S. 2296

[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S. 2296 Engrossed in Senate (ES)]

<DOC>

119th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. 2296

_______________________________________________________________________

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.

This Act may be cited as the ``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 ten 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--Additional Provisions.
(6) Division F--Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2026.
(7) Division G--Department of State Matters.
(8) Division H--Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025.
(9) Division I--ROAD to Housing Act.
(10) Division J--Department of State Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2026.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as 
follows:

Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Organization of Act into divisions; table of contents.
Sec. 3. Congressional defense committees.
Sec. 4. Budgetary effects of this Act.
DIVISION A--DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATIONS

TITLE I--PROCUREMENT

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

Sec. 101. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle B--Army Programs

Sec. 111. Strategy for Army tactical wheeled vehicle program.
Subtitle C--Navy Programs

Sec. 121. Procurement authority for Columbia-class submarine program.
Sec. 122. Procurement authorities for Medium Landing Ships.
Sec. 123. Recapitalization of Navy waterborne security barriers; 
modification of prohibition on availability 
of funds for legacy waterborne security 
barriers.
Sec. 124. Modification to limitations on Navy medium and large unmanned 
surface vessels.
Sec. 125. Limitation on availability of funds for TAGOS ship program.
Sec. 126. Limitation on availability of funds relating to amphibious 
warfare ship requirement.
Sec. 127. Temporary unavailability of amphibious warfare ships.
Subtitle D--Air Force Programs

Sec. 131. B-21 bomber aircraft program accountability matrices.
Sec. 132. Bomber aircraft force structure and transition roadmap.
Sec. 133. Requirement for an intelligence, surveillance, and 
reconnaissance roadmap for the Air Force.
Sec. 134. Annual report on Department of Defense unified datalink 
strategy.
Sec. 135. Plan for open mission systems of F-35 aircraft.
Sec. 136. Modification of prohibition on retirement of F-15E aircraft.
Sec. 137. Prohibition on retirement of A-10 aircraft.
Sec. 138. Extension of limitations and minimum inventory requirement 
relating to RQ-4 aircraft.
Sec. 139. Expansion of air refueler fleet.
Sec. 140. Requirements relating to C-130 aircraft.
Sec. 141. Information on future large and oversized air cargo 
transportation services.
Sec. 142. Extension of prohibition on certain reductions to B-1 bomber 
aircraft squadrons.
Sec. 143. Prohibition on certain reductions to inventory of E-3 
airborne warning and control system 
aircraft.
TITLE II--RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND EVALUATION

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

Sec. 201. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle B--Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations

Sec. 211. Modifications to defense research capacity building program.
Sec. 212. Program for the enhancement of the research, development, 
test, and evaluation centers of the 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 213. Extension of authority for assignment to Defense Advanced 
Research Projects Agency of private sector 
personnel with critical research and 
development expertise.
Sec. 214. Limitation on use of funds for certain Navy software.
Sec. 215. Limitation on availability of funds for Under Secretary of 
Defense for Research and Engineering.
Sec. 216. Prohibition on contracts between certain foreign entities and 
institutions of higher education conducting 
Department of Defense-funded research.
Sec. 217. Western regional range complex demonstration.
Sec. 218. Modification of requirement for Department of Defense 
policies for management and certification 
of Link 16 military tactical data link 
network.
Sec. 219. Advanced robotic automation for munitions manufacturing.
Sec. 220. Dual-use and defense advanced manufacturing innovation hubs.
Sec. 220A. Advanced manufacturing and additive manufacturing programs.
Sec. 220B. Improvements relating to advanced manufacturing.
Sec. 220C. Limitation on availability of funds for fundamental research 
collaboration with certain academic 
institutions.
Subtitle C--Plans, Reports, and Other Matters

Sec. 221. Catalyst Pathfinder Program.
Sec. 222. Extension of period for annual reports on critical technology 
areas supportive of the National Defense 
Strategy.
Sec. 223. Evaluation of additional test corridors for hypersonic and 
long-range weapons.
Sec. 224. Technical correction.
Sec. 225. Congressionally directed programs for test and evaluation 
oversight.
Sec. 226. Prohibition on modification of indirect cost rates for 
institutions of higher education and 
nonprofit organizations.
Sec. 227. Enhance international coordination for advanced manufacturing 
techniques, technologies, and adoption.
Subtitle D--Biotechnology

Sec. 231. Biotechnology Management Office.
Sec. 232. Department of Defense biotechnology strategy.
Sec. 233. Defining guidelines and policies on the use of biotechnology 
for the Armed Forces.
Sec. 234. Enhancement of international biodefense capacity.
TITLE III--OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

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

Sec. 311. Department of Defense guidelines regarding implementation of 
the National Environmental Policy Act of 
1969.
Sec. 312. Requirement to support training on wildfire prevention and 
response.
Sec. 313. Use of solid waste disposal systems by Department of Defense.
Sec. 314. Modification of availability and use of energy cost savings.
Sec. 315. Authority of Department of Defense to destroy or dispose of 
perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl 
substances.
Sec. 316. Modification to restriction on procurement or purchasing of 
personal protective equipment for 
firefighters containing perfluoroalkyl 
substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Sec. 317. Provision of bottled water to communities with private 
drinking water contaminated with 
perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl 
substances from activities of Department of 
Defense.
Sec. 318. Repeal of prohibition on procurement by Department of Defense 
of certain items containing perfluorooctane 
sulfonate or perfluorooctanoic acid.
Sec. 319. Repeal of temporary moratorium on incineration by Department 
of Defense of perfluoroalkyl substances, 
polyfluoroalkyl substances, and aqueous 
film forming foam.
Sec. 320. Interim responses to address releases or threatened releases 
of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl 
substances.
Subtitle C--Logistics and Sustainment

Sec. 321. Surface ship sustainment and readiness.
Sec. 322. Technology enhancement for surface ship maintenance.
Sec. 323. Delegation to United States Transportation Command of 
mitigating vulnerabilities and risks 
associated with contested logistics for 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 324. Requirements for Department of Defense aircraft operations 
near commercial airports.
Sec. 325. Extension and modification of semiannual briefings on 
operational status of amphibious warship 
fleet.
Sec. 326. Prohibition on closure of Army organic industrial base sites.
Sec. 327. Establishment of Defense Personal Property Management Office 
under Office of the Under Secretary of 
Defense for Personnel and Readiness.
Sec. 328. Integration of commercially available artificial intelligence 
capabilities into logistics operations.
Sec. 329. Pilot program on arsenal workload sustainment.
Subtitle D--Reports

Sec. 331. Modification of report on improved oversight for 
implementation of Shipyard Infrastructure 
Optimization Program of the Navy.
Sec. 332. Modification of readiness report to include summary count of 
certain mishaps.
Sec. 333. Annual report on funding and status of interim remedial 
actions of Department of Defense relating 
to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl 
substances.
Subtitle E--Other Matters

Sec. 341. Provision of sports foods and third-party certified dietary 
supplements to members of the United States 
Special Operations Command.
Sec. 342. Limitation on use of funds to establish or expand Space Force 
Special Operations Component Command.
Sec. 343. Requirements for contracts relating to permanent change of 
station moving process.
Sec. 344. Limitation on transformation by the Army of primary 
helicopter training program at Fort Rucker, 
Alabama.
Sec. 345. Conveyance of certain aircraft from Air Force to Arizona 
Aviation Historical Group, Phoenix, 
Arizona.
Sec. 346. Limitation on use of funds by the Army until submittal of 
plan to integrate Joint Munitions Command 
and Army Sustainment Command.
Sec. 347. Limitation on use of certain funds of the Air Force until 
acquisition strategy submitted to maintain 
Airborne Command Post capability.
Sec. 348. Pilot program for contracted amphibious air resources for the 
area of responsibility of the United States 
Indo-Pacific Command.
Sec. 349. Naming of certain assets of the Department of Defense in the 
Commonwealth of Virginia.
Sec. 350. Modification of protection of certain facilities and assets 
from incursions.
TITLE IV--MILITARY PERSONNEL AUTHORIZATIONS

Subtitle A--Active Forces

Sec. 401. End strengths for active forces.
Subtitle B--Reserve Forces

Sec. 411. End strengths for selected reserve.
Sec. 412. End strengths for reserves on active duty in support of the 
reserves.
Sec. 413. End strengths for military technicians (dual status).
Sec. 414. Maximum number of reserve personnel authorized to be on 
active duty for operational support.
Subtitle C--Authorization of Appropriations

Sec. 421. Military personnel.
TITLE V--MILITARY PERSONNEL POLICY

Subtitle A--Officer Personnel Policy

Sec. 501. Statutory adjustment to reflect transfer of certain general 
officer billets from the Air Force to the 
Space Force.
Sec. 502. Notice of removal of Judge Advocates General.
Sec. 503. Qualifications for judge advocates.
Sec. 504. Modification of waiver authority related to joint qualified 
officer requirement prior to promotion to 
general or flag grade.
Sec. 505. Notification of removal of officers from selection board 
reports and promotion lists.
Sec. 506. Space Force general officer management.
Sec. 507. Temporary increase in fiscal year percentage limitation for 
reduction or waiver of service-in-grade 
requirement for general and flag officers 
to be retired in pay grades O-7 and O-8.
Subtitle B--Reserve Component Management

Sec. 511. Expansion of authority to waive limitations on release of 
reserves from active duty within two years 
of retirement eligibility.
Sec. 512. Disestablishment of Navy Reserve Center system.
Sec. 513. National Guard personnel authorities.
Sec. 514. National Guard personnel disaster response duty.
Sec. 515. Treatment of funds received by National Guard Bureau as 
reimbursement from States.
Sec. 516. Limitations applicable to the authority to transfer space 
functions of the Air National Guard to the 
Space Force.
Subtitle C--General Service Authorities and Military Records

Sec. 521. Chief of Naval Personnel.
Sec. 522. Enhanced efficiency and service discretion for Disability 
Evaluation System reviews.
Sec. 523. Technical correction related to convalescent leave for 
academy cadets and midshipmen.
Sec. 524. Recognition of remotely piloted aircraft crew.
Subtitle D--Military Justice and Other Legal Matters

Sec. 531. Notification of military sex offenders at military 
installations.
Sec. 532. Quarterly reports on sexual assault prevention and response 
efforts.
Subtitle E--Member Education, Training, and Transition

Sec. 541. Military service academy nominations.
Sec. 542. Asynchronous instruction in distance education option for 
professional military education.
Sec. 543. Army University.
Sec. 544. Integration of the Secretary of Defense Strategic Thinkers 
Program.
Sec. 545. Improvements to information-sharing to support individuals 
retiring or separating from the Armed 
Forces.
Sec. 546. Mandatory training on government ethics and national security 
law.
Sec. 547. Prohibition on consideration of race, sex, color, ethnicity, 
national origin, or religion in service 
academy admissions decisions.
Sec. 548. Prohibition on participation of males in athletic programs or 
activities at the military service 
academies that are designated for women or 
girls.
Sec. 549. Pathway for cadets and midshipmen to play professional 
sports.
Sec. 550. Factors for counseling pathways under Transition Assistance 
Program.
Subtitle F--Military Family Readiness and Dependents' Education

PART I--Dependents' Education

Sec. 551. Certain assistance to local educational agencies that benefit 
dependents of military and civilian 
personnel.
Sec. 552. Management of special education in schools operated by 
Department of Defense Education Activity.
Sec. 553. Enrollment of children of certain American Red Cross 
employees in defense dependents' education 
system.
Sec. 554. Regulations on the use of portable electronic mobile devices 
in Department of Defense Education Activity 
schools.
Sec. 555. Administration of college admissions tests by the Department 
of Defense Education Activity.
Sec. 556. Support for expanding early child care options for members of 
the Armed Forces and their families.
Sec. 557. Improved counseling and access to information relating to 
foster care for military families.
Sec. 558. Pilot program on recruitment and retention of employees for 
child development programs.
Sec. 559. Report on unmet need for child care in areas with significant 
populations of members of the Armed Forces.
PART II--Other Matters

Sec. 561. Legal assistance for guardianship transfers.
Subtitle G--Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps

Sec. 571. Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps instructor 
qualifications.
Sec. 572. Temporary authority to provide bonuses to Junior Reserve 
Officers' Training Corps instructors.
Sec. 573. Number of Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps units.
Subtitle H--Decorations and Other Awards, Miscellaneous Reports, and 
Other Matters

Sec. 581. Honorary promotions on the initiative of the Department of 
Defense.
Sec. 582. National Week of Military Recruitment.
Sec. 583. Clarifying the calculation of enlistments for persons whose 
score on the Armed Forces Qualification 
Test is below a prescribed level for the 
future servicemember preparatory course.
Sec. 584. Recruiter access to secondary schools.
Sec. 585. Compliance with travel charge card deactivation requirements.
TITLE VI--COMPENSATION AND OTHER PERSONNEL BENEFITS

Subtitle A--Pay and Allowances

Sec. 601. Modifications to calculation of basic allowance for 
subsistence for enlisted members.
Sec. 602. Inclusion of descriptions of types of pay on pay statements.
Sec. 603. Increased awareness and improved calculation of rates for 
basic allowance for housing.
Sec. 604. Military compensation educational campaign.
Subtitle B--Special and Incentive Pay

Sec. 611. Reviews of designations of imminent danger pay areas.
Sec. 612. Implementation of aviation incentive pay for members of 
reserve components.
Sec. 613. Pilot program on improving retention of members with degrees 
in their fields of specialty.
Subtitle C--Other Matters

Sec. 621. Extension of enhanced authority for selective early 
retirement and early discharges.
Sec. 622. Extension of temporary early retirement authority.
Sec. 623. Extension of authority to provide voluntary separation pay 
and benefits.
Sec. 624. Designation of United States Army Garrison Kwajalein Atoll as 
remote and isolated military installation.
Sec. 625. Designation of Creech Air Force Base as a remote or isolated 
installation.
Sec. 626. Provision of counseling on housing for members of the Armed 
Forces.
Sec. 627. Program to provide Government-funded transportation for 
certain members of the Armed Forces 
stationed overseas.
Sec. 628. Prohibition on procurement and commissary sales of seafood 
originating or processed in the People's 
Republic of China.
Sec. 629. Government Accountability Office study on casualty assistance 
and long-term care programs.
TITLE VII--HEALTH CARE PROVISIONS

Subtitle A--TRICARE, Brain Health, and Other Health Care Benefits

Sec. 701. Inclusion of additional requirements in notifications to 
modify scope of services provided at 
military medical treatment facilities.
Sec. 702. Expansion of eligibility for hearing aids to include children 
of retired members of the Uniformed 
Services enrolled in family coverage under 
TRICARE Select.
Sec. 703. Assessment of behavioral health and social health conditions 
of military personnel and their families 
assigned to Creech Air Force Base, Nevada.
Sec. 704. Authority to provide sexual assault medical forensic 
examinations on a nonreimbursable basis to 
certain otherwise ineligible individuals.
Sec. 705. Fertility treatment for certain members of the uniformed 
services and dependents.
Sec. 706. Restriction on performance of sex change surgeries.
Subtitle B--Health Care Administration

Sec. 711. Codification of position of Director of the Defense Health 
Agency.
Sec. 712. Establishment of policies for priority assignment of medical 
personnel of Department of Defense.
Sec. 713. Graduate medical education partnership demonstration program.
Sec. 714. Modification of administration of medical malpractice claims 
by members of the uniformed services.
Sec. 715. Improvement of transition of medics in the Armed Forces to 
the civilian workforce in health care 
occupations.
Sec. 716. Improvement of provider directory accuracy for specialty care 
providers under the TRICARE program.
Sec. 717. Review of disclosure requirements under processes and forms 
relating to health care provider 
credentialing and privileging of Department 
of Defense.
Sec. 718. Provision of health care services at Fort Leonard Wood, 
Missouri.
Subtitle C--Reports and Other Matters

Sec. 721. Strategic infectious disease medical research plan.
Sec. 722. Extension of authority for Joint Department of Defense-
Department of Veterans Affairs Medical 
Facility Demonstration Fund.
Sec. 723. Pilot program on wastewater surveillance system of Department 
of Defense.
Sec. 724. Improvement of availability of care for veterans from 
facilities and providers of the Department 
of Defense.
Sec. 725. Military-civilian medical surge program.
TITLE VIII--ACQUISITION POLICY, ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT, AND RELATED 
MATTERS

Subtitle A--Acquisition Policy and Management

Sec. 801. Transition of program executive officer role to portfolio 
acquisition executive.
Sec. 802. Capstone requirements.
Sec. 803. Modification to acquisition strategy.
Sec. 804. Modifications to modular open systems approach.
Sec. 805. Alternative test and evaluation pathway for designated 
defense acquisition programs.
Sec. 806. Department of Defense member of Cost Accounting Standards 
Board.
Sec. 807. Combatant command experimentation authority.
Subtitle B--Amendments to General Contracting Authorities, Procedures, 
and Limitations

Sec. 821. Modification to nontraditional defense contractor 
definitions.
Sec. 822. Financing for covered activities.
Sec. 823. Exemptions for nontraditional defense contractors.
Sec. 824. Modifications to treatment of certain products and services 
as commercial products and commercial 
services.
Sec. 825. Modifications to commercial products and commercial services.
Sec. 826. Modifications to commercial solutions openings.
Sec. 827. Modifications to other transactions.
Sec. 828. Modifications to procurement for experimental purposes.
Sec. 829. Consumption-based solutions.
Sec. 830. Modifications to prohibition on contracting with persons that 
have fossil fuel operations with the 
Government of the Russian Federation or the 
Russian energy sector.
Sec. 831. Modifications to relationship of other provisions of law to 
procurement of commercial products and 
commercial services.
Sec. 832. Limitation on required flowdown of contract clauses to 
subcontractors providing commercial 
products or commercial services.
Sec. 833. References in contracts to Department of Defense policy 
documents, instructions, and manuals.
Sec. 834. Uninsurable risk on certain contracts.
Sec. 835. Reporting of price increases.
Sec. 836. Instructions for continued operational readiness.
Sec. 837. Indemnification of contractors against nuclear and unusually 
hazardous risks.
Sec. 838. Late submission of cost and pricing data as invalid defense 
to contract price reductions for defective 
cost or pricing data.
Sec. 839. Modifications to submissions of cost or pricing data.
Subtitle C--Industrial Base Matters

Sec. 841. Repeal of limitations on certain Department of Defense 
Executive Agent authority.
Sec. 842. Small unmanned aircraft system industrial base remediation 
plan.
Sec. 843. Application of national security waiver for strategic 
materials sourcing requirement to sensitive 
materials.
Sec. 844. Prohibition on acquisition of clothing and fabric from 
countries of concern under domestic-
sourcing waivers.
Sec. 845. Mitigation of risks related to foreign ownership, control, or 
influence of Department of Defense 
contractors or subcontractors.
Sec. 846. Prohibition of procurement of molybdenum, gallium, or 
germanium from non-allied foreign nations 
and authorization for production from 
recovered material.
Sec. 847. Sourcing options for certain critical products.
Sec. 848. Prohibiting the purchase of photovoltaic modules or inverters 
from Foreign Entities of Concern.
Sec. 849. Modernization of Army arsenals.
Sec. 849A. Modifications to Defense Industrial Base Fund.
Sec. 849B. Report on United States boot industrial base and Berry 
Amendment compliance.
Subtitle D--Small Business Matters

Sec. 851. APEX Accelerators.
Subtitle E--Other Matters

Sec. 861. Clarification of procurement prohibition related to 
acquisition of materials mined, refined, 
and separated in certain countries.
Sec. 862. Independent study on the acquisition workforce of the 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 863. Expedited acceptance program for supply chain illumination.
Sec. 864. Simultaneous conflicts critical munitions report.
Sec. 865. Permanent extension and modification of demonstration and 
prototyping program to advance 
international product support capabilities 
in a contested logistics environment.
Sec. 866. Estimate of ally and partner demand for United States-
produced munitions and specified 
expendables.
Sec. 867. Reform of contractor performance information requirements.
Sec. 868. Repeals of existing law to streamline the defense acquisition 
process.
Sec. 869. Enhancement of defense supply chain resilience and secondary 
source qualification.
Sec. 870. Enhanced product support management for integrated 
sustainment of weapon systems.
Sec. 871. Modifications to current defense acquisition requirements.
Sec. 872. Minimum production levels for munitions.
Sec. 873. Processes for incentivizing contractor expansion of sources 
of supply.
Sec. 874. Duty-free entry of supplies procured by Department of 
Defense.
Sec. 875. Other transaction authority reporting.
Sec. 876. Assessment of competitive effects of defense contractor 
transactions.
Sec. 877. Evaluation of TP-Link telecommunications equipment for 
designation as covered telecommunications 
equipment or services.
Sec. 878. Country-of-origin disclosure requirements for generic drugs 
purchased by the Department of Defense.
Sec. 879. Phase-out of computer and printer acquisitions involving 
entities owned or controlled by China.
Sec. 880. Prohibition on operation, procurement, and contracting 
related to foreign-made additive 
manufacturing machines.
Sec. 881. Prohibition on contracting with certain biotechnology 
providers.
Sec. 882. SkyFoundry Program.
TITLE IX--DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT

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

Sec. 901. Economic Defense Unit.
Sec. 902. Additional authorities for Office of Strategic Capital.
Sec. 903. Modifications to responsibilities of Director for Operational 
Test and Evaluation.
Sec. 904. Directive authority for matters for which Under Secretary of 
Defense for Research and Engineering has 
responsibility.
Sec. 905. Modification of energetic materials strategic plan and 
investment strategy of Joint Energetics 
Transition Office.
Sec. 906. Limitation on availability of funds pending establishment of 
Joint Energetics Transition Office.
Sec. 907. Modification of covered technology categories for Office of 
Strategic Capital.
Sec. 908. Modification of organization and authorities of Assistant 
Secretaries of Defense with duties relating 
to industrial base policy and readiness.
Subtitle B--Other Department of Defense Organization and Management 
Matters

Sec. 911. Modifications to Joint Requirements Oversight Council.
Sec. 912. Transfer of responsibility for countering small unmanned 
aircraft systems.
Sec. 913. Study on feasibility and advisability of establishing a Joint 
Capabilities and Programming Board.
Sec. 914. Briefing on restructuring of Army Futures Command and 
Training and Doctrine Command.
Sec. 915. Designation of senior official for military-to-civilian 
transition.
Sec. 916. Removal of members of Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Sec. 917. Longer term and eligibility for appointment to rank of 
Admiral of Commander of Naval Sea Systems 
Command.
Sec. 918. Delay of disestablishment of Navy Expeditionary Combat 
Command Pacific.
Sec. 919. Limitation on use of funds for consolidation, 
disestablishment, or elimination of 
geographic combatant commands.
Sec. 920. Elimination of statutory provisions relating to diversity, 
equity, and inclusion in the Department of 
Defense.
Sec. 921. Defense Science Board study on optimal organizational 
structure for digital engineering 
solutions.
Sec. 922. Establishment of Advanced Nuclear Transition Working Group.
TITLE X--GENERAL PROVISIONS

Subtitle A--Financial Matters

Sec. 1001. General transfer authority.
Sec. 1002. Amendments and repeals to budgetary requirements for defense 
acquisition.
Sec. 1003. Briefing on beginning balance issues for audit purposes.
Sec. 1004. Defense Business Audit Remediation Plan reporting.
Subtitle B--Naval Vessels

Sec. 1011. Requirements related to Medium Landing Ships and Light 
Replenishment Oilers.
Sec. 1012. Modification of authority to purchase used vessels under the 
National Defense Sealift Fund.
Sec. 1013. Exemption of unmanned surface vessels and unmanned 
underwater vehicles from certain technical 
authority requirements.
Sec. 1014. Prohibition on retiring and decommissioning oceanographic 
research vessels of the Navy.
Sec. 1015. Report accompanying requests for new flights or blocks of 
major shipbuilding programs.
Sec. 1016. Report on auxiliary vessel co-production.
Sec. 1017. Report on vessel leasing program.
Sec. 1018. Pilot program on use of automated shipbuilding technologies 
and capabilities.
Subtitle C--Counterterrorism

Sec. 1021. Extension of prohibition on use of funds for transfer or 
release of individuals detained at United 
States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, 
to the United States.
Sec. 1022. Extension of prohibition on use of funds to construct or 
modify facilities in the United States to 
house detainees transferred from United 
States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Sec. 1023. Extension of prohibition on use of funds for transfer or 
release of individuals detained at United 
States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, 
to certain countries.
Sec. 1024. Extension of prohibition on use of funds to close or 
relinquish control of United States Naval 
Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Sec. 1025. Clarification regarding definition of individual detained at 
Guantanamo.
Subtitle D--Miscellaneous Authorities and Limitations

Sec. 1031. Prohibition on use of funds to support entertainment 
projects with ties to the Government of the 
People's Republic of China.
Sec. 1032. Prohibition on destruction or scrapping of World War II-era 
aircraft.
Sec. 1033. Support for counterdrug activities and activities to counter 
transnational organized crime.
Sec. 1034. Senior leaders of the Department of Defense and other 
specified persons: authority to provide 
protection.
Sec. 1035. Notification of the use of military aircraft for immigration 
enforcement operations.
Sec. 1036. Modification of requirements relating to support of civil 
authorities by Armed Forces.
Sec. 1037. Prohibition on operation of connected vehicles designed, 
developed, manufactured, or supplied by 
persons owned by, controlled by, or subject 
to the jurisdiction of a foreign entity of 
concern on Department of Defense property.
Sec. 1038. Continued implementation of anti-trafficking programs for 
children.
Subtitle E--Studies and Reports

Sec. 1041. Annual report on contract cancellations.
Sec. 1042. Streamlining of total force reporting requirements.
Sec. 1043. Report on National Guard sexual assault prevention and 
response training.
Sec. 1044. Reports to Congress on Department of Defense support for 
immigration enforcement operations.
Sec. 1045. Military Sealift Command.
Sec. 1046. Report on aliens held at installations of Department of 
Defense.
Sec. 1047. Briefing on expenditures or planned expenditures of funds 
allocated for exploration and development 
of existing Arctic infrastructure.
Subtitle F--Other Matters

Sec. 1051. Modification of limitation on assistance in support of 
Department of Defense accounting for 
missing United States Government personnel.
Sec. 1052. Extension of admission to Guam or the Commonwealth of the 
Northern Mariana Islands for certain H-2B 
nonimmigrants.
Sec. 1053. Prohibiting Secretary of Defense from developing voting 
technology or methodology.
Sec. 1054. Assessment of the feasibility and advisability of using 
personnel of the Department of Defense to 
support U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Sec. 1055. Limitation on availability of funds for travel expenses of 
the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Sec. 1056. Department of Defense sensitive activities.
Sec. 1057. Irregular Warfare Exercise Laboratory.
Sec. 1058. Semiannual report on Department of Defense operations at the 
southern land border.
Sec. 1059. University-based secure innovation incubator program of 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 1060. Priority consideration of energy projects that are likely to 
experience significant temporal impact due 
to seasonal Arctic climate conditions.
Sec. 1061. Non-Reimbursable Support for Afghanistan War Commission.
Sec. 1062. Contracting authority for Afghanistan War Commission.
Sec. 1063. Commission on the National Defense Strategy.
Sec. 1064. Provision by Air Force of meteorological and environmental 
services for intelligence community.
Sec. 1065. Expansion of Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record.
Sec. 1066. Classification of Nevada Test and Training Range as location 
where contamination occurred and members of 
the Armed Forces were exposed to toxic 
substances.
Sec. 1067. Review of and reporting on national security sensitive sites 
for purposes of reviews of real estate 
transactions by the Committee on Foreign 
Investment in the United States.
Sec. 1068. Eligibility of spouses for services under the disabled 
veterans' outreach program.
Sec. 1069. Authority of Marshal of the Supreme Court and Supreme Court 
Police.
Sec. 1070. Second Chance Act Reauthorization.
Sec. 1071. Application of leave provisions for members of the Armed 
Forces to members of the Public Health 
Service.
Sec. 1072. Study of national security risks posed by certain routers 
and modems.
Sec. 1073. Fairness in issuance of tactical equipment to Diplomatic 
Security Service personnel.
Sec. 1074. Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee.
Sec. 1075. Review and prohibitions by Committee on Foreign Investment 
in the United States of certain 
transactions relating to agriculture.
Sec. 1076. Finding opportunities for resource exploration.
Sec. 1077. Requirement to provide certain services to veterans in the 
Freely Associated States.
Sec. 1078. Protecting covered information in public records.
Sec. 1079. Improving coordination between Federal and State agencies 
and the Do Not Pay working system.
Sec. 1080. Agent membership.
Sec. 1081. Exemption from immigrant visa limit.
Sec. 1082. Feasibility study on removal of oil from sunken World War II 
vessels in waters near the Federated States 
of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau.
Sec. 1083. Mapping America's Pharmaceutical Supply.
Subtitle G--Defense Workforce Integration

Sec. 1081. Integration of military and civilian hiring processes.
Sec. 1082. Provision of information on career opportunities in the 
defense industrial base to persons 
ineligible for military service.
Sec. 1083. Provision to Navy personnel of information on career 
opportunities at Military Sealift Command.
Sec. 1084. Report on defense workforce integration.
Subtitle H--Law Enforcement and Crime Victims Support Package

Sec. 1091. Preventing first responder secondary exposure to fentanyl.
Sec. 1092. Reauthorizing support and treatment for officers in crisis.
Sec. 1093. PROTECT Our Children Act of 2008 Reauthorization.
Sec. 1094. Inclusion of certain retired public safety officers in the 
public safety officers' death benefits 
program.
Sec. 1095. Strong Communities Program.
Sec. 1096. Retired law enforcement officers continuing service.
Sec. 1097. Trauma kit standards.
Sec. 1098. Honoring our fallen heroes.
Subtitle I--FISH Act of 2025

Sec. 1091. Short title.
Sec. 1092. Definitions.
Sec. 1093. Statement of policy.
Sec. 1094. Establishment of an IUU vessel list.
Sec. 1095. Visa sanctions for foreign persons.
Sec. 1096. Agreements.
Sec. 1097. Enforcement provisions.
Sec. 1098. Improved management at the regional fisheries management 
organizations.
Sec. 1099. Strategies to optimize data collection, sharing, and 
analysis.
Sec. 1099A. Investment and technical assistance in the fisheries 
sector.
Sec. 1099B. Strategy to identify seafood and seafood products from 
foreign vessels using forced labor.
Sec. 1099C. Reports.
Sec. 1099D. Authorization of appropriations for National Sea Grant 
College Program.
Sec. 1099E. Exception related to the importation of goods.
Sec. 1099F. Rule of construction.
TITLE XI--CIVILIAN PERSONNEL MATTERS

Sec. 1101. Educational travel authority for dependents of certain 
employees.
Sec. 1102. One-year extension of authority to waive annual limitation 
on premium pay and aggregate limitation on 
pay for Federal civilian employees working 
overseas.
Sec. 1103. One-year extension of temporary authority to grant 
allowances, benefits, and gratuities to 
civilian personnel on official duty in a 
combat zone.
Sec. 1104. Modifications to Defense Civilian Training Corps.
Sec. 1105. Modifications to requirements for the President of the 
Defense Acquisition University.
Sec. 1106. Modification of direct hire authority for domestic defense 
industrial base facilities.
Sec. 1107. Cyber workforce recruitment and retention.
Sec. 1108. Prohibition on use of funds to reduce the workforce at 
public shipyards.
TITLE XII--MATTERS RELATING TO FOREIGN NATIONS

Subtitle A--Assistance and Training

Sec. 1201. Modification of authorities.
Sec. 1202. Modification of payment of costs for Regional Centers for 
Security Studies.
Sec. 1203. Modification of authority for Naval Small Craft Instruction 
and Technical Training School.
Sec. 1204. Permanent extension of acceptance and expenditure of 
contributions for multilateral security 
cooperation programs and activities.
Sec. 1205. Building capacity of the armed forces of Mexico to counter 
transnational criminal organizations.
Sec. 1206. Cybersecurity cooperation with the Government of Panama and 
the Panama Canal Authority.
Sec. 1207. State Partnership Program selection analysis.
Sec. 1208. Modification of authority to build capacity of foreign 
security forces.
Sec. 1209. Extension and modification of pilot program to improve cyber 
cooperation with foreign military partners 
in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Subtitle B--Matters Relating to Syria, Iraq, and Iran

Sec. 1211. Extension of authority for reimbursement of certain 
coalition nations for support provided to 
United States military operations.
Sec. 1212. Extension and modification of authority to support 
operations and activities of the Office of 
Security Cooperation in Iraq.
Sec. 1213. Extension of authority to provide assistance to vetted 
Syrian groups and individuals.
Sec. 1214. Extension and modification of authority to provide 
assistance to counter the Islamic State of 
Iraq and Syria.
Sec. 1215. Extension and modification of authority to provide certain 
support.
Sec. 1216. Security and oversight of al-Hol and Roj camps.
Sec. 1217. Limitation on use of funds for reduction or consolidation of 
United States Armed Forces bases in Syria.
Sec. 1218. Limitation on availability of funds for the Office of 
Security Cooperation in Iraq.
Sec. 1219. Repeal of authorizations for use of military force against 
Iraq.
Subtitle C--Matters Relating to Europe and the Russian Federation

Sec. 1221. Extension of prohibition on availability of funds relating 
to sovereignty of the Russian Federation 
over internationally recognized territory 
of Ukraine.
Sec. 1222. Extension of annual report on military and security 
developments involving the Russian 
Federation.
Sec. 1223. Extension and modification of Ukraine security assistance 
initiative.
Sec. 1224. Weapons depot maintenance strategic plan for Ukraine.
Sec. 1225. Oversight of United States military posture in Europe.
Sec. 1226. Acceptance back into stock of equipment procured under 
Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
Sec. 1227. Statement of policy relating to Ukraine Security Assistance 
Initiative.
Sec. 1228. Intelligence support for Ukraine.
Sec. 1229. International Security Cooperation Program funding for 
United States European Command.
Sec. 1230. Promotion of the Joint Ukrainian Multinational Program--
Services, Training and Articles Rapid 
Timeline (JUMPSTART).
Sec. 1230A. Modification of United States basing and training, and 
exercises in North Atlantic Treaty 
Organization member countries.
Sec. 1230B. Modification of requirements for transfers of United States 
defense articles and defense services among 
Baltic states.
Sec. 1230C. Baltic Security Initiative.
Subtitle D--Matters Relating to the Indo-Pacific Region

Sec. 1231. Extension of Pacific Deterrence Initiative.
Sec. 1232. Extension of authority to transfer funds for Bien Hoa dioxin 
cleanup.
Sec. 1233. Oversight of United States military posture on the Korean 
Peninsula.
Sec. 1234. Limitation on availability of funds for travel expenses of 
the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Sec. 1235. Bolstering industrial resilience with allies in Indo-Pacific 
region.
Sec. 1236. Modification of Taiwan security cooperation initiative.
Sec. 1237. Joint program with Taiwan to enable fielding of uncrewed 
systems and counter-uncrewed systems 
capabilities.
Sec. 1238. Report on critical digital infrastructure of Taiwan.
Sec. 1239. Report on Japanese counterstrike capabilities.
Sec. 1240. Report on enhanced security cooperation with the 
Philippines.
Sec. 1241. Modification to annual report on military and security 
developments involving the People's 
Republic of China.
Sec. 1242. Strategic partnership on defense industrial priorities 
between the United States and Taiwan.
Sec. 1243. Invitation to Taiwan to Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 
exercise.
Sec. 1244. Extension of Indo-Pacific extended deterrence education 
pilot program.
Sec. 1245. Inclusion on list of Chinese military companies of entities 
added to certain other lists.
Sec. 1246. Preventing circumvention by Chinese military companies in 
third-party countries.
Sec. 1247. Sense of Congress on defense alliances and partnerships in 
the Indo-Pacific region.
Subtitle E--Other Matters

Sec. 1251. Middle East integrated air and missile defense architecture.
Sec. 1252. Modification of program and processes relating to foreign 
acquisition.
Sec. 1253. Enhancing security partnership with Jordan and Lebanon.
Sec. 1254. Joint Program Office for Non-Programs of Record to support 
foreign acquisition.
Sec. 1255. Extension and modification of United States-Israel anti-
tunnel cooperation.
Sec. 1256. Extension and modification of United States-Israel 
cooperation to counter unmanned aerial 
systems.
Sec. 1257. Guidance for coordination of international arms transfers.
Sec. 1258. Requirement to update the National Disclosure Policy.
Sec. 1259. Improvements to security cooperation workforce and defense 
acquisition workforce.
Sec. 1260. Expansion of country prioritization.
Sec. 1261. Streamlining and expediting sales of defense articles and 
services.
Sec. 1262. Redesignation of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies as 
the James M. Inhofe Center for Africa 
Security Studies.
Sec. 1263. Establishment of program to promote participation of foreign 
students in the Senior Reserve Officers' 
Training Corps.
Sec. 1264. Modification of authority for assistance in support of 
Department of Defense accounting for 
missing United States Government personnel.
Sec. 1265. Strategy for United States security assistance to Mexico.
Sec. 1266. Supporting the identification and recovery of abducted 
Ukrainian children.
Subtitle F--Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity

Sec. 1271. Short title.
Sec. 1272. Findings.
Sec. 1273. Sense of Congress.
Sec. 1274. Definitions.
Sec. 1275. Codification of sanctions relating to the Western Balkans.
Sec. 1276. Democratic and economic development and prosperity 
initiatives.
Sec. 1277. Promoting cross-cultural and educational engagement.
Sec. 1278. Young Balkan Leaders Initiative.
Sec. 1279. Supporting cybersecurity and cyber resilience in the Western 
Balkans.
Sec. 1280. Relations between Kosovo and Serbia.
Sec. 1280A. Reports on Russian and Chinese malign influence operations 
and campaigns in the Western Balkans.
Subtitle G--DFC Modernization and Reauthorization Act of 2025

Sec. 1270. Short title.
PART I--Definitions and Less Developed Country Focus

Sec. 1271. Definitions.
Sec. 1272. Less developed country focus.
PART II--Management of Corporation

Sec. 1273. Structure of Corporation.
Sec. 1274. Board of Directors.
Sec. 1275. Chief Executive Officer.
Sec. 1276. Chief Risk Officer.
Sec. 1277. Chief Development Officer.
Sec. 1278. Chief Strategic Investment Officer.
Sec. 1279. Officers and employees.
Sec. 1280. Development Advisory Finance Council.
Sec. 1281. Strategic Advisory Group.
Sec. 1282. Five-year Strategic Priorities Plan.
Sec. 1283. Development finance education.
Sec. 1284. Internships.
Sec. 1285. Independent accountability mechanism.
PART III--Authorities Relating to Provision of Support

Sec. 1286. Equity investment.
Sec. 1287. Special projects.
Sec. 1288. Terms and conditions.
Sec. 1289. Termination.
PART IV--Other Matters

Sec. 1290. Operations.
Sec. 1291. Corporate powers.
Sec. 1292. Maximum contingent liability.
Sec. 1293. Performance measures, evaluation, and learning.
Sec. 1294. Annual report.
Sec. 1295. Publicly available project information.
Sec. 1296. Notifications to be provided by the Corporation.
Sec. 1297. Limitations and preferences.
Sec. 1298. Repeal of European Energy Security and Diversification Act 
of 2019.
Subtitle H--Defending International Security by Restricting 
Unacceptable Partnerships and Tactics

Sec. 1271. Short title.
Sec. 1272. Findings.
Sec. 1273. Statement of policy.
Sec. 1274. Task forces and reports.
TITLE XIII--COOPERATIVE THREAT REDUCTION

Sec. 1301. Cooperative Threat Reduction funds.
TITLE XIV--OTHER AUTHORIZATIONS

Subtitle A--Military Programs

Sec. 1401. Working capital funds.
Sec. 1402. Chemical agents and munitions destruction, defense.
Sec. 1403. Drug interdiction and counter-drug activities, defense-wide.
Sec. 1404. Defense Inspector General.
Sec. 1405. Defense Health Program.
Subtitle B--National Defense Stockpile

Sec. 1411. Modifications to Strategic and Critical Materials Stock 
Piling Act.
Subtitle C--Other Matters

Sec. 1421. Authorization of appropriations for Armed Forces Retirement 
Home.
TITLE XV--SPACE ACTIVITIES, STRATEGIC PROGRAMS, AND INTELLIGENCE 
MATTERS

Subtitle A--Space Activities

Sec. 1501. Delay in implementation of environmental assessment for 
rocket cargo test and demonstration at 
Johnston Atoll.
Sec. 1502. Study on future space launch capacity.
Sec. 1503. Acquisition and operation of space systems for space 
warfighting and control.
Sec. 1504. Blast damage assessment guide for space vehicles at Air 
Force launch complexes.
Sec. 1505. Acquisition of space-based tactical data capability.
Sec. 1506. Use of middle tier acquisition program for proliferated 
warfighter space architecture of the Space 
Development Agency.
Sec. 1507. Continuation of operation of Defense Meteorological 
Satellite Program.
Subtitle B--Nuclear Forces

Sec. 1511. Matters relating to intercontinental ballistic missiles of 
the United States.
Sec. 1512. Matters relating to Air Force Global Strike Command.
Sec. 1513. Adjustment to bomber aircraft nuclear certification 
requirement.
Sec. 1514. Limitation on availability of funds pending establishment of 
the Assistant Secretary of Defense for 
Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and 
Biological Defense Policy and Programs.
Sec. 1515. Adjustment to responsibilities of Nuclear Weapons Council.
Sec. 1516. Limitation on availability of funds pending notification of 
tasking authority delegation.
Sec. 1517. Modification of requirement for nuclear-armed, sea-launched 
cruise missile initial operational 
capability.
Sec. 1518. Pilot program for unmanned aerial vehicle resupply to launch 
control facilities.
Sec. 1519. Limitation on availability of funds pending commencement of 
annual briefings on implementation of 
recommendations by the Congressional 
Commission on the Strategic Posture of the 
United States.
Sec. 1520. Deep cleaning of launch control centers of the Air Force 
Global Strike Command.
Sec. 1521. Limitation on compensation caps.
Subtitle C--Missile Defense

Sec. 1531. Matters relating to the Golden Dome missile defense system.
Sec. 1532. Inclusion of Hawaii and Alaska in plans for Iron Dome for 
America.
Sec. 1533. Inclusion of air and missile defense in unconstrained total 
munitions requirements.
Sec. 1534. Iron Dome short-range rocket defense system and Israeli 
cooperative missile defense program co-
development and co-production.
Sec. 1535. Requirement for Aegis Combat Systems operationally deployed 
under United States Indo-Pacific Command.
Sec. 1536. Amendments to technical authority of Director of Missile 
Defense Agency regarding integrated air and 
missile defense activities and programs.
Sec. 1537. Assessment of the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense 
Test Site.
Sec. 1538. Biennial assessments of the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile 
Defense Test Site.
Sec. 1539. Limitation on availability of funds for Office of the Under 
Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and 
Sustainment pending commencement of annual 
briefings on missile defense of Guam.
Sec. 1540. Limitation on availability of funds for Missile Defense 
Agency pending arrangement for independent 
analysis of space-based missile defense 
capability.
Sec. 1541. Limitation on authority to reduce sustainment for or halt 
operation of the AN/FPS-108 COBRA DANE 
radar.
Sec. 1542. Accelerating development of autonomous agents to defend 
against cruise missiles and unmanned 
systems.
Sec. 1543. Missile defense testing requirements.
Sec. 1544. Improving United States missile defense capabilities.
Subtitle D--Other Matters

Sec. 1551. Independent assessment of the Department of Defense National 
Industrial Security Program.
Sec. 1552. Reforms relating to inactive security clearances.
Sec. 1553. Annual review of the Joint Electromagnetic Battle Management 
Software Program.
Sec. 1554. Integration of electronic warfare into Tier 1 and Tier 2 
joint training exercises.
Sec. 1555. Briefings on intercepts of unidentified anomalous phenomena 
by North American Aerospace Defense Command 
and United States Northern Command.
Sec. 1556. Consolidated security classification guidance matrix for 
programs relating to unidentified anomalous 
phenomena.
Sec. 1557. Plan for increasing utility of user activity monitoring 
capabilities.
Sec. 1558. Support by the 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing to EA-37B Compass 
Call Aircraft.
Sec. 1559. Report on the technical collection capabilities of the 
People's Republic of China and the Russian 
Federation in the Republic of Cuba.
Sec. 1560. Extension of protection of certain facilities and assets 
from unmanned aircraft.
Sec. 1561. Consolidation of reporting requirements applicable to All-
domain Anomaly Resolution Office.
Sec. 1562. Limitation on the divestment, consolidation, and curtailment 
of certain electronic warfare test and 
evaluation activities.
Sec. 1563. Modification of functions of Electromagnetic Spectrum 
Enterprise Operational Lead for Joint 
Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations to 
include dynamic spectrum sharing 
technologies.
Sec. 1564. Limitation on modification of certain electromagnetic 
spectrum relied on by Department of 
Defense.
TITLE XVI--CYBERSPACE-RELATED MATTERS

Subtitle A--Matters Relating to Cyber Operations and Cyber Forces

Sec. 1601. Comprehensive cyber workforce strategy.
Sec. 1602. United States Cyber Command artificial intelligence industry 
collaboration roadmap.
Sec. 1603. Strategy for deterrence against cyberattacks against defense 
critical infrastructure of the United 
States.
Sec. 1604. Amendment to annual assessments and reports on assignment of 
certain budget control responsibility to 
Commander of the United States Cyber 
Command.
Sec. 1605. Report on reserve component integration into cyber mission 
force and cyberspace operations.
Sec. 1606. Evaluation of cyber range management and funding.
Sec. 1607. Modification to reporting requirements for Senior Military 
Advisor for Cyber Policy.
Sec. 1608. Planning, programming, and budget coordination for 
operations of cyber mission force.
Sec. 1609. Expansion of scope of affirmation of authority for cyber 
operations to include defense of critical 
infrastructure of the Department of 
Defense.
Sec. 1610. Review of future force employment concepts and associated 
personnel policy needs for evolving cyber 
forces.
Sec. 1610A. Evaluation of Joint Task Force-Cyber in support of 
geographic combatant commands.
Sec. 1610B. Prohibition on availability of funds to modify authorities 
of the Commander of United States Cyber 
Command.
Sec. 1610C. Program for talent management of cyber personnel through 
active and reserve transitioning.
Sec. 1610D. Designation of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber 
Policy as principal staff assistant.
Subtitle B--Matters Relating to Department of Defense Cybersecurity and 
Information Technology

Sec. 1611. Modernization program for full content inspection.
Sec. 1612. Assessment regarding real-time monitoring of defense weapons 
platforms for cyber threats.
Sec. 1613. Assessment of feasibility and advisability of establishing 
an operational technology cybersecurity 
training center of excellence.
Sec. 1614. Framework for integration of information technology 
technical debt assessment into annual 
budget process.
Sec. 1615. Mission Infrastructure Resilience Task Force.
Sec. 1616. Plan for deploying private fifth generation Open Radio 
Access Networks on Department of Defense 
bases.
Sec. 1617. Limitation on funds for travel pending briefing on process 
for best-in-class cyber data products and 
services.
Sec. 1618. Limitation of funds for travel expenses for the Office of 
the Chief Information Officer.
Sec. 1619. Limitation on availability of funds for the Combined Joint 
All-Domain Command and Control initiative.
Sec. 1620. Review of Joint Fires Network program transition.
Sec. 1620A. Prohibition on the elimination of certain cyber assessment 
capabilities for test and evaluation.
Sec. 1620B. Modification to certification requirement regarding 
contracting for military recruiting.
Sec. 1620C. Department of Defense working group, strategy, and report 
on ensuring the security, resiliency, and 
integrity of undersea cables.
Sec. 1620D. Audit and updated guidance to reduce, mitigate, or 
eliminate risk from cloud computing 
contracts with foreign exposure.
Subtitle C--Data and Artificial Intelligence

Sec. 1621. Public-private cybersecurity partnership for highly capable 
artificial intelligence systems.
Sec. 1622. Digital sandbox environments for artificial intelligence.
Sec. 1623. Artificial intelligence model assessment and oversight.
Sec. 1624. Department of Defense Ontology Governance Working Group.
Sec. 1625. Modification of high-performance computing roadmap.
Sec. 1626. Artificial General Intelligence Steering Committee.
Sec. 1627. Physical and cybersecurity procurement requirements for 
artificial intelligence systems.
Sec. 1628. Guidance and prohibition on use of certain artificial 
intelligence.
Sec. 1629. Roadmap for advancing digital content provenance standards.
Sec. 1630. Enhanced protection of data affecting operational security 
of Department of Defense personnel.
TITLE XVII--FIGHT CHINA ACT OF 2025

Sec. 1701. Short title.
Sec. 1702. Secretary defined.
Sec. 1703. Severability.
Sec. 1704. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 1705. Termination.
Subtitle A--Imposition of Sanctions

Sec. 1711. Imposition of sanctions.
Sec. 1712. Definitions.
Subtitle B--Prohibition and Notification on Investments Relating to 
Covered National Security Transactions

Sec. 1721. Prohibition and notification on investments relating to 
covered national security transactions.
Subtitle C--Securities and Related Matters

Sec. 1731. Requirements relating to the Non-SDN Chinese Military-
Industrial Complex Companies List.
Subtitle D--General Provisions

Sec. 1741. Exception relating to importation of goods.
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 certain fiscal year 
2025 projects.
TITLE XXII--NAVY MILITARY CONSTRUCTION

Sec. 2201. Authorized Navy construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2202. Family housing.
Sec. 2203. Authorization of appropriations, Navy.
Sec. 2204. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2022 
projects.
Sec. 2205. 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 certain fiscal year 
2024 projects.
Sec. 2408. Modification of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 
2025 projects.
TITLE XXV--INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

Subtitle A--North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment 
Program

Sec. 2501. Authorized NATO construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2502. Authorization of appropriations, NATO.
Subtitle B--Host Country In-kind Contributions

Sec. 2511. Republic of Korea funded construction projects.
Sec. 2512. Republic of Poland funded construction projects.
TITLE XXVI--GUARD AND RESERVE FORCES FACILITIES

Sec. 2601. Authorized Army National Guard construction and land 
acquisition projects.
Sec. 2602. Authorized Army Reserve construction and land acquisition 
projects.
Sec. 2603. Authorized Navy Reserve and Marine Corps Reserve 
construction and land acquisition projects.
Sec. 2604. Authorized Air National Guard construction and land 
acquisition projects.
Sec. 2605. Authorized Air Force Reserve construction and land 
acquisition projects.
Sec. 2606. Authorization of appropriations, National Guard and Reserve.
Sec. 2607. Extension of authority to carry out certain fiscal year 2023 
projects.
Sec. 2608. Modification of authority to carry out fiscal year 2023 
project at Tucson International Airport, 
Arizona.
TITLE XXVII--BASE REALIGNMENT AND CLOSURE ACTIVITIES

Sec. 2701. Authorization of appropriations for base realignment and 
closure activities funded through 
Department of Defense Base Closure Account.
TITLE XXVIII--MILITARY CONSTRUCTION GENERAL PROVISIONS

Subtitle A--Military Construction Program

Sec. 2801. Requirement for the military departments to develop and 
annually update a 20-year infrastructure 
improvement plan.
Sec. 2802. Increase of maximum amount for restoration or replacement of 
damaged or destroyed facilities.
Sec. 2803. Reauthorization and modification of special design-build 
authority for military construction 
projects.
Sec. 2804. Modification of pilot program on increased use of 
sustainable building materials in military 
construction to include sustainable 
building technologies identified by the 
Comptroller General of the United States.
Sec. 2805. Implementation of Comptroller General recommendations 
relating to information sharing to improve 
oversight of military construction.
Sec. 2806. Extension of requirement for contract for obligation and 
execution of design funds for military 
construction projects.
Sec. 2807. Extension of authorization of depot working capital funds 
for unspecified minor military 
construction.
Sec. 2808. Extension of authority for temporary expanded land 
acquisition for equine welfare.
Sec. 2809. Prohibition on designation of military construction projects 
as part of military intelligence program.
Sec. 2810. Expansion of Defense Community Infrastructure Program to 
include installations of the Coast Guard.
Subtitle B--Military Housing

Sec. 2821. Improvements to annual reports of Department of Defense on 
waivers of privacy and configuration 
standards for covered military 
unaccompanied housing.
Sec. 2822. Modification of Housing Requirements and Market Analysis to 
account for impact of civilians and 
contractors.
Sec. 2823. Authority for unaccompanied housing project under pilot 
authority for use of other transactions for 
installation or facility prototyping.
Sec. 2824. Elimination of indoor residential mold in housing of 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 2825. Requirement for disclosure of information relating to 
liability insurance and dispute resolutions 
relating to privatized military housing.
Sec. 2826. Treatment of nondisclosure agreements with respect to 
privatized military housing.
Sec. 2827. Implementation of Comptroller General recommendations 
relating to critical military housing 
supply and affordability.
Subtitle C--Land Conveyances

Sec. 2831. Authorization to acquire through exchange or lease certain 
land used by the Armed Forces in Hawaii.
Sec. 2832. Report on land withdrawals.
Subtitle D--Other Matters

Sec. 2841. Modifications to Defense Community Infrastructure Program.
Sec. 2842. Designation of Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range at 
Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands.
Sec. 2843. Joint base facility management of Department of Defense.
Sec. 2844. Limitation on use of amounts for travel based on compliance 
with requirements related to minimum 
capital investment.
Sec. 2845. Extension of prohibition on joint use of Homestead Air 
Reserve Base with civil aviation.
Sec. 2846. Pilot program on procurement of utility services for 
installations of the Department of Defense 
through areawide contracts.
Sec. 2847. Authorization for monetary contributions to the conveyees of 
utility systems for infrastructure 
improvements.
Sec. 2848. Prohibition on use of funds for development of Greenbury 
Point Conservation Area at Naval Support 
Activity Annapolis, Maryland.
Sec. 2849. Application of certain authorities and standards to historic 
military housing and associated historic 
properties of the Department of the Navy 
and the Department of the Air Force.
DIVISION C--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY NATIONAL SECURITY AUTHORIZATIONS AND 
OTHER AUTHORIZATIONS

TITLE XXXI--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY NATIONAL SECURITY PROGRAMS

Subtitle A--National Security Programs and Authorizations

Sec. 3101. National Nuclear Security Administration.
Sec. 3102. Defense environmental cleanup.
Sec. 3103. Other defense activities.
Sec. 3104. Nuclear energy.
Subtitle B--Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations

Sec. 3111. Organization and codification of provisions of law relating 
to atomic energy defense activities.
Sec. 3112. Adjustment to plutonium pit production capacity.
Sec. 3113. National Nuclear Security Administration Rapid Capabilities 
Development Office.
Sec. 3114. Review and assessment of the National Nuclear Security 
Administration Enterprise Blueprint.
Sec. 3115. Notification of cost overruns for certain Department of 
Energy projects.
Sec. 3116. Protection of certain nuclear facilities and assets from 
unmanned aircraft.
Sec. 3117. Extension of authority for appointment of certain 
scientific, engineering, and technical 
personnel.
Sec. 3118. Appropriate scoping of artificial intelligence research 
within the National Nuclear Security 
Administration.
Subtitle C--Other Matters

Sec. 3121. National security positions within the Department of Energy.
Sec. 3122. Office of Environmental Management program-wide performance 
metrics for reducing risk.
Sec. 3123. Office of Environmental Management integrated radioactive 
waste disposal planning and optimization.
Sec. 3124. Report on future activities and resources for the delivery 
of specialized infrastructure.
Sec. 3125. Plan to modernize nuclear security enterprise.
TITLE XXXII--DEFENSE NUCLEAR FACILITIES SAFETY BOARD

Sec. 3201. Authorization.
DIVISION D--FUNDING TABLES

Sec. 4001. Authorization of amounts in funding tables.
TITLE XLI--PROCUREMENT

Sec. 4101. Procurement.
TITLE XLII--RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND EVALUATION

Sec. 4201. Research, development, test, and evaluation.
TITLE XLIII--OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

Sec. 4301. Operation and maintenance.
TITLE XLIV--MILITARY PERSONNEL

Sec. 4401. Military personnel.
TITLE XLV--OTHER AUTHORIZATIONS

Sec. 4501. Other Authorizations.
TITLE XLVI--MILITARY CONSTRUCTION

Sec. 4601. Military Construction.
TITLE XLVII--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY NATIONAL SECURITY PROGRAMS

Sec. 4701. Department of Energy National Security Programs.
DIVISION E--ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS

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

Subtitle B--Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations

Sec. 5211. Avoiding duplication of hypersonic testing efforts.
Subtitle C--Plans, Reports, and Other Matters

Sec. 5221. Evaluation of additional test corridors for hypersonic and 
long-range weapons.
TITLE LIII--OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

Subtitle D--Reports

Sec. 5331. Report on adoption of graphite oxide-based firefighting 
foams.
TITLE LVI--COMPENSATION AND OTHER MATTERS

Subtitle B--Special and Incentive Pay

Sec. 5611. One-year extension of certain expiring bonus and special pay 
authorities.
Subtitle C--Other Matters

Sec. 5621. Pilot program to provide coupons to junior enlisted members 
to purchase food at commissaries.
TITLE LVII--HEALTH CARE PROVISIONS

Subtitle C--Reports and Other Matters

Sec. 5721. Briefing on use of other transaction agreements for 
development of medical prototypes.
Sec. 5722. Report on integration of lifestyle and performance medicine 
and behaviors to support health and 
military readiness.
Sec. 5723. Evaluation of certain research related to menopause, 
perimenopause, or mid-life women's health.
TITLE LVIII--ACQUISITION POLICY, ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT, AND RELATED 
MATTERS

Subtitle E--Other Matters

Sec. 5861. Repeals of existing laws to streamline the defense 
acquisition process.
Sec. 5862. Duty-free entry of supplies procured by Department of 
Defense.
TITLE LX--GENERAL PROVISIONS

Subtitle D--Miscellaneous Authorities and Limitations

Sec. 6011. Support for counterdrug activities and activities to counter 
transnational organized crime.
Subtitle F--Other Matters

Sec. 6021. Taking or transmitting video of defense information 
prohibited.
Sec. 6022. Study and report.
Sec. 6023. International nuclear energy.
Sec. 6024. National registry of Korean American divided families.
Sec. 6025. Reports on food insecurity in Armed Forces.
Sec. 6026. Alignment of updates of strategic plan for the Manufacturing 
USA Program with updates to National 
Strategy for Advanced Manufacturing.
Sec. 6027. Extension of Defense Production Act of 1950.
Sec. 6028. Informational materials under the Foreign Agents 
Registration Act.
Sec. 6029. Credit monitoring.
Sec. 6030. Treatment of exemptions under the Foreign Agents 
Registration Act of 1938.
Sec. 6031. Drinking water well replacement for Chincoteague, Virginia.
Sec. 6032. Report on implementation of artificial intelligence into 
certain anti-money laundering 
investigations.
Sec. 6033. Keeping drugs out of schools.
Sec. 6034. Disclosures by directors, officers, and principal 
stockholders.
Sec. 6035. Requirement to testify.
Sec. 6036. CDFI bond guarantee program improvement.
Sec. 6037. Capitalization assistance to enhance liquidity.
Sec. 6038. Native CDFI relending program.
Subtitle G--Sentencing Enhancements for Certain Criminal Offenses 
Directed by or Coordinated With Foreign Governments

Sec. 6071. Short title.
Sec. 6072. Kidnapping.
Sec. 6073. Use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of 
murder-for-hire.
Sec. 6074. Influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal 
official by threatening or injuring a 
family member.
Sec. 6075. Stalking.
Sec. 6076. Protection of officers and employees of the United States.
Sec. 6077. Presidential and Presidential staff assassination, 
kidnapping, and assault.
Subtitle H--Export Controls for Advanced Artificial Intelligence Chips

Sec. 6081. Short title.
Sec. 6082. Sense of Congress.
Sec. 6083. Prohibition on prioritizing countries of concern over United 
States persons for exports of advanced 
integrated circuits.
TITLE LXI--CIVILIAN PERSONNEL MATTERS

Sec. 6101. Definition of defense industrial base facility for purposes 
of direct hire authority.
Sec. 6102. Public shipyard apprentice program.
TITLE LXII--MATTERS RELATING TO FOREIGN NATIONS

Subtitle B--Matters Relating to Syria, Iraq, and Iran

Sec. 6211. Repeal of Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019.
Sec. 6212. Countering Captagon production and distribution.
Subtitle C--Matters Relating to Europe and the Russian Federation

Sec. 6221. Sense of Congress on Russia's illegal abduction of Ukrainian 
children.
Sec. 6222. Modification of annual report on military and security 
developments involving the Russian 
Federation to include an assessment on use 
of chemical weapons.
Subtitle D--Matters Relating to the Indo-Pacific Region

Sec. 6231. Modernizing the defense capabilities of the Philippines.
Sec. 6232. Strategy to respond to the PRC's global basing intentions.
Sec. 6233. Strategy to strengthen multilateral deterrence in the Indo-
Pacific region.
Subtitle E--AUKUS Improvement Act of 2025

Sec. 6240A Short title.
Sec. 6240B Flexibility with respect to certain Arms Export control Act 
and other arms transfer requirements.
Sec. 6240C Elimination of certification requirement for commercial 
technical assistance or manufacturing 
license agreements involving Australia and 
the United Kingdom.
Subtitle F--Other Matters

Sec. 6241. Modification of certain temporary authorizations related to 
munitions replacement.
Sec. 6242. Disposition of weapons and materiel in transit from Iran to 
Houthis in Yemen.
Subtitle G--Treatment of Taiwan at International Financial Institutions

Sec. 6251. Short title.
Sec. 6252. Findings.
Sec. 6253. Sense of the Congress.
Sec. 6254. Support for Taiwan admission to the IMF.
Sec. 6255. Testimony requirement.
TITLE LXV--SPACE ACTIVITIES, STRATEGIC PROGRAMS, AND INTELLIGENCE 
MATTERS

Subtitle A--Space Activities

Sec. 6501. Enhancement of space domain awareness through ground-based 
sensor development.
Sec. 6502. Continuation of operation of Defense Meteorological 
Satellite Program.
Subtitle B--Other Matters

Sec. 6551. Transfer of Foreign Languages Program to Department of 
Defense.
TITLE LXVI--CYBERSPACE-RELATED MATTERS

Subtitle B--Matters Relating to Department of Defense Cybersecurity and 
Information Technology

Sec. 6611. Strategy on quantum readiness.
Sec. 6612. Secure and interoperable defense collaboration technology.
Sec. 6613. Prohibition on access to Department of Defense cloud-based 
resources by individuals who are not 
citizens of the United States or allied 
countries.
Subtitle C--Data and Artificial Intelligence

Sec. 6621. Comptroller General of the United States review of 
Department of Defense governance processes 
for adoption of artificial intelligence 
tools.
TITLE LXXVIII--MILITARY CONSTRUCTION GENERAL PROVISIONS

Subtitle A--Military Construction Program

Sec. 7801. Inclusion of demolition projects in Defense Community 
Infrastructure Program.
Subtitle B--Military Housing

Sec. 7811. Report on indoor mold, pathogens, and airborne toxins within 
housing units at installations of the Air 
Force.
Sec. 7813. Modification of semi-annual report on privatized military 
housing.
Sec. 7814. Improvement of administration of military unaccompanied 
housing.
TITLE LXXXI--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY NATIONAL SECURITY AUTHORIZATIONS AND 
OTHER AUTHORIZATIONS

Subtitle B--Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations

Sec. 8111. Sense of Congress on ground-based leg of nuclear triad.
DIVISION F--INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Definitions.
TITLE I--INTELLIGENCE ACTIVITIES

Sec. 101. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 102. Classified Schedule of Authorizations.
Sec. 103. Increase in employee compensation and benefits authorized by 
law.
TITLE II--CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY SYSTEM

Sec. 201. Authorization of appropriations.
TITLE III--INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY MATTERS

Sec. 301. Unauthorized access to intelligence community property.
Sec. 302. Annual survey of analytic objectivity among officers and 
employees of elements of the intelligence 
community.
Sec. 303. Annual training requirement and report regarding analytic 
standards.
Sec. 304. Estimate of cost to ensure compliance with Intelligence 
Community Directive 705.
Sec. 305. Amendments regarding Presidential appointments for 
intelligence community positions.
Sec. 306. Counterintelligence support for Department of the Treasury 
networks and systems.
Sec. 307. Report on Director's Initiatives Group personnel matters.
Sec. 308. Higher Education Act of 1965 special rule.
Sec. 309. Annual Central Intelligence Agency workplace climate 
assessment.
Sec. 310. Report on secure mobile communications systems available to 
employees and of the intelligence 
community.
Sec. 311. Plan for implementing an integrated system spanning the 
intelligence community for accreditation of 
sensitive compartmented information 
facilities.
Sec. 312. Counterintelligence threats to United States space interests.
Sec. 313. Chaplain Corps and Chief of Chaplains of the Central 
Intelligence Agency.
Sec. 314. Prohibition on contractors collecting or selling location 
data of individuals at intelligence 
community locations.
Sec. 315. Technical amendment to procurement authorities of Central 
Intelligence Agency.
Sec. 316. Threat briefing to protect Federal Reserve information.
Sec. 317. Plan to establish commercial geospatial intelligence data and 
services program management office.
Sec. 318. Inspector General review of adequacy of policies and 
procedures governing use of commercial 
messaging applications by intelligence 
community.
Sec. 319. Authority for National Security Agency to produce and 
disseminate intelligence products.
Sec. 320. Prohibiting discrimination in the intelligence community.
Sec. 321. Annual report on Federal Bureau of Investigation case data.
TITLE IV--INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS

Sec. 401. Short title.
Sec. 402. Modification of responsibilities and authorities of the 
Director of National Intelligence.
Sec. 403. Reforms relating to the Office of the Director of National 
Intelligence.
Sec. 404. Appointment of Deputy Director of National Intelligence and 
Assistant Directors of National 
Intelligence.
Sec. 405. Reform of the National Intelligence Council and National 
Intelligence Officers.
Sec. 406. Transfer of National Counterintelligence and Security Center 
to Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Sec. 407. Redesignation and reform of National Counterterrorism Center.
Sec. 408. Transfer of National Counterproliferation and Biosecurity 
Center.
Sec. 409. National Intelligence Task Forces.
Sec. 410. Repeal of various positions, units, centers, councils, and 
offices.
TITLE V--MATTERS CONCERNING FOREIGN COUNTRIES

Subtitle A--Foreign Countries Generally

Sec. 501. Declassification of information relating to actions by 
foreign governments to assist persons 
evading justice.
Sec. 502. Enhanced intelligence sharing relating to foreign adversary 
biotechnological threats.
Sec. 503. Threat assessment regarding unmanned aircraft systems at or 
near the international borders of the 
United States.
Sec. 504. Assessment of the potential effect of expanded partnerships 
among western hemisphere countries.
Subtitle B--People's Republic of China

Sec. 511. Countering Chinese Communist Party efforts that threaten 
Europe.
Sec. 512. Prohibition on intelligence community contracting with 
Chinese military companies engaged in 
biotechnology research, development, or 
manufacturing.
Sec. 513. Report on the wealth of the leadership of the Chinese 
Communist Party.
Sec. 514. Assessment and report on investments by the People's Republic 
of China in the agriculture sector of 
Brazil.
Sec. 515. Identification of entities that provide support to the 
People's Liberation Army.
Sec. 516. Establishing a China Economics and Intelligence cell to 
publish China Economic Power Report.
Sec. 517. Modification of annual reports on influence operations and 
campaigns in the United States by the 
Chinese Communist Party.
Subtitle C--The Russian Federation

Sec. 521. Assessment of Russian destabilization efforts.
Subtitle D--Other Foreign Countries

Sec. 531. Plan to enhance counternarcotics collaboration, coordination, 
and cooperation with the Government of 
Mexico.
Sec. 532. Enhancing intelligence support to counter foreign adversary 
influence in Sudan.
Sec. 533. Ukraine lessons learned working group.
Sec. 534. Improvements to requirement for monitoring of Iranian 
enrichment of uranium-235.
Sec. 535. Duty to warn United States persons threatened by Iranian 
lethal plotting.
TITLE VI--EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

Sec. 601. Intelligence Community Technology Bridge Program.
Sec. 602. Enhancing biotechnology talent within the intelligence 
community.
Sec. 603. Enhanced intelligence community support to secure United 
States genomic data.
Sec. 604. Ensuring intelligence community procurement of domestic 
United States production of synthetic DNA 
and RNA.
Sec. 605. Report on identification of intelligence community sites for 
advanced nuclear technologies.
Sec. 606. Addressing intelligence gaps relating to China's investment 
in United States-origin biotechnology.
Sec. 607. Additional functions and requirements of Artificial 
Intelligence Security Center.
Sec. 608. Artificial intelligence development and usage by intelligence 
community.
Sec. 609. High-impact artificial intelligence systems.
Sec. 610. Application of artificial intelligence policies of the 
intelligence community to publicly 
available models used for intelligence 
purposes.
Sec. 611. Revision of interim guidance regarding acquisition and use of 
foundation models.
Sec. 612. Strategy on intelligence coordination and sharing relating to 
critical and emerging technologies.
TITLE VII--CLASSIFICATION REFORM, SECURITY CLEARANCES, AND 
WHISTLEBLOWERS

Sec. 701. Notification of certain declassifications.
Sec. 702. Elimination of cap on compensatory damages for retaliatory 
revocation of security clearances and 
access determinations.
Sec. 703. Reforms relating to inactive security clearances.
Sec. 704. Study on protection of classified information relating to 
budget functions.
Sec. 705. Report on executive branch approval of access to classified 
intelligence information outside of 
established review processes.
Sec. 706. Whistleblower protections relating to psychiatric testing or 
examination.
TITLE VIII--ANOMALOUS HEALTH INCIDENTS

Sec. 801. Standard guidelines for intelligence community to report and 
document anomalous health incidents.
Sec. 802. Review and declassification of intelligence relating to 
anomalous health incidents.
TITLE IX--OTHER MATTERS

Sec. 901. Declassification of intelligence and additional transparency 
measures relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sec. 902. Counterintelligence briefings for members of the Armed 
Forces.
Sec. 903. Policy toward certain agents of foreign governments.
Sec. 904. Tour limits of accredited diplomatic and consular personnel 
of certain nations in the United States.
Sec. 905. Strict enforcement of travel protocols and procedures of 
accredited diplomatic and consular 
personnel of certain nations in the United 
States.
Sec. 906. Repeal of certain report requirements.
Sec. 907. Requiring penetration testing as part of the testing and 
certification of voting systems.
Sec. 908. Independent security testing and coordinated cybersecurity 
vulnerability disclosure program for 
election systems.
Sec. 909. Foreign material acquisitions.
DIVISION G--DEPARTMENT OF STATE MATTERS

Sec. 6001. Table of contents.
TITLE LXI--BUST FENTANYL ACT

Sec. 6101. Short titles.
Sec. 6102. International Narcotics Control Strategy Report.
Sec. 6103. Study and report on efforts to address fentanyl trafficking 
from the People's Republic of China and 
other relevant countries.
Sec. 6104. Prioritization of identification of persons from the 
People's Republic of China.
Sec. 6105. Expansion of sanctions under the Fentanyl Sanctions Act.
Sec. 6106. Imposition of sanctions with respect to agencies or 
instrumentalities of foreign states.
Sec. 6107. Annual report on efforts to prevent the smuggling of 
methamphetamine into the United States from 
Mexico.
TITLE LXII--COUNTERING WRONGFUL DETENTION ACT OF 2025

Sec. 6201. Short title.
Sec. 6202. Designation of a foreign country as a State Sponsor of 
Unlawful or Wrongful Detention.
Sec. 6203. Notification of international travel advisories.
Sec. 6204. Congressional Report on components related to hostage 
affairs and recovery.
Sec. 6205. Rule of construction.
TITLE LXIII--INTERNATIONAL TRAFFICKING VICTIMS PROTECTION 
REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2025

Sec. 6301. Short title.
Subtitle A--Combating Human Trafficking Abroad

Sec. 6311. United states support for integration of anti-trafficking in 
persons interventions in multilateral 
development banks.
Sec. 6312. Counter-trafficking in persons efforts in development 
cooperation and assistance policy.
Sec. 6313. Technical amendments to tier rankings.
Sec. 6314. Modifications to the Program to End Modern Slavery.
Sec. 6315. Clarification of nonhumanitarian, nontrade-related foreign 
assistance.
Sec. 6316. Expanding protections for domestic workers of official and 
diplomatic persons.
Sec. 6317. Effective dates.
Subtitle B--Authorization of Appropriations

Sec. 6321. Extension of authorizations under the Victims of Trafficking 
and Violence Protection Act of 2000.
Sec. 6322. Extension of authorizations under the International Megan's 
Law.
Subtitle C--Briefings

Sec. 6331. Briefing on annual trafficking in person's report.
Sec. 6332. Briefing on use and justification of waivers.
DIVISION H--COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2025

Sec. 5001. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 5002. Commandant defined.
TITLE LI--COAST GUARD

Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

Sec. 5101. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 5102. Authorized levels of military strength and training.
Subtitle B--Acquisition

Sec. 5111. Modification of prohibition on use of lead systems 
integrators.
Sec. 5112. Service life extension programs.
Sec. 5113. Consideration of life-cycle cost estimates for acquisition 
and procurement.
Sec. 5114. Great Lakes icebreaking.
Sec. 5115. Regular Polar Security Cutter updates.
Sec. 5116. Floating drydock for United States Coast Guard Yard.
Subtitle C--Organization and Authorities

Sec. 5131. Modification of treatment of minor construction and 
improvement project management.
Sec. 5132. Preparedness plans for Coast Guard properties located in 
tsunami inundation zones.
Sec. 5133. Public availability of information.
Sec. 5134. Delegation of ports and waterways safety authorities in 
Saint Lawrence Seaway.
Sec. 5135. Additional Pribilof Island transition completion actions.
Sec. 5136. Policy and briefing on availability of naloxone to treat 
opioid, including fentanyl, overdoses.
Sec. 5137. Great Lakes and Saint Lawrence River cooperative vessel 
traffic service.
Sec. 5138. Policy on methods to reduce incentives for illicit maritime 
drug trafficking.
Sec. 5139. Procurement of tactical maritime surveillance systems.
Sec. 5140. Plan for joint and integrated maritime operational and 
leadership training for United States Coast 
Guard and Taiwan Coast Guard 
Administration.
Sec. 5141. Modification of authority for special purpose facilities.
Sec. 5142. Timely reimbursement of damage claims for Coast Guard 
property.
Sec. 5143. Enhanced use property pilot program.
Sec. 5144. Coast Guard property provision.
Subtitle D--Personnel

Sec. 5151. Direct hire authority for certain personnel.
Sec. 5152. Temporary exemption from authorized end strength for 
enlisted members on active duty in Coast 
Guard in pay grades E-8 and E-9.
Sec. 5153. Additional available guidance and considerations for reserve 
selection boards.
Sec. 5154. Family leave policies for the Coast Guard.
Sec. 5155. Authorization for maternity uniform allowance for officers.
Sec. 5156. Housing.
Sec. 5157. Uniform funding and management system for morale, well-
being, and recreation programs and Coast 
Guard Exchange.
Sec. 5158. Coast Guard embedded behavioral health technician program.
Sec. 5159. Expansion of access to counseling.
Sec. 5160. Command sponsorship for dependents of members of Coast Guard 
assigned to Unalaska, Alaska.
Sec. 5161. Travel allowance for members of Coast Guard assigned to 
Alaska.
Sec. 5162. Consolidation of authorities for college student 
precommissioning initiative.
Sec. 5163. Tuition Assistance and Advanced Education Assistance Pilot 
Program.
Sec. 5164. Modifications to career flexibility program.
Sec. 5165. Recruitment, relocation, and retention incentive program for 
civilian firefighters employed by Coast 
Guard in remote locations.
Sec. 5166. Reinstatement of training course on workings of Congress; 
Coast Guard Museum.
Sec. 5167. Modification of designation of Vice Admirals.
Sec. 5168. Commandant Advisory Judge Advocate.
Sec. 5169. Special Advisor to Commandant for Tribal and Native Hawaiian 
affairs.
Sec. 5170. Notification.
Subtitle E--Coast Guard Academy

Sec. 5171. Modification of Board of Visitors.
Sec. 5172. Study on Coast Guard Academy oversight.
Sec. 5173. Electronic locking mechanisms to ensure Coast Guard Academy 
cadet room security.
Sec. 5174. Coast Guard Academy student advisory board and access to 
timely and independent wellness support 
services for cadets and candidates.
Sec. 5175. Report on existing behavioral health and wellness support 
services facilities at Coast Guard Academy.
Sec. 5176. Required posting of information.
Sec. 5177. Installation of behavioral health and wellness rooms.
Sec. 5178. Coast Guard Academy room reassignment.
Sec. 5179. Authorization for use of Coast Guard Academy facilities and 
equipment by covered foundations.
Sec. 5180. Concurrent jurisdiction at Coast Guard Academy.
Subtitle F--Reports

Sec. 5181. Maritime domain awareness in Coast Guard sector for Puerto 
Rico and Virgin Islands.
Sec. 5182. Report on condition of Missouri River dayboards.
Sec. 5183. Study on Coast Guard missions.
Sec. 5184. Annual report on progress of certain homeporting projects.
Sec. 5185. Report on Bay class icebreaking tug fleet replacement.
Sec. 5186. Feasibility study on supporting additional port visits and 
deployments in support of Operation Blue 
Pacific.
Sec. 5187. Study and gap analysis with respect to Coast Guard Air 
Station Corpus Christi aviation hangar.
Sec. 5188. Report on impacts of joint travel regulations on members of 
Coast Guard who rely on ferry systems.
Sec. 5189. Report on Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program.
Sec. 5190. Report on and expansion of Coast Guard Junior Reserve 
Officers' Training Corps Program.
TITLE LII--SHIPPING AND NAVIGATION

Subtitle A--Merchant Mariner Credentials

Sec. 5201. Merchant mariner credentialing.
Sec. 5202. Nonoperating individual.
Sec. 5203. Merchant mariner licensing and documentation system 
requirements.
Subtitle B--Vessel Safety

Sec. 5211. Grossly negligent operations of a vessel.
Sec. 5212. Administrative procedure for security risks.
Sec. 5213. Study of amphibious vessels.
Sec. 5214. Performance driven examination schedule.
Sec. 5215. Ports and waterways safety.
Sec. 5216. Study on Bering Strait vessel traffic projections and 
emergency response posture at ports of the 
United States.
Sec. 5217. Underwater inspections brief.
Sec. 5218. St. Lucie River railroad bridge.
Sec. 5219. Authority to establish safety zones for special activities 
in exclusive economic zone.
Sec. 5220. Improving Vessel Traffic Service monitoring.
Sec. 5221. Designating pilotage waters for the Straits of Mackinac.
Sec. 5222. Receipts; international agreements for ice patrol services.
Sec. 5223. Requirements for certain fishing vessels and fish tender 
vessels.
Subtitle C--Matters Involving Uncrewed Systems

Sec. 5231. Establishment of National Advisory Committee on Autonomous 
Maritime Systems.
Sec. 5232. Pilot program for governance and oversight of small uncrewed 
maritime systems.
Sec. 5233. Coast Guard training course.
Sec. 5234. NOAA membership on Autonomous Vessel Policy Council.
Sec. 5235. Technology pilot program.
Sec. 5236. Uncrewed systems capabilities report and briefing.
Sec. 5237. Definitions.
Subtitle D--Other Matters

Sec. 5241. Controlled substance onboard vessels.
Sec. 5242. Information on type approval certificates.
Sec. 5243. Clarification of authorities.
Sec. 5244. Anchorages.
Sec. 5245. Amendments to passenger vessel security and safety 
requirements.
Sec. 5246. Cyber-incident training.
Sec. 5247. Extension of pilot program to establish a cetacean desk for 
Puget Sound region.
Sec. 5248. Suspension of enforcement of use of devices broadcasting on 
AIS for purposes of marking fishing gear.
Sec. 5249. Classification societies.
Sec. 5250. Abandoned and derelict vessel removals.
TITLE LIII--OIL POLLUTION RESPONSE

Sec. 5301. Salvage and marine firefighting response capability.
Sec. 5302. Use of marine casualty investigations.
Sec. 5303. Timing of review.
Sec. 5304. Online incident reporting system.
Sec. 5305. Investment of Exxon Valdez oil spill court recovery in high 
yield investments and marine research.
TITLE LIV--SEXUAL ASSAULT AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT RESPONSE

Sec. 5401. Independent review of Coast Guard reforms.
Sec. 5402. Comprehensive policy and procedures on retention and access 
to evidence and records relating to sexual 
misconduct and other misconduct.
Sec. 5403. Consideration of request for transfer of a cadet at the 
Coast Guard Academy who is the victim of a 
sexual assault or related offense.
Sec. 5404. Designation of officers with particular expertise in 
military justice or healthcare.
Sec. 5405. Safe-to-Report policy for Coast Guard.
Sec. 5406. Modification of reporting requirements on covered misconduct 
in Coast Guard.
Sec. 5407. Modifications to the officer involuntary separation process.
Sec. 5408. Review of discharge characterization.
Sec. 5409. Convicted sex offender as grounds for denial.
Sec. 5410. Definition of covered misconduct.
Sec. 5411. Notification of changes to Uniform Code of Military Justice 
or Manual for Courts Martial relating to 
covered misconduct.
Sec. 5412. Complaints of retaliation by victims of sexual assault or 
sexual harassment and related persons.
Sec. 5413. Development of policies on military protective orders.
Sec. 5414. Coast Guard implementation of independent review commission 
recommendations on addressing sexual 
assault and sexual harassment in the 
military.
Sec. 5415. Policy relating to care and support of victims of covered 
misconduct.
Sec. 5416. Establishment of special victim capabilities to respond to 
allegations of certain special victim 
offenses.
Sec. 5417. Members asserting post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual 
assault, or traumatic brain injury.
Sec. 5418. Participation in CATCH a Serial Offender program.
Sec. 5419. Accountability and transparency relating to allegations of 
misconduct against senior leaders.
Sec. 5420. Confidential reporting of sexual harassment.
Sec. 5421. Report on policy on whistleblower protections.
Sec. 5422. Review and modification of Coast Guard Academy policy on 
sexual harassment and sexual violence.
Sec. 5423. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Academy access to defense sexual 
assault incident database.
Sec. 5424. Director of Coast Guard Investigative Service.
Sec. 5425. Modifications and revisions relating to reopening retired 
grade determinations.
Sec. 5426. Inclusion and command review of information on covered 
misconduct in personnel service records.
Sec. 5427. Flag officer review of, and concurrence in, separation of 
members who have reported sexual 
misconduct.
Sec. 5428. Expedited transfer in cases of sexual misconduct or domestic 
violence.
Sec. 5429. Access to temporary separation program for victims of 
alleged sex-related offenses.
Sec. 5430. Policy and program to expand prevention of sexual 
misconduct.
Sec. 5431. Continuous vetting of security clearances.
Sec. 5432. Training and education programs for covered misconduct 
prevention and response.
TITLE LV--COMPTROLLER GENERAL REPORTS

Sec. 5501. Comptroller General report on Coast Guard research, 
development, and innovation program.
Sec. 5502. Comptroller General study on vessel traffic service center 
employment, compensation, and retention.
Sec. 5503. Comptroller General review of quality and availability of 
Coast Guard behavioral health care and 
resources for personnel wellness.
Sec. 5504. Comptroller General study on Coast Guard efforts to reduce 
prevalence of missing or incomplete medical 
records and sharing of medical data with 
Department of Veterans Affairs and other 
entities.
Sec. 5505. Comptroller General study on Coast Guard training facility 
infrastructure.
Sec. 5506. Comptroller General study on facility and infrastructure 
needs of Coast Guard stations conducting 
border security operations.
Sec. 5507. Comptroller General study on Coast Guard basic allowance for 
housing.
Sec. 5508. Comptroller General report on safety and security 
infrastructure at Coast Guard Academy.
Sec. 5509. Comptroller General study on athletic coaching at Coast 
Guard Academy.
Sec. 5510. Comptroller General study and report on permanent change of 
station process.
TITLE LVI--AMENDMENTS

Sec. 5601. Amendments.
TITLE LVII--NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION

Subtitle A--National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
Commissioned Officer Corps

Sec. 5701. Title and qualifications of head of National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration Commissioned 
Officer Corps and Office of Marine and 
Aviation Operations; promotions of flag 
officers.
Sec. 5702. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration vessel 
fleet.
Sec. 5703. Cooperative Aviation Centers.
Sec. 5704. Eligibility of former officers to compete for certain 
positions.
Sec. 5705. Alignment of physical disqualification standard for 
obligated service agreements with standard 
for veterans' benefits.
Sec. 5706. Streamlining separation and retirement process.
Sec. 5707. Separation of ensigns found not fully qualified.
Sec. 5708. Repeal of limitation on educational assistance.
Sec. 5709. Disposal of survey and research vessels and equipment of the 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration.
Subtitle B--South Pacific Tuna Treaty Matters

Sec. 5721. References to South Pacific Tuna Act of 1988.
Sec. 5722. Definitions.
Sec. 5723. Prohibited acts.
Sec. 5724. Exceptions.
Sec. 5725. Criminal offenses.
Sec. 5726. Civil penalties.
Sec. 5727. Licenses.
Sec. 5728. Enforcement.
Sec. 5729. Findings by Secretary of Commerce.
Sec. 5730. Disclosure of information.
Sec. 5731. Closed area stowage requirements.
Sec. 5732. Observers.
Sec. 5733. Fisheries-related assistance.
Sec. 5734. Arbitration.
Sec. 5735. Disposition of fees, penalties, forfeitures, and other 
moneys.
Sec. 5736. Additional agreements.
Subtitle C--Other Matters

Sec. 5741. North Pacific Research Board enhancement.
DIVISION I--ROAD TO HOUSING ACT

Sec. 5001. Short title.
Sec. 5002. Table of contents.
TITLE I--IMPROVING FINANCIAL LITERACY

Sec. 5101. Reforms to housing counseling and financial literacy 
programs.
TITLE II--BUILDING MORE IN AMERICA

Sec. 5201. Rental assistance demonstration program.
Sec. 5202. Increasing housing in opportunity zones.
Sec. 5203. Housing Supply Frameworks Act.
Sec. 5204. Whole-Home Repairs Act.
Sec. 5205. Community Investment and Prosperity Act.
Sec. 5206. Build Now Act.
Sec. 5207. Better Use of Intergovernmental and Local Development 
(BUILD) Housing Act.
Sec. 5208. Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized 
Reviews Act.
Sec. 5209. Innovation Fund.
Sec. 5210. Accelerating Home Building Act.
Sec. 5211. Build More Housing Near Transit Act.
Sec. 5212. Revitalizing Empty Structures Into Desirable Environments 
(RESIDE) Act.
Sec. 5213. Housing Affordability Act.
TITLE III--MANUFACTURED HOUSING FOR AMERICA

Sec. 5301. Housing Supply Expansion Act.
Sec. 5302. Modular Housing Production Act.
Sec. 5303. Property Improvement and Manufactured Housing Loan 
Modernization Act.
Sec. 5304. Price Act.
TITLE IV--ACCESSING THE AMERICAN DREAM

Sec. 5401. Creating incentives for small dollar loan originators.
Sec. 5402. Small dollar mortgage points and fees.
Sec. 5403. Appraisal Industry Improvement Act.
Sec. 5404. Helping More Families Save Act.
Sec. 5405. Choice in Affordable Housing Act.
TITLE V--PROGRAM REFORM

Sec. 5501. Reforming Disaster Recovery Act.
Sec. 5502. HOME Investment Partnerships Reauthorization and Improvement 
Act.
Sec. 5503. Rural Housing Service Reform Act.
Sec. 5504. New Moving to Work cohort.
Sec. 5505. Reducing Homelessness Through Program Reform Act.
Sec. 5506. Incentivizing local solutions to homelessness.
TITLE VI--VETERANS AND HOUSING

Sec. 5601. VA Home Loan Awareness Act.
Sec. 5602. Veterans Affairs Loan Informed Disclosure (VALID) Act.
Sec. 5603. Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act.
TITLE VII--OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Sec. 5701. Requiring annual testimony and oversight from housing 
regulators.
Sec. 5702. FHA reporting requirements on safety and soundness.
Sec. 5703. United States Interagency Council on Homelessness oversight.
Sec. 5704. NeighborWorks Accountability Act.
Sec. 5705. Appraisal Modernization Act.
TITLE VIII--COORDINATION, STUDIES, AND REPORTING

Sec. 5801. HUD-USDA-VA Interagency Coordination Act.
Sec. 5802. Streamlining Rural Housing Act.
Sec. 5803. Improving self-sufficiency of families in HUD-subsidized 
housing.
DIVISION J--DEPARTMENT OF STATE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026

Sec. 5001. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 5002. Definitions.
TITLE LXI--WORKFORCE MATTERS

Sec. 5101. Report on vetting of Foreign Service Institute language 
instructors.
Sec. 5102. Training limitations.
Sec. 5103. Language incentive pay for civil service employees.
Sec. 5104. Options for comprehensive evaluations.
Sec. 5105. Job share and part-time employment opportunities.
Sec. 5106. Promoting reutilization of language skills in the Foreign 
Service.
TITLE LXII--ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS

Sec. 5201. Periodic briefings from Bureau of Intelligence and Research.
Sec. 5202. Support for congressional delegations.
Sec. 5203. Notification requirements for authorized and ordered 
departures.
Sec. 5204. Strengthening enterprise governance.
Sec. 5205. Establishing and expanding the Regional China Officer 
program.
Sec. 5206. Report on China's diplomatic posts.
Sec. 5207. Notification of intent to reduce personnel at covered 
diplomatic posts.
Sec. 5208. Foreign affairs manual changes.
TITLE LXIII--INFORMATION SECURITY AND CYBER DIPLOMACY

Sec. 5301. Supporting Department of State data analytics.
Sec. 5302. Post Data Pilot Program.
Sec. 5303. Authorization to use commercial cloud enclaves overseas.
Sec. 5304. Reports on technology transformation projects at the 
Department of State.
Sec. 5305. Commercial spyware.
Sec. 5306. Review of science and technology agreement with the People's 
Republic of China.
TITLE LXIV--PUBLIC DIPLOMACY

Sec. 5401. Foreign information manipulation and interference strategy.
Sec. 5402. Lifting the prohibition on use of Federal funds for World's 
Fair pavilions and exhibits.
TITLE LXV--DIPLOMATIC SECURITY AND CONSULAR AFFAIRS

Sec. 5501. Report concerning Department of State consular officers 
joining Coast Guard and Navy missions to 
Pacific island countries.
Sec. 5502. Report on security conditions in Damascus, Syria, required 
for the reopening of the United States 
diplomatic mission.
Sec. 5503. Embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic installations 
return to standards report.
Sec. 5504. Visa operations report.
Sec. 5505. Reauthorization of overtime pay for protective services.
TITLE LXVI--MISCELLANEOUS

Sec. 5551. Submission of federally funded research and development 
center reports to Congress.
Sec. 5552. Quarterly report on diplomatic pouch access.
Sec. 5553. Report on utility of instituting a processing fee for ITAR 
license applications.
Sec. 5554. HAVANA Act payment fix.
Sec. 5555. Establishing an inner Mongolia section within the United 
States embassy in Beijing.
Sec. 5556. Report on United States Mission Australia staffing.
Sec. 5557. Facilitating regulatory exchanges with allies and partners.
Sec. 5558. Pilot program to audit barriers to commerce in developing 
partner countries.
Sec. 5559. Strategy for promoting supply chain diversification.
Sec. 5560. Extensions.
Sec. 5561. Permitting for international bridges and land ports of 
entry.
Sec. 5562. Updating counterterrorism reports.

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.

SEC. 4. BUDGETARY EFFECTS OF THIS ACT.

The budgetary effects of this Act, for the purposes of complying 
with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010, shall be determined by 
reference to the latest statement titled ``Budgetary Effects of PAYGO 
Legislation'' for this Act, jointly submitted for printing in the 
Congressional Record by the Chairmen of the House and Senate Budget 
Committees, provided that such statement has been submitted prior to 
the vote on passage in the House acting first on the conference report 
or amendment between the Houses.

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. STRATEGY FOR ARMY TACTICAL WHEELED VEHICLE PROGRAM.

Section 112(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2024 (10 U.S.C. 7013 note; Public Law 118-31) is amended by 
inserting ``2027,'' after ``fiscal years 2025,''.

Subtitle C--Navy Programs

SEC. 121. PROCUREMENT AUTHORITY FOR COLUMBIA-CLASS SUBMARINE PROGRAM.

(a) Procurement Authority.--Beginning in fiscal year 2026, the 
Secretary of the Navy may enter into one or more contracts for the 
procurement of not more than five Columbia-class submarines.
(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 2026 is subject to the availability of appropriations 
or funds for that purpose for such later fiscal year.
(c) Limitation on Termination Liability.--A contract for the 
construction of Columbia-class submarines entered into under subsection 
(a) shall include a clause that limits the liability of the United 
States to the contractor for any termination of the contract. The 
maximum liability of the United States under the clause shall be 
limited to the total amount of funding obligated to the contract at the 
time of termination.

SEC. 122. PROCUREMENT AUTHORITIES FOR MEDIUM LANDING SHIPS.

(a) Contract Authority.--
(1) In general.--During fiscal years 2026 and 2027, the 
Secretary of the Navy may enter into one or more contracts for 
the procurement of not more than 15 Medium Landing Ships.
(2) Procurement in conjunction with existing contracts.--
The ships authorized to be procured under paragraph (1) may be 
procured as additions to existing contracts covering the Medium 
Landing Ship program.
(b) Certification Required.--A contract may not be entered into 
under subsection (a) unless the Secretary of the Navy certifies to the 
congressional defense committees, in writing, not later than 30 days 
before entry into the contract, each of the following, which shall be 
prepared by the milestone decision authority (as defined in section 
4251(e) of title 10, United States Code) for the Medium Landing Ship 
program:
(1) The use of such a contract is consistent with the 
Department of the Navy's projected force structure requirements 
for such ships.
(2) The use of such a contract will result in significant 
savings compared to the total anticipated costs of carrying out 
the program through annual contracts.
(3) There is a reasonable expectation that throughout the 
contemplated contract period the Secretary of the Navy will 
request funding for the contract at the level required to avoid 
contract cancellation.
(4) There is a stable design for the property to be 
acquired and the technical risks associated with such property 
are not excessive.
(5) The estimates of the cost of the contract and the 
anticipated cost avoidance through the use of the contract are 
realistic.
(6) During the fiscal year in which the contract is to be 
awarded--
(A) sufficient funds will be available to perform 
the contract in such fiscal year; and
(B) the future-years defense program submitted to 
Congress under section 221 of title 10, United States 
Code, for such fiscal year will include the funding 
required to execute the program without cancellation.
(c) Authority for Advance Procurement.--The Secretary of the Navy 
may enter into one or more contracts for advance procurement associated 
with the ships for which authorization to enter into a contract is 
provided under subsection (a), and for systems and subsystems 
associated with such ships in economic order quantities when cost 
savings are achievable.
(d) Condition for Out-year Contract Payments.--A contract entered 
into under subsection (a) shall provide that any obligation of the 
United States to make a payment under the contract for a fiscal year is 
subject to the availability of appropriations for that purpose for such 
fiscal year.

SEC. 123. RECAPITALIZATION OF NAVY WATERBORNE SECURITY BARRIERS; 
MODIFICATION OF PROHIBITION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR 
LEGACY WATERBORNE SECURITY BARRIERS.

(a) In General.--Section 130 of the John S. McCain National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115-232; 132 Stat. 
1665), as most recently amended by section 123 of the Servicemember 
Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159), is further amended--
(1) in the section heading, by inserting ``; 
recapitalization'' after ``barriers'';
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``subsections (b) and (c)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (b)''; and
(B) by striking ``through 2025'' and inserting 
``through 2026'';
(3) by striking subsection (b);
(4) by redesignating subsections (c) and (d) as subsections 
(b) and (c), respectively;
(5) in subsection (c), as so redesignated, by striking 
``subsection (c)(2)'' and inserting ``subsection (b)(2)''; and
(6) by adding at the end the following new subsection (d):
``(d) Recapitalization.--
``(1) Plan submission.--
``(A) In general.--Not later than April 1, 2026, 
the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a recapitalization 
plan to replace legacy waterborne security barriers for 
Navy ports.
``(B) Elements.--The plan required by subparagraph 
(A) shall include the following:
``(i) A Navy requirements document that 
specifies key performance parameters and key 
system attributes for new waterborne security 
barriers for Navy ports.
``(ii) A certification that the level of 
capability specified under clause (i) will 
exceed that of legacy waterborne security 
barriers for Navy ports.
``(iii) The acquisition strategy for the 
recapitalization of waterborne security 
barriers for Navy ports, which shall meet or 
exceed the requirements specified under clause 
(i).
``(iv) A certification that any contract 
for new waterborne security barriers for a Navy 
port will be awarded in accordance with the 
requirements for full and open competition set 
forth in sections 3201 through 3205 of title 
10, United States Code.
``(2) Implementation.--The Secretary of the Navy shall 
implement the plan required by paragraph (1) by not later than 
September 30, 2027.''.
(b) Clerical Amendments.--The table of contents in section 2(b) of 
the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2019, and at the beginning of title I of division A of such Act, are 
each amended by striking the item relating to section 130 and inserting 
the following new item:

``Sec. 130. Prohibition on availability of funds for Navy port 
waterborne security barriers; 
recapitalization.''.

SEC. 124. MODIFICATION TO LIMITATIONS ON NAVY MEDIUM AND LARGE UNMANNED 
SURFACE VESSELS.

(a) Repeal.--Section 122 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 
116-283; 134 Stat. 3425) is repealed.
(b) Requirement.--The Secretary of the Navy may not award a detail 
design or construction contract or other agreement, or obligate funds 
from a procurement account, for a covered program unless such contract 
or other agreement includes a requirement for an operational 
demonstration of not less than 720 continuous hours without 
preventative maintenance, corrective maintenance, emergent repair, or 
any other form of repair or maintenance, on any of the following:
(1) The main propulsion system, including the fuel and lube 
oil systems.
(2) The electrical generation and distribution system.
(c) Certification.--The Secretary of the Navy may not accept 
delivery of articles constructed under a contract or other agreement 
for a covered program until the Secretary certifies to the 
congressional defense committees that the operational demonstration 
described in subsection (b) has been successfully completed.
(d) Limitation.--The Secretary of the Navy may not make contract 
financing payments for a contract or other agreement entered into for a 
covered program greater than 90 percent for small businesses and 80 
percent for all other businesses until the certification described in 
subsection (c) is submitted.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Covered program.--The term ``covered program'' means a 
program for--
(A) medium unmanned surface vessels; or
(B) large unmanned surface vessels.
(2) Operational demonstration.--The term ``operational 
demonstration'' means a land-based or sea-based test of the 
systems concerned in vessel-representative form, fit, and 
function.

SEC. 125. LIMITATION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR TAGOS SHIP PROGRAM.

(a) Limitation.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by 
this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2026 for the Navy 
may be obligated or expended for the scope of work, including priced or 
unpriced options, for the construction, advance procurement, or long-
lead material of any ships in the TAGOS surveillance towed-array sensor 
system ship program unless the Secretary of the Navy submits the report 
described in subsection (b) to the Committee on Armed Service of the 
Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
Representatives not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act.
(b) Report.--The Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the 
Committee on Armed Service of the Senate and the Committee on Armed 
Services of the House of Representatives a report on the following:
(1) Progress made on basic and functional design completion 
for TAGOS surveillance towed-array sensor system ships and how 
compliance with section 8669c of title 10, United States Code, 
will be maintained.
(2) The accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of the 
Navy's provisioning of contract baseline design, general 
arrangement drawings, and other government-furnished 
information to the prime contractor for such ships.
(3) The ability of the functional design of such ships to 
meet program requirements, including speed requirements.
(4) The adherence of the Navy to performance-based 
requirements and the ability of the prime contractor for such 
ships to make design choices to meet those requirements, 
commensurate with its responsibility for cost and schedule in 
the contract structure.
(5) Alternative solutions to meeting the general set of 
Navy requirements for anti-submarine warfare covered by such 
ships, including unmanned solutions.

SEC. 126. LIMITATION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS RELATING TO AMPHIBIOUS 
WARFARE SHIP REQUIREMENT.

(a) Plan Required.--The Secretary of the Navy shall submit with the 
defense budget materials for fiscal year 2027 (as submitted to Congress 
in support of the budget of the President under section 1105(a) of 
title 31, United States Code) a 30-year shipbuilding plan that meets 
the requirement under section 8062(b) of title 10, United States Code, 
to maintain 31 amphibious warfare ships.
(b) Certification Required.--The Secretary of Defense shall submit 
with the defense budget materials for fiscal year 2027 (as submitted to 
Congress in support of the budget of the President under section 
1105(a) of title 31, United States Code) a certification as to whether 
such materials support the requirement under section 8062(b) of title 
10, United States Code, to maintain 31 amphibious warfare ships.
(c) Limitation.--
(1) Plan.--If the Secretary of the Navy does not submit the 
30-year shipbuilding plan described in subsection (a) as 
required by such subsection, not more than 75 percent of the 
funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise 
made available for fiscal year 2026 for Administration and 
Service-Wide Activities, Operation and Maintenance, Navy, may 
be obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary 
of the Navy submits to the congressional defense committees 
such plan.
(2) Certification.--If the Secretary of Defense does not 
submit the certification described in subsection (a) as 
required by such subsection, or certifies that the materials 
described in such subsection do not support the requirement 
described in such subsection, not more than 75 percent of the 
funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise 
made available for fiscal year 2026 for Office of the Secretary 
of Defense, Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide, may be 
obligated or expended until the date on which the Secretary of 
Defense submits to the congressional defense committees defense 
budget materials that support the requirement under section 
8062(b) of title 10, United States Code, to maintain 31 
amphibious warfare ships.
(d) 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. 127. TEMPORARY UNAVAILABILITY OF AMPHIBIOUS WARFARE SHIPS.

Section 8062(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(1)'' before ``The naval''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2) For purposes of this subsection, the term `temporarily 
unavailable' with respect to an amphibious warfare ship means that the 
ship has not surpassed its planned availability by a margin of--
``(A) greater than 100 percent of the nominal duration of 
that availability in 2026 or 2027;
``(B) greater than 75 percent of the nominal duration of 
that availability in 2028 or 2029;
``(C) greater than 50 percent of the nominal duration of 
that availability in 2030 or 2031; and
``(D) greater than 25 percent of the nominal duration of 
that availability in 2032 or any year thereafter.''.

Subtitle D--Air Force Programs

SEC. 131. B-21 BOMBER AIRCRAFT PROGRAM ACCOUNTABILITY MATRICES.

(a) Submittal of Matrices.--Concurrent with the President's annual 
budget request submitted to Congress under section 1105 of title 31, 
United States Code, for fiscal year 2027, the Secretary of the Air 
Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees and the 
Comptroller General of the United States--
(1) the matrices described in subsection (b) relating to 
the B-21 bomber aircraft program; and
(2) the estimate, as of the date of such submission, for 
the program's average procurement unit cost, acquisition unit 
cost, and life-cycle costs.
(b) Matrices Described.--The matrices described in this subsection 
are the following:
(1) Program goals and execution.--A matrix that identifies, 
in six-month increments, plans for and progress in achieving 
key milestones and events, and specific performance metric 
goals and actuals for the development, production, and 
sustainment of the B-21 bomber aircraft program, which shall be 
subdivided, at a minimum, according to the following:
(A) Technology readiness levels of major 
components, and associated risks and key demonstration 
events through maturity (technology readiness level 7) 
for baseline and modernization efforts.
(B) Engine design maturity, and plans and progress 
of engine test events.
(C) Software development progress and related 
metrics, including--
(i) percent of capabilities complete and 
system features complete; and
(ii) software quality metrics.
(D) Manufacturing progress and related metrics for 
the prime contractor and key suppliers, including--
(i) manufacturing readiness levels through 
level 8;
(ii) touch labor hours; and
(iii) scrap, rework, and repair.
(E) System verification and key ground and flight 
test events for developmental and operational testing, 
including--
(i) percent complete;
(ii) time on condition;
(iii) sorties; and
(iv) test points.
(F) Aircraft reliability, availability, and 
maintainability metrics, including--
(i) mean time to repair;
(ii) operational availability;
(iii) mission capable; and
(iv) cost per flying hour.
(G) Operations and sustainment plans and progress, 
including--
(i) main operating base setup;
(ii) training system deliveries;
(iii) depot maintenance; and
(iv) technology data packages.
(2) Cost.--A matrix expressing, in six-month increments, 
the total cost for the Air Force service cost position for the 
engineering and manufacturing development phase and production 
lots of the B-21 bomber aircraft, and a matrix expressing the 
total cost for the prime contractor's estimate for such phase 
and production lots, each of which shall be phased over the 
entire engineering and manufacturing development period and 
subdivided according to the costs of the following:
(A) Air vehicle.
(B) Propulsion.
(C) Mission systems.
(D) Vehicle subsystems.
(E) Air vehicle software.
(F) Systems engineering.
(G) Program management.
(H) System test and evaluation.
(I) Support and training systems.
(J) Contract fee.
(K) Engineering changes.
(L) Direct mission support, including congressional 
general reductions.
(M) Government testing.
(c) Semiannual Update of Matrices.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date on 
which the Secretary of the Air Force submits the matrices 
required by subsection (a), concurrent with the submittal of 
each annual budget request to Congress under section 1105 of 
title 31, United States Code, thereafter, and not later than 
180 days after each such submittal, the Secretary of the Air 
Force shall submit to the congressional defense committees and 
the Comptroller General updates to the matrices described in 
subsection (b).
(2) Elements.--Each update submitted under paragraph (1) 
shall detail progress made toward the goals identified in the 
matrix described in subsection (b)(1) and provide updated cost 
estimates.
(d) Assessment by Comptroller General of the United States.--Not 
less frequently than annually, the Comptroller General shall--
(1) review the sufficiency of each matrix received under 
this section; and
(2) submit to the congressional defense committees an 
assessment of such matrix, including by identifying cost, 
schedule, or performance trends.
(e) Repeal.--Section 238 of the National Defense Authorization Act 
for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114-328; 130 Stat. 2067) is repealed.

SEC. 132. BOMBER AIRCRAFT FORCE STRUCTURE AND TRANSITION ROADMAP.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to 
the congressional defense committees a comprehensive roadmap detailing 
the planned force structure, basing, modernization, and transition 
strategy for the bomber aircraft fleet of the Air Force through fiscal 
year 2040.
(b) Elements.--The roadmap required by subsection (a) shall include 
the following:
(1) A detailed schedule and rationale for the planned 
divestment of B-1 bomber aircraft, including location-specific 
retirements, infrastructure disposition, and mitigation of any 
resulting capability gaps.
(2) A transition plan for the operational fielding of B-21 
bomber aircraft, including basing decisions, training and 
sustainment plans, operational concepts, and anticipated 
initial operational capability and full operational capability 
timelines.
(3) A strategy for integrating units of the Air National 
Guard and the Air Force Reserve into B-21 bomber aircraft 
operations, including planned force structure, association, 
training, and mobilization models.
(4) An update on--
(A) modernization efforts for B-52 bomber aircraft, 
including engine replacement, radar upgrades, and 
digital integration efforts; and
(B) the expected service life and mission profile 
of B-52 bomber aircraft through the 2050s.
(5) A detailed timeline with key milestones for each of the 
elements described in paragraphs (1) through (4), including 
programmatic decision points, resourcing requirements, risk 
assessments, and coordination with other components of the Air 
Force Global Strike Command and the Air Combat Command.
(c) Objective.--The roadmap required by subsection (a) shall 
support a deliberate and balanced transition to a modernized, dual-
capable bomber aircraft force that ensures long-range strike capacity, 
survivability, and deterrence in both nuclear and conventional mission 
sets, with a minimum of 100 B-21 bomber aircraft as directed by prior 
Acts of Congress.
(d) Form.--The roadmap required by subsection (a) shall be 
submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.

SEC. 133. REQUIREMENT FOR AN INTELLIGENCE, SURVEILLANCE, AND 
RECONNAISSANCE ROADMAP FOR THE AIR FORCE.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to 
the congressional defense committees a comprehensive roadmap detailing 
the strategic plan for the development, acquisition, modernization, and 
integration of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) 
capabilities of the Air Force.
(b) Elements.--The roadmap required by subsection (a) shall include 
the following:
(1) A strategic assessment of current (as of the date on 
which the roadmap is submitted) and projected intelligence, 
surveillance, and reconnaissance requirements for the Air Force 
across all domains, including air, space, and cyberspace.
(2) An inventory of current (as of the date on which the 
roadmap is submitted) intelligence, surveillance, and 
reconnaissance platforms, sensors, and associated data-
processing systems, including the mission capabilities, 
operational status, and expected service life for each.
(3) A plan for the modernization or divestment of legacy 
airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance 
systems, with justification for each decision.
(4) A detailed outline of planned investments and 
capabilities in emerging intelligence, surveillance, and 
reconnaissance technologies, including--
(A) artificial intelligence;
(B) machine learning;
(C) space-based intelligence, surveillance, and 
reconnaissance; and
(D) autonomous or remotely piloted platforms.
(5) An assessment of the integration of intelligence, 
surveillance, and reconnaissance data into command and control 
networks, including interoperability with joint, interagency, 
and allied partners.
(6) A risk assessment identifying potential capability 
gaps, threats, and mitigation strategies.
(7) A description of the roles and responsibilities of the 
components of the intelligence, surveillance, and 
reconnaissance effort of the Air Force in implementing the 
roadmap.
(8) A proposed timeline and milestones for the 
implementation of the roadmap over the next ten fiscal years.
(c) Form.--The roadmap required by subsection (a) shall be 
submitted in unclassified form, but shall include a classified annex.

SEC. 134. ANNUAL REPORT ON DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE UNIFIED DATALINK 
STRATEGY.

Section 1527 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31; 10 U.S.C. 2223 note) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d); and
(2) by inserting after subsection (b) the following new 
subsection (c):
``(c) Annual Reports.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2026, and not less frequently than once each year thereafter through 
December 31, 2032, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate 
congressional committees an annual report on the implementation of the 
strategy.''.

SEC. 135. PLAN FOR OPEN MISSION SYSTEMS OF F-35 AIRCRAFT.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall develop a plan to 
establish an open mission systems computing environment that is 
controlled by the Federal Government on the F-35 aircraft of the 
Department of Defense.
(b) Elements.--The plan required under subsection (a) shall do the 
following:
(1) Enable the portability of software applications between 
the F-35 aircraft, the F-22 aircraft, and the Next Generation 
Air Dominance initiative of the Air Force.
(2) Enable the integration of new open mission system 
software, or changes to existing open mission system software, 
with minimal integration work required by the prime contractor 
of the air vehicle.
(3) Eliminate or minimize aircraft airworthiness impacts 
due to software changes within the open mission systems 
computing environment.
(4) Enable the rapid upgrade of onboard processors.
(5) Leverage a Federal Government reference architecture.
(6) Ensure control by the Federal Government over the 
airworthiness and security processes, as well as ownership by 
the Federal Government of the open mission system technical 
documentation and data rights.
(7) Be capable of connection to all relevant aircraft 
apertures sufficient to meet current and future combat 
requirements, including cockpit connectivity via ethernet.
(8) Leverage modern commercial software languages and 
techniques necessary to support reliable, high-throughput, and 
low-latency use-cases.
(9) Be applicable across all blocks and variants of the F-
35 aircraft.
(c) Report.--
(1) In general.--Not later than July 1, 2026, the Secretary 
of the Air Force shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report that includes the plan required under 
subsection (a).
(2) Form.--The report required under paragraph (1) shall be 
submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified 
annex.

SEC. 136. MODIFICATION OF PROHIBITION ON RETIREMENT OF F-15E AIRCRAFT.

(a) In General.--Section 9062(l)(1) of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking 
``September 30, 2029'' and inserting ``September 30, 2027''; 
and
(2) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``68 F-15E aircraft'' 
and inserting ``34 F-15E aircraft''.
(b) Repeal.--Section 150 of the Servicemember Quality of Life 
Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 
(Public Law 118-159; 138 Stat. 1812) is amended--
(1) by striking subsection (a);
(2) by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections 
(a) and (b), respectively; and
(3) in the section heading, by striking ``prohibition on 
retirement of f-15e aircraft and''.

SEC. 137. PROHIBITION ON RETIREMENT OF A-10 AIRCRAFT.

(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 to retire, prepare 
to retire, or otherwise divest A-10 aircraft to an inventory level 
below 103.
(b) Waiver Authority.--The Secretary of the Air Force may waive the 
prohibition under subsection (a) with respect to a specific unit if--
(1) the Secretary submits to the congressional defense 
committees a written certification that a detailed 
recapitalization plan has been developed for the affected unit, 
including follow on mission assignments, aircraft reallocation, 
personnel adjustments, and community impact mitigation; and
(2) a period of 30 days has elapsed following the date of 
such submission.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) A-10 aircraft.--The term ``A-10 aircraft'' means any 
aircraft of the Air Force designated A-10 Thunderbolt II.
(2) Retire.--The term ``retire'' includes the permanent 
removal of an aircraft from the operational inventory, 
reassignment to storage, or placement into backup aircraft 
inventory or excess status.

SEC. 138. EXTENSION OF LIMITATIONS AND MINIMUM INVENTORY REQUIREMENT 
RELATING TO RQ-4 AIRCRAFT.

Section 9062(m)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended, in 
the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking ``September 30, 
2029'' and inserting ``September 30, 2030''.

SEC. 139. EXPANSION OF AIR REFUELER FLEET.

(a) Primary Mission Aircraft Inventory.--Notwithstanding any limit 
on primary mission aircraft inventory established before the date of 
the enactment of this Act, Secretary of the Air Force shall retain 
operational KC-135 Stratotankers as primary mission aircraft inventory 
as such aircraft are replaced by KC-46 aircraft in order to meet air 
refueling requirements of the Air Force and the United States 
Transportation Command.
(b) Reassignment.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Air Force shall 
reassign KC-135 Stratotankers that are retained as primary 
mission aircraft inventory and replaced by KC-46 aircraft to 
Air Refueling Wings that have the capacity to expand their 
primary mission aircraft inventory fleet of KC-135 
Stratotankers.
(2) Criteria.--The Secretary of the Air Force shall 
reassign KC-135 Stratotankers under paragraph (1) based on the 
ability of an Air Refueling Wing to--
(A) man the additional aircraft; and
(B) support pilot training requirements.

SEC. 140. 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 most 
recently amended by section 145(a) of the Servicemember Quality of Life 
Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 
(Public Law 118-159; 138 Stat. 1810 ), is further amended by striking 
``2025'' and inserting ``2028''.
(b) Extension of Prohibition on Reduction of C-130 Aircraft 
Assigned to National Guard.--Section 146(b)(1) of the James M. Inhofe 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 
117-263; 136 Stat. 2455), as most recently amended by section 145(b) of 
the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159; 138 Stat. 
1810), is further amended by striking ``2025'' and inserting ``2028''.
(c) Report Requirement.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter through fiscal year 
2028, the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the congressional 
defense committees a report detailing the following:
(1) The total number and variant types of C-130 aircraft in 
the inventory of the Air Force.
(2) Any planned retirements, divestments, or reductions to 
the fleet of such aircraft.
(3) Modernization and recapitalization efforts, including 
block upgrades and procurement schedules.
(4) Planned basing actions for fielding C-130J aircraft to 
recapitalize C-130H aircraft.

SEC. 141. INFORMATION ON FUTURE LARGE AND OVERSIZED AIR CARGO 
TRANSPORTATION SERVICES.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall solicit from 
industry information on acquiring services of an airplane that--
(1) is, as of June 2025, under development as a civilian 
aircraft;
(2) would be capable of carrying space launch vehicles and 
other Department of Defense articles not more than 300 feet 
long that cannot be or, as of June 2025, are not readily 
transported in an airplane due to cargo dimensions;
(3) could enter service not later than December 31, 2035;
(4) could provide and supplement large and oversized fixed 
wing air cargo transportation services to support the readiness 
and logistical needs of the Department by December 31, 2035, 
and thereafter; and
(5) could provide to the Department at least 2,000 hours 
and not more than 7,500 hours of airplane time for at least two 
and not more than five years beginning when such airplane could 
enter service.
(b) Report.--Not later than April 1, 2026, the Secretary of Defense 
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the 
results of the solicitation required by subsection (a).

SEC. 142. 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 Servicemember 
Quality of Life Improvement and 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. 143. PROHIBITION ON CERTAIN REDUCTIONS TO INVENTORY OF E-3 
AIRBORNE WARNING AND CONTROL SYSTEM AIRCRAFT.

(a) Prohibition.--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 retire, prepare to retire, or 
place in storage or in backup aircraft inventory any E-3 aircraft if 
such actions would reduce the total aircraft inventory for such 
aircraft below 16.
(b) Exception for Plan.--If the Secretary of the Air Force submits 
to the congressional defense committees a plan for maintaining 
readiness and ensuring there is no lapse in mission capabilities, the 
prohibition under subsection (a) shall not apply to actions taken to 
reduce the total aircraft inventory for E-3 aircraft to below 16, 
beginning 30 days after the date on which the plan is so submitted.
(c) Exception for E-7 Aircraft Procurement.--If the Secretary of 
the Air Force procures enough E-7 Wedgetail aircraft to accomplish the 
required mission load, the prohibition under subsection (a) shall not 
apply to actions taken to reduce the total aircraft inventory for E-3 
aircraft to below 16 after the date on which such E-7 Wedgetail 
aircraft are delivered.

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.

Subtitle B--Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations

SEC. 211. MODIFICATIONS TO DEFENSE RESEARCH CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAM.

(a) In General.--For fiscal year 2026 and each fiscal year 
thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that all funding 
opportunities executed in Program Element 0601228D8Z, or successor 
program element, shall include separate funding solicitations each 
focused toward--
(1) Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Tribal 
Colleges and Universities; and
(2) Minority-Serving Institutions that are not described in 
paragraph (1).
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``Historically Black College or University'' 
has the meaning given the term ``part B institution'' in 
section 322 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
1061).
(2) The term ``Minority-Serving Institution'' means an 
eligible institution described in section 371(a) of the Higher 
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a)).
(3) The term ``Tribal College or University'' has the 
meaning given the term in section 316(b) of the Higher 
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1059c(b)).

SEC. 212. PROGRAM FOR THE ENHANCEMENT OF THE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, 
TEST, AND EVALUATION CENTERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF 
DEFENSE.

(a) Making Permanent and Improving Pilot Program for the 
Enhancement of the Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Centers 
of the Department of Defense.--Chapter 305 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 4145. Program for the enhancement of the research, development, 
test, and evaluation centers of the Department of Defense
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense and the Secretaries of 
the military departments shall jointly carry out a program to 
demonstrate methods for the more effective development of technology 
and management of functions at eligible centers.
``(b) Eligible Centers.--For purposes of the program, the eligible 
centers are--
``(1) the science and technology reinvention laboratories, 
as designated by section 4121(b) of this title;
``(2) the test and evaluation centers which are activities 
specified as part of the Major Range and Test Facility Base in 
Department of Defense Directive 3200.11;
``(3) the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency;
``(4) the Defense Innovation Unit;
``(5) the Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO); and
``(6) the Office of Strategic Capital.
``(c) Participation in Program.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), the head of 
each eligible center shall submit to the Assistant Secretary 
concerned a proposal on, and implement, alternative and 
innovative methods of effective management and operations of 
eligible centers, rapid project delivery, support, 
experimentation, prototyping, and partnership with universities 
and private sector entities--
``(A) to generate greater value and efficiencies in 
research and development activities;
``(B) to enable more efficient and effective 
operations of supporting activities, such as--
``(i) facility management, construction, 
and repair;
``(ii) business operations;
``(iii) personnel management policies and 
practices; and
``(iv) intramural and public outreach; and
``(C) to enable more rapid deployment of warfighter 
capabilities.
``(2) Implementation.--(A) The head of an eligible center 
described in paragraph (1) or (2) of subsection (b) shall 
implement each method proposed under paragraph (1) of this 
subsection unless such method is disapproved in writing by the 
Assistant Secretary concerned within 60 days of receiving a 
proposal from an eligible center.
``(B) The Director of the Defense Advanced Research 
Projects Agency, the Defense Innovation Unit, the Strategic 
Capabilities Office and the Office of Strategic Capital shall 
implement each method proposed under paragraph (1) unless such 
method is disapproved in writing by the Deputy Secretary of 
Defense within 60 days of receiving a proposal from the 
Director.
``(C) In this paragraph, the term `Assistant Secretary 
concerned' means--
``(i) the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for 
Acquisition, with respect to matters concerning the Air 
Force;
``(ii) the Assistant Secretary of the Army for 
Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, with respect to 
matters concerning the Army; and
``(iii) the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for 
Research, Development, and Acquisition, with respect to 
matters concerning the Navy.
``(d) Waiver Authority for Demonstration and Implementation.--The 
head of an eligible center may waive any regulation, restriction, 
requirement, guidance, policy, procedure, or departmental instruction 
that would affect the implementation of a method proposed under 
subsection (c)(1), unless such implementation would be prohibited by a 
provision of a Federal statute or common law.''.
(b) Conforming Repeal.--Section 233 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114-328; 10 U.S.C. 
4141 note prec.) is repealed.

SEC. 213. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY FOR ASSIGNMENT TO DEFENSE ADVANCED 
RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY OF PRIVATE SECTOR PERSONNEL WITH 
CRITICAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT EXPERTISE.

Section 232(e) 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. 4091 note prec.) is amended by striking ``September 
30, 2025'' and inserting ``September 30, 2030''.

SEC. 214. LIMITATION ON USE OF FUNDS FOR CERTAIN NAVY SOFTWARE.

None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act may be 
obligated or expended for the autonomy baseline manager or the common 
control system of the Navy unless--
(1) the Secretary of the Navy submits to the congressional 
defense committees--
(A) the original baseline schedule of key 
capability deliverables and the current schedule as of 
the date of submission;
(B) the original cost estimate and the current cost 
estimate as of the date of submission, including the 
total funding received for the program;
(C) all reports of test and experimentation events, 
including a comparison of performance to alternative 
industry capabilities;
(D) the unaltered assessment of the Defense 
Innovation Unit on a market assessment of industry 
capabilities compared to the capabilities of the 
autonomy baseline manager and the common control system 
of the Navy; and
(E) an assessment that the program is delivering 
new capabilities at a pace and quality that meets or 
exceeds industry capabilities; and
(2) the Chief of Naval Operations validates to the 
congressional defense committees that the program meets 
operational user needs of the Navy.

SEC. 215. LIMITATION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR UNDER SECRETARY OF 
DEFENSE FOR RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING.

Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise 
made available for fiscal year 2026 for operation and maintenance, 
Defense-wide, and available to the Office of the Under Secretary of 
Defense for Research and Engineering for travel purposes, not more than 
80 percent may be obligated or expended until the date on which the 
Under Secretary submits to the congressional defense committees the 
report required by section 245(d) of the Servicemember Quality of Life 
Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 
(Public Law 118-159).

SEC. 216. PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTS BETWEEN CERTAIN FOREIGN ENTITIES AND 
INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION CONDUCTING DEPARTMENT OF 
DEFENSE-FUNDED RESEARCH.

(a) Prohibition.--Beginning on January 1, 2027, a covered 
institution may not enter into a contract with a covered nation or a 
foreign entity of concern.
(b) Waivers.--
(1) Authority.--Subject to the provisions of this 
subsection and subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense may, or 
their designee, pursuant to a request submitted under paragraph 
(2) of this subsection, issue a waiver of the prohibition set 
forth in subsection (a).
(2) Submission.--
(A) First waiver requests.--
(i) In general.--A covered institution that 
desires to enter into a contract with a foreign 
entity of concern or a covered nation may 
submit to the Secretary of Defense, not later 
than 120 days before the institution enters 
into such a contract, a request to waive the 
prohibition set forth in subsection (a) with 
respect to such contract.
(ii) Contents of waiver request.--A waiver 
request submitted by a covered institution 
under clause (i) shall include--
(I) the complete and unredacted 
text of the proposed contract for which 
the waiver is being requested, and if 
such original contract is not in 
English, a translated copy of the text 
into English (in a manner that complies 
with subsection (e)); and
(II) a statement that--
(aa) is signed by the 
President or compliance officer 
of the institution designated 
in accordance with subsection 
(f); and
(bb) includes information 
that demonstrates that such 
contract is for the benefit of 
the institution's mission and 
students and will promote the 
security, stability, and 
economic vitality of the United 
States.
(B) Renewal waiver requests.--
(i) In general.--A covered institution that 
has entered into a contract pursuant to a 
waiver issued under this section, the term of 
which is longer than the 1-year waiver period 
and the terms and conditions of which remain 
the same as the proposed contract submitted as 
part of the request for such waiver, may 
submit, not later than 120 days before the 
expiration of such waiver period, a request for 
a renewal of such waiver for the remainder of 
the contract term, but not to exceed a 4-year 
period (which shall include any information 
requested by the Secretary).
(ii) Termination.--If a covered institution 
fails to submit a request under clause (i) or 
is not granted a renewal under such clause, 
such institution shall terminate such contract 
on the last day of the original 1-year waiver 
period.
(3) Waiver issuance.--The Secretary of Defense--
(A) not later than 60 days before a covered 
institution enters into a contract pursuant to a waiver 
request under paragraph (2)(A), or before a contract 
described in paragraph (2)(B)(i) is renewed pursuant to 
a renewal request under such paragraph, shall notify 
the covered institution--
(i) if the waiver or renewal will be issued 
by the Secretary; and
(ii) in a case in which the waiver or 
renewal will be issued, the date on which the 
1-year waiver period starts;
(B) may only issue a waiver under this subsection 
to a covered institution if the Secretary of Defense 
determines that the contract for which the waiver is 
being requested will both--
(i) benefit the institution's mission and 
students; and
(ii) promote the security, stability, and 
economic vitality of the United States; and
(C) shall, when making the determination described 
in subparagraph (B)(ii), base such determination on the 
following factors:
(i) The reasons for which the foreign 
entity of concern or covered nation has been so 
designated, and why those reasons do not apply 
to the contract for which waiver is being 
sought.
(ii) The foreign entity of concern or 
covered nation's history of involvement with 
covered institutions.
(iii) The degree to which such a contract 
could provide access to information or 
technology which could materially benefit the 
national security of a covered nation or harm 
the national security of the United States.
(4) Notification to congress.--Not later than 15 calendar 
days prior to issuing a waiver under this subsection, the 
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of 
the House of Representatives written notice of the intent of 
the Secretary to issue such waiver together with a 
justification for such waiver.
(5) Application of waivers.--A waiver issued under this 
subsection to a covered institution with respect to a contract 
shall only--
(A) waive the prohibition under subsection (a) for 
a 1-year period, or for the remainder of the term of 
the contract, but not to exceed 4 years; and
(B) apply to the terms and conditions of the 
proposed contract submitted as part of the request for 
such waiver.
(c) Contracts Prior to Date of Enactment.--
(1) In general.--In the case of a covered institution that 
entered into contract with a covered nation or foreign entity 
of concern prior to January 1, 2027, and which contract remains 
in effect on such date, the Secretary shall notify the 
congressional defense committees within 90 days of enactment of 
this Act.
(2) Renewal.--A covered institution that has entered into a 
contract described in paragraph (1), the term of which is 
longer than the waiver period described in subparagraph (B) of 
such paragraph and the terms and conditions of which remain the 
same as the contract submitted as part of the request required 
under subparagraph (A) of such paragraph, may submit a request 
for renewal of the waiver issued under such paragraph in 
accordance with subsection (c)(2)(B).
(d) Designation During Contract Term.--In the case of a covered 
institution that enters into a contract with a foreign source that is 
not a covered nation or a foreign entity of concern but which, during 
the term of such contract, is redesignated as a covered nation or 
foreign entity of concern, such institution shall terminate such 
contract not later than 120 days after the Secretary notifies the 
covered institution of such designation or immediately requests a 
waiver.
(e) Translation Requirement.--Any information required to be 
disclosed under this section with respect to a contract that is not in 
English shall be translated, for purposes of such disclosure, by a 
person that is not an affiliated entity or agent of the covered nation 
or foreign entity of concern involved with such contract.
(f) Compliance Officer.--Each covered institution applying for a 
waiver under subsection (c), shall identify a compliance officer, who 
shall--
(1) be a current employee or legally authorized agent of 
such institution; and
(2) be responsible, on behalf of such institution, for 
personally certifying--
(A) compliance with the prohibition under this 
section; and
(B) the truth and accuracy of any information 
contained in such a waiver request.
(g) Annual Reports.--Section 1286(f) of the John S. McCain National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115-232;10 
U.S.C. 4001 note) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``and on the periodic 
reviews conducted pursuant to subsection (e)'' and inserting 
``, on the periodic reviews conducted pursuant to subsection 
(e), and the waivers issued under section 216 of the National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026''; and
(2) in paragraph (2), by adding at the end the following 
new subparagraph:
``(C) With respect to waivers described in 
paragraph (1), the following:
``(i) The terms and contents of any waivers 
issued under section 216 of the National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 
in the period covered by the report;
``(ii) any trends in--
``(I) the number of waivers issued 
under such section over time; and
``(II) the types of contracts to 
which such waivers pertain; and
``(iii) the processes used by the Secretary 
to verify that covered institutions (as defined 
in such section) are in compliance with the 
requirements of such section.''.
(h) Definitions.--In this section:
(1)(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the term 
``contract'' means--
(i) any agreement or memorandum of understanding 
for the acquisition, by purchase, lease, or barter, of 
property or services by or from a covered nation or 
foreign entity of concern; or
(ii) any affiliation, agreement, or similar 
transaction with a covered nation or foreign entity of 
concern that involves the use or exchange of the name, 
likeness, time, services, or resources of a covered 
institution.
(B) The term ``contract'' does not include--
(i) an agreement solely or primarily for the 
purposes of conducting a study-abroad program wherein 
students at covered institutions in the United States 
travel to a covered nation to study;
(ii) an arms-length agreement for the acquisition 
by purchase, lease, or barter of property or services 
for the covered institution from a foreign entity of 
concern; or
(iii) an agreement pertaining to a pre-existing 
campus or other satellite facility of a covered 
institution located in a covered nation or a joint 
facility of a covered institution and another entity 
located in a covered nation, unless that facility could 
provide access to information or technology which could 
materially benefit the national security of a covered 
nation or harm the national security of the United 
States.
(2) The term ``covered institution'' means an institution 
of higher education that conducts research funded by the 
Department of Defense.
(3) The term ``covered nation'' has the meaning given that 
term in section 4872(d) of title 10, United States Code.
(4) The term ``foreign entity of concern'' means any person 
or entity--
(A) listed on the Department of Commerce's Entity 
List (Supplement No. 4 to part 744 of the Export 
Administration Regulations), or successor list;
(B) included in the list of Chinese military 
companies operating in the United States most recently 
submitted under section 1260H(b)(1) of the William M. 
(Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 115-283;10 U.S.C. 113 
note); or
(C) 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).
(5) The term ``institution of higher education'' has the 
meaning given that term in section 102 of the Higher Education 
Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002).

SEC. 217. WESTERN REGIONAL RANGE COMPLEX DEMONSTRATION.

(a) Demonstration Required.--The Secretary 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 (JADC2).
(6) Information warfare, including the following:
(A) Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
(B) Offensive and defense 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) Information environment.--The term ``information 
environment'' means the aggregate of individuals, 
organizations, and systems that collect, process, and 
disseminate, or act on information.
(2) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Defense.
(g) Termination.--This section shall terminate on September 30, 
2028.

SEC. 218. MODIFICATION OF REQUIREMENT FOR DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 
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. 219. ADVANCED ROBOTIC AUTOMATION FOR MUNITIONS MANUFACTURING.

(a) Program Required.--The Secretary of the Army shall carry out a 
program to support the maturation and expansion of robotic automation 
capabilities for munitions manufacturing at government-owned, 
contractor-operated production facilities.
(b) Objectives.--The objectives of the program under subsection (a) 
shall include the following:
(1) The design and integration of inherently safe, scalable 
robotic load, assemble, and pack (LAP) systems for munitions 
production.
(2) The demonstration of increased throughput and 
production capacity, while reducing manual handling of 
energetic materials.
(3) The development of cyber-hardened data infrastructure 
for secure integration of factory-floor operations with 
enterprise systems.
(4) Support for workforce upskilling and training in 
robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
(5) The evaluation of applicability across multiple 
munition types and organic industrial base sites.
(c) Coordination.--In carrying out the program under subsection 
(a), the Secretary of the Army shall coordinate with the Joint Program 
Executive Office Armaments and Ammunition and other relevant components 
of the Department of the Army.
(d) Briefing.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the Secretary of 
Defense shall provide the congressional defense committees a briefing 
on the program carried out under subsection (a). Such briefing shall 
cover--
(1) the progress made under the program;
(2) lessons learned; and
(3) recommendations for the wider adoption of robotic 
automation technologies within the defense industrial base.

SEC. 220. DUAL-USE AND DEFENSE ADVANCED MANUFACTURING INNOVATION HUBS.

(a) Establishment.--The Secretary of Defense shall establish one or 
more dual-use advanced manufacturing hubs that co-locate and share 
resources among public and private stakeholders from industry, 
academia, government, nongovernment agencies, and workforce and 
economic development resources. The hub or hubs should span the full 
spectrum of advanced manufacturing capabilities and cover the full 
development timeline between prototyping and fielding.
(b) Requirements.--A hub established under subsection (a) shall--
(1) utilize, to the maximum extent possible, the Department 
of Defense Manufacturing Innovation Institutes (MII) and 
encourage the MIIs to coordinate efforts in a joint manner;
(2) provide shared advanced manufacturing infrastructure 
and equipment, such as high-speed metal printers and material 
testing laboratories;
(3) establish a process to provide advanced manufacturing 
capability, including on shared classified space as needed;
(4) utilize, to the maximum extent possible, the Defense 
Logistics Agency's Joint Additive Manufacturing Model Exchange 
(JAMMEX) as a central data repository for technical data 
packages for advanced manufacturing;
(5) build on the Defense Innovation Unit's Blue 
Manufacturing Initiative and Blue Manufacturing Marketplace to 
match hardware and software manufacturers in defense technology 
with advanced manufacturing providers; and
(6) meet annual production benchmarks for defense 
applications.
(c) Recommendation.--Not later than September 30, 2026, the Under 
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a recommendation for the appropriate number of regional hubs 
to be established under subsection (a) for the Department of Defense to 
meet its sustainment needs and such requirements, specifications, and 
capabilities as the regional hubs may require.

SEC. 220A. ADVANCED MANUFACTURING AND ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROGRAMS.

(a) Department of Defense Advanced Manufacturing Program.--Not 
later than December 31, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination 
with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall aim to qualify 
and approve for manufacturing and delivery not fewer than 1,000,000 
parts or components of the Department of Defense that use advanced 
manufacturing techniques, with funding subject to the availability of 
appropriations or other funds. In doing so, the Secretary shall ensure 
that expedited processes for adoption of advanced manufacturing 
products are utilized across the components of the Department of 
Defense and lifecycle phases for new and existing systems.
(b) Program to Additively Manufacture Certain Types of Unmanned 
Aerial Systems.--Not later than September 30, 2026, the Secretary of 
Defense shall carry out a program to certify new materials and 
processes to manufacture 25 to100 percent of the parts of one of each 
type of the following unmanned aerial system (UAS) categories using 
advanced or additive manufacturing techniques:
(1) Small unmanned aerial systems used as tactical 
loitering munitions.
(2) Small unmanned aerial systems used for surveillance and 
reconnaissance missions.
(3) Small unmanned aerial systems used for logistics 
missions.
(c) Program to Certify Additively Manufactured Parts for Military 
Systems With Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material 
Shortages.--
(1) Program required.--Not later than September 30, 2026, 
the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment 
shall, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Research and Engineering and the Secretaries of the military 
departments, carry out a program to produce replacement parts 
for military systems with diminishing manufacturing sources and 
material shortages using advanced or additive manufacturing 
techniques.
(2) Tested parts.--In carrying out the program required by 
paragraph (1), the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition 
and Sustainment shall select not less than five parts for test, 
evaluation, and certification under the program.
(3) Test and evaluation.--
(A) In general.--In carrying out the program 
required by paragraph (1), the Under Secretary shall 
use additive manufacturing techniques to manufacture 
the parts selected pursuant to paragraph (2) and then 
test and evaluate the manufactured parts.
(B) Evaluation.--Evaluation under subparagraph (A) 
shall be based on performance rather than 
specifications.
(4) Sharing of results and data.--In carrying out the 
program required by paragraph (1), the Under Secretary shall 
share test data across all military departments and establish 
mechanisms for data reciprocity for test and evaluation results 
for additively manufactured parts across all military 
departments.
(5) List of obsolete parts.--The Under Secretary shall, in 
coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments, 
make a list of all parts for military systems with diminishing 
manufacturing sources and material shortages.
(6) New licensing agreements.--The Under Secretary shall, 
in coordination with the Secretaries of the military 
departments, create new licensing agreements with owners of 
intellectual property for the platforms with parts included in 
the list required by paragraph (5) that allow additive 
manufacture of the parts.
(d) Program to Additively Manufacture Metal Parts.--
(1) Program required.--The Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition and Sustainment shall carry out a program across 
all military departments to additively manufacture three 
commonly used metal parts of each military department, such as 
titanium, stainless steel, and aluminum.
(2) Assessment required.--Not later than September 30, 
2026, the Under Secretary shall--
(A) complete an assessment to determine how to 
additively manufacture 10 metal parts of each military 
department, with a preference for parts that require 
long lead times to manufacture or have sole-source 
suppliers; and
(B) submit to the congressional defense committees 
a report on the findings of the Under Secretary with 
respect to the assessment completed under subparagraph 
(A).
(e) Program to Additively Manufacture Parts for Ground Combat 
Systems.--The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and 
Sustainment shall, in coordination with the Secretary of the Army and 
the Director of the Defense Logistics Agency--
(1) identify sustainment vulnerabilities in the ground 
equipment supply chain of the Army, including at the 
manufacturing arsenals and maintenance depots of the Army that 
comprise the Organic Industrial Base, where additive 
manufacturing could be used to repair, upgrade, or modernize 
ground combat systems;
(2) choose not less than five parts that have long lead 
times for fabricating the greatest degree of customized 
specifications or have the most limited quantity in inventory 
and additively manufacture replacement parts for them;
(3) create a critical parts list identifying parts and 
components across ground combat systems with long lead times 
eligible to be additively manufactured; and
(4) develop plans, in coordination with Army Development 
Command, to integrate additive manufacturing techniques and 
technologies in the design, production, and sustainment of 
next-generation combat vehicles and their technologies. The 
developed technologies should prioritize interoperability 
across military platforms and integration with other military 
services.

SEC. 220B. IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO ADVANCED MANUFACTURING.

(a) Leadership Changes.--
(1) Joint defense manufacturing technology panel.--Section 
4842(b)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``The Chair of'' and all that follows through 
``programs.'' and inserting the following: ``The Panel shall be 
co-chaired by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition 
and Sustainment and the Under Secretary of Defense for Research 
and Engineering.''.
(2) Joint additive manufacturing working group.--The Joint 
Additive Manufacturing Working Group shall be co-chaired by the 
Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and 
the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
(3) Consortium on additive manufacturing for defense 
capability development.--Section 223 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (10 U.S.C. 4841 note) is 
amended--
(A) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection 
(d); and
(B) by inserting after subsection (b) the following 
new subsection (c):
``(c) Co-chairs.--The Consortium shall be co-chaired by the Under 
Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and the Under 
Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.''.
(b) Advanced Manufacturing Guidance and Manual.--
(1) Guidance, dod i update, and manual required.--Not later 
than September 30, 2026, the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition and Sustainment and the Under Secretary of Defense 
for Research and Engineering, in consultation with the 
Secretaries of the military departments, shall--
(A) develop guidance to incorporate innovations in 
advanced manufacturing in such a way that the 
Department of Defense can better and faster deliver 
capabilities, sustain operations, and protect the 
warfighter with the latest technology while still 
ensuring quality, reliability, and compatibility;
(B) update Department of Defense Instruction 
5000.93 (relating to use of additive manufacturing in 
the Department of Defense) dated June 10, 2021, to 
waive the requirement to maintain records of all 
additively produced end-items put into operational use 
where the additively produced part meets or exceeds 
performance of the traditionally manufactured end-item;
(C) create a manual in accordance with such 
instruction that gets at the technical standards 
required to qualify parts, components, or products that 
use advanced manufacturing technologies and techniques; 
and
(D) not later than March 1, 2026, provide the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the 
House of Representatives a briefing on plans to update 
the guidance developed under subparagraph (A) and the 
updates made under subparagraph (B).
(2) Considerations.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and 
the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering 
shall consider the 2016 Department of Defense Additive 
Manufacturing Roadmap, the 2021 Department of Defense Additive 
Manufacturing Strategy, the 2022 National Strategy for Advanced 
Manufacturing, and Department of Defense Instruction 5000.93.
(3) Alignment.--The Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition and Sustainment and the Under Secretary of Defense 
for Research and Engineering shall ensure that the guidance on 
the use of advanced manufacturing required by paragraph 
(1)(A)--
(A) aligns with Department of Defense acquisition 
to prioritize flexibility, interoperability, and 
domestic sourcing; and
(B) requires the Department to prefer United States 
manufacturers and equipment and document a 
justification whenever the Department uses a foreign 
source; and
(C) requires the Department to partner with and 
direct funds to the Department's Manufacturing 
Innovation Institutes whenever feasible.
(4) Elements.--
(A) Guidance.--The guidance required by paragraph 
(1)(A) shall include guidance for all types of advanced 
manufacturing, including the following:
(i) Additive manufacturing.
(ii) Advanced materials.
(iii) Advanced composite materials.
(iv) Robotics and automation.
(v) Laser, machining, and welding.
(vi) Nanotechnology.
(vii) Network and information technology 
integration.
(B) Manual.--(i) The guidance required by 
subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1) shall utilize 
expedited qualification and testing procedures 
established in section 865 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 and result in a 
manual under subparagraph (C) of such paragraph to 
establish standardized processes to qualify parts and 
components produced by advanced manufacturing 
techniques and technologies based on performance, 
rather than specifications for testing and evaluation.
(ii) The process described in clause (i) shall 
include a methodology for standardizing technical 
production specifications, testing processes, and data 
reciprocity to share and accept test results of the 
same additively manufactured parts across all military 
departments.
(iii) The process described in clause (i) shall 
include test and evaluation results that facilitate 
data reciprocity across military departments, removing 
the need for each military department to independently 
validate the same parts another military department has 
already validated.
(iv) The manual shall include steps to allow for 
streamlined incremental qualification, rather than 
complete requalification, when the design and 
manufacturing process incorporates changes.
(v) The process described in clause (i) shall 
explore the option for third-party, external 
certification for companies that cannot afford or do 
not have the in-house expertise to do this on their own 
but have the technology that the Department needs.
(C) Advanced materials and advanced composite 
materials research.--The guidance required by paragraph 
(1)(A) and the manual required by paragraph (1)(C)--
(i) shall cover requirements for 
development, test, and evaluation of the 
material properties of advanced materials and 
advanced composite materials used in advanced 
manufacturing, including metals, polymers, 
ceramics, composites, and hybrid metals;
(ii) should include how to incorporate 
integrated computational materials engineering 
to predict the material properties and the 
distribution of those properties in additively 
manufactured parts and scale-up additive 
manufacturing; and
(iii) shall include a list of 
recommendations for the types of amounts of 
critical metals to stockpile for the 
Department's use in additive manufacturing, 
which should be accessible to users of the 
Defense Logistics Agency's Joint Additive 
Manufacturing Model Exchange (JAMMEX).
(D) Cybersecurity.--(i) The guidance required by 
paragraph (1)(A) and the manual required by paragraph 
(1)(C) shall include cybersecurity standards and 
guidelines for advanced manufacturing developed in 
consultation with the Chief Information Officer.
(ii) The guidance and manual should address the 
unique challenges that advanced manufacturing poses to 
Department information networks.
(iii) The guidance and manual shall include matters 
relating to cybersecurity compliance.
(iv) The guidance and manual shall call for 
periodic security and compliance reviews.
(E) Modeling and simulation.--The guidance and 
manual required by paragraph (1)--
(i) shall include software-driven, 
artificial intelligence-enabled modeling and 
simulation techniques for design, development, 
test, and evaluation to the maximum extent 
possible; and
(ii) should include integrating modeling 
and simulation at every level, from enterprise 
to individual operation, including utilizing 
digital engineering.
(F) Intellectual property.--(i) The guidance 
required by paragraph (1)(A) and the manual required by 
paragraph (1)(C) shall include processes and 
contracting mechanisms to protect and manage 
intellectual property.
(ii) The processes and contracting mechanisms 
described in clause (i) shall be designed to 
incentivize innovation while allowing the Department to 
additively manufacture parts and products for military 
systems at scale and on demand in case of contingency 
or crisis. This can include new licensing agreements 
with terms and conditions that allow for innovative 
intellectual property strategies.
(iii) The guidance and manual shall include 
considerations to incorporate the Defense Logistics 
Agency's Joint Additive Manufacturing Model Exchange 
(JAMMEX).
(G) Quality assurance.--(i) The guidance required 
by paragraph (1)(A) and the manual required by 
paragraph (1)(C) shall include processes, materials, 
and technologies to ensure continuous quality control 
throughout the entire manufacturing process and post-
production.
(ii) The guidance and manual shall incorporate the 
process window qualification methodology, which is 
designed to be machine-agnostic, or independent of 
specific machine brands or software providers, as well 
as the following:
(I) Real-time process monitoring leveraging 
machine sensors and software analytics to 
detect and instantly mitigate deviations 
prevents defects and unauthorized parameter 
changes.
(II) Integration of machine learning 
algorithms that analyze production data in 
real-time allows the identification of 
anomalies indicative of potential quality or 
security threats, enabling proactive 
mitigation.
(III) Software-defined quality assurance 
protocols enforce standardized, repeatable 
verification processes, greatly improving 
reliability and simplifying security audits.
(H) Proliferation of additive manufacturing 
capabilities.--The guidance required by paragraph (1) 
shall include a plan that includes phasing and funding 
requirements to proliferate advanced manufacturing 
technologies and techniques across the entire 
Department, at the enterprise level to tactical 
operational units. This guidance shall--
(i) identify end-user access and 
operational needs for advanced manufacturing 
and associated resourcing, infrastructure, and 
basing requirements;
(ii) establish logistics models for 
production of additively manufactured parts in 
the continental United States and at forward 
operating locations;
(iii) improve supply chain risk management; 
and
(iv) stimulate supply chain agility within 
the Department.
(I) Training.--The guidance required by paragraph 
(1)(A) shall include training program requirements, 
phasing, and sequencing to ensure each warfighter is 
equipped with the knowledge and skills to use advanced 
manufacturing techniques and technologies efficiently 
and safely. The guidance shall--
(i) outline which military occupational 
specialty career fields to train in advanced 
manufacturing equipment, techniques, and 
procedures with each military service and the 
degree of proficiency and training time 
required;
(ii) explore partnerships to establish 
apprenticeships and skilled technician training 
pipelines to support Department of Defense 
research and development programs and programs 
of record; and
(iii) consider creating new initiatives 
within existing transition assistance programs 
to create pathways for members of the Armed 
Forces to receive the training necessary to 
adapt their military skills to civilian jobs in 
advanced manufacturing.
(5) Manual required.--The manual created under paragraph 
(1)(C) shall be a service-agnostic, vendor-agnostic manual on 
advanced manufacturing techniques and technologies for the 
Department of Defense--
(A) to standardize across the military departments 
the technical parameters for manufacturing parts and 
products using advanced manufacturing techniques;
(B) to outline the categories and levels of risk 
associated with such parts and products, including 
distinguishing between safety-critical and non-safety-
critical parts and providing expedited approvals for 
low-risk parts through standardized material datasets 
and pre-qualified manufacturing protocols;
(C) to lay out the processes for qualification and 
certification across categories of such parts and 
products;
(D) to establish data reciprocity for test and 
evaluation data across all military departments with 
respect to qualifying such parts and products;
(E) to utilize the Defense Logistics Agency's Joint 
Additive Manufacturing Model Exchange (JAMMEX) as the 
central data repository for technical data packages for 
advanced manufacturing; and
(F) to incorporate new proposed qualification 
approaches proposed by industry consortiums, 
Manufacturing Innovation Institutes, and Small Business 
Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business 
Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.
(6) Timeline.--
(A) Initial.--The Secretary shall ensure that the 
guidance required by paragraph (1)(A) goes into effect 
in fiscal year 2026 by providing guidance with respect 
to the top three essential metals each military 
department needs to maintain its operational platforms.
(B) Subsequent.--The Secretary shall ensure that 
the guidance required by paragraph (1)(A) goes into 
effect not later than January 1, 2027, for all 
essential metals not covered by subparagraph (A).
(7) Advanced manufacturing defined.--In this subsection, 
the term ``advanced manufacturing'' means a manufacturing 
process using the following:
(A) Additive manufacturing.
(B) Wire-arc additive manufacturing.
(C) Powder bed fusion manufacturing.
(D) Other manufacturing capabilities similar to 
those listed in subparagraphs (A) through (C).

SEC. 220C. LIMITATION ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 
COLLABORATION WITH CERTAIN ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS.

(a) Limitation.--Except as provided in subsection (b), 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 
obligated or expended to award a grant or contract to an institution of 
higher education for the specific purposes of conducting fundamental 
research in collaboration with a covered entity.
(b) Waiver.--
(1) In general.--The Assistant Secretary of Defense for 
Science and Technology may waive the limitation under 
subsection (a), on a case-by-case basis, with respect to an 
individual grant or contract for an institution of higher 
education if the Assistant Secretary determines that such a 
waiver is in the national security interests of the United 
States.
(2) Congressional notice.--Not later than 30 days after the 
date on which an award is made by the Department of Defense 
involving an institution of higher education with respect to 
which a waiver is made under paragraph (1), the Assistant 
Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology shall submit to 
the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives notice of such waiver.
(c) Report Annex.--
(1) In general.--On an annual basis, as a classified or 
controlled unclassified information annex to the annual report 
required by section 1286(f) of the John S McCain National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115-
232; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note), the Secretary of Defense shall 
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and 
the House of Representatives a report annex on the compliance 
of the Department of Defense and institutions of higher 
education with the requirements of this section.
(2) Contents.--Each report annex submitted pursuant to 
paragraph (1) shall include, for each waiver issued under 
subsection (b) during the period covered by the report--
(A) a justification for the waiver; and
(B) a detailed description of the type and extent 
of any collaboration between an institution of higher 
education and a covered entity allowed pursuant to the 
waiver, including identification of the institution of 
higher education and the covered entities involved, the 
type of technology involved, the duration of the 
collaboration, and terms and conditions on intellectual 
property assignment, as applicable, under the 
collaboration agreement.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``collaboration'' means coordinated activity 
between an institution of higher education and a covered entity 
and includes--
(A) sharing of research facilities, resources, or 
data;
(B) sharing of technical know-how;
(C) any financial or in-kind contribution intended 
to produce a research product;
(D) sponsorship or facilitation of research 
fellowships, visas, or residence permits;
(E) joint ventures, partnerships, or other 
formalized agreements for the purpose of conducting 
research or sharing resources, data, or technology;
(F) inclusion of researchers as consultants, 
advisors, or members of advisory or review boards; and
(G) such other activities as may be determined by 
the Secretary of Defense.
(2) The term ``covered entity''--
(A) means an academic institution that is included 
in the most recently updated list developed pursuant to 
1286(c)(9) of the John S. McCain National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115-
232; 10 U.S.C. 4001 note); and
(B) includes any individual employed by such an 
academic institution.
(3) The term ``fundamental research'' has the meaning given 
that term in National Security Decision Directive-189 (NSSD-
189), National Policy on the Transfer of Scientific, Technical 
and Engineering Information, dated September 21, 1985, or any 
successor document.
(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) and includes--
(A) any department, program, project, faculty, 
researcher, or other individual, entity, or activity of 
such institution; and
(B) any branch of such institution within or 
outside the United States.

Subtitle C--Plans, Reports, and Other Matters

SEC. 221. CATALYST PATHFINDER PROGRAM.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than January 1, 2027, the Secretary 
of the Army shall establish a soldier-inspired innovation program--
(1) that creates partnerships between operational units of 
the Army and leading national research universities to provide 
a unique platform for university-based researchers and small 
businesses to collaborate directly with soldiers on cutting-
edge applied research and development; and
(2) to integrate soldiers into the early-stage problem 
identification process and include them in the solution 
development process to ensure technical solutions are meeting 
soldier needs and enhancing lethality.
(b) Designation.--The program established pursuant to subsection 
(a) shall be known as the ``Catalyst Pathfinder Program'' (in this 
section the ``Program'').
(c) Activities.--In carrying out the Program, the Secretary shall--
(1) establish activities at all active-duty divisions of 
the Army to accelerate the incorporation of soldier insights 
into capability development;
(2) establish policies that streamline collaboration 
between soldiers, Army Futures Command, and academic 
institutions;
(3) establish a governance board that includes 
representatives from the research, development, test, and 
evaluation, acquisition, requirements, industry, and academic 
communities;
(4) promote transition of successful Program projects to 
Army programs; and
(5) implement an adaptive experimentation force capability 
to support technology experimentation activities throughout the 
solution development cycle
(d) Treatment of Program.--The Program shall be treated as a 
research, development, test, and evaluation activity in the Army's 
input to the Future Year Defense Program.

SEC. 222. EXTENSION OF PERIOD FOR ANNUAL REPORTS ON CRITICAL TECHNOLOGY 
AREAS SUPPORTIVE OF THE NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY.

Section 217(c)(1) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283; 10 
U.S.C. 4001 note) is amended, in the matter before subparagraph (A), by 
striking ``December 1, 2025'' and inserting ``December 1, 2030''.

SEC. 223. EVALUATION OF ADDITIONAL TEST CORRIDORS FOR HYPERSONIC AND 
LONG-RANGE WEAPONS.

(a) Evaluation Required.--To assess impact effectiveness and 
increase the cadence of testing and training for long-range and 
hypersonic systems, the Secretary of Defense shall, acting through the 
Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and the 
Director of the Test Resource Management Center and in consultation 
with requirements owners of long-range and hypersonic systems of the 
Armed Forces, evaluate--
(1) the comparative advantages of episodic and permanent 
special activity airspace designated by the Federal Aviation 
Administration for use by the Department of Defense suitable 
for the test and training of long-range and hypersonic systems; 
and
(2) requirements for continental test ranges, including--
(A) attributes, including live, virtual, and 
constructive capabilities;
(B) scheduling and availability;
(C) safety;
(D) end strength;
(E) facilities, infrastructure, radar, and related 
systems;
(F) launch locations including--
(i) Bearpaw Air Traffic Control Assigned 
Airspace, Montana;
(ii) Mountain Home Range Complex, Idaho;
(iii) Fallon Range Training Complex, 
Nevada;
(iv) Utah Test and Training Range, Utah;
(v) Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada;
(vi) Green River Test Complex, Utah; and
(vii) White Sands Missile Range, New 
Mexico;
(G) impact areas within the White Sands Missile 
Range, New Mexico; and
(H) such other characteristics as the Secretary 
considers appropriate.
(b) Briefing.--Not later than December 1, 2026, the Secretary shall 
provide to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the 
Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a briefing 
on the findings of the Secretary with respect to the evaluation 
conducted pursuant to subsection (a), including an assessment of the 
completion date.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``impact area'' means the point at which a 
test terminates.
(2) The term ``launch location'' means the point from which 
a test is initiated.

SEC. 224. TECHNICAL CORRECTION.

Chapter 9 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
redesignating the section 222e that was added by section 211 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 
118-31) as section 222f.

SEC. 225. CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED PROGRAMS FOR TEST AND EVALUATION 
OVERSIGHT.

(a) Requirement.--The Director of Operational Test and Evaluation 
shall include in the annual report required by section 139(h) of title 
10, United States Code, an assessment of the operational and live fire 
test and evaluation activities for--
(1) Golden Dome software development;
(2) the Joint Fires Network; and
(3) the Cryptographic Modernization Program.
(b) Alternate Pathway.--For any effort under subsection (a) 
assigned to the software acquisition pathway pursuant to section 3603 
of title 10, United States Code, the Director of Operational Test and 
Evaluation shall assess the effort in accordance with the alternative 
test and evaluation pathway established in this Act.

SEC. 226. PROHIBITION ON MODIFICATION OF INDIRECT COST RATES FOR 
INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND NONPROFIT 
ORGANIZATIONS.

(a) Prohibition.--The Secretary of Defense may not change or modify 
indirect cost rates (otherwise known as facilities and administration 
cost rates) for Department of Defense grants and contracts awarded to 
institutions of higher education and nonprofit organizations (as those 
terms are defined in part 200 of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations) 
until the Secretary makes the certification described under subsection 
(b).
(b) Certification.--A certification under this subsection is a 
certification to the congressional defense committees that the 
Department of Defense--
(1) working with the extramural research community, 
including representatives from universities, university 
associations, independent research institutes, and private 
foundations, has developed an alternative indirect cost model 
that has--
(A) reduced the indirect cost rate for all 
applicable institutions of higher education and 
nonprofit organizations (compared to indirect rates for 
fiscal year 2025); and
(B) optimized payment of legitimate and essential 
indirect costs involved in conducting Department of 
Defense research to ensure transparency and efficiency 
for Department of Defense-funded grants and contracts; 
and
(2) established an implementation plan with adequate 
transition time to change budgeting and accounting processes 
for affected institutions of higher education and nonprofit 
organizations.

SEC. 227. ENHANCE INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION FOR ADVANCED MANUFACTURING 
TECHNIQUES, TECHNOLOGIES, AND ADOPTION.

The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and 
the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering shall 
establish a working group to coordinate and support international 
activities that facilitate information-sharing, enhance 
interoperability, explore joint research and development opportunities, 
identify technology licensing requirements, incorporate advanced 
manufacturing capabilities into combined trainings and exercises, and 
set technical expertise and training standards for advanced 
manufacturing techniques, technologies, and adoption. The countries 
involved should be those with which the United States has reciprocal 
defense procurement agreements or security of supply arrangements.

Subtitle D--Biotechnology

SEC. 231. BIOTECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT OFFICE.

(a) Designation of Senior Official.--Not later than 90 days after 
the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall 
designate a senior official, with relevant biotechnology experience, 
from a position within the Department of Defense that was in effect on 
the day before the date of the enactment of this Act--
(1) to be the senior official for biotechnology issues;
(2) to be the head the Biotechnology Management Office 
established under subsection (b); and
(3) to carry out the responsibilities for the office in 
subsection (c).
(b) Establishment of Biotechnology Management Office.--Not later 
than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary of Defense shall, with input from the senior official 
designated under subsection (a), charter and establish, under the 
authority, direction, and control of the Deputy Secretary of Defense, a 
Biotechnology Management Office to foster the development, acquisition 
and sustainment of broad-based biotechnology capabilities for the 
Department.
(c) Responsibilities.--The office established under subsection (b) 
shall be responsible for the following:
(1) Maintaining and executing the Defense Biotechnology 
Strategy required by section [BAG25949], including development 
and execution of a long-term research, development, 
acquisition, and sustainment roadmap.
(2) Updating policies and guidance within the Department 
relating to the acquisition, adoption, and transition of 
biotechnology-based products into Department use.
(3) Coordinating with activities across the Department, the 
Federal Government, industry, academia, and international 
partners relating to biotechnology.
(4) Proposing options for streamlining the regulatory or 
acquisition process of the Department.
(5) Conducting, as may be needed, global competition 
analyses, net assessment or forecasting to support 
decisionmakers on biotechnology advances.
(6) Supporting the development of public-private 
partnerships with academia, industry, and other State and local 
government partners, including through the development or 
fostering of regionally focused innovation ecosystems.
(7) Identifying biotechnology workforce and training gaps 
across the workforce of the Department.
(8) Such other responsibilities as the Secretary considers 
appropriate.
(d) Sunset.--The office established pursuant to subsection (a) 
shall terminate on September 30, 2035.
(e) Briefing.--Not later than 30 days after the designation of the 
senior official pursuant to subsection (a), the Secretary shall provide 
to the congressional defense committees a briefing on the proposed 
scope of the charter for the office to be established pursuant to 
subsection (b), as well as implementation plans for preliminary 
activities the office will pursue during the proceeding one-year 
period.

SEC. 232. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE BIOTECHNOLOGY STRATEGY.

(a) In General.--Not later than June 1, 2026, 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. 233. DEFINING GUIDELINES AND POLICIES ON THE USE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY 
FOR THE ARMED FORCES.

(a) Guidelines and Policies Required.--Not later than one year 
after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense 
shall, after coordinating with the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Research and Engineering, the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition and Sustainment, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy 
and external stakeholders, including representation from industry and 
academia, develop guidelines and policies on the ethical and 
responsible development and deployment of biotechnology within the 
Department of Defense and the Armed Forces.
(b) Elements.--The guidelines and policies developed pursuant to 
subsection (a) shall include the following:
(1) Definitions of ethical and responsible development and 
use of biotechnology.
(2) Guidelines relating to ethical and responsible 
development and use of biotechnology.
(3) Policies relating to informed consent of members of the 
Armed Forces participating in biotechnology development.
(4) Policies relating to reversibility and heritable 
treatment of potential biotechnology applications.
(5) Policies relating to biotechnologies and their 
potential effects on the environment.
(6) Policies relating to human performance enhancement.
(7) Policies relating to the compliance and obligations of 
the Department to the United Nations Biological Weapons 
Convention, and other international agreements pertaining to 
the laws of armed conflict.
(8) Such other matters as the Secretary considers 
appropriate.
(c) Report.--
(1) In general.--No later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report outlining the 
guidelines and policies developed pursuant to subsection (a), 
including the methodologies through which the guidelines and 
policies were developed.
(2) Form.--The report submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) 
shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a 
classified annex.
(d) Biennial Briefings.--
(1) In general.--Not later than two years after the date of 
the enactment of this Act and not less frequently than once 
every two years thereafter until November 1, 2031, the 
Secretary shall provide to the congressional defense committees 
a briefing on the implementation of the guidelines and policies 
developed pursuant to subsection (a), including a discussion of 
any adjustments made to the policies and such recommendations 
for legislative or administrative action as the Secretary may 
have to ensure their successful implementation.
(2) Final briefing.--The final briefing provided pursuant 
to paragraph (1) shall be provided during the 60-day period 
ending on November 1, 2031.

SEC. 234. ENHANCEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL BIODEFENSE CAPACITY.

(a) Clarification of Roles and Responsibilities.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense shall direct the 
Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical 
and Biological Defense Programs, in consultation with the 
Director of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, to enter into 
memoranda of understanding with other departments and agencies 
of the Federal Government to clarify the roles and 
responsibilities of those departments and agencies for building 
biodefense capabilities internationally in execution of 
national security and other policies of the Federal Government, 
with the Secretary focused on working with defense counterparts 
in countries that are allies of the United States.
(2) Elements of memoranda of understanding.--The memoranda 
of understanding entered into under paragraph (1) shall address 
how each relevant department or agency selects partner 
countries and the feasibility of coordinating efforts with each 
such country.
(b) Development of Biodefense Capabilities.--The Secretary of 
Defense, acting through the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear 
Deterrence, Chemical and Biological Defense programs, shall provide to 
the Director of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency global authority to 
support development of biodefense capabilities and capacities in 
countries that are allies of the United States, subject to review and 
input on an as-needed basis by leadership of the Department of Defense 
and the relevant combatant commands.

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. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE GUIDELINES REGARDING IMPLEMENTATION OF 
THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT OF 1969.

(a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall rescind all 
existing Department of Defense directives regarding the implementation 
of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
seq.) (in this section referred to as ``NEPA'') and replace those 
directives with a new directive with uniform guidance that the military 
departments and other agencies of the Department of Defense must 
implement.
(b) Elements of New NEPA Directive.--The new directive required 
under subsection (a) shall ensure that all components of the Department 
of Defense comply with the requirements under NEPA, including the 
updated guidelines established under title III of division C of the 
Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 (Public Law 118-5; 137 Stat. 38).
(c) Designation Required.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall designate an 
appropriate official of the Department of Defense responsible for 
implementing the NEPA directive established under subsection (a) and 
ensuring the timely execution of all reviews required under NEPA 
without unnecessary regulatory delays.
(d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to amend or override any provision of the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).

SEC. 312. REQUIREMENT TO SUPPORT TRAINING ON WILDFIRE PREVENTION AND 
RESPONSE.

Section 351 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2018 (Public Law 115-91; 32 U.S.C. 501 note) is amended, in the 
matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``may'' and inserting 
``shall''.

SEC. 313. USE OF SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL SYSTEMS BY DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

(a) Expeditionary Solid Waste Disposal Systems.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense may use 
expeditionary solid waste disposal systems for the destruction 
of illicit contraband, including seized counterfeit materials, 
unauthorized military gear, and classified materials.
(2) Availability of systems.--The expeditionary solid waste 
disposal systems units deployed under subsection (a) shall be--
(A) equipped to support operations related to 
border security and the elimination of contraband; and
(B) made available to military installations, 
forward operating bases, and partner security forces as 
needed to assist in countering infiltration and 
unauthorized use of military assets of the United 
States.
(b) Prohibition on Use of Open-air Burn Pits to Dispose of Certain 
Material.--The Secretary of Defense may not use open-air burn pits for 
the disposal of illicit contraband, classified military equipment, or 
hazardous waste materials.

SEC. 314. MODIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY AND USE OF ENERGY COST SAVINGS.

Section 2912 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)--
(A) by striking ``The amount'' and inserting ``(1) 
The amount'';
(B) by striking ``additional operational energy'' 
and all that follows through the period at the end and 
inserting ``operational energy initiatives.''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(2) The Secretary of Defense shall design operational energy 
initiatives under paragraph (1) to advance the objectives of the 
Department in the areas of energy resilience and fuel efficiency.
``(3) Operational energy initiatives carried out under paragraph 
(1) may directly contribute to enhanced mission and combat 
capabilities, fund operational environment training activities, or 
establish programs to incentivize demonstrable reductions in energy 
expenditures within the department, agency, or instrumentality credited 
with achieving the energy cost savings under subsection (a).'';
(2) in subsection (e)(1), by striking ``The Secretary of 
Defense may transfer amounts described in subsection (a) that 
remain available for obligation'' and inserting ``Not later 
than 60 days after being notified of amounts described in 
subsection (a) that remain available for obligation, the 
Secretary of Defense shall transfer such amounts''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) Operational Energy Cost Savings Defined.--In this section, 
the term `operational energy cost savings' means the monetary savings 
achieved through measures to reduce energy expenditures relative to the 
amount that would have been necessary to sustain an equivalent level of 
capability in the absence of such measures.''.

SEC. 315. AUTHORITY OF DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TO DESTROY OR DISPOSE OF 
PERFLUOROALKYL OR POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense may destroy or dispose of 
a perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substance using innovative 
technologies that--
(1) are cost effective; and
(2) are permitted or approved by a Federal or State agency 
that regulates the destruction or disposal of such a substance.
(b) Update of Guidance.--The Secretary shall update the PFAS 
Destruction and Disposal Guidance of the Department of Defense, or any 
successor similar guidance, to reflect the requirements under 
subsection (a).

SEC. 316. MODIFICATION TO RESTRICTION ON PROCUREMENT OR PURCHASING OF 
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR FIREFIGHTERS CONTAINING 
PERFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES OR POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES.

Section 345 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization 
Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117-263; 10 U.S.C. 3201 note 
prec.) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``if such equipment 
contains an intentionally added perfluoroalkyl substance or 
polyfluoroalkyl substance'' and inserting ``unless such 
equipment meets the specifications set forth in Standard 1970 
of the National Fire Protection Association''; and
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``does not 
contain intentionally added perfluoroalkyl substances 
or polyfluoroalkyl substances'' and inserting ``meets 
the specifications set forth in Standard 1970 of the 
National Fire Protection Association''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``does not 
contain intentionally added perfluoroalkyl substances 
or polyfluoroalkyl substances'' and inserting ``meets 
the specifications set forth in Standard 1970 of the 
National Fire Protection Association''.

SEC. 317. PROVISION OF BOTTLED WATER TO COMMUNITIES WITH PRIVATE 
DRINKING WATER CONTAMINATED WITH PERFLUOROALKYL AND 
POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES FROM ACTIVITIES OF DEPARTMENT 
OF DEFENSE.

(a) In General.--Subject to subsection (b), on and after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide 
bottled water to communities with private drinking water wells where 
contamination from perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances 
resulting from activities of the Department of Defense has, at one 
point in time, exceeded the maximum contaminant level for such 
substances established by the Environmental Protection Agency if the 
Secretary, as of the day before the date of the enactment of this Act, 
provided bottled water to the community because of such contamination.
(b) Termination of Requirement.--The Secretary is not required to 
provide bottled water to a community under subsection (a) if all 
impacted households in the community are connected to a municipal 
drinking water distribution system or the Secretary has successfully 
remediated the contamination from perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl 
substances to meet or exceed both Federal and state drinking water 
standards for such substances.

SEC. 318. REPEAL OF PROHIBITION ON PROCUREMENT BY DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 
OF CERTAIN ITEMS CONTAINING PERFLUOROOCTANE SULFONATE OR 
PERFLUOROOCTANOIC ACID.

Section 333 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283; 10 U.S.C. 
3062 note) is repealed.

SEC. 319. REPEAL OF TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON INCINERATION BY DEPARTMENT 
OF DEFENSE OF PERFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES, POLYFLUOROALKYL 
SUBSTANCES, AND AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM.

Section 343 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2022 (Public Law 117-81; 10 U.S.C. 2701 note) is repealed.

SEC. 320. INTERIM RESPONSES TO ADDRESS RELEASES OR THREATENED RELEASES 
OF PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense, consistent with the 
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act 
of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.), shall take actions specified in 
subsection (b) to address any release or threatened release of 
perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances at a covered facility.
(b) Actions to Be Taken.--
(1) Conduct of preliminary assessment and site 
inspection.--
(A) In general.--If a preliminary assessment or 
site investigation for perfluoroalkyl and 
polyfluoroalkyl substances has not been conducted at a 
covered facility, the Secretary shall conduct 
expeditiously such assessment or investigation, as the 
case may be, to determine whether there has been a 
release or there is a threatened release of 
perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances at the 
facility.
(B) Presumed release.--Each covered facility that 
has or has had a fire training pit or similar facility 
shall be presumed, for purposes of subparagraph (A), to 
have had a release of perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl 
substances.
(2) Consideration of interim response actions.--
(A) Determination of potential interim response 
actions.--A preliminary assessment or site 
investigation under paragraph (1)(A) shall include, 
along with any other matters required pursuant to the 
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and 
Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.), a 
description and analysis of potential interim response 
actions that can be taken to reduce immediate public 
exposure to the release of perfluoroalkyl or 
polyfluoroalkyl substances, including preventing an 
imminent and substantial endangerment.
(B) Actions included.--Interim response actions to 
be considered under subparagraph (A) shall include the 
following:
(i) Provision of bottled water.
(ii) Connection to public water systems for 
members of the public using private wells.
(iii) Provision of filtration systems for 
public water systems.
(iv) Provision of filtration systems for 
private residences.
(3) Review.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall make the 
preliminary assessment or site investigation conducted 
under paragraph (1)(A) with respect to a covered 
facility available for review to the Administrator of 
the Environmental Protection Agency, the relevant State 
environmental regulatory agencies, any Indian tribal 
government whose tribal lands may be affected by the 
release or threatened release of perfluoroalkyl or 
polyfluoroalkyl substances, and members of the public.
(B) Review period.--The period for review under 
subparagraph (A) shall be not less than 60 days and 
shall be extended if the Administrator requests 
additional review time.
(4) Expedited implementation.--The Secretary of Defense 
shall expedite the implementation of any interim response 
actions selected by the Secretary for implementation pursuant 
to the consideration conducted under paragraph (2) and the 
review under paragraph (3), with special priority provided to 
covered facilities located within a sole or principal drinking 
water source as designated by the Administrator of the 
Environmental Protection Agency under section 1424(e) of the 
Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300h-3(e)).
(c) Reports to Congress.--
(1) Initial report.--Not later than 270 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall 
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and 
the House of Representatives a report containing an 
identification of the following:
(A) Which covered facilities have had a preliminary 
assessment or site investigation completed pursuant to 
subsection (b)(1)(A).
(B) Which covered facilities have had a preliminary 
assessment or site investigation initiated pursuant to 
subsection (b)(1)(A) but not completed by the time the 
report is due to be submitted, and when such assessment 
or investigation is projected to be completed.
(C) Which covered facilities have not had a 
preliminary assessment or site investigation initiated 
pursuant to subsection (b)(1)(A) but are required to 
have one pursuant to such subsection.
(D) Which covered facilities are not required to 
have a preliminary assessment or site investigation 
conducted pursuant to subsection (b)(1)(A).
(2) Final 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--
(A) which covered facilities have had interim 
response actions selected for implementation under 
subsection (b);
(B) what those interim response actions are;
(C) the projected initiation dates for those 
interim response actions;
(D) the projected completion dates for those 
interim response actions; and
(E) an explanation as to why any interim response 
action considered in the preliminary assessment or site 
investigation conducted pursuant to subsection 
(b)(1)(A) was not adopted.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Covered facility.--The term ``covered facility'' means 
a facility subject to section 2701(c) of title 10, United 
States Code.
(2) Release; response.--The terms ``release'' and 
``response'' have the meanings given those terms in section 101 
of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and 
Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.).

Subtitle C--Logistics and Sustainment

SEC. 321. SURFACE SHIP SUSTAINMENT AND READINESS.

(a) In General.--In accordance with this section, the Secretary of 
the Navy shall implement processes to improve the materiel condition 
and combat readiness of Navy surface ships maintained and repaired at 
private shipyards by ensuring a stable and responsive industrial base 
capable of meeting operational and combat surge demands.
(b) Requirements and Authorities.--
(1) Type commander leadership.--
(A) Designation.--The Secretary of the Navy shall 
designate type commanders as the primary authorities 
for surface ship maintenance.
(B) Responsibilities.--Type commanders designated 
under subparagraph (A) shall--
(i) lead the sustainment of surface ships;
(ii) oversee all maintenance and repair 
activities at private shipyards; and
(iii) be responsible for setting 
priorities, approving contracts, and ensuring 
fleet readiness.
(C) Regional maintenance centers.--The Secretary of 
the Navy shall ensure that regional maintenance centers 
act in a supporting role under the direction of type 
commanders.
(2) Decision-making by key personnel.--
(A) In general.--For each ship undergoing 
maintenance at a private shipyard, the project manager, 
the port engineer, and the ship commanding officer--
(i) may jointly decide what work is done 
during the maintenance period, including the 
ability to adjust priorities within agreed 
budgets and schedules; and
(ii) shall report directly to the type 
commander concerned.
(B) Contracting officers.--Contracting officers 
shall support the decisions described in subparagraph 
(A)(i) by managing funds and contracts.
(3) Stable workforce and infrastructure.--The Secretary of 
the Navy shall provide a stable, predictable workload to 
private shipyards and other critical suppliers through a multi-
year, multi-ship contract by ship class--
(A) to allow the shipyard and other critical 
suppliers to maintain a stable workforce;
(B) to promote investment in the necessary 
facilities; and
(C) to prevent layoffs and rehiring cycles that 
reduce efficiency.
(4) Ship-specific assignments.--The Secretary of the Navy 
shall ensure that specific shipyards shall have multi-year 
contracts for specified ships for repeated maintenance work to 
improve knowledge of ship condition and accelerate repairs, 
with excusable deviations such as homeport changes.
(5) Collaborative planning.--The Secretary of the Navy 
shall ensure that shipyards, alterations installation teams 
(when assigned), and Navy teams, including project managers and 
port engineers, work together in continuous maintenance 
activities to plan maintenance and ensure realistic schedules 
and priorities.
(6) Roles for large and small shipyards.--The Secretary of 
the Navy shall ensure that--
(A) criteria for multi-year awards place heavy 
emphasis on strong teaming between large and small 
shipyard businesses;
(B) large and small shipyards establish multi-year 
teaming relationships and work in both the planning and 
execution phases of scheduled availabilities and 
emergency repairs; and
(C) small shipyards have guaranteed work 
percentages and planning responsibilities.
(7) Parts availability.--The Secretary of the Navy shall 
establish rotatable pools and procure spare parts ahead of time 
to create a pool of parts that can be quickly used for repairs.
(8) Training.--The Secretary of the Navy shall train 
program managers and port engineers for specific ship classes 
prior to assigning such individuals to complex maintenance 
availabilities.
(9) Funding for workforce and facilities.--The Secretary of 
the Navy may allocate funds annually to private shipyards to 
sustain a minimum workforce and maintain repair facilities, in 
such amounts and under such conditions as the Secretary 
determines appropriate.
(10) Small business requirements.--The Secretary of the 
Navy shall issue guidance to address set-aside requirements for 
small businesses that enables the roles for large and small 
shipyards described in paragraph (6).
(c) Implementation Flexibility.--In carrying out this section, the 
Secretary of the Navy may--
(1) determine specific methods, contract types, funding 
levels, and operational details consistent with the 
requirements and authorities under this section; and
(2) adapt existing processes or develop new approaches to 
carry out such requirements and authorities.
(d) Report Required.--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 detailing the following:
(1) How the Navy will implement the requirements of this 
section, including with respect to the roles of type 
commanders, regional maintenance centers, project managers, 
port engineers, ship commanding officers, and contracting 
officers.
(2) The planned funding approach for workforce stability, 
shipyard assignments, and spare parts procurement.
(3) A timeline for initial implementation, including any 
pilot programs, and full deployment across all regional 
maintenance centers.
(4) Metrics to measure success, such as on-time completion 
of maintenance, cost control, and readiness improvements.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Port engineer.--The term ``port engineer'' means the 
technical expert on a ship's condition who advises on repairs 
and standards.
(2) Project manager.--The term ``project manager'' means 
the individual responsible for overseeing a ship's maintenance 
period.
(3) Regional maintenance center.--The term ``regional 
maintenance center'' means an organization of the Navy that 
supports ship maintenance in a specific region, such as in 
Norfolk, Virginia, San Diego, California, Mayport, Florida, 
Everett, Washington, and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
(4) Ship commanding officer.--The term ``ship commanding 
officer'' means the commanding officer of a Navy surface ship 
undergoing maintenance.
(5) Type commander.--The term ``type commander'' means the 
flag officer in charge of a surface force, such as Commander, 
Naval Surface Force Atlantic, and Commander, Naval Surface 
Force, Pacific Fleet.
(f) Sunset.--This section shall terminate on January 1, 2031.

SEC. 322. TECHNOLOGY ENHANCEMENT FOR SURFACE SHIP MAINTENANCE.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Navy shall investigate, and, 
as feasible, qualify, approve, integrate, and fully adopt into contract 
requirements advanced technologies and processes for Navy surface ship 
maintenance on an expedited timeline to enhance readiness, reduce 
costs, and address delays in maintenance and repair activities.
(b) Specified Advanced Technologies and Processes.--In carrying out 
subsection (a), the Secretary of the Navy shall prioritize 
qualification of the following:
(1) Automated weld inspection for robotic weld defect 
detection.
(2) Real-time sustainment monitoring for sensor-based 
health tracking.
(3) Advanced blast and painting for automated hull coating 
systems.
(4) Press connect fittings for no-hot-work pipe repairs.
(5) Robotic tank inspection for confined space condition 
assessments.
(6) Additive manufacturing for on-demand 3D-printed parts.
(7) Augmented reality support for augmented reality-guided 
repairs.
(8) Cold spray repair for metal surface restoration.
(9) Predictive maintenance algorithms for artificial 
intelligence-driven failure prediction.
(10) Automated nondestructive testing for robotic material 
evaluation.
(11) Autonomous underwater vehicles for hull inspection 
submersibles.
(12) Digital twin technology for virtual ship modeling.
(13) High-pressure waterjet cleaning for rust and paint 
removal.
(14) Modular maintenance platforms for standardized repair 
setups.
(15) Smart coatings for self-healing, anti-fouling 
surfaces.
(16) Laser ablation for laser-based surface preparation.
(17) Drone-based inspection for uncrewed structural 
surveys.
(18) Electrochemical corrosion mitigation for corrosion 
prevention systems.
(19) Smart pigging for internal pipe diagnostics.
(20) Modular overhaul kits for pre-packaged repair 
solutions.
(21) Plasma coating for durable surface protection.
(22) High-velocity oxygen fuel coating for high-velocity 
wear protection.
(23) Portable diagnostics for handheld troubleshooting 
tools.
(c) Open Qualification Process.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Navy shall establish 
a process for private entities to submit proposals for advanced 
technologies or processes not specified in subsection (b).
(2) Evaluation.--The Secretary of the Navy shall evaluate 
any proposal submitted pursuant to the process established 
under paragraph (1) not later than 90 days after the date of 
such submission.
(3) Proposal requirements.--A proposal submitted pursuant 
to the process established under paragraph (1) shall 
demonstrate potential to improve maintenance efficiency, 
safety, or cost-effectiveness.
(4) Qualification decision.--The Secretary of the Navy 
shall make a qualification decision with respect to a proposal 
submitted pursuant to the process established under paragraph 
(1) based on technical merit and the need of the Navy.
(d) Third-party Review.--
(1) In general.--For any advanced technology or process 
included in a proposal submitted pursuant to the process 
established under subsection (c) and not selected for 
qualification or approval, the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition and Sustainment shall enter into a contract with an 
independent third-party reviewer to assess the decision.
(2) Report to congress.--A contract entered into under 
paragraph (1) shall require the independent third-party 
reviewer to, not later than 90 days after the date of the 
decision concerned, submit to Congress an unaltered report 
that--
(A) evaluates the rationale of the Secretary;
(B) states agreement or disagreement with the 
decision and rationale; and
(C) includes recommendations if applicable.
(e) Priority.--The Secretary of the Navy may prioritize advanced 
technologies and processes under this section based on operational 
needs, budget constraints, and compatibility with existing systems, if 
the Secretary includes justifications for such prioritization in the 
report required by subsection (g).
(f) Updates.--The Secretary of the Navy shall update policies, 
specifications, guidance, and contracts to integrate and fully adopt 
advanced technologies and processes as required by subsection (a).
(g) Report Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to 
Congress a report detailing timelines to qualify and approve each 
advanced technology or process specified in subsection (b) and any 
additional advanced technologies or processes identified pursuant to 
the process established under subsection (c), including estimated 
implementation dates or justifications for non-pursuit.

SEC. 323. DELEGATION TO UNITED STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND OF 
MITIGATING VULNERABILITIES AND RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH 
CONTESTED LOGISTICS FOR DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

(a) In General.--On and after the date recommended under subsection 
(c)(2)(B)(v), the United States Transportation Command shall be 
responsible for--
(1) mitigating vulnerabilities and risks associated with 
contested logistics for the Department of Defense on a global 
basis; and
(2) planning and operations of the Joint Deployment and 
Distribution Enterprise (in this section referred to as the 
``JDDE'') relating to contested logistics across all domains, 
including the movement of forces and material from the source 
of supply to the designated point of need of the commander of 
the combatant command receiving support.
(b) Required Coordination.--In carrying out the responsibilities 
under subsection (a), the Commander of the United States Transportation 
Command shall coordinate with the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of 
the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the secretaries of the military departments, 
the commanders of the combatant commands, the Director of the Defense 
Logistics Agency, the Director of National Intelligence, the Secretary 
of Homeland Security, and the Secretary of Transportation.
(c) Reporting Requirement.--
(1) In general.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Commander of the United States 
Transportation Command, in coordination with the Secretary of 
Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the 
Secretary of each military department, the commanders of the 
combatant commands, the Director of the Defense Logistics 
Agency, the Director of National Intelligence, the Secretary of 
Homeland Security, and the Secretary of Transportation shall 
submit to the congressional defense committees a report that 
provides an in-depth gap assessment on the ability of the JDDE 
to project, maneuver, and sustain the joint force in contested 
environments and provide recommendations to resolve or mitigate 
those gaps.
(2) Elements of report.--The report required under 
paragraph (1) shall--
(A) be oriented on--
(i) mitigating risks;
(ii) improving the ability of the JDDE to 
operate in contested environments; and
(iii) establishing the Commander of United 
States Transportation Command to be the element 
responsible for global contested logistics; and
(B) include--
(i) a description of the organizational 
responsibilities of elements of the JDDE as of 
the date of the report and the ability of the 
JDDE to project, maneuver, and sustain the 
joint force;
(ii) a description of the intent and 
capability of adversaries to the United States 
to disrupt the ability of the JDDE to project, 
maneuver, and sustain the joint force;
(iii) a description of the responsibilities 
to protect the operations of the JDDE, to 
include physical protection and protection of 
command and control systems of the JDDE from 
cyber threats;
(iv) recommendations for changes in 
statutes, authorities, resources, 
responsibilities, and processes within the JDDE 
to establish the Commander of United States 
Transportation Command to be the element 
responsible for global contested logistics; and
(v) a recommended date, not later than one 
year after the date on which the report is 
submitted to the congressional defense 
committees, for the United States 
Transportation Command to assume responsibility 
for contested logistics from the source of 
supply to the designated point of need of the 
commander of the combatant command receiving 
support.
(3) Form.--The report required under paragraph (1) may be 
submitted in classified form, but if so, shall include an 
unclassified executive summary.
(d) Briefings.--
(1) Interim briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, the Commander of the United 
States Transportation Command shall provide to the 
congressional defense committees an interim briefing on the 
development of the report required under subsection (c).
(2) Final briefing.--Not later than one year after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Commander of the United 
States Transportation Command shall provide to the 
congressional defense committees a final briefing on the report 
required under subsection (c).
(e) Rule of Construction.--Except to the extent that, before 
January 1, 2026, a responsibility specified in subsection (a) was a 
specific function of one of agencies or components specified in 
subsection (b), nothing under this section shall be construed as--
(1) limiting any other function of those agencies or 
components; or
(2) requiring the transfer of any function, personnel, or 
asset from those agencies or components to the United States 
Transportation Command.
(f) Contested Logistics Defined.--In this section, the term 
``contested logistics'' means logistics that occur under conditions in 
which an adversary or competitor deliberately seeks or has sought to 
deny, disrupt, destroy, or defeat friendly force logistics operations, 
facilities, and activities across any of the multiple domains.

SEC. 324. REQUIREMENTS FOR DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS 
NEAR COMMERCIAL AIRPORTS.

(a) Risk Mitigation.--The Secretary of Defense shall require all 
aircraft of the Department of Defense that operate near commercial 
airports to be equipped with position broadcast technology and shall 
direct the development of standard operating procedures that maximize 
the use of such technology.
(b) Coordination With Federal Aviation Administration.--The 
Secretary of Defense shall develop a program for sharing aviation 
safety data for aircraft of the Department of Defense, to include near 
misses and mishaps, with the Federal Aviation Administration.
(c) Reports on Near Misses.--
(1) Initial report.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives a report on the number of near misses that 
aircraft of the Department have had with commercial aircraft 
during the 10-year period preceding such date of enactment.
(2) Annual report.--Not later than one year after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter through 
2030, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a 
report on the number of near misses that aircraft of the 
Department have had with commercial aircraft during the 
previous fiscal year.
(3) Elements.--Each report under this subsection shall 
include, with respect to each near miss covered under the 
report, the following:
(A) The date, time, and location of the near miss.
(B) A description of all aircraft involved in the 
near miss.
(C) Any changes to protocols, standard operating 
procedures, or policy, as appropriate, that were made 
based on the near miss.
(4) Form of report.--Each report under this subsection 
shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a 
classified annex.

SEC. 325. EXTENSION AND MODIFICATION OF SEMIANNUAL BRIEFINGS ON 
OPERATIONAL STATUS OF AMPHIBIOUS WARSHIP FLEET.

Section 352 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31; 137 Stat. 229) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``September 30, 2026'' 
and inserting ``September 30, 2028''; and
(2) in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following 
new paragraph:
``(6) Details regarding the maintenance and service life 
extension plan for the amphibious warship that retains an 
operationally available amphibious warship until the end of the 
Obligation and Work Limiting Date for the construction contract 
for a replacement amphibious warship, as necessary to meet the 
requirements under section 8062 of title 10, United States 
Code.''.

SEC. 326. PROHIBITION ON CLOSURE OF ARMY ORGANIC INDUSTRIAL BASE SITES.

(a) Prohibition.--The Secretary of Defense shall not take any 
action to close, mothball, divest, deactivate, or otherwise render 
inoperable any facility that is part of the organic industrial base of 
the Army, including any depot, arsenal, ammunition plant, manufacturing 
center, or facility of a center of industrial and technical excellence, 
unless--
(1) a similar or replacement facility has already been 
created; and
(2) the action is authorized--
(A) in accordance with the provisions of this 
section; or
(B) pursuant to an Act of Congress.
(b) Scope.--The prohibition in subsection (a) applies to all 
facilities operated or maintained as part of the organic industrial 
base of the Army, whether Government-owned and Government-operated or 
Government-owned and contractor-operated.
(c) Exception for Safety.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense may suspend 
operations or limit access to a facility covered by this 
section if such action is necessary to address an imminent 
threat to the health and safety of personnel or to mitigate 
substantial environmental hazards.
(2) Report required.--The Secretary of Defense shall submit 
to the congressional defense committees a report that describes 
any action taken under paragraph (1) not later than 15 days 
after the date on which such suspension of operations or 
limitation of access is initiated.
(d) National Security Waiver.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense may waive the 
prohibition under subsection (a) if the Secretary determines 
that such a waiver is necessary to address a critical national 
security interest of the United States.
(2) Notification required.--Not later than 30 days prior to 
exercising the waiver under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall 
submit to the congressional defense committees--
(A) a written notification of the intent to waive 
the prohibition;
(B) a detailed justification for the waiver, 
including an assessment of the national security 
interest at stake;
(C) an evaluation of potential impacts to the 
readiness, industrial base capacity, and surge 
requirements of the Army; and
(D) a description of any mitigation measures to be 
implemented.
(e) Reports Required.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for five 
years, the Secretary of the Army shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report on the status of all 
facilities in the organic industrial base of the Army.
(2) Elements.--Each report required by paragraph (a) shall 
include--
(A) a list of all facilities in the organic 
industrial base of the Army and the operational status 
of each facility;
(B) any planned changes in mission, workload, or 
operating status of each facility;
(C) any planned investments or divestments that may 
affect the capability or capacity of any such facility; 
and
(D) a description of any action by the Secretary of 
Defense taken pursuant to subsection (c) or (d) during 
the one-year period preceding submission of the report.
(f) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Mothball.--The term ``mothball'' means placing a 
facility in inactive status while maintaining it in a condition 
such that it could be reactivated at some future time.
(2) Organic industrial base of the army.-- The term 
``organic industrial base of the Army'' means the network of 
Government-owned facilities that provide manufacturing, 
maintenance, storage, and readiness support for Army materiel 
and munitions, including the facilities listed in the Army 
Organic Industrial Base Modernization Implementation Plan, 
dated April 12, 2022.

SEC. 327. ESTABLISHMENT OF DEFENSE PERSONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OFFICE 
UNDER OFFICE OF THE UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR 
PERSONNEL AND READINESS.

(a) In General.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act--
(1) the Defense Personal Property Management Office of the 
Department of Defense shall be established within the Office of 
the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness; and
(2) the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Personnel and Readiness shall assume responsibility for all 
functions, personnel, and other matters of the Defense Personal 
Property Management Office.
(b) Regulations.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall prescribe 
regulations to implement subsection (a).
(c) Briefing.--Not later than 60 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and 
Readiness shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate 
and the House of Representatives on the plan and timeline for the 
implementation of subsection (a).

SEC. 328. INTEGRATION OF COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE 
CAPABILITIES INTO LOGISTICS OPERATIONS.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall facilitate the 
integration of currently available and suitable commercial artificial 
intelligence capabilities specifically designed to assist with 
logistics tracking, planning, operations, and analytics into two 
relevant and suitable exercises of the Department of Defense to be 
conducted during fiscal year 2026.
(b) Commercial Product.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense, in coordination 
with the commander of the combatant command or commands 
overseeing the exercise selected under subsection (a), shall 
identify for such exercise a commercially available artificial 
intelligence product that is specifically designed to address 
logistics needs of the Department of Defense and meets the 
critical data security protocols outlined in subsection (c).
(2) Capability of partner.--In selecting a commercial 
product under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense and the 
commander of the combatant command or commands concerned 
shall--
(A) ensure that the commercial product acquired for 
such demonstration includes provision of capability to 
respond to potential software changes in an agile and 
rapid manner to ensure seamless integration and 
adaptability during the exercise; and
(B) prioritize the consideration of a product 
provided by a small or nontraditional software focused 
firm.
(c) Data Security.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that all 
necessary approvals are expedited to facilitate the secure use of data 
of the Department of Defense by commercial artificial intelligence 
providers during the exercises selected under subsection (a), 
including--
(1) compliance with applicable cybersecurity policies and 
regulations of the Department; and
(2) verification of measures to protect classified and 
sensitive information.
(d) Interim Briefing.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the Secretary 
of Defense shall provide an interim briefing to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives that includes--
(1) identification of the specific exercises selected for 
demonstration, including the combatant commanders participating 
in this demonstration and identification of a point of contact 
within the combatant command responsible;
(2) identification of the specific commercial artificial 
intelligence tool or tools to be demonstrated, including the 
contractual mean or other agreement used to facilitate the use 
of the commercial artificial intelligence tool;
(3) notional timelines and resource needs for each 
demonstration; and
(4) metrics to be used to assess the efficacy of such tools 
used in each demonstration.
(e) Briefing.--Not later than 30 days after the conclusion of the 
exercises selected under subsection (a), the commander of the combatant 
command overseeing the exercise shall provide the congressional defense 
committees a briefing that includes the following:
(1) An overview of the integration and use of commercial 
artificial intelligence capabilities during the exercise.
(2) An assessment of the impact of such technologies on 
unit readiness and operational success.
(3) Recommendations for further integration or development 
of artificial intelligence capabilities in future exercises and 
operations of the Department of Defense.

SEC. 329. PILOT PROGRAM ON 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 be known as the ``Arsenal Workload 
Sustainment Pilot Program'' (in this section referred to as the ``pilot 
program'').
(b) Duration.--The pilot program shall be conducted for a period of 
five years.
(c) Preferences for Procurement Actions or Solicitations.--
(1) In general.--In carrying out the pilot program, the 
Secretary of Defense shall give a preference to any procurement 
action or solicitation by a non-public partner who will enter 
into a public-private partnership with the Secretary in the 
source selection process if such non-public partner will use an 
arsenal of the Department of the Army that is owned and 
operated by the United States Government as a partner in any 
type of contractual agreement with the United States 
Government.
(2) Further preference.--In selecting non-public partners 
under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall give a 
preference to non-public partners that ensure an equitable 
workshare is performed under the partnership by employees of 
the Department of Defense to protect critical skills in the 
organic industrial base.
(d) Regulations.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall prescribe 
regulations governing how a non-public partner shall be given a 
preference required under subsection (c).
(e) Report Required.--
(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 appropriate congressional committees a report on 
the activities carried out under the pilot program, including a 
description of any operational challenges identified.
(2) Elements.--The report required under paragraph (1) 
shall include the following:
(A) A breakout, by relevant budget accounts, of 
workload at an arsenal of the Department of the Army 
that is owned and operated by the United States 
Government that was achieved in the prior fiscal year, 
whether directly or through public-private partnerships 
under the pilot program.
(B) An assessment of relevant budget accounts where 
such an arsenal can be utilized 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.
(f) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term 
``appropriate congressional committees'' means--
(A) the Committee on Armed Services and the 
Subcommittee on Defense of the Committee on 
Appropriations of the Senate; and
(B) the Committee on Armed Services and the 
Subcommittee on Defense of the Committee on 
Appropriations of the House of Representatives.
(2) Non-public partner.--The term ``non-public partner'' 
means a corporation, individual, university, or nonprofit 
organization that is not part of the United States Government.

Subtitle D--Reports

SEC. 331. MODIFICATION OF REPORT ON IMPROVED OVERSIGHT FOR 
IMPLEMENTATION OF SHIPYARD INFRASTRUCTURE OPTIMIZATION 
PROGRAM OF THE NAVY.

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 before the semicolon the following: ``, and the incorporation 
of digital infrastructure (including hardware, software, and cloud 
storage) and platforms into such program''.

SEC. 332. MODIFICATION OF READINESS REPORT TO INCLUDE SUMMARY COUNT OF 
CERTAIN MISHAPS.

Section 482(b)(8) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``Class A, Class B, and Class C mishaps'' and inserting 
``Class A and Class B mishaps, and a summary count of all Class C 
mishaps,''.

SEC. 333. ANNUAL REPORT ON FUNDING AND STATUS OF INTERIM REMEDIAL 
ACTIONS OF DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE RELATING TO 
PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES.

(a) Annual Report.--
(1) In general.--Chapter 160 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new 
section:
``Sec. 2717. Annual report on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl 
substances
``(a) In General.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this section, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of 
Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate 
and the House of Representatives a report on the funding and status of 
interim remedial actions of the Department of Defense relating to 
perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (in this section referred 
to as `PFAS').
``(b) Elements.--Each report required by subsection (a) shall 
include information regarding the following:
``(1) The total amounts budgeted and obligated, for the 
current fiscal year and for any prior fiscal year, per site at 
each installation of the Department of Defense, for interim 
remedial actions of the Department relating to PFAS.
``(2) In the case of each report after the initial report, 
the total amounts budgeted, obligated, and expended, per site 
at each installation, on such actions since the previous 
report.
``(3) The general and operating status of interim remedial 
actions related to PFAS per site at each installation, 
including--
``(A) a list of all announced or selected interim 
remedial actions, and for each such action, the 
function and role of the action with respect to 
addressing PFAS at the installation;
``(B) for each action listed, a phase-specific 
status update, including whether--
``(i) the design is pending, in progress, 
or completed;
``(ii) contracting is pending, in 
solicitation, awarded, or delayed;
``(iii) construction or execution has 
begun, is in progress, is completed, or is 
delayed;
``(iv) the action is currently operating, 
including an assessment of the duration of such 
action and any performance metrics available;
``(C) identification of actions that are one-time 
in nature (such as soil removal and disposal), and the 
status of each action;
``(D) timelines for completion of each phase, 
including original projected timelines and any updates;
``(E) for any phase delayed by more than one year 
beyond the original projection, a site-specific 
explanation for the delay; and
``(F) identification of any administrative, 
regulatory, funding, or other barriers contributing to 
delays or budgetary effects, along with the plan of the 
Secretary to address each such barrier.''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The table of sections at the 
beginning of such chapter is amended by inserting after the 
item relating to section 2716 the following:

``2717. Annual report on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl 
substances.''.
(b) Required Remediation Acceleration 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 
perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances remediation acceleration 
strategy, which shall include--
(1) criteria for prioritizing military installations based 
on risk to human health, environmental impact, and proximity to 
affected communities;
(2) timelines for completing each phase of the cleanup 
process under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, 
Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et 
seq.);
(3) a plan for deploying additional resources, 
technologies, or personnel to reduce delays, including an 
identification of--
(A) the number of laboratories that are accredited 
by the Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program 
of the Department of Defense to test for PFAS; and
(B) the number of laboratories that are in the 
process of being so accredited; and
(4) benchmarks for evaluating performance of each military 
department or defense agency on response efforts relating to 
perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
(c) Public Transparency.--
(1) Dashboard.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall make 
publicly available an accessible online dashboard that includes 
the actions of the Department of Defense relating to 
perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
(2) Elements.--The dashboard required under paragraph (1) 
shall include a summary of--
(A) site-by-site funding levels and expenditures at 
each installation of the Department;
(B) the status of remediation and investigation 
efforts;
(C) projected and actual completion timelines; and
(D) points of contact for community engagement.
(3) Update.--The Secretary shall update the dashboard 
required under paragraph (1) not less frequently than 
semiannually.

Subtitle E--Other Matters

SEC. 341. PROVISION OF SPORTS FOODS AND THIRD-PARTY CERTIFIED DIETARY 
SUPPLEMENTS TO MEMBERS OF THE UNITED STATES SPECIAL 
OPERATIONS COMMAND.

(a) Use of Amounts.--The Secretary of Defense may use amounts 
appropriated to the Department of Defense for Major Force Program 11 
for the procurement of sports foods and third-party certified dietary 
supplements and the distribution of such foods and supplements to 
members of the United States Special Operations Command (in this 
section referred to as the ``USSOCOM'').
(b) Acquisition and Distribution.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall authorize the USSOCOM 
to acquire sports foods and third-party certified dietary 
supplements and to distribute such foods and supplements to 
members of the USSOCOM, subject to the requirements under 
subsection (c).
(2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall 
be construed to--
(A) augment morale, welfare, and recreation funds 
or activities; or
(B) augment or replace the budget or services of 
dining facilities of the Department.
(c) Criteria.--The Secretary shall ensure the Commander of the 
USSOCOM establishes requirements for the procurement and distribution 
of sports foods and third-party certified dietary supplements under 
this section and shall require compliance with Department of Defense 
Instruction 6130.06 (relating to the use of use of dietary supplements 
in the Department of Defense) and the Prohibited Dietary Supplement 
Ingredients List of the Department of Defense, or successor similar 
instruction or list, to ensure that--
(1) dietary supplements procured under this section are 
certified by a non-Department third-party certifying 
organization that has been vetted by the Operation Supplement 
Safety program of the Department for end-product quality 
assurance, confirming no contaminants, ingredients, substances, 
or their synonyms prohibited by the Department;
(2) sports foods procured under this section are free of 
ingredients, substances, and their synonyms prohibited by the 
Department; and
(3) under the program guidance and oversight of a primary 
care sports medicine physician, sports foods and third-party 
certified dietary supplements are acquired by units of the 
USSOCOM and distributed by credentialed and privileged 
registered (performance) dietitians or medical clinicians with 
prescribing authority (such as a medical doctor, doctor of 
osteopathic medicine, physician assistant, or nurse 
practitioner) assigned to or supporting the USSOCOM at the 
operational unit level.
(d) Report.--Not later than September 30, 2026, the Secretary of 
Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report 
that assesses the feasibility and advisability of expanding the 
authority under this section for the procurement and distribution of 
sports foods and third-party certified dietary supplements to include 
the military departments.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Dietary supplement.--The term ``dietary supplement'' 
has the meaning given that term in section 201(ff) of the 
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321(ff)) and 
requires nutrition labeling in the form of a ``Supplement Facts 
Panel''.
(2) Sports foods.--The term ``sports foods'' means food 
products--
(A) intended to deliver essential energy (calories) 
and nutrients at the right time to members of the 
USSOCOM to ensure critical combat and medical 
readiness; and
(B) containing nutrition labeling in the form of a 
``Nutrition Facts Panel''.

SEC. 342. LIMITATION ON USE OF FUNDS TO ESTABLISH OR EXPAND SPACE FORCE 
SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMPONENT COMMAND.

(a) In General.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by 
this Act or otherwise made available for Major Force Program 11 for the 
United States Special Operations Command shall be obligated or expended 
to establish or expand a Space Force Special Operations Component 
Command until the date that is 30 days after the date on which the 
Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity 
Conflict and the Commander of the United States Special Operations 
Command, in consultation with the Chief of Space Operations, jointly 
submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House 
of Representatives the report required by subsection (b).
(b) Report.--The report required under this subsection shall 
include, at a minimum, the following:
(1) An articulation of the requirement for a Space Force 
Special Operations Component Command.
(2) A funding profile, across the future-years defense 
program submitted under section 221 of title 10, United States 
Code, for the establishment of a Space Force Special Operations 
Component Command, including a delineation of funds required 
under Major Force Program 2 and Major Force Program 11.
(3) A timeline and conditions for achieving initial and 
full operational capability for a Space Force Special 
Operations Component Command.
(4) An identification of the military, civilian, and 
contractor personnel required for a Space Force Special 
Operations Component Command at initial and full operational 
capability.
(5) An identification of the facilities requirements for a 
Space Force Special Operations Component Command at initial and 
full operational capability.
(6) An explanation of how and when the Secretary of Defense 
and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations 
and Low-Intensity Conflict have documented approval for the 
establishment of a Space Force Special Operations Component 
Command.
(7) An explanation of the administrative and command 
relationships between a Space Force Special Operations 
Component Command and the United States Special Operations 
Command, United States Space Command, and the Space Force.
(8) Any other matters determined relevant by the Assistant 
Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity 
Conflict and the Commander of the United States Special 
Operations Command.

SEC. 343. REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTRACTS RELATING TO PERMANENT CHANGE OF 
STATION MOVING PROCESS.

(a) In General.--For any renegotiation of the contract under the 
Global Household Goods Contract in place as of the date of the 
enactment of this Act, or negotiation of a new contract under the 
Global Household Goods Contract or any successor program or contract, 
the Secretary of Defense shall require that the following oversight 
mechanisms are included in the final contract agreement:
(1) The prime contractor shall submit to the Secretary a 
summary document outlining the key terms and conditions of each 
subcontract agreement related to capacity, performance, and 
compliance with the contract requirements, which shall include 
the following:
(A) The guaranteed capacity of each subcontractor 
(including location, volume, and peak season 
commitment).
(B) Performance metrics and service level 
agreements applicable to each subcontractor.
(C) Provisions for monitoring and enforcing 
subcontractor performance.
(D) Termination clauses and penalties for 
noncompliance.
(E) Data sharing and security requirements.
(2) Each subcontractor shall provide to the prime 
contractor, upon request, certifications and copies of training 
completion relating to compliance with requirements under the 
contract.
(3) The prime contractor shall submit to the Secretary 
regular performance reports on its subcontractors, including 
metrics related to on-time pickup, on-time delivery, damage 
claim rates, customer satisfaction, and compliance with 
contract requirements.
(4) The prime contractor shall submit to the Secretary a 
subcontractor management plan outlining its processes for 
selecting, monitoring, and managing subcontractors, including a 
description of how the prime contractor ensures subcontractor 
compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and contract 
requirements.
(5) The prime contractor shall maintain a robust risk 
management plan that addresses potential disruptions to the 
subcontractor network, such as financial instability, natural 
disasters, or labor disputes.
(6) Not less frequently than monthly, the prime contractor 
shall submit to the Secretary the subcontractor rating system 
used by the prime contractor, with current scoring results 
under such system.
(7) The prime contractor shall submit to the Secretary the 
subcontractor rates for each move under the contract.
(8) The prime contractor shall establish clear escalation 
procedures for addressing subcontractor performance issues, 
including steps for resolving disputes, implementing corrective 
actions, and terminating non-performing subcontractors.
(9) The Federal Government shall be permitted to audit 
subcontractor records with reasonable notice to the prime 
contractor.
(10) The contract shall incorporate a fixed-price contract 
line item number for monthly overhead, separating it from the 
rates associated with the costs of moves.
(11) The prime contractor shall establish a database that 
the Secretary can access on a real-time basis to ensure 
compliance with this section.
(b) Considerations for Successor Contracts.--For any successor 
contract to the Global Household Goods Contract entered into after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall consider, during 
development of an acquisition strategy and execution strategy, in 
addition to the requirements under subsection (a), the following:
(1) The incorporation of a fixed-price contract line item 
number for monthly overhead, separating it from the rates 
associated with the costs of moves.
(2) Contracts under the Federal Acquisition Regulation for 
lanes that account for more than one percent of total permanent 
change of station move volume and tender of service contracts 
for the remaining lanes.
(3) Tiered incentive awards for higher levels of capacity.
(4) The establishment of a database that the Secretary can 
access on a real-time basis to ensure compliance with this 
section.
(c) Incorporation of Proposals.--The Secretary may incorporate any 
proposal of the prime contractor into a final contract negotiated or 
renegotiated under this section that ensures advertised performance 
capabilities are met.

SEC. 344. LIMITATION ON TRANSFORMATION BY THE ARMY OF PRIMARY 
HELICOPTER TRAINING PROGRAM AT FORT RUCKER, ALABAMA.

None of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act for 
fiscal year 2026 to the Army may be obligated or expended for the 
solicitation for proposals or to award a contract for the 
implementation of any transformation of the Initial Entry Rotary Wing 
training program at Fort Rucker, Alabama, until--
(1) the completion of the Part 141 Helicopter Flight School 
Training Pilot proof of concept plan conducted by the 
Department of the Army and the Federal Aviation Administration, 
including--
(A) all three phases of Initial Entry Rotary Wing 
Training Phases 1 & 2 and Phase 3 Warfighter Tactical 
Training Phase; and
(B) the evaluation of the effectiveness of the 
training pilot, which shall include the results of six 
classes of eight students each (48 students total) and 
is scheduled to be completed in May 2026;
(2) the Secretary of the Army (in this section referred to 
as the ``Secretary'') has fully assessed and validated the 
outcomes of such training pilot, including cost, operational 
effectiveness, safety, and training efficacy;
(3) the Secretary submits to the congressional defense 
committees a report detailing the results of such training 
pilot and the rationale for any proposed changes to training 
systems or platforms resulting from such training pilot;
(4) an independent assessment of the business case analysis 
and implementation plan for such transformation has been 
conducted by the Office of Cost Assessment and Program 
Evaluation of the Office of the Secretary of Defense, which 
shall include--
(A) an analysis of the cost to produce an aviator 
qualified under Initial Entry Rotary Wing Training 
Phases 1 & 2 utilizing the current training model and 
aircraft as well as the cost to produce such an aviator 
utilizing the helicopter flight school training proof 
of concept model and aircraft;
(B) an assessment of the risks and benefits of 
outsourcing Initial Entry Rotary Wing training 
requirements;
(C) total costs for the existing training ecosystem 
for Initial Entry Rotary Wing; and
(D) an identification of measures taken to mitigate 
costs and enhance training within the existing training 
ecosystem;
(5) the Secretary submits to the congressional defense 
committees a report containing the results of such assessment 
and a detailed justification of how the findings from such 
assessment support proceeding with any such transformation; and
(6) the Secretary briefs the congressional defense 
committees on--
(A) the outcomes and findings of the training pilot 
specified in paragraph (1);
(B) an assessment of the cost-effectiveness and 
operational and training readiness resulting from the 
training pilot;
(C) any recommendations for future procurement or 
contracting activity related to training initiatives 
similar to the training pilot; and
(D) the course of action proposed by the Secretary 
relating to any such transformation.

SEC. 345. CONVEYANCE OF CERTAIN AIRCRAFT FROM AIR FORCE TO ARIZONA 
AVIATION HISTORICAL GROUP, PHOENIX, ARIZONA.

(a) Authority.--The Secretary of the Air Force (in this section 
referred to as the ``Secretary'') may convey to the Arizona Aviation 
Historical Group, Phoenix, Arizona (in this section referred to as the 
``Group''), all right, title, and interest of the United States in five 
T-37B trainer aircraft and any available spare parts for such aircraft 
that the Secretary has determined are surplus to need.
(b) Conveyance at No Cost to the United States.--The conveyance of 
an aircraft under subsection (a) shall be made at no cost to the United 
States. Any costs associated with such conveyance, costs of determining 
compliance with terms of the conveyance, and costs of operation and 
maintenance of the aircraft conveyed shall be borne by the Group.

SEC. 346. LIMITATION ON USE OF FUNDS BY THE ARMY UNTIL SUBMITTAL OF 
PLAN TO INTEGRATE JOINT MUNITIONS COMMAND AND ARMY 
SUSTAINMENT COMMAND.

(a) In General.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated to 
the Army for fiscal year 2026 may be used to restructure the commands 
of the Army until the Secretary submits to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report 
regarding the proposed plan of the Secretary to integrate the Joint 
Munitions Command and the Army Sustainment Command.
(b) Elements.--The report required by subsection (a) shall include 
the following:
(1) A detailed comparison of the old organizational 
structures of the commands of the Army compared with the 
proposed new integration construct for such organizational 
structures, including any changes to reporting chains, 
leadership roles, and workforce.
(2) The planned timeline for implementation of such 
integration.
(3) Any plans for changing the numbers, duty locations, or 
responsibilities of personnel under the Joint Munitions Command 
and the Army Sustainment Command.
(4) A mission justification for the proposed integration.
(5) An assessment of the short-term and long-term impacts 
of the proposed integration on the readiness of the Army and 
the Department of Defense to conduct the missions of the Joint 
Munitions Command and the Army Sustainment Command and the plan 
of the Army for mitigating those impacts.

SEC. 347. LIMITATION ON USE OF CERTAIN FUNDS OF THE AIR FORCE UNTIL 
ACQUISITION STRATEGY SUBMITTED TO MAINTAIN AIRBORNE 
COMMAND POST CAPABILITY.

Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise 
made available for fiscal year 2026 for operation and maintenance, Air 
Force, and available to the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force 
for travel purposes, not more than 80 percent may be obligated or 
expended until the date on which the Secretary, in consultation with 
the Commander of the United States Strategic Command, submits to the 
congressional defense committees a report on the acquisition strategy 
of the Air Force to maintain the Airborne Command Post capability, 
including--
(1) options to expand production of the C-130J-30 Super 
Hercules to provide additional airframes to preserve the 
Airborne Command Post capability; and
(2) an outline of the future relationship of the Airborne 
Command Post capability with the Secondary Launch Platform-
Airborne effort.

SEC. 348. PILOT PROGRAM FOR CONTRACTED AMPHIBIOUS AIR RESOURCES FOR THE 
AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY OF THE UNITED STATES INDO-PACIFIC 
COMMAND.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense, in conjunction with the 
Secretary of the Navy and the Commander of the United States Indo-
Pacific Command, may establish and maintain a pilot program for the 
contracted operation of a fleet of commercial amphibious aviation 
resources to be made available to the commanders of the combatant 
commands and the commanders of other components of the Department of 
Defense for mission tasking within the area of responsibility of the 
United States Indo-Pacific Command.
(b) Fielding and Adjudicating Mission Requests.--The Commander of 
the United States Indo-Pacific Command shall establish a process to 
field and adjudicate mission requests pursuant to the pilot program 
under subsection (a) in a timely manner.
(c) Sunset.--The authority to carry out the pilot program under 
subsection (a) shall terminate on the date that is three years after 
the date of the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 349. NAMING OF CERTAIN ASSETS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE IN THE 
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA.

(a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall implement the 
naming recommendations for assets of the Department of Defense in the 
Commonwealth of Virginia that were adopted by the Commission.
(b) Prohibition Relating to Overriding Recommendations.--The 
Secretary of Defense may not change the name of an asset of the 
Department of Defense in the Commonwealth of Virginia that was adopted 
by the Commission to any name other than the name that was adopted.
(c) Commission Defined.--In this section, the term ``Commission'' 
means the commission established under section 370(b) of the William M. 
(Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2021 (Public Law 116-283; 10 U.S.C. 113 note).

SEC. 350. MODIFICATION OF PROTECTION OF CERTAIN FACILITIES AND ASSETS 
FROM INCURSIONS.

Section 130i of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``any provision of title 18'' and 
inserting ``sections 32, 1030, and 1367 and chapters 
119 and 206 of title 18''; and
(B) by striking ``officers and civilian employees'' 
and inserting ``officers, civilian employees, and 
contractors'';
(2) in subsection (b)(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``Detect'' and 
inserting ``During the operation of the unmanned 
aircraft system or unmanned aircraft, detect''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B), by inserting before the 
period at the end the following: ``, including through 
the use of remote identification broadcast or other 
means'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) by striking ``Any unmanned'' and inserting 
``(1) Any unmanned''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(2) Any forfeiture conducted under paragraph (1) shall be made 
subject to the requirements for civil, criminal, or administrative 
forfeiture, as the case may be, under applicable law or regulation.'';
(4) in subsection (d), by adding at the end the following:
``(3)(A) The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the regulations 
prescribed or guidance issued under paragraph (1) require that, when 
taking an action described in subsection (a)(1), all due consideration 
is given to--
``(i) mitigating impacts on privacy and civil liberties 
under the First and Fourth Amendments to the Constitution of 
the United States;
``(ii) mitigating damage to, or loss of, real and personal 
property;
``(iii) mitigating any risk of personal injury or death; 
and
``(iv) when practicable, obtaining the identification of or 
issuing a warning to the operator of an unmanned aircraft 
system or unmanned aircraft prior to taking action under 
subparagraphs (C) through (F) of subsection (b)(1), unless 
doing so would--
``(I) endanger the safety of members of the armed 
forces or civilians;
``(II) create a flight risk or result in the 
destruction of evidence; or
``(III) seriously jeopardize an investigation, 
criminal proceeding, or legal proceeding pursuant to 
subsection (c).
``(B) Nothing in this paragraph may be construed to limit the 
inherent right to self defense of a member of the armed forces.'';
(5) in subsection (e)--
(A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the 
following:
``(1) the interception, acquisition, maintenance, or use 
of, or access to, communications to or from an unmanned 
aircraft system under this section is conducted in a manner 
consistent with the First and Fourth Amendments to the 
Constitution of the United States and applicable provisions of 
Federal law;'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``a function of 
the Department of Defense'' and inserting ``an action 
described in subsection (b)(1)'';
(C) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the 
following:
``(3) records of such communications are maintained only 
for as long as necessary, and in no event for more than 180 
days unless the Secretary of Defense determines that 
maintenance of such records--
``(A) is necessary to investigate or prosecute a 
violation of law or to directly support an ongoing 
security operation; or
``(B) is required under Federal law or for the 
purpose of any litigation;''; and
(D) in paragraph (4)--
(i) by striking subparagraph (A) and 
inserting the following:
``(A) is necessary to support an ongoing action 
described in subsection (b)(1);'';
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``; 
or'' and inserting a semicolon;
(iii) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as 
subparagraph (D);
(iv) by inserting after subparagraph (B) 
the following new subparagraph:
``(C) is necessary to support the counter unmanned 
aircraft systems activities of another Federal agency 
with authority to mitigate the threat of unmanned 
aircraft systems or unmanned aircraft in mitigating 
such threats; or''; and
(v) in subparagraph (D), as redesignated by 
clause (iii), by striking the period at the end 
and inserting ``; and'';
(6) by redesignating subsections (f), (g), (h), (i), and 
(j) as subsections (g), (h), (j), (k), (l), respectively;
(7) by inserting after subsection (e) the following:
``(f) Claims.--Claims for loss of property, injury, or death 
pursuant to actions under subsection (b) may be made consistent with 
chapter 171 of title 28, and chapter 163 of this title, as 
applicable.'';
(8) in subsection (h), as redesignated by paragraph (6), by 
striking ``March 1, 2018'' and inserting ``March 1, 2026'';
(9) by inserting after subsection (h), as so redesignated, 
the following:
``(i) Annual Report.--(1) Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of this subsection, and annually thereafter, the 
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the appropriate congressional 
committees and publish on a publicly available website a report 
summarizing all detection and mitigation activities conducted under 
this section during the previous year to counter unmanned aircraft 
systems.
``(2) Each report under paragraph (1) shall include--
``(A) information on any violation of, or failure to comply 
with, this section by personnel authorized to conduct detection 
and mitigation activities, including a description of any such 
violation or failure;
``(B) data on the number of detection activities conducted, 
the number of mitigation activities conducted, and the number 
of instances of communications interception from an unmanned 
aircraft system;
``(C) whether any unmanned aircraft that experienced 
mitigation was engaged in or attempting to engage in activities 
protected under the First Amendment to the Constitution of the 
United States;
``(D) whether any unmanned aircraft or unmanned aircraft 
system was properly or improperly seized, disabled, damaged, or 
destroyed and an identification of any methods used to seize, 
disable, damage, or destroy such aircraft or system; and
``(E) a description of the efforts of the Federal 
Government to protect privacy and civil liberties when carrying 
out detection and mitigation activities under this section to 
counter unmanned aircraft systems.
``(3) Each report required under paragraph (1) shall be submitted 
and published in unclassified form, but may include a classified 
annex.''.
(10) by striking subsection (k), as so redesignated, and 
inserting the following:
``(k) Sunset.--This section shall terminate on December 31, 
2030.''; and
(11) in subsection (l), as so redesignated--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``the 
Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental 
Affairs,'' after ``the Committee on the 
Judiciary,''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (C), by inserting 
``the Committee on Homeland Security,'' after 
``the Committee on the Judiciary,''; and
(B) in paragraph (3)--
(i) in subparagraph (C), by redesignating 
clauses (i) through (ix) as subclauses (I) 
through (IX), respectively, and moving those 
subclauses, as so redesignated, two ems to the 
right;
(ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) 
through (C) as clauses (i), (ii), and (iii), 
respectively, and moving those clauses, as so 
redesignated, two ems to the right; and
(iii) in the matter preceding clause (i), 
as redesignated by clause (ii), by striking 
``means any facility or asset that--'' and 
inserting ``means--
``(A) any facility or asset that--'';
(iv) in clause (iii), as redesignated by 
clause (ii)--
(I) in subclause (VIII), as 
redesignated by clause (i), by striking 
``; or'' and inserting a semicolon;
(II) in subclause (IX), as so 
redesignated, by striking the period at 
the end and inserting a semicolon; and
(III) by adding at the end the 
following new subclauses:
``(X) protection of the buildings, 
grounds, and property to which the 
public are not permitted regular, 
unrestricted access and that are under 
the jurisdiction, custody, or control 
of the Department of Defense and the 
persons on that property pursuant to 
section 2672 of this title;
``(XI) assistance to Federal, 
State, or local officials in responding 
to incidents involving nuclear, 
radiological, biological, or chemical 
weapons, high-yield explosives, or 
related materials or technologies, as 
well as support pursuant to section 282 
of this title or the Robert T. Stafford 
Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq); 
or
``(XII) activities listed in 
section 2692(b) of this title; or''; 
and
(v) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) any personnel associated with a facility or 
asset specified under subparagraph (A) while engaged in 
direct support of a mission of the Department of 
Defense specified in clause (iii) of such 
subparagraph.''.

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, 7,000.
(b) End Strength Reductions.--The end strengths prescribed by 
subsection (a) for the Selected Reserve of any reserve component shall 
be proportionately reduced by--
(1) the total authorized strength of units organized to 
serve as units of the Selected Reserve of such component which 
are on active duty (other than for training) at the end of the 
fiscal year; and
(2) the total number of individual members not in units 
organized to serve as units of the Selected Reserve of such 
component who are on active duty (other than for training or 
for unsatisfactory participation in training) without their 
consent at the end of the fiscal year.
(c) End Strength Increases.--Whenever units or individual members 
of the Selected Reserve for any reserve component are released from 
active duty during any fiscal year, the end strength prescribed for 
such fiscal year for the Selected Reserve of such reserve component 
shall be increased proportionately by the total authorized strengths of 
such units and by the total number of such individual members.

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, 10,132.
(4) The Marine Corps Reserve, 2,400.
(5) The Air National Guard of the United States, 25,982.
(6) The Air Force Reserve, 6,311.

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

(a) In General.--The minimum number of military technicians (dual 
status) as of the last day of fiscal year 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, 
22,294.
(2) For the Army Reserve, 6,492.
(3) For the Air National Guard of the United States, 
10,744.
(4) For the Air Force Reserve, 6,697.
(b) Limitation on Number of Temporary Military Technicians (dual 
Status).--The number of temporary military technicians (dual status) 
employed under the authority of subsection (a) may not exceed 25 
percent of the total authorized number specified in such subsection.
(c) Limitation.--Under no circumstances may a military technician 
(dual status) employed under the authority of this section be coerced 
by a State into accepting an offer of realignment or conversion to any 
other military status, including as a member of the Active, Guard, and 
Reserve component. If a military technician (dual status) declines to 
participate in such realignment or conversion, no further action will 
be taken against the individual or the individual's position.

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.

Subtitle C--Authorization of Appropriations

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.

TITLE V--MILITARY PERSONNEL POLICY

Subtitle A--Officer Personnel Policy

SEC. 501. STATUTORY ADJUSTMENT TO REFLECT TRANSFER OF CERTAIN GENERAL 
OFFICER BILLETS 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. 502. NOTICE OF REMOVAL OF JUDGE ADVOCATES GENERAL.

(a) Army.--Section 7037 of title 10, United States Code, is amended 
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) If the Judge Advocate General is removed from office before 
the end of the term of the Judge Advocate General as specified in 
subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall, not later than five 
days before the removal takes effect, submit to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives notice that the 
Judge Advocate General is being removed and a statement of the reason 
for the removal.''.
(b) Navy.--Section 8088 of title 10, United States Code, is amended 
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) If the Judge Advocate General is removed from office before 
the end of the term of the Judge Advocate General as specified in 
subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall, not later than five 
days before the removal takes effect, submit to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives notice that the 
Judge Advocate General is being removed and a statement of the reason 
for the removal.''.
(c) Air Force.--Section 9037 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(g) If the Judge Advocate General is removed from office before 
the end of the term of the Judge Advocate General as specified in 
subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall, not later than five 
days before the removal takes effect, submit to the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives notice that the 
Judge Advocate General is being removed and a statement of the reason 
for the removal.''.

SEC. 503. QUALIFICATIONS FOR JUDGE ADVOCATES.

(a) In General.--Section 806 of title 10, United States Code 
(article 6 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (a) through (d) as 
subsections (b) through (e), respectively;
(2) by inserting before subsection (b), as redesignated by 
paragraph (1), the following new subsection:
``(a)(1) Judge advocates subject to this chapter must be--
``(A) admitted to the practice of law before the highest 
court of a State, Territory, Commonwealth, or the District of 
Columbia, and maintain an active license to practice before 
such court;
``(B) subject to the jurisdiction's disciplinary review 
process; and
``(C) in compliance with such other requirements as the 
cognizant authority has set to remain eligible to practice law.
``(2) The Judge Advocates General of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and 
Coast Guard and the Staff Judge Advocate to the Commandant of the 
Marine Corps may suspend the authority of judge advocates in their 
respective services to perform legal duties if such officers become 
noncompliant with the requirements in paragraph (1). Judge advocates 
and legal officers suspended or disbarred from the practice of law 
within a jurisdiction shall not perform legal duties.''.
(3) Conforming amendments.--
(A) Trial counsel and defense counsel.--Section 
827(b) of title 10, United States Code (article 27(b) 
of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended by 
amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
``(1) must be a judge advocate who is qualified under 
section 806(a)(1) of this title (article 6(a)(1)); and''.
(B) Special trial counsel.--Section 824a(b)(1) of 
title 10, United States Code (article 24a(b)(1) of the 
Uniform Code of Military Justice) is amended by 
amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:
``(A) is a judge advocate who is qualified under section 
806(a)(1) of this title (article 6(a)(1)); and''.

SEC. 504. MODIFICATION OF WAIVER AUTHORITY RELATED TO JOINT QUALIFIED 
OFFICER REQUIREMENT PRIOR TO PROMOTION TO GENERAL OR FLAG 
GRADE.

Section 619a(b)(3) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking subparagraph (A); and
(2) redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as 
subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively.

SEC. 505. NOTIFICATION OF REMOVAL OF OFFICERS FROM SELECTION BOARD 
REPORTS AND PROMOTION LISTS.

(a) Regular Components.--
(1) Selection board reports.--Section 618(d) of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following new paragraph:
``(3) The Secretary of Defense shall notify the congressional 
defense committees of the removal of the name of an officer from the 
report of a selection board by the President or the Secretary or Deputy 
Secretary of Defense under paragraph (1) or paragraph (2), 
respectively, for any reason other than misconduct--
``(A) not later than 30 days after the name of an officer 
is removed; and
``(B) prior to submission to the Senate of a promotion list 
with respect to such report pursuant to section 624(c) of this 
title.''.
(2) Promotion lists.--Section 629(a) of title 10, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 
``The President shall notify the congressional defense 
committees not later than 30 days after removing the name of an 
officer from such list for any reason other than misconduct.''.
(b) Reserve Components.--Section 14111(b) of title 10, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(3) The Secretary of Defense shall notify the congressional 
defense committees of the removal of the name of an officer from the 
report of a selection board by the President or the Secretary or Deputy 
Secretary of Defense under paragraph (1) or paragraph (2), 
respectively, for any reason other than misconduct--
``(A) not later than 30 days after the name of an officer 
is removed; and
``(B) prior to submission to the Senate of a promotion list 
with respect to such report pursuant to section 12203 of this 
title.''.

SEC. 506. SPACE FORCE GENERAL OFFICER MANAGEMENT.

(a) Distribution of Commissioned Officers on Active Service 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''; and
(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) The limitations of this section do not apply to a Space Force 
general officer serving in a Space Force active status but not on 
sustained duty orders, and who is on active service 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 two. Not later 
than 30 days after authorizing more than two Space Force general 
officers covered by this subsection, the Secretary of Defense shall 
provide the notification required in accordance with paragraph (2).''.
(b) Authorized Strength of Space Force General Officers on Active 
Service.--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 service 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 not on sustained duty,'' after ``a reserve 
component''; and
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``officer; or'' 
and inserting ``officer;'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking the period at the 
end 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 who is pending transition off of sustained 
duty orders, but only during the 60-day period preceding the 
end date of such orders.''.
(c) Strength in Grade: Space Force General Officers in a 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 a 
Space Force active status, not on sustained duty
``(a) Authorized Strength.--The authorized strength of general 
officers in the Space Force serving in a Space Force active status but 
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 may be excluded 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 limitations of subsection (a) do 
not apply to an officer released from a joint duty assignment or other 
non-joint active service assignment, but only during the 60-day period 
beginning on the date the officer departs the joint duty or other 
active service 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. 507. TEMPORARY INCREASE IN FISCAL YEAR PERCENTAGE LIMITATION FOR 
REDUCTION OR WAIVER OF SERVICE-IN-GRADE REQUIREMENT FOR 
GENERAL AND FLAG OFFICERS TO BE RETIRED IN PAY GRADES O-7 
AND O-8.

During the period beginning on the date of the enactment of this 
Act and ending on September 30, 2027, the percentage limitation in 
section 1370(b)(5)(C) of title 10, United States Code, shall be equal 
to 15 percent of the authorized active-duty strength for that fiscal 
year for officers of that Armed Force in the applicable grade.

Subtitle B--Reserve Component Management

SEC. 511. EXPANSION OF AUTHORITY TO WAIVE LIMITATIONS ON RELEASE OF 
RESERVES FROM ACTIVE DUTY WITHIN TWO YEARS OF RETIREMENT 
ELIGIBILITY.

Section 12686(b) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``an order to active duty that specifies a period of less than 
180 days'' and inserting ``an order to active duty that specifies a 
period of less than 365 days''.

SEC. 512. DISESTABLISHMENT OF NAVY RESERVE CENTER SYSTEM.

The Secretary of the Navy (or a designee of the Secretary) shall--
(1) direct the disestablishment of the Navy Reserve Center 
system;
(2) transfer all Navy reserve administrative readiness 
functions to the responsibility and cognizance of Navy reserve 
unit commanding officers or Navy reserve community directors, 
as appropriate; and
(3) reassign each member of an active or reserve component 
of the Navy assigned to the Navy Reserve Center system as of 
the date of the enactment of this Act within the active or 
reserve component of the member or transfer the member to the 
inactive reserve, as applicable.

SEC. 513. NATIONAL GUARD PERSONNEL AUTHORITIES.

(a) Army National Guard.--Under regulations prescribed by the 
Secretary of the Army--
(1) an officer of the Army National Guard 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;
(2) an officer of the Army National Guard transferred to 
the inactive Army National Guard pursuant to paragraph (1) may 
be transferred from the inactive Army National Guard to the 
active Army National Guard to fill a vacancy in a federally 
recognized unit;
(3) a warrant officer of the Army National Guard 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; and
(4) a warrant officer of the Army National Guard 
transferred to the inactive Army National Guard pursuant to 
paragraph (1) may be transferred from the inactive Army 
National Guard to the active Army National Guard to fill a 
vacancy in a federally recognized unit.
(b) Air National Guard.--Under regulations prescribed by the 
Secretary of the Air Force--
(1) an officer of the Air National Guard who fills a 
vacancy in a federally recognized unit of the Air National 
Guard may be transferred from the active Air National Guard to 
the inactive Air National Guard; and
(2) an officer of the Air National Guard transferred to the 
inactive Air National Guard pursuant to paragraph (1) may be 
transferred from the inactive Air National Guard to the active 
Air National Guard to fill a vacancy in a federally recognized 
unit.

SEC. 514. NATIONAL GUARD PERSONNEL DISASTER RESPONSE DUTY.

Chapter 3 of title 32, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating section 329 as section 330; and
(2) by inserting after section 328 the following new 
section:
``Sec. 329. Active Guard and Reserve duty: disaster response duty
``(a) Disaster Response Authority.--When a Governor has declared an 
emergency due to a disaster, the Secretary of Defense may authorize the 
Governor to direct National Guard personnel serving under section 328 
of this title to perform duties in response to, or in preparation for, 
such disaster.
``(b) Requirements.--The disaster response duty described in 
subsection (a)--
``(1) may be performed to the extent that the performance 
of the 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
``(2) shall not exceed 14 days per person per calendar year 
unless the President has declared a disaster under title IV of 
the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance 
Act (42 U.S.C. 5170 et seq.).
``(c) Liability.--A member described in subsection (a) is not an 
instrumentality of the United States with respect to any act or 
omission in carrying out a disaster response duty pursuant to this 
section. The United States shall not be responsible for any claim or 
judgment arising from the use of National Guard personnel under this 
section.
``(d) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `disaster response duty' means duty 
performed by a member of the National Guard at the direction of 
the Governor of the State and pursuant to an emergency 
declaration by such Governor in response to a disaster or in 
preparation for an imminent disaster.
``(2) The term `State' means each of the several States, 
the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the United States 
Virgin Islands.''.

SEC. 515. TREATMENT OF FUNDS RECEIVED BY NATIONAL GUARD BUREAU AS 
REIMBURSEMENT FROM STATES.

Section 710 of title 32, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new subsection:
``(g) Treatment of Reimbursed Funds.--Any funds received by the 
National Guard Bureau from a State, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, 
the District of Columbia, Guam, or the Virgin Islands as reimbursement 
under this section for the use of military property--
``(1) shall be credited to--
``(A) the appropriation, fund, or account used in 
incurring the obligation; or
``(B) an appropriate appropriation, fund, or 
account currently available for the purposes for which 
the expenditures were made; and
``(2) may only be used by the Department of Defense for the 
repair, maintenance, or other similar functions related 
directly to assets used by National Guard units while operating 
under State active duty status.''.

SEC. 516. LIMITATIONS APPLICABLE TO THE AUTHORITY TO TRANSFER SPACE 
FUNCTIONS OF THE AIR NATIONAL GUARD TO THE SPACE FORCE.

Section 514 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2025 (Public Law 118-159; 10 U.S.C. 20001 note) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (k) as subsection (l); and
(2) by inserting after subsection (j) the following new 
subsection:
``(k) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed as--
``(1) authorizing the transfer of a member of the Air 
National Guard of the United States other than on a one-time 
basis as specified in subsection (c); or
``(2) setting future precedent with respect to waiving the 
applicability of any provision of title 32.''.

Subtitle C--General Service Authorities and Military Records

SEC. 521. CHIEF OF NAVAL PERSONNEL.

Section 8081 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new subsection:
``(c) The Chief of Naval Personnel shall be responsible for overall 
management, oversight, and administration of Navy military and civilian 
employees.''.

SEC. 522. ENHANCED EFFICIENCY AND SERVICE DISCRETION FOR DISABILITY 
EVALUATION SYSTEM REVIEWS.

(a) Secretarial Discretion and Statements of Contention for Appeals 
to Physical Evaluation Board Determinations of Fitness for Duty.--
Section 524 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2022 (Public Law 117-81; 10 U.S.C. 1071 note) is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 
``Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary'' and inserting ``The Secretary'';
(2) in paragraph (1), by adding at the end the following: 
``The Secretary concerned may require submission of a statement 
of contention as part of the appeal submission.''; and
(3) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) If the member submits a formal appeal, the Secretary 
concerned shall conduct a fitness for duty determination 
consisting of either a records review or an impartial appellate 
hearing, as determined by the Secretary.''.
(b) Statements of Contention for Physical Evaluation Boards.--
Section 1214 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``if he demands it.'' and inserting ``if the member demands it. The 
Secretary concerned may require submission of a statement of contention 
as part of the demand.''.

SEC. 523. TECHNICAL CORRECTION RELATED TO CONVALESCENT LEAVE FOR 
ACADEMY CADETS AND MIDSHIPMEN.

Section 702 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (c), (d), and (e) as 
subsections (d), (e), and (f), respectively;
(2) by inserting after subsection (b) the following new 
subsection:
``(c) Convalescent Leave.--An academy cadet or midshipman diagnosed 
with a medical condition is allowed convalescent leave under section 
701(m) of this title.''; and
(3) in subsection (d), as redesignated by paragraph (1), by 
striking ``Sections 701'' and inserting ``Except as provided 
under subsection (c), sections 701''.

SEC. 524. RECOGNITION OF REMOTELY PILOTED AIRCRAFT CREW.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretaries of the military departments, in 
consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall establish a 
status identifier or equivalent recognition to denote the combat 
participation of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) crew members who 
conduct operations in direct support of combat missions. The identifier 
shall be designed to enable appropriate consideration by the Department 
of Veterans Affairs in the administration of benefits and services that 
account for combat-related service, consistent with how traditional 
combat designators are treated.
(b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to require the Department of Defense to categorize service 
described in subsection (a) as equivalent to service involving physical 
presence in a combat zone.

Subtitle D--Military Justice and Other Legal Matters

SEC. 531. NOTIFICATION OF MILITARY SEX OFFENDERS AT MILITARY 
INSTALLATIONS.

(a) In General.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish and 
implement a policy to ensure that registered sex offenders that reside 
or work on military installations are identified to the respective 
military community, including, as necessary, through agreements with 
State and local law enforcement agencies.
(b) Report on Designation of Department of Defense as Jurisdiction 
Under SORNA.--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 
assessing the advisability and desirability of designating the 
Department of Defense as a jurisdiction for purposes of notification 
requirements under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act 
(title I of Public Law 109-248; 42 U.S.C. 16901 et seq.).

SEC. 532. QUARTERLY REPORTS ON SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE 
EFFORTS.

(a) Quarterly Reports Required.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, and every 90 days thereafter, the 
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report on the activities, progress, and performance 
metrics of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) 
for the preceding quarter.
(b) Elements.--Each report submitted under subsection (a) shall 
include the following elements:
(1) Updates on the implementation status of ongoing and new 
SAPRO initiatives, including any reforms mandated by statute, 
executive order, or internal Department of Defense directive.
(2) Metrics on reported sexual assault cases, broken down 
by military service and component, including status of case 
processing and outcomes.
(3) Updates on the staffing, resourcing, and activities of 
the Office of Special Trial Counsel.
(4) Performance metrics and outcome-based evaluations of 
prevention programs and training effectiveness.
(5) Progress towards meeting the Department's goals related 
to survivor care, victim advocacy, and commander 
accountability.
(6) Interagency coordination and alignment with civilian 
best practices or recommendations from external advisory 
bodies.
(7) Any challenges, shortfalls, or recommendations for 
legislative or policy changes to improve effectiveness.
(c) Form.--Each report shall be submitted in unclassified form, but 
may contain a classified annex if necessary.

Subtitle E--Member Education, Training, and Transition

SEC. 541. MILITARY SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS.

(a) United States Military Academy.--Section 7442(a) of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``9 ranked or unranked 
alternates'' and inserting ``up to 14 ranked or unranked alternates''.
(b) United States Naval Academy.--Section 8454 of title 10, United 
States Code, is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by striking ``number'' and 
inserting ``appointment; numbers, territorial distribution''; 
and
(2) in subsection (a), by striking ``9 ranked or unranked 
alternates'' and inserting ``up to 14 ranked or unranked 
alternates''.
(c) United States Air Force Academy.--Section 9442(a) of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``9 ranked or unranked 
alternates'' and inserting ``up to 14 ranked or unranked alternates''.

SEC. 542. ASYNCHRONOUS INSTRUCTION IN DISTANCE EDUCATION OPTION FOR 
PROFESSIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION.

Subsection (c)(1) of section 2154 of title 10, United States Code, 
as added by section 555 of the Servicemember Quality of Life 
Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 
(Public Law 118-159; 138 Stat. 1896), is amended by inserting 
``asynchronously and'' after ``course of instruction''.

SEC. 543. ARMY UNIVERSITY.

Chapter 751 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
inserting after section 7406 the following new section:
``Sec. 7407. Army University
``(a) In General.--There is an Army University. The Army University 
shall integrate all of the professional military education institutions 
within the Army into a single educational structure to provide economic 
policy, governance, and innovation to such institutions.
``(b) Component Centers and Schools.--Component centers and schools 
of the Army University include the following:
``(1) The Army War College.
``(2) The United States Army Command and General Staff 
College.
``(3) The Army Warrant Officer Career College.
``(4) The Army Management Staff College.
``(5) The Western Hemisphere Institute for Security 
Cooperation.
``(6) Any additional colleges, centers of excellence, and 
schools that the Secretary of the Army determines 
appropriate.''.

SEC. 544. INTEGRATION OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE STRATEGIC THINKERS 
PROGRAM.

(a) Integration With Professional Military Education.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall 
submit to the congressional defense committees a report 
detailing the Department of Defense's plan to obtain Military 
Education Level One (MEL-1) credit for the Strategic Thinkers 
Program (STP).
(2) Elements.--The report required under paragraph (1) 
shall include--
(A) a detailed assessment of how the STP enhances 
strategic thought and decision-making among military 
and civilian leaders;
(B) a history of the utilization of past graduates 
of the STP;
(C) a plan to identify specific positions in the 
Department that will best utilize the skills and 
abilities of future program graduates;
(D) a description of the measures to obtain MEL-1 
credit for completing STP, including recommendations on 
current authorities that could be utilized to grant 
MEL-1 credit to program graduates;
(E) recommendations for expanding participation 
among military officers and civilian officials; and
(F) an implementation timeline and associated 
resourcing requirements.
(b) Implementation and Oversight.--The Secretary of Defense shall 
designate an appropriate office within the Department to manage the STP 
and implement MEL-1 credit for STP completion. The designated office 
shall provide an annual briefing to the congressional defense 
committees on the status of awarding MEL-1 credit, program 
effectiveness, and any legislative or funding adjustments necessary to 
support continued program success.

SEC. 545. IMPROVEMENTS TO INFORMATION-SHARING TO SUPPORT INDIVIDUALS 
RETIRING OR SEPARATING FROM THE ARMED FORCES.

(a) Opt-out Sharing.--Section 570F of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116-92; 10 U.S.C. 
1142 note) is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)--
(A) by striking ``out the form to indicate an email 
address'' and inserting the following: ``out the form 
to indicate--
``(1) an email address'';
(B) in paragraph (1), as designated by subparagraph 
(A), by striking the period at the end and inserting 
``; and'';
(C) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(2) if the individual would like to opt-out of the 
transmittal of the individual's information to and through a 
State veterans agency as described in subsection (a).''; and
(2) by amending subsection (d) to read as follows:
``(d) Opt-out of Information Sharing.--Information on an individual 
shall be transmitted to and through a State veterans agency as 
described in subsection (a) unless the individual indicates pursuant to 
subsection (c)(2) that the individual would like to opt out of such 
transmittal.''.
(b) Storage and Transfer of Information.--Such section is further 
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(e) Storage and Transfer of Information.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense shall seek to 
enter into memoranda of understanding or other agreements with 
the State veterans agencies described in subsection (a) to 
create or modify a Department system to store and transfer 
information under this section to information systems of such 
State veterans agencies.
``(2) Compliance.--The Secretary shall ensure that any 
agreement entered into under paragraph (1) is in compliance 
with--
``(A) applicable provisions of law relating to 
privacy and personally identifiable information; and
``(B) applicable policies relating to cybersecurity 
of Department information systems and State information 
systems.''.
(c) Limitation on Use of Information.--Such section is further 
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) Limitation on Use of Information.--Information transferred 
under this section may only be used by a State for the purpose of 
providing or connecting veterans to benefits or services as described 
in subsection (a).''.

SEC. 546. MANDATORY TRAINING ON GOVERNMENT ETHICS AND NATIONAL SECURITY 
LAW.

(a) Annual Training on Government Ethics and Standards of 
Conduct.--The Secretaries of the military departments shall ensure that 
all members of the Armed Forces in their respective departments are 
trained annually in government ethics and standards of conduct.
(b) Training on the Law of Armed Conflict and Rules of 
Engagement.--The Secretaries of the military departments shall ensure 
that all members of the Armed Forces in their respective departments 
are trained on the following topics, including within 90 days of a 
mobilization or deployment, as applicable:
(1) The law of armed conflict.
(2) Rules of engagement.
(3) Defense support for civil authorities.
(4) Standing rules for the use of force.
(5) The Code of Conduct.

SEC. 547. PROHIBITION ON CONSIDERATION OF RACE, SEX, COLOR, ETHNICITY, 
NATIONAL ORIGIN, OR RELIGION IN SERVICE ACADEMY 
ADMISSIONS DECISIONS.

(a) In General.--The Service Academies may not consider race, sex, 
color, ethnicity, national origin, or religion in admissions decisions.
(b) Service Academy Defined.--In this section, the term ``Service 
Academy'' has the meaning given the term in section 347 of title 10, 
United States Code.

SEC. 548. PROHIBITION ON PARTICIPATION OF MALES IN ATHLETIC PROGRAMS OR 
ACTIVITIES AT THE MILITARY SERVICE ACADEMIES THAT ARE 
DESIGNATED FOR WOMEN OR GIRLS.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the 
United States Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy, and 
the United States Air Force Academy do not permit a person whose sex is 
male to participate in an athletic program or activity that is 
designated for women or girls.
(b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to prohibit a recipient from permitting males to train or 
practice with an athletic program or activity that is designated for 
women or girls so long as no female is deprived of a roster spot on a 
team or sport, opportunity to participate in a practice or competition, 
scholarship, admission to an educational institution, or any other 
benefit that accompanies participating in the athletic program or 
activity.
(c) Definitions.--In this section--
(1) the term ``athletic programs and activities'' includes 
all programs or activities that are provided conditional upon 
participation with any athletic team; and
(2) the term ``sex'' means a person's reproductive biology 
and genetics at birth.

SEC. 549. PATHWAY FOR CADETS AND MIDSHIPMEN TO PLAY PROFESSIONAL 
SPORTS.

(a) Repeal of Certain Restrictions.--Section 553 of the James M. 
Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public 
Law 117-263; 136 Stat. 2592), and the amendments made by such section, 
are repealed.
(b) Authority.--
(1) United states military academy.--Section 7448(a) of 
title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(A) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``, except as 
provided under paragraph (5),'' after ``That''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(5) That, upon graduation, a cadet may seek employment as 
a professional athlete or Olympic athlete if the cadet is 
drafted or signs a free agent contract with a professional 
sports entity, in which case the cadet will incur a five-year 
service obligation upon employment as a professional or Olympic 
athlete and will, if no longer employed as a professional or 
Olympic athlete, return as a regular officer in the active 
component for a five-year service obligation. If the cadet is 
ineligible to return to active service, the cadet shall repay 
the government for the cost of his or her education.''.
(2) United states naval academy.--Section 8459(a) of title 
10, United States Code, is amended--
(A) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``, except as 
provided under paragraph (5),'' after ``That''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(5) That, upon graduation, a midshipman may seek 
employment as a professional athlete or Olympic athlete if the 
midshipman is drafted or signs a free agent contract with a 
professional sports entity, in which case the midshipman will 
incur a five-year service obligation upon employment as a 
professional or Olympic athlete and will, if no longer employed 
as a professional or Olympic athlete, return as a regular 
officer in the active component for a five-year service 
obligation. If the midshipman is ineligible to return to active 
service, the midshipman shall repay the government for the cost 
of his or her education.''.
(3) United states air force academy.--Section 9448(a) of 
title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(A) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``, except as 
provided under paragraph (5),'' after ``That''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(5) That, upon graduation, a cadet may seek employment as 
a professional athlete or Olympic athlete if the cadet is 
drafted or signs a free agent contract with a professional 
sports entity, in which case the cadet will incur a five-year 
service obligation upon employment as a professional or Olympic 
athlete and will, if no longer employed as a professional or 
Olympic athlete, return as a regular officer in the active 
component for a five-year service obligation. If the cadet is 
ineligible to return to active service, the cadet shall repay 
the government for the cost of his or her education.''.

SEC. 550. FACTORS FOR COUNSELING PATHWAYS UNDER TRANSITION ASSISTANCE 
PROGRAM.

Section 1142(c)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraph (M) as subparagraph (R); 
and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (L) the following new 
subparagraphs:
``(M) Child care requirements of the member (including 
whether a dependent of the member is enrolled in the 
Exceptional Family Member Program).
``(N) The employment status of other adults in the 
household of the member.
``(O) The location of the duty station of the member 
(including whether the member was separated from family while 
on duty).
``(P) The effects of operating tempo and personnel tempo on 
the member and the household of the member.''.

Subtitle F--Military Family Readiness and Dependents' Education

PART I--DEPENDENTS' EDUCATION

SEC. 551. CERTAIN ASSISTANCE TO LOCAL EDUCATIONAL AGENCIES THAT BENEFIT 
DEPENDENTS OF MILITARY AND CIVILIAN PERSONNEL.

(a) Continuation of Authority to Assist Local Educational Agencies 
That Benefit Dependents of Members of the Armed Forces and Department 
of Defense Civilian Employees.--
(1) Assistance to schools with significant numbers of 
military dependent students.--Of the amount authorized to be 
appropriated for fiscal year 2026 by section 301 and available 
for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide activities as 
specified in the funding table in section 4301, $50,000,000 
shall be available only for the purpose of providing assistance 
to local educational agencies under subsection (a) of section 
572 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2006 (Public Law 109-163; 20 U.S.C. 7703b).
(2) Local educational agency defined.--In this subsection, 
the term ``local educational agency'' has the meaning given 
that term in section 7013(9) of the Elementary and Secondary 
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7713(9)).
(b) Impact Aid for Children With Severe Disabilities.--
(1) In general.--Of the amount authorized to be 
appropriated for fiscal year 2026 pursuant to section 301 and 
available for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide 
activities as specified in the funding table in section 4301, 
$10,000,000 shall be available for payments under section 363 
of the Floyd D. Spence National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2001 (as enacted into law by Public Law 106-398; 
114 Stat. 1654A-77; 20 U.S.C. 7703a).
(2) Additional amount.--Of the amount authorized to be 
appropriated for fiscal year 2026 pursuant to section 301 and 
available for operation and maintenance for Defense-wide 
activities as specified in the funding table in section 4301, 
$20,000,000 shall be available for use by the Secretary of 
Defense to make payments to local educational agencies 
determined by the Secretary to have higher concentrations of 
military children with severe disabilities.
(3) Report.--Not later than September 30, 2026, the 
Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and the House of Representatives on the Department's 
evaluation of each local educational agency with higher 
concentrations of military children with severe disabilities 
and subsequent determination of the amounts of impact aid each 
such agency shall receive.

SEC. 552. MANAGEMENT OF SPECIAL EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS OPERATED BY 
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE EDUCATION ACTIVITY.

(a) Improvements to Staffing.--The Secretary of Defense, acting 
through the Director of the Department of Defense Education Activity, 
shall implement the following measures to improve staffing of special 
education teachers and staff at schools operated by the Activity:
(1) Require the inclusion, in the staffing model for a 
school, of service minutes required by the individualized 
education programs of students attending the school to more 
effectively determine appropriate staffing for the school.
(2) Collect the following data on underutilized special 
education staff members:
(A) When such staff members are requested to 
transfer to a school with greater needs for such staff 
members.
(B) How many requests for such transfers the 
Activity receives.
(C) Whether such requests are approved or denied, 
and at what locations.
(D) Once such a request is received, the likelihood 
that the transfer occurs.
(3) Collect data on the turnover of special education 
teachers and staff, including reasons for departure.
(4) Review access to and requirements for crisis training, 
publicize Activity-wide policies with respect to such training 
for consistency, and expand such training to relevant special 
education teachers and staff, such as paraeducators, who are 
not required, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, to 
receive such training.
(5) Require district and regional administrators to track 
training requirements for special education teachers and staff 
to ensure that such teachers and staff are meeting such 
requirements.
(b) Clarification of Guidance.--The Secretary, acting through the 
Director, shall implement the following measures to improve and clarify 
guidance relating to special education provided by schools operated by 
the Department of Defense Education Activity:
(1) Review the list of types of disabilities recognized by 
the Activity as of the date of the enactment of this Act and 
determine if that list meets the most recent best practices for 
special education.
(2) Standardize and implement instructions for providing 
special education materials to students across schools operated 
by the Activity.
(3) Develop and implement a plan for standardizing special 
education training across the Activity.
(4) Standardize reading intervention guidance and 
requirements across schools operated by the Activity, including 
by requiring each school and district operated by the Activity 
to have the same resources and instructions, and provide clear 
guidance on how to access additional support materials if 
required.
(c) Briefings Required.--
(1) Initial briefing.--Not later than April 1, 2026, the 
Director shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and the House of Representatives on the following:
(A) Coordination by the Department of Defense 
Education Activity with the Educational and 
Developmental Intervention Services programs of the 
military departments to determine what medical services 
the military departments are required to provide based 
on the needs of students attending schools operated by 
the Activity.
(B) A description of the process in effect as of 
the date of the briefing, if any, to resolve a dispute 
with respect to required services under a student's 
individualized education program.
(C) A description of issues pending, and 
resolutions of previous issues, under that process.
(D) An assessment of how support instructional 
specialists can better assist teachers with developing 
curriculum for special education students.
(E) A description of how the Activity provides 
services in the case of civilian or military dependents 
with severe medical or special education requirements 
that a school cannot meet, including any data on how 
many such cases arise an annual basis and in what 
locations.
(F) A description of the process in effect as of 
the date of the briefing for reassigning a family from 
a school located outside the United States if the 
education needs of a child in the family cannot be met 
at that school and data, for the 5 school years 
preceding the briefing, on where such reassignments 
have been done and the frequency of such reassignments.
(G) An assessment of the pay scale for special 
education teachers and staff in effect as of the date 
of the briefing, an identification of the last time the 
pay scale was updated, a description of how the pay 
scale is determined, and a statement of how often the 
pay scale is updated.
(H) Data on school and district-level requests for 
additional reading intervention curriculum, including 
the locations of such requests and whether such 
requests were approved or denied.
(2) Semi-annual briefings.--The Director shall brief the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives on the progress made in implementing the 
measures described in subsection (a)--
(A) not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act; and
(B) every 180 days thereafter until the Director 
certifies that each such measure has been implemented.

SEC. 553. ENROLLMENT OF CHILDREN OF CERTAIN AMERICAN RED CROSS 
EMPLOYEES IN DEFENSE DEPENDENTS' EDUCATION SYSTEM.

Section 1404(d)(1) of the Defense Dependents' Education Act of 1978 
(20 U.S.C. 923(d)(1)) is amended by adding at the end the following new 
subparagraph:
``(D) Children of employees of the American Red Cross who--
``(i) are performing, on a full-time basis, 
services for the Armed Forces, including emergency 
services; and
``(ii) reside in an overseas area supported by a 
school of the defense dependents' education system.''.

SEC. 554. REGULATIONS ON THE USE OF PORTABLE ELECTRONIC MOBILE DEVICES 
IN DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE EDUCATION ACTIVITY SCHOOLS.

(a) Regulations Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, acting through 
the Director of the Department of Defense Education Activity, shall 
update existing regulations on student use of portable electronic 
mobile devices in Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) 
schools to prohibit disruption in the learning environment by 
minimizing the use of such mobile devices to the greatest extent 
practicable and to standardize such regulations across all DODEA 
schools.
(b) Briefing Required.--Not later than 60 days after completion of 
the updated regulations required under subsection (a), the Secretary of 
Defense shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and 
the House of Representatives on the updated regulations, including--
(1) relevant evidence taken into consideration on the use 
of portable electronic mobile devices in and around the 
classroom on learning outcomes and social dynamics;
(2) a description of how the regulations have standardized 
policies across all DODEA schools;
(3) an assessment of the influence, if any, of public-
school policies on mobile devices at school or in the 
classroom; and
(4) any other matters the Secretary determines relevant.

SEC. 555. ADMINISTRATION OF COLLEGE ADMISSIONS TESTS BY THE DEPARTMENT 
OF DEFENSE EDUCATION ACTIVITY.

The Director of the Department of Defense Education Activity shall 
require schools operated by the Activity--
(1) to offer to administer and, if such an offer is 
accepted, administer at least one college admissions test to 
each student in the eleventh grade; and
(2) to provide the parents of each such student with the 
option for the student to take a college admissions test of the 
parents' choice, including any test that the Secretary 
determines to be appropriate.

SEC. 556. SUPPORT FOR EXPANDING EARLY CHILD CARE OPTIONS FOR MEMBERS OF 
THE ARMED FORCES AND THEIR FAMILIES.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense may--
(1) direct the Secretaries of the military departments--
(A) to identify gaps between existing early child 
care needs and available eligible child care providers;
(B) to use resources of the Department of Defense 
to support eligible child care providers in recruitment 
and retention of employees, including through 
professional development and financial incentives for 
such employees; and
(C) to seek to enter into an interagency 
partnership with a Federal agency with the ability to 
place national service participants and volunteers 
trained in education services, including senior 
volunteer programs, at military child development 
centers in accordance with applicable national service 
laws and with all the benefits accorded to such 
participants and volunteers; and
(2) provide training and resource subsidies to eligible 
child care providers and networks of such providers.
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Eligible child care provider.--The term ``eligible 
child care provider'' has the meaning given that term in 
section 658P of the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act 
of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858n).
(2) Military child development center.--The term ``military 
child development center'' has the meaning given that term in 
section 1800 of title 10, United States Code.

SEC. 557. IMPROVED COUNSELING AND ACCESS TO INFORMATION RELATING TO 
FOSTER CARE FOR MILITARY FAMILIES.

(a) Training for Counselors.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense shall require all 
counselors assigned to a Family Advocacy Program or Military 
and Family Life program at a military installation in the 
United States to be trained in the requirements and resources 
relating to foster care of the State in which the installation 
is located.
(2) Foster care liaisons.--A counselor who has received 
training under paragraph (1) shall be known as a ``foster care 
liaison''.
(b) Inclusion of Foster Care Information on Military OneSource.--
The Secretary shall require Military OneSource to include a mechanism 
for military families to obtain information on foster care, including 
the requirements and resources relating to foster care of each State.
(c) Consultation With Administration for Children and Families.--
The Secretary shall seek guidance from the Administration for Children 
and Families of the Department of Health and Human Services with 
respect to obtaining resources relating to foster care for military 
families, including curricula for training under paragraph (1).

SEC. 558. PILOT PROGRAM ON RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION OF EMPLOYEES FOR 
CHILD DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense may develop and implement 
a pilot program to assess the effectiveness of increasing compensation 
or other benefits for employees of child development programs on 
military installations in improving the ability of such programs to 
recruit and retain such employees.
(b) Compensation.--If the Secretary implements the pilot program 
authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary shall provide for the 
payment of compensation to employees of child development programs 
under the pilot program at a fair and competitive wage that maintains 
sustainable and high-quality child care conditions.
(c) Selection of Locations.--
(1) In general.--If the Secretary implements the pilot 
program authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary shall 
select not fewer than three military installations for purposes 
of carrying out the pilot program.
(2) Considerations.--In selecting military installations 
under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consider military 
installations with child development programs--
(A) with a shortage of qualified employees; or
(B) subject to other conditions identified by the 
Secretary that affect the ability of the programs to 
operate at full capacity.
(d) Regulations.--The Secretary may prescribe such regulations as 
are necessary to carry out this section.
(e) Duration of Pilot Program.--If the Secretary implements the 
pilot program authorized by subsection (a), the pilot program shall--
(1) commence on the date on which the Secretary prescribes 
regulations under subsection (d); and
(2) terminate on the date that is 3 years after the date 
described in paragraph (1).
(f) Briefings Required.--
(1) Initial briefing.--If the Secretary implements the 
pilot program authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary 
shall, when the pilot program commences in accordance with 
subsection (e)(1), brief the Committees on Armed Services of 
the Senate and the House of Representatives on--
(A) the military installations selected under 
subsection (c) for purposes of carrying out the pilot 
program;
(B) the data that informed those selections; and
(C) the compensation or other benefits to be 
offered under the pilot program.
(2) Final briefing.--If the Secretary implements the pilot 
program authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary shall, not 
later than 180 days before the pilot program terminates in 
accordance with subsection (e)(2), brief the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives 
on the outcomes and findings of the pilot program, including--
(A) data collected and analyses conducted under the 
pilot program with respect to the relationship between 
increased compensation for employees of child 
development programs and improved recruitment or 
retention of those employees; and
(B) any recommendations with respect to increases 
in compensation or other benefits for employees of 
child development programs across the Department of 
Defense as a result of the pilot program.
(g) Child Development Program Defined.--In this section, the term 
``child development program'' means a program to provide child care 
services for children, between birth through 12 years of age, of 
members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of 
Defense.

SEC. 559. REPORT ON UNMET NEED FOR CHILD CARE IN AREAS WITH SIGNIFICANT 
POPULATIONS OF MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES.

(a) In General.--Not later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary 
of Defense shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a 
report on the unmet need for child care in areas with populations of 
members of the Armed Forces that includes--
(1) an assessment of--
(A) the unmet need for each military installation, 
specifically those families who have no childcare at 
all;
(B) the military families on the waitlist for a 
child development center on an installation who may be 
using a family childcare home or fee assistance until 
they can get off of the waitlist; and
(C) areas where there may be significant challenges 
providing care to dependents under the age of 5;
(2) a review of the efforts of the Department of Defense to 
recruit and retain eligible child care providers; and
(3) a plan for meeting the unmet need for child care.
(b) Appropriate Committees of Congress Defined.--In this section, 
the term ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means--
(1) the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate; and
(2) the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
Representatives.

PART II--OTHER MATTERS

SEC. 561. LEGAL ASSISTANCE FOR GUARDIANSHIP TRANSFERS.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of each military department shall 
provide to members of the Armed Forces serving on active duty access to 
legal services provided by an attorney specializing in guardianship 
transfers in each State in which a military installation is located.
(b) Briefing Required.--Not later than September 1, 2026, the 
Secretary of each military department shall brief the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the 
following:
(1) A plan for implementing the requirement to provide 
access to legal services described in subsection (a).
(2) Any challenges associated with implementation of that 
requirement.
(3) Data on the number of members of the Armed Forces with 
guardianship of incapacitated adult dependents or a plan to 
gather such data.
(4) Any other matters the Secretary considers relevant.

Subtitle G--Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps

SEC. 571. JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICERS' TRAINING CORPS INSTRUCTOR 
QUALIFICATIONS.

The Secretary concerned may not issue a policy under section 
2031(d)(1)(B) of title 10, United States Code, that requires a former 
officer or noncommissioned officer to have more than 8 years of service 
to serve as a Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps instructor.

SEC. 572. TEMPORARY AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE BONUSES TO JUNIOR RESERVE 
OFFICERS' TRAINING CORPS INSTRUCTORS.

(a) In General.--The Secretary concerned may pay to a member or 
former member of the Armed Forces under the jurisdiction of the 
Secretary a one-time bonus of not more than $10,000 if the member or 
former member--
(1) agrees to be an instructor for the Junior Reserve 
Officers' Training Corps under section 2031(d) of title 10, 
United States Code; and
(2) serves as such an instructor for not less than one 
academic year.
(b) Briefing Required.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the 
termination date described in subsection (c), the Secretary of Defense 
shall brief the congressional defense committees on--
(1) the use of the authority provided by subsection (a); 
and
(2) the effectiveness of bonuses provided under subsection 
(a) on increasing the number of instructors for the Junior 
Reserve Officers' Training Corps.
(c) Termination.--The authority provided by subsection (a) 
terminates on the date that is five years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act.
(d) Secretary Concerned Defined.--In this section, the term 
``Secretary concerned'' has the meaning given that term in section 101 
of title 10, United States Code.

SEC. 573. NUMBER OF JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICERS' TRAINING CORPS UNITS.

Section 545(a) of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (Public Law 
118-159) is amended to read as follows:
``(a) In General.--Section 2031 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended, in the first subsection designated subsection (i), by striking 
`support not fewer than 3,400, and not more than 4,000, units' and 
inserting `support not fewer than 3,600, and not more than 4,200, 
units'.''.

Subtitle H--Decorations and Other Awards, Miscellaneous Reports, and 
Other Matters

SEC. 581. HONORARY PROMOTIONS ON THE INITIATIVE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF 
DEFENSE.

Section 1563a of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``the Secretary may make an 
honorary promotion (whether or not posthumous) 
of a former'' and inserting ``the Secretary of 
a military department is authorized to make an 
honorary promotion, including a posthumous 
honorary promotion, for a former''; and
(ii) by striking ``if the Secretary 
determines that the promotion is merited''; and
(B) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the 
following:
``(2) The honorary grade given to a member described in paragraph 
(1) shall be commensurate with such member's contributions to the armed 
forces or the national defense.
``(3) The authority shall not be used to award an honorary 
promotion solely on the basis that an individual described in paragraph 
(1) was recommended for such promotion prior to separating from 
service.
``(4) The Secretaries of the military departments are only 
authorized to make an honorary promotion under paragraph (1) upon 
receipt of a favorable recommendation by a board of at least three 
independent officers convened specifically for the purpose of reviewing 
the proposed honorary promotion.'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``The Secretary'' and 
inserting ``The Secretaries of the military departments''; and
(3) in subsection (c), by striking ``Secretary'' and 
inserting ``Secretaries of the military departments''.

SEC. 582. NATIONAL WEEK OF MILITARY RECRUITMENT.

(a) Designation.--Chapter 1 of title 36, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 149. National Week of Military Recruitment
``(a) Designation.--The last full week of September is the National 
Week of Military Recruitment.
``(b) Proclamation.--The President is requested to issue each year 
a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe 
the National Week of Military Recruitment with appropriate ceremonies 
and activities.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 1 of 
title 36, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item 
relating to section 148 the following new item:

``149. National Week of Military Recruitment.''.

SEC. 583. CLARIFYING THE CALCULATION OF ENLISTMENTS FOR PERSONS WHOSE 
SCORE ON THE ARMED FORCES QUALIFICATION TEST IS BELOW A 
PRESCRIBED LEVEL FOR THE FUTURE SERVICEMEMBER PREPARATORY 
COURSE.

Section 546 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31; 10 U.S.C. 520 note) is amended--
(1) in subsection (c), by adding at the end the following 
new paragraph:
``(4) Effect of course graduation.--The Secretary concerned 
may exclude from the population to be considered for purposes 
of determining the percentage limitations imposed by section 
520(a) of title 10, United States Code, any enlisted person who 
has graduated from a future servicemember preparatory course 
established pursuant to this section with a score on the Armed 
Forces Qualification Test that is at or above the thirty-first 
percentile, provided that--
``(A) the Armed Forces Qualifications Test score 
that is at or above the thirty-first percentile is 
obtained within the same fiscal year in which the 
individual was originally enlisted to serve on active 
duty; and
``(B) such score is obtained during the period the 
individual was originally enlisted to serve on active 
duty, as determined by the Secretary concerned.''; and
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (6) as 
paragraphs (3) through (8), respectively;
(B) by inserting before paragraph (3), as 
redesignated by subparagraph (A), the following new 
paragraphs:
``(1) Percentage of nonprior service enlisted accessions 
scoring below the thirty-first percentile on the Armed Forces 
Qualification Test upon original enlistment.
``(2) Percentage of nonprior service enlisted accessions 
scoring below the thirty-first percentile on the Armed Forces 
Qualification Test following graduation from the preparatory 
course or subsequent reclassification, as applicable.''; and
(C) in paragraph (5), as so redesignated, by 
striking ``prepatory'' and inserting ``preparatory''.

SEC. 584. RECRUITER ACCESS TO SECONDARY SCHOOLS.

Section 503(c)(1)(A) of chapter 31 of title 10, United States Code, 
is amended--
(1) by amending clause (i) to read as follows:
``(i) shall provide military recruiters the same access to 
the campus of each secondary school served by the local 
educational agency for the purpose of recruiting students who 
are at least 17 years of age that is provided to any 
prospective employer, institution of higher education, or other 
recruiter;'';
(2) in clause (ii), by striking ``provide to military 
recruiters access to'' and inserting ``facilitate upon request 
made by military recruiters for military recruiting purposes 
not fewer than four in-person recruitment events per academic 
year, across different grading periods, which may include''; 
and
(3) by amending clause (iii) to read as follows:
``(iii) shall provide to military recruiters within 60 days 
of the commencement of the academic year, and thereafter within 
30 days of a recruiter request, access to secondary school 
student names, academic grade, addresses, electronic mail 
addresses (which shall be the electronic mail addresses 
provided by the school, if available), and telephone and mobile 
phone listings, notwithstanding subsection (a)(5) of section 
444 of the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 
1232g).''.

SEC. 585. COMPLIANCE WITH TRAVEL CHARGE CARD DEACTIVATION REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Policy Compliance.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that 
Department of Defense policies and procedures are consistent with 
section 3(h)(1)(H) of the Government Charge Card Abuse Prevention Act 
of 2012 (Public Law 112-194; 5 U.S.C. 5701 note) and related 
implementing guidance, regarding the prompt deactivation and closure of 
government-issued travel charge card accounts upon the separation, 
retirement, or termination of military or civilian personnel.
(b) Comptroller Review.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) 
shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the 
House of Representatives a report describing--
(1) actions taken to verify consistent implementation of 
deactivation and closure policies for government-issued travel 
charge cards across the military departments and defense 
agencies;
(2) any gaps or inconsistencies identified in the execution 
of current policy; and
(3) recommendations, if any, to improve compliance, 
oversight, or prevention of unauthorized card use following 
personnel separation.

TITLE VI--COMPENSATION AND OTHER PERSONNEL BENEFITS

Subtitle A--Pay and Allowances

SEC. 601. MODIFICATIONS TO CALCULATION OF BASIC ALLOWANCE FOR 
SUBSISTENCE FOR ENLISTED MEMBERS.

Section 402 of title 37, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the 
following new paragraph (1):
``(1)(A) The monthly rate of basic allowance for subsistence to be 
in effect for an enlisted member for a year (beginning on January 1 of 
that year) shall be--
``(i) except as provided by clause (ii), equal to the 
monthly cost of a liberal food plan for a male in the United 
States who is between 19 and 50 years of age, as determined by 
the Secretary of Agriculture each October 1; and
``(ii) in the case of such a member who is subject to 
monthly deduction from pay for meals under section 1011(b) of 
this title, the amount computed under clause (i) reduced by the 
amount of such deduction from pay, in accordance with policies 
prescribed by the Secretary of Defense.
``(B) The monthly rate of basic allowance for subsistence to be in 
effect for an enlisted member for a year under subparagraph (A)(i) may 
not decrease relative to the rate in effect for the preceding year.''; 
and
(B) by striking paragraph (3); and
(2) in subsection (d), in the matter preceding paragraph 
(1), by striking ``subsection (b)(1)'' and inserting 
``subsection (b)(1)(A)(i)''.

SEC. 602. INCLUSION OF DESCRIPTIONS OF TYPES OF PAY ON PAY STATEMENTS.

(a) In General.--Chapter 19 of title 37, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 1016. Pay statements: descriptions of types of pay
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that each 
pay statement issued to a member of the Armed Forces includes, for each 
type of pay, allowance, and deduction listed on the statement, a brief 
and plain-language description of--
``(1) the statutory or regulatory authority under which the 
pay, allowance, or deduction is made;
``(2) the purpose of the pay, allowance, or deduction;
``(3) the criteria for determining eligibility of the 
member for the pay, allowance, or deduction; and
``(4) possible changes in the eligibility of the member for 
the pay, allowance, or deduction, including the circumstances 
under which the pay, allowance, or deduction may be suspended, 
expire, or modified.
``(b) Requirements.--The descriptions required to be included on a 
pay statement under paragraph (1) shall be--
``(1) accessible directly on the pay statement; and
``(2) presented in language easily understood by 
individuals without specialized knowledge of military finance, 
accounting, or law.''.
(b) Applicability.--The requirements of section 1016 of title 37, 
United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall apply with 
respect to pay statements issued on or after the date that is 180 days 
after the date of the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 603. INCREASED AWARENESS AND IMPROVED CALCULATION OF RATES FOR 
BASIC ALLOWANCE FOR HOUSING.

(a) Increasing Awareness.--The Secretary of Defense shall seek to 
improve transparency of the calculation of the basic allowance for 
housing under section 403 of title 37, United States Code, by--
(1) developing a clear, accessible document that explains 
how rates of the basic allowance for housing are determined, 
including methodology and types of data sources used, which 
shall be--
(A) reviewed and updated not less frequently than 
annually and as rates and calculation methods change; 
and
(B) made available on a publicly accessible 
internet website and distributed across all relevant 
components of the Department of Defense; and
(2) providing to members of the Armed Forces when such 
members experience a permanent change of station, permanent 
change of assignment, change in dependency status, change in 
grade, or any other event that may impact their eligibility for 
or rate of basic allowance for housing--
(A) the information included in the document 
developed under paragraph (1); and
(B) an explanation of the type of rental housing 
the rate of basic allowance for housing received by 
such members is intended to support in each locality.
(b) Development of Alternative Methodology.--Consistent with the 
recommendations of the 14th Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation 
issued under section 1008(b) of title 37, United States Code, the 
Secretary shall--
(1) develop a methodology to compute rates of the basic 
allowance for housing using an approach based on the number of 
bedrooms in a housing unit and incorporating available and 
verified occupied rental market data;
(2) conduct a pilot program using the methodology developed 
under paragraph (1); and
(3) using that methodology, set notional rates for the 
basic allowance for housing for 2026 and 2027 for a minimum of 
10 military housing areas.
(c) Briefing Required.--Not later than February 1, 2027, the 
Secretary shall provide a briefing to the Committees on Armed Services 
of the Senate and the House of Representatives that includes--
(1) a comparison of the notional rates set under subsection 
(b)(3) with the actual rates for basic allowance for housing 
for 2026 and 2027;
(2) a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of--
(A) the methodology used as of the date of the 
enactment of this Act for setting rates for the basic 
allowance for housing; and
(B) using the methodology developed under 
subsection (b)(1) for setting such rates;
(3) a determination of whether the methodology developed 
under subsection (b)(1) is more or less likely than the 
methodology described in paragraph (2)(A) to ensure that rates 
for the basic allowance for housing are set based upon a 95 
percent statistical confidence that the estimated median rent 
is within 10 percent of the actual median rent in local 
military housing areas;
(4) a cost estimate for 2027 under both the methodology 
described in paragraph (2)(A) and the methodology developed 
under subsection (b)(1);
(5) an identification of any additional legislative 
authority required to fully implement the methodology developed 
under subsection (b)(1); and
(6) the recommendation of the Secretary with respect to 
whether to implement the use of the methodology developed under 
subsection (b)(1) and the timing for such implementation.

SEC. 604. MILITARY COMPENSATION EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGN.

(a) In General.--Consistent with the recommendations of the 14th 
Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation issued under section 
1008(b) of title 37, United States Code, and not later than 180 days 
after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense 
shall commence a 12-month educational campaign to improve the 
understanding and awareness of members of the Armed Forces and their 
families with respect to the major components of monetary and 
nonmonetary military compensation.
(b) Elements.--At a minimum, the campaign required by subsection 
(a) shall address--
(1) the elements of regular military compensation (RMC), as 
defined in section 101(25) of title 37, United States Code;
(2) special and incentive pays;
(3) the calculation of retired pay for length of service;
(4) educational assistance programs and benefits;
(5) health care for members of the Armed Forces serving in 
active components and their families; and
(6) nonmonetary benefits.

Subtitle B--Special and Incentive Pay

SEC. 611. REVIEWS OF DESIGNATIONS OF IMMINENT DANGER PAY AREAS.

(a) Initial Review.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the Secretary of 
Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military 
departments, shall--
(1) commence a review of each area designated under section 
351(a)(3) of title 37, United States Code, to determine whether 
the area is one in which a member of the uniformed services is 
subject to imminent danger of physical injury due to threat 
conditions; and
(2) submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the review, 
including any changes to designations under that section that 
result from the review.
(b) Subsequent Reviews.--
(1) In general.--Not later than March 1, 2031, and every 5 
years thereafter, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination 
with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall conduct 
a review described in subsection (a)(1).
(2) Reports required.--Not later than 60 days after 
completing a review under paragraph (1), the Secretary of 
Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the 
Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the review, 
including any changes to designations under that section that 
result from the review.
(c) Reports on Designation Changes Between Reports.--If, at any 
time between the submission of reports required by subsections (a)(2) 
and (b)(2), the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of a military 
department conducts a review of areas designated under section 
351(a)(3) of title 37, United States Code, and makes a change to any 
such designation, that Secretary shall submit to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report 
on the review and the change not later than 60 days after the change is 
made.

SEC. 612. IMPLEMENTATION OF AVIATION INCENTIVE PAY FOR MEMBERS OF 
RESERVE COMPONENTS.

Section 602(d) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2022 (Public Law 117-81; 37 U.S.C. 357 note) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking ``In making'' and inserting the 
following:
``(A) In general.--In making''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new 
subparagraphs:
``(B) Aviation incentive pay evaluation.--Not later 
than June 1, 2026, the Secretary shall complete the 
evaluation required by subparagraph (A) with respect to 
aviation incentive pay under section 334 of title 37, 
United States Code. In conducting that evaluation, the 
Secretary shall make a specific determination with 
respect to the percentage of such aviation incentive 
pay, if any, that is paid specifically to maintain 
skill certification or proficiency under section 357 of 
title 37, United States Code.
``(C) Special and incentive pay framework.--Not 
later than June 1, 2026, the Secretary shall submit to 
the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the 
House of Representatives a detailed report on the 
special and incentive pay assessment framework, 
required by the Senate report accompanying the National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public 
Law 118-31), that includes the Secretary's plan and 
timeline for implementing such framework.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(3) Initiation of payments.--Not later than January 1, 
2027, the Secretary concerned shall begin making aviation 
incentive payments under section 357 of title 37, United States 
Code, pursuant to the determination made under paragraph 
(2)(B).''.

SEC. 613. PILOT PROGRAM ON IMPROVING RETENTION OF MEMBERS WITH DEGREES 
IN THEIR FIELDS OF SPECIALTY.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall establish a pilot 
program to assess the feasibility and advisability of paying incentive 
pay to certain enlisted members of the Armed Forces with degrees in 
their fields of specialty to improve the retention of such members.
(b) Payment of Incentive Pay.--Under the pilot program required by 
subsection (a), the Secretary concerned may pay monthly incentive pay 
to a member of the Armed Forces who--
(1) is an enlisted member;
(2) has less than 4 years of service in the Armed Forces;
(3) has a degree in the member's field of specialty, as 
determined by the Secretary concerned; and
(4) commits to reenlisting.
(c) Termination.--The pilot program required by subsection (a) 
shall terminate on the date that is 5 years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act.
(d) Report Required.--After the termination under subsection (c) of 
the pilot program required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall 
submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the 
effectiveness of the pilot program in retaining highly qualified 
members that includes an assessment of--
(1) the effect of the pilot program on retention rates;
(2) satisfaction of members with the pilot program; and
(3) the overall cost-effectiveness of the pilot program.
(e) Secretary Concerned Defined.--In this section, the term 
``Secretary concerned'' has the meaning given that term in section 101 
of title 10, United States Code.

Subtitle C--Other Matters

SEC. 621. EXTENSION OF ENHANCED AUTHORITY FOR SELECTIVE EARLY 
RETIREMENT AND EARLY DISCHARGES.

Section 638a(a)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``December 31, 2025'' and inserting ``December 31, 2030''.

SEC. 622. EXTENSION OF TEMPORARY EARLY RETIREMENT AUTHORITY.

Section 4403(i) of the National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 1993 (Public Law 102-484; 10 U.S.C. 1293 note) is amended 
by striking ``December 31, 2025'' and inserting ``December 31, 2030''.

SEC. 623. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE VOLUNTARY SEPARATION PAY 
AND BENEFITS.

Section 1175a(k)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``December 31, 2025'' and inserting ``December 31, 2030''.

SEC. 624. DESIGNATION OF UNITED STATES ARMY GARRISON KWAJALEIN ATOLL AS 
REMOTE AND ISOLATED MILITARY INSTALLATION.

(a) Designation.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and 
Readiness and the Secretary of the Army, in coordination with the 
Commander of the United States Army Pacific, shall designate United 
States Army Garrison Kwajalein Atoll as a remote and isolated military 
installation.
(b) Notification.--Not later than 30 days after the date on which 
the designation described in subsection (a) is completed, the Secretary 
of the Army shall submit a notification to the congressional defense 
committees confirming completion of the designation.
(c) Briefing Required.--Not later than 90 days after the date on 
which the Secretary of the Army submits the notification described in 
subsection (b), the Commander of the United States Army Pacific shall 
brief the congressional defense committees on adjustments to Department 
of Defense resourcing for and support to United States Army Garrison 
Kwajalein Atoll as a result of the designation described in subsection 
(a).
(d) Definition.--In this section, the term ``remote and isolated 
military installation'' means a military installation determined to be 
remote and isolated pursuant to the criteria set forth in Department of 
Defense Instructions 1015.10 and 1015.18, dated July 6, 2009, and May 
30, 2024, respectively.

SEC. 625. DESIGNATION OF CREECH AIR FORCE BASE AS A REMOTE OR ISOLATED 
INSTALLATION.

The Secretary of Defense shall designate Creech Air Force Base, 
Indian Springs, Nevada, as a remote or isolated installation.

SEC. 626. PROVISION OF COUNSELING ON HOUSING FOR MEMBERS OF THE ARMED 
FORCES.

Section 992 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(2), by adding at the end the 
following new subparagraph:
``(C) The Secretary concerned may, subject to the applicable 
requirements of this section, enter into contracts to provide 
counseling under this paragraph with individuals and organizations that 
provide counseling with respect to housing, including--
``(i) organizations that are certified under section 106(e) 
of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 
1701x(e)); and
``(ii) other individuals and organizations the Secretary 
concerned determines are qualified to provide helpful, unbiased 
counseling with respect to housing.''; and
(2) in subsection (f)(3), by striking ``and mortgages'' and 
inserting ``mortgages, and other financial products related to 
the purchase or lease of a primary residence (and information 
on fees related to such products)''.

SEC. 627. PROGRAM TO PROVIDE GOVERNMENT-FUNDED TRANSPORTATION FOR 
CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES STATIONED OVERSEAS.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall establish a program 
to provide Government-funded transportation for unaccompanied members 
of the Armed Forces from designated overseas locations to the members' 
homes of record, or to other locations of comparable or lesser cost, in 
accordance with this section.
(b) Eligibility.--Transportation under this section may be provided 
to a member of the Armed Forces who--
(1) is assigned to an overseas duty location designated by 
the Secretary for purposes of this section;
(2) is serving an unaccompanied tour of at least 24 
consecutive months at such location, including any authorized 
extensions; and
(3) is otherwise eligible in accordance with implementing 
regulations prescribed by the Secretary.
(c) Transportation Mode.--Transportation under this section may be 
provided using military air in accordance with established space-
available policies or through commercial air travel, as determined 
appropriate by the Secretary.
(d) Limitations.--The Secretary may prescribe limitations on the 
number of authorized trips per overseas tour, and may restrict travel 
during certain periods at the beginning or end of such tours.
(e) Implementation.--The Secretary shall prescribe regulations to 
implement this section, including the designation of eligible overseas 
duty locations and specified destinations.
(f) Additional Limitations.--Transportation provided under this 
section shall be subject to applicable restrictions, including 
compliance with the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide, and 
limitations on the use of Government travel cards for any leisure-
related expenses.

SEC. 628. PROHIBITION ON PROCUREMENT AND COMMISSARY SALES OF SEAFOOD 
ORIGINATING OR PROCESSED IN THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF 
CHINA.

(a) Prohibition on Procurement of Seafood Originating or Processed 
in the People's Republic of China for Military Dining Facilities.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided by paragraph (2) or 
(3), the Secretary of Defense may not enter into a contract for 
the procurement of seafood that originates or is processed in 
the People's Republic of China for use in military dining 
facilities, including galleys onboard United States naval 
vessels.
(2) Exceptions.--
(A) Undue burden.--The Secretary of Defense, or a 
designee of the Secretary, may grant exceptions to the 
prohibition under paragraph (1) to facilities on 
military installations located outside of the United 
States if such prohibition would unduly burden or 
prevent seafood from being served at such facility.
(B) United states vessels visiting foreign ports.--
The Secretary of Defense, or a designee of the 
Secretary, may grant exceptions to the prohibition 
under paragraph (1) to United States vessels visiting 
foreign ports.
(3) Waiver.--The Secretary of Defense may waive the 
prohibition under paragraph (1).
(b) Prohibition on Sales of Seafood Originating in the People's 
Republic of China at Commissary Stores.--
(1) In general.--Section 2484 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new 
subsection:
``(l) Prohibition on Sales of Seafood Originating in the People's 
Republic of China.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided by paragraph (2), raw 
or processed seafood or seafood products originating in the 
People's Republic of China may not be sold at commissary 
stores.
``(2) Waiver.--The Secretary of Defense may waive the 
prohibition under paragraph (1).''.
(2) Briefing on compliance.--Section 2481(c)(4) of such 
title is amended--
(A) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``; and'' and 
inserting a semicolon;
(B) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as 
subparagraph (F); and
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the 
following new subparagraph (E):
``(E) an assessment of compliance with the 
prohibition under section 2484(l) of this title; and''.
(3) Transition rules.--
(A) Applicability.--The prohibition under 
subsection (l) of section 2484 of title 10, United 
States Code, as added by paragraph (1), shall apply on 
and after the date that is 30 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act.
(B) Disposal of remaining stock.--The Director of 
the Defense Commissary Agency may determine how to 
dispose of any stock covered by the prohibition under 
subsection (l) of section 2484 of title 10, United 
States Code, as added by paragraph (1), that remains as 
of the date described in subparagraph (A).
(c) Effective Date.--The prohibitions under this section, and the 
amendments made by this section, shall take effect 90 days after the 
date of the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 629. GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE STUDY ON CASUALTY ASSISTANCE 
AND LONG-TERM CARE PROGRAMS.

(a) In General.--Not later than January 1, 2027, the Comptroller 
General of the United States shall conduct a study on the structure and 
execution of the casualty assistance and long-term care programs of the 
Armed Forces.
(b) Elements.--In conducting the study required by subsection (a), 
the Comptroller General shall assess options--
(1) to improve the standardization of the selection and 
management of casualty assistance officers across the Armed 
Forces, including standardized tour lengths similar to military 
recruiters;
(2) to improve the standardization, quality, and 
proficiency of training for casualty assistance officers across 
the Armed Forces in requisite policies, procedures, and 
knowledge of entitlements, benefits, and financial obligations 
surviving families may encounter;
(3) to develop a Defense-wide survivor contact registry 
allowing surviving families to voluntarily provide contact 
information to ensure periodic check-ins with surviving 
families during significant milestones following the death of a 
member of the Armed Forces; and
(4) to develop an integrated Defense-wide long-term care 
program for surviving families, modeled on the Army's Survivor 
Outreach Services, that provides information about survivor 
entitlements and access to expert case managers and counselors.
(c) Report Required.--Not later than 180 days after completing the 
study required by subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall submit 
to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives a report that includes--
(1) the results of the study;
(2) recommendations relating to the options assessed under 
subsection (b); and
(3) a plan for implementing those recommendations.

TITLE VII--HEALTH CARE PROVISIONS

Subtitle A--TRICARE, Brain Health, and Other Health Care Benefits

SEC. 701. INCLUSION OF ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS IN NOTIFICATIONS TO 
MODIFY SCOPE OF SERVICES PROVIDED AT MILITARY MEDICAL 
TREATMENT FACILITIES.

Section 1073d(f)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``information demonstrating'';
(2) by striking ``the extent'' and all that follows through 
the period at the end and inserting ``the following:''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(A) An endorsement from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs 
of Staff that the proposed modification will have no effect on 
operational requirements of the armed forces.
``(B) An endorsement from the Surgeon General of the 
military department concerned that the proposed modification 
will have no effect on the training or readiness of military 
medical personnel in the military department concerned.
``(C) An assessment from the Director of the Defense Health 
Agency that explains how members of the armed forces and 
covered beneficiaries receiving services at the facility will 
continue to receive care.''.

SEC. 702. EXPANSION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR HEARING AIDS TO INCLUDE CHