 
including technologies and structured skill-building workshops, 
to improve resilience, focus, decision-making, and recovery 
under pressure;
(3) a leadership development component equipping faculty, 
Commanders, and Academy Military Trainers to mentor cadets in 
psychological performance skills across the course of the cadet 
experience; and
(4) collection and analysis of data on training 
effectiveness using established cadet performance and attrition 
measures.
(c) Metrics.--The Secretary shall ensure the pilot program 
established pursuant to subsection (a) includes evaluation of the 
following metrics:
(1) Attrition rates during Basic Cadet Training, the fourth 
class (freshman) year, and the third class (sophomore) year.
(2) Cadet testing and performance indicators, including 
graded review, grade point average, military performance 
average, and physical fitness testing.
(3) Counseling center utilization rates, self-reported 
stress and sleep quality metrics, and measures of cadet well-
being.
(4) Utilization and results of cognitive training tools, 
including data on attention, relaxation, and workload 
regulation.
(d) Termination.--The pilot program established pursuant to 
subsection (a) shall terminate on the date that is one year after the 
date of the establishment of such pilot program.
(e) Report.--Not later than 60 days after the termination of the 
pilot program under subsection (d), the Secretary shall submit to the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives a report that includes--
(1) the evaluation of the metrics described in subsection 
(c);
(2) an assessment of whether the pilot program reduced 
attrition and improved cadet performance and resilience; and
(3) the recommendation of the Secretary as to whether the 
Department of Defense should establish a Department-wide 
program for psychological performance training in accession 
programs.

SEC. 549K. PROHIBITION OF PARTICIPATION BY MEN IN WOMEN'S SPORTS AT THE 
SERVICE ACADEMIES.

(a) Prohibition.--The Superintendent of a Service Academy may not 
allow a cadet or midshipman who is male to participate in an athletic 
program or activity at such Service Academy that is designated 
exclusively for cadets or midshipmen who are female.
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``female'' refers to an individual who 
naturally has, had, will have, or would have, but for a 
developmental or genetic anomaly or historical accident, the 
reproductive system that at some point produces, transports, 
and uses eggs for fertilization.
(2) The term ``male'' refers to an individual who naturally 
has, had, will have, or would have, but for a developmental or 
genetic anomaly or historical accident, the reproductive system 
that at some point produces, transports, and uses sperm for 
fertilization.
(3) The term ``Service Academy'' has the meaning given such 
term in section 347 of title 10, United States Code.

Subtitle F--Military Justice and Other Legal Matters

SEC. 551. ENSURING THE AVAILABILITY OF LEGAL ADVICE TO COMMANDERS.

Section 162(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(5) In all cases, forces assigned to a combatant command or to 
the United States element of the North American Aerospace Defense 
Command under this subsection shall include qualified judge advocates 
in numbers sufficient to provide legal advice to all commanders 
responsible for planning and organizing military operations and all 
commanders authorized to convene courts-martial under sections 822 
through 824 of this title. The qualifications of judge advocates 
assigned under this paragraph shall include--
``(A) the qualifications set forth in section 827 of this 
title; and
``(B) any additional education, expertise, or experience 
determined to be necessary to fulfill the requirements of this 
paragraph by the Judge Advocate General of the armed force 
concerned, or in the case of the Marine Corps, by the Staff 
Judge Advocate to the Commandant of the Marine Corps.''.

SEC. 552. MODIFICATIONS TO OFFENSE OF WRONGFUL BROADCAST OR 
DISTRIBUTION OF INTIMATE VISUAL IMAGES UNDER THE UNIFORM 
CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE.

Section 917a of title 10, United States Code (article 117a of the 
Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 917a. Art. 117a. Wrongful broadcast, distribution, or 
publication of intimate visual images
``(a) Prohibition.--Any person subject to this chapter--
``(1) who knowingly broadcasts, distributes, or uses a 
communication service to publish an authentic intimate visual 
depiction of an identifiable individual who is not a minor if--
``(A) the intimate visual depiction was obtained or 
created under circumstances in which the person knew or 
reasonably should have known the identifiable 
individual had a reasonable expectation of privacy;
``(B) the authentic intimate visual depiction was 
broadcast, distributed, or published without the 
consent of the identifiable individual;
``(B) what is depicted was not voluntarily exposed 
by the identifiable individual in a public or 
commercial setting;
``(C) what is depicted is not a matter of public 
concern; and
``(D) the broadcast, distribution, or publication 
of the intimate visual depiction--
``(i) is intended to cause harm; or
``(ii) causes harm, including 
psychological, financial, or reputational harm, 
to the identifiable individual;
``(2) who knowingly broadcasts, distributes, or uses a 
communication service to publish an authentic intimate visual 
depiction of an identifiable individual who is a minor with 
intent to--
``(A) abuse, humiliate, harass, or degrade the 
minor; or
``(B) arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any 
person;
``(3) who knowingly broadcasts, distributes, or uses a 
communication service to publish a digital forgery of an 
identifiable individual who is not a minor if--
``(A) the digital forgery was broadcast, 
distributed, or published without the consent of the 
identifiable individual;
``(B) what is depicted was not voluntarily exposed 
by the identifiable individual in a public or 
commercial setting;
``(C) what is depicted is not a matter of public 
concern; and
``(D) the broadcast, distribution, or publication 
of the digital forgery--
``(i) is intended to cause harm; or
``(ii) causes harm, including 
psychological, financial, or reputational harm, 
to the identifiable individual; or
``(4) who knowingly broadcasts, distributes, or uses a 
communication service to publish a digital forgery of an 
identifiable individual who is a minor with intent to--
``(A) abuse, humiliate, harass, or degrade the 
minor; or
``(B) arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any 
person,
is guilty of wrongful distribution of intimate visual images or visual 
images of sexually explicit conduct and shall be punished as a court-
martial may direct.
``(b) Exceptions.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to--
``(1) a lawfully authorized investigative, protective, or 
intelligence activity of--
``(A) a law enforcement agency of the United 
States, a State, or a political subdivision of a State; 
or
``(B) an intelligence agency of the United States;
``(2) a disclosure made reasonably and in good faith--
``(A) to a law enforcement officer or agency;
``(B) as part of a document production or filing 
associated with a legal proceeding;
``(C) as part of medical education, diagnosis, or 
treatment or for a legitimate medical, scientific, or 
educational purpose;
``(D) in the reporting of unlawful content or 
unsolicited or unwelcome conduct or in pursuance of a 
legal, professional, or other lawful obligation; or
``(E) to seek support or help with respect to the 
receipt of an unsolicited intimate visual depiction;
``(3) a disclosure reasonably intended to assist the 
identifiable individual; or
``(4) a person who possesses or publishes an intimate 
visual depiction of himself or herself engaged in nudity or 
sexually explicit conduct.
``(c) Consent.--For the purposes of subsection (a)--
``(1) the fact that the depicted individual consented to 
the creation of the intimate visual depiction shall not 
establish that the person consented to its disclosure; and
``(2) the fact that the depicted individual disclosed the 
intimate visual depiction to another person shall not establish 
that the depicted individual consented to the further 
disclosure of the intimate visual depiction.
``(d) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Consent.--The term `consent' means an affirmative, 
conscious, and voluntary authorization made by an individual 
free from force, fraud, duress, misrepresentation, or coercion.
``(2) Digital forgery.--The term `digital forgery' means 
any intimate visual depiction of an identifiable individual 
created through the use of software, machine learning, 
artificial intelligence, or any other computer-generated or 
technological means, including by adapting, modifying, 
manipulating, or altering an authentic visual depiction, that, 
when viewed as a whole by a reasonable person, is 
indistinguishable from an authentic visual depiction of the 
individual.
``(3) Identifiable individual.--The term `identifiable 
individual' means an individual--
``(A) who appears in whole or in part in an 
intimate visual depiction; and
``(B) whose face, likeness, or other distinguishing 
characteristic (including a unique birthmark or other 
recognizable feature) is displayed in connection with 
such intimate visual depiction.
``(4) Visual depiction.--The term `visual depiction' 
includes undeveloped film and videotape, data stored on 
computer disk or by electronic means which is capable of 
conversion into a visual image, and data which is capable of 
conversion into a visual image that has been transmitted by any 
means, whether or not stored in a permanent format.
``(5) Intimate visual depiction.--The term `intimate visual 
depiction'--
``(A) means a visual depiction that depicts--
``(i) the uncovered genitals, pubic area, 
anus, or female nipple of an identifiable 
individual; or
``(ii) the display or transfer of bodily 
sexual fluids--
``(I) on to any part of the body of 
an identifiable individual;
``(II) from the body of an 
identifiable individual; or
``(iii) an identifiable individual engaging 
in sexually explicit conduct; and
``(B) includes any visual depictions described in 
subparagraph (A) produced while the identifiable 
individual was in a public place only if the individual 
did not--
``(i) voluntarily display the content 
depicted; or
``(ii) consent to the sexual conduct 
depicted.
``(6) Sexually explicit conduct.--The term `sexually 
explicit conduct' means actual or simulated--
``(A) sexual intercourse, including genital-
genital, oral-genital, anal-genital, or oral-anal, 
whether between persons of the same or opposite sex;
``(B) bestiality;
``(C) masturbation;
``(D) sadistic or masochistic abuse; or
``(E) lascivious exhibition of the genitals or 
pubic area of any person.
``(7) Minor.--The term `minor' means any individual under 
the age of 18 years.
``(8) Broadcast.--The term `broadcast' means to 
electronically transmit a visual image with the intent that it 
be viewed by a person or persons.
``(9) Distribute.--The term `distribute' means to deliver 
to the actual or constructive possession of another person, 
including transmission by mail or electronic means.
``(10) Communications service.--The term `communications 
service' means--
``(A) a service provided by a person that is a 
common carrier;
``(B) an electronic communication service;
``(C) an information service; or
``(D) an interactive computer service.
``(11) Common carrier.--The term `common carrier' means any 
person engaged as a common carrier for hire, in interstate or 
foreign communication by wire or radio or interstate or foreign 
radio transmission of energy, but a person engaged in radio 
broadcasting shall not, insofar as such person is so engaged, 
be deemed a common carrier.
``(12) Electronic communication service.--The term 
`electronic communication service' means any service which 
provides to users thereof the ability to send or receive wire 
or electronic communications.
``(13) Information service.--The term `information service' 
means the offering of a capability for generating, acquiring, 
storing, transforming, processing, retrieving, utilizing, or 
making available information via telecommunications, and 
includes electronic publishing, but does not include any use of 
any such capability for the management, control, or operation 
of a telecommunications system or the management of a 
telecommunications service.
``(14) Interactive computer service.--The term `interactive 
computer service' means any information service, system, or 
access software provider that provides or enables computer 
access by multiple users to a computer server, including 
specifically a service or system that provides access to the 
Internet and such systems operated or services offered by 
libraries or educational institutions.''.

SEC. 553. PUNITIVE ARTICLE UNDER THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE 
FOR OFFENSES RELATING TO CHILD PORNOGRAPHY.

(a) In General.--Chapter 47 of title 10, United States Code (the 
Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended by inserting after section 
917a (article 117a) the following new section (article):
``Sec. 917b. Art. 117b. Child pornography
``(a) Prohibition.--Any person subject to this chapter who 
knowingly and wrongfully--
``(1) possesses, receives, or views child pornography;
``(2) possesses child pornography with the intent to 
distribute;
``(3) distributes child pornography; or
``(4) produces child pornography,
shall be punished as a court-martial may direct, subject to the 
applicable limits specified in subsection (b).
``(b) Maximum Punishments.--
``(1) The maximum punishment for the offense of possessing, 
receiving, or viewing child pornography under subsection (a)(1) 
shall be dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and 
allowances, and confinement for 10 years.
``(2) The maximum punishment for the offense of possessing 
child pornography with intent to distribute under subsection 
(a)(2) shall be dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay 
and allowances, and confinement for 15 years.
``(3) The maximum punishment for the offense of 
distributing child pornography under subsection (a)(3) shall be 
dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, 
and confinement for 20 years.
``(4) The maximum punishment for the offense of producing 
child pornography under subsection (a)(4) shall be dishonorable 
discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and 
confinement for 30 years.
``(c) Treatment of Personally Identifiable Information.--On motion 
of the Government, in any prosecution under this section, except for 
good cause shown, the name, address, social security number, or other 
nonphysical identifying information, other than the age or approximate 
age, of any minor who is depicted in any child pornography or visual 
depiction or copy thereof shall not be admissible and may be redacted 
from any otherwise admissible evidence, and the panel shall be 
instructed, upon request of the Government, that it can draw no 
inference from the absence of such evidence.
``(d) Determination Wrongfulness.--Any facts or circumstances that 
show that a visual depiction of child pornography was unintentionally 
or inadvertently acquired are relevant to wrongfulness, including, the 
method by which the visual depiction was acquired, the length of time 
the visual depiction was maintained, and whether the visual depiction 
was promptly, and in good faith, destroyed or reported to law 
enforcement.
``(e) Determination of Knowing.--An accused may not be convicted of 
an offense under subsection (a) if the accused was not aware that the 
visual depiction involved was of a minor or what appeared to be a 
minor, engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Awareness may be inferred 
from circumstantial evidence such as the name of a computer file or 
folder, the name of the host website from which a visual depiction was 
viewed or received, search terms used, and the number of images 
possessed.
``(f) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `child pornography' means material that 
contains either an obscene visual depiction of a minor engaging 
in sexually explicit conduct or a visual depiction of an actual 
minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
``(2) The term `distribute' means to deliver to the actual 
or constructive possession of another.
``(3) The term `minor' means any person under the age of 18 
years.
``(4) The term `possess' means to exercise control of 
something. Possession may be direct physical custody like 
holding an item in one's hand, or it may be constructive, as in 
the case of a person who hides something in a locker or a car 
to which that person may return to retrieve it. Possession must 
be knowing and conscious. Possession inherently includes the 
power or authority to preclude control by others. It is 
possible for more than one person to possess an item 
simultaneously, as when several people share control over an 
item.
``(5) The term `produce'--
``(A) means to create or manufacture child 
pornography that did not previously exist; and
``(B) does not include reproducing or copying child 
pornography.
``(6) The term `sexually explicit conduct' means actual or 
simulated--
``(A) sexual intercourse or sodomy, including 
genital to genital, oral to genital, anal to genital, 
or oral to anal, whether between persons of the same or 
opposite sex;
``(B) bestiality;
``(C) masturbation;
``(D) sadistic or masochistic abuse; or
``(E) lascivious exhibition of the genitals, anus, 
or pubic area of any person.
``(7) The term `visual depiction' includes--
``(A) any developed or undeveloped photograph, 
picture, film, or video; any digital or computer image, 
picture, film, or video made by any means, including 
those transmitted by any means including streaming 
media, even if not stored in a permanent format; or
``(B) any digital or electronic data capable of 
conversion into a visual image.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment to Definition of Covered Offense.--Section 
801(17)(A) of title 10, United States Code (article 1(17)(A) of the 
Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended--
(1) by inserting ``section 917b (article 117b),'' after 
``section 917a (article 117a),''; and
(2) by striking ``the standalone offense of child 
pornography punishable under section 934 (article 134),''.

SEC. 554. AUTHORIZATION OF DEATH PENALTY FOR OFFENSE OF RAPE OF A CHILD 
UNDER THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE.

Section 920b(a) of title 10, United States Code (article 120b(a) of 
the Uniform Code of Military Justice), is amended by inserting ``by 
death, or such other punishment'' after ``shall be punished''.

SEC. 555. INCREASE IN MAXIMUM SENTENCE FOR THE OFFENSE OF VOLUNTARY 
MANSLAUGHTER UNDER THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE.

(a) Review and Recommendation.--Not later than 180 days after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in 
consultation with the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice, 
shall review and recommend to the President an increase for the maximum 
sentence for voluntary manslaughter under section 919(a) of title 10, 
United States Code (article 119(a) of the Uniform Code of Military 
Justice).
(b) Implementation.--Following receipt of the recommendation under 
subsection (a) but not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the President shall prescribe regulations 
updating the maximum sentence for voluntary manslaughter under section 
919(a) of title 10, United States Code (article 119(a) of the Unform 
Code of Military Justice), in accordance with such recommendation.

SEC. 556. ANALYSIS OF THE ADVISABILITY OF MODIFYING THE DEFINITION OF 
ABUSIVE SEXUAL CONTACT UNDER THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY 
JUSTICE.

(a) Analysis Required.--The Secretary of Defense, in coordination 
with the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice, shall analyze the 
advisability of modifying the definition of abusive sexual contact 
under section 920 of title 10, United States Code (article 120 of the 
Uniform Code of Military Justice), to address the full range of harmful 
behaviors associated with sexual assault and to prevent misapplication 
of the offense to acts that are not inherently abusive.
(b) 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 detailing the results of the analysis under 
subsection (a) and any associated recommendations.

SEC. 557. REVISION TO SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE TRAINING 
GUIDANCE.

(a) Revision Requirement.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Personnel and Readiness, in coordination with the Director of the 
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office of the Department of 
Defense, shall revise sexual assault prevention and response training 
guidance to require that information on the resources of the Department 
of Veterans Affairs to address experiences with unwanted sexual 
behavior be included in the annual or periodic sexual assault 
prevention and response training that is administered to all members of 
the Armed Forces.
(b) Implementation Oversight.--The Secretary of Defense shall 
ensure that each Secretary of a military department--
(1) incorporates the revised guidance under subsection (a) 
into the formal training curricula of the military department 
concerned;
(2) provides documented confirmation to the Under Secretary 
of Defense for Personnel and Readiness that the revised 
training has been delivered to all currently serving members of 
the Armed Forces within one year of the approval of such 
revised guidance; and
(3) establishes a mechanism to verify continued compliance 
with the revised guidance.
(c) Reporting.--Not later than one year after the date on which the 
revised guidance is issued under subsection (a), the Secretary of 
Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report 
that includes--
(1) an assessment of the extent to which each military 
department has implemented the guidance; and
(2) statistics on number of members of the Armed Forces 
trained under the revised guidance.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``unwanted sexual behavior'' means any sexual 
contact or interaction to which an individual does not or could 
not freely consent, including harassment, coercion, assault, or 
abuse.
(2) The term ``sexual assault prevention and response 
training'' means any training, instruction, or education 
provided pursuant to Department of Defense Instruction 6495.02, 
Volume 2 or any successor guidance.

SEC. 558. REPORTS AND BRIEFINGS ON EFFORTS TO PREVENT AND RESPOND TO 
SEXUAL ASSAULT, SEXUAL HARASSMENT, AND INTIMATE-PARTNER 
VIOLENCE WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

(a) Quarterly Reports.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, and on a quarterly basis thereafter, 
the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Executive Director 
of Force Resiliency, shall submit to the committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a 
report on the efforts of the Department of Defense to prevent 
and respond to sexual assault, sexual harassment, and intimate-
partner violence.
(2) Elements.--Each report under paragraph (1) shall 
include the following:
(A) An overview of the efforts of the Department of 
Defense to prevent and respond to sexual assault, 
sexual harassment, and intimate partner violence.
(B) With respect to the period covered by the 
report, the most recently available data on--
(i) reports of sexual assault;
(ii) reports of sexual harassment;
(iii) reports of intimate partner violence;
(iv) staffing of the primary prevention 
workforce, including filled and unfilled 
positions disaggregated by the Army, Air Force, 
Navy, and Marine Corps;
(v) staffing of the sexual assault and 
harassment response workforce, including filled 
and unfilled positions disaggregated by the 
Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps;
(vi) staffing of the family advocacy 
program, including filled and unfilled 
positions disaggregated by the Army, Air Force, 
Navy, and Marine Corps;
(vii) staffing of the offices of special 
trial counsel, including filled and unfilled 
positions disaggregated by the Army, Air Force, 
Navy, and Marine Corps; and
(viii) staffing of the Army Criminal 
Investigation Division, Air Force Office of 
Special Investigations, and Naval Criminal 
Investigative Service, including filled and 
unfilled positions dedicated to covered 
offenses under the jurisdiction of special 
trial counsels.
(b) Special Trial Counsel Briefings.--Not later than one year after 
the date of the enactment of this Act, and on an annual basis 
thereafter, the lead special trial counsels of the Army, Navy, Air 
Force, and Marine Corps shall jointly provide to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a 
briefing on the progress of special trial counsels in prosecuting 
covered offenses.
(c) Definitions.--In this section, the terms ``covered offense'' 
and ``special trial counsel'' have the meanings given those terms in 
section 801 of title 10, United States Code (article 1 of the Uniform 
Code of Military Justice).

SEC. 559. STUDY AND RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING MISCONDUCT PREVENTION IN 
OKINAWA, JAPAN.

(a) Study.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, 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--
(1) conduct a study to evaluate the effectiveness of 
programs, policies, and practices of the covered Armed Forces 
to prevent criminal activity and other misconduct by members 
stationed in Okinawa, Japan; and
(2) develop evidence-based options and recommendations for 
changes to programs, policies, and practices to prevent 
criminal activity and other misconduct by members of the 
covered Armed Forces stationed in Okinawa, Japan.
(b) Report to Secretaries.--The federally funded research and 
development center that carries out the study and analysis under 
subsection (a) shall submit to the Secretary of Defense and the 
Secretaries of the military departments a report on the results of such 
study.
(c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 30 days after receiving the 
report under subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall submit an 
unaltered copy of the report to the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and the House of Representatives.
(d) Improvement Plans for Military Departments.--Not later than 180 
days after receiving the report under subsection (b), each Secretary of 
a military department shall--
(1) review the findings of the report and, based on such 
findings, develop a plan to improve prevention of criminal 
activity and other misconduct by members of the covered Armed 
Forces under the jurisdiction of that Secretary who are 
stationed in Okinawa, Japan; and
(2) provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the plan.
(e) Covered Armed Forces Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered Armed Forces'' means the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, 
and Space Force.

SEC. 560. AUTOMATIC EXPUNGEMENT OF CERTAIN TITLING AND INDEXING 
RECORDS.

(a) Automatic Expungement.--A titling or indexing record pertaining 
to a covered person in a covered database shall be expunged 
automatically 10 years after the date on which such person separates 
from military service, unless--
(1) a finding of guilt by court-martial was made in 
connection with the conduct to which the record pertains; or
(2) the service member is reasonably expected to be 
prosecuted for such conduct by court-martial or in a civilian 
court within one year following the expiration of such 10-year 
period.
(b) Revision to Guidance.--The Secretary of Defense shall revise 
Department of Defense Instruction 5505.07 and any other related or 
successor guidance, as necessary, to implement the requirements of 
subsection (a).
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``covered person'' means any individual 
subject to the jurisdiction of chapter 47 of title 10, United 
States Code (the Uniform Code of Military Justice), who is--
(A) a current or former civilian employee of the 
Department of Defense; or
(B) a current or former member of the Armed Forces.
(2) The term ``covered database'' means the Department of 
Defense Central Index of Investigations (DCII) or any 
equivalent investigatory system under the control of the 
Department of Defense.
(3) The term ``titled'' or ``titling'' means the placement 
of a person's name in the subject or title block of a criminal 
investigative report or indexing system, including the DCII.
(4) The term ``expungement'' means the complete and 
permanent removal of any identifying and investigative 
information pertaining to a covered person from all covered 
investigative databases, including any retained, archived, 
hidden, derivative, or ``shadow'' records. Expungement shall be 
total, irreversible, and render the record indistinguishable 
from one that never existed.

Subtitle G--Career Transition

SEC. 561. ESTABLISHMENT OF SEPARATION OATH FOR MEMBERS OF THE ARMED 
FORCES.

(a) Establishment of Separation Oath.--Section 502 of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b), by striking ``The oath'' and 
inserting ``An oath established by this section'';
(2) by redesignating subsection (b), as amended, as 
subsection (c); and
(3) by inserting after subsection (a) the following new 
subsection (b):
``(b) Separation Oath.--Prior to retirement or other separation 
from the armed forces, other than separation pursuant to the sentence 
of a court-martial, a member of an armed force may take the following 
oath:
```I, __________, recognizing that my oath to support and 
defend the Constitution of the United States against all 
enemies, foreign and domestic, has involved me and my fellow 
members in experiences that few persons, other than our peers, 
can understand, do solemnly swear (or affirm) to continue to be 
the keeper of my brothers- and sisters-in-arms and protector of 
the United States and the Constitution; to preserve the values 
I have learned; to maintain my body and my mind; to give help 
to, and seek help from, my fellow veterans; and to not bring 
harm to myself or others. I take this oath freely and without 
purpose of evasion, so help me God.'''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The heading of section 502 of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 502. Enlistment oath and separation oath: who may administer''.

SEC. 562. PRESENTATION BY A VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATION IN TAP 
PRESEPARATION COUNSELING.

(a) In General.--Section 1142(b) of title 10, United States Code, 
is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(20) A presentation that promotes the benefits available 
to veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs. Such presentation--
``(A) shall be standardized;
``(B) shall be previously reviewed and approved by 
the Secretary of Veterans Affairs;
``(C) shall be submitted by the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs 
of the Senate and House of Representatives for review 
at least 90 days before implementation;
``(D) shall be presented by--
``(i) a national representative of a 
veterans service organization recognized under 
section 5902 of title 38; or
``(ii) if a national representative is 
unavailable, a State or local representative of 
such an organization authorized by the 
Secretary concerned to so present;
``(E) shall include information on how a veterans 
service organization may assist the member in filing a 
claim described in paragraph (19);
``(F) may not encourage the member to join a 
particular veterans service organization; and
``(G) may not exceed one hour in length.''.
(b) Annual Report.--Not less than once each 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 House of 
Representatives, and to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the 
Senate and House of Representatives, a report--
(1) that identifies each veterans service organization that 
presented under paragraph (20) of section 1142(b) of title 10, 
United States Code, as added by subsection (a);
(2) that contains the number of members of the Armed Forces 
who attended such presentations; and
(3) that includes any recommendations of the Secretary 
regarding changes to such presentation or to such paragraph.

SEC. 563. EXPANSION OF ELIGIBILITY OF VETERANS FOR CERTAIN MILITARY 
ADAPTIVE SPORTS PROGRAM.

Section 2564a of title 10, United States Code, is amended in 
subsection (a)(1)(B), in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking 
``, during the one-year period following the veteran's date of 
separation,''.

SEC. 564. TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: DEPARTMENT OF LABOR EMPLOYMENT 
NAVIGATOR AND PARTNERSHIP PILOT PROGRAM.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the 
Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the department in which the 
Coast Guard is operating when it is not operating as a service in the 
Navy, and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall carry out a pilot 
program to be known as the ``Employment Navigator and Partnership Pilot 
Program''. The pilot program shall supplement the program under section 
1144 of title 10, United States Code.
(b) Activities.--In carrying out the pilot program under this 
section, the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of 
Defense, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is 
operating when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, and the 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall--
(1) seek to enter into contracts with public, private, and 
nonprofit entities under which such entities provide 
individualized employment counseling for members of the Armed 
Forces and their spouses;
(2) prioritize entering into contracts with qualified 
private entities that have experience providing instruction to 
members of the Armed Forces eligible for assistance under the 
pilot program carried out under this section on--
(A) private sector culture, resume writing, career 
networking, and training on job search technologies;
(B) 

[Text truncated for length — see the official source above for the complete bill.]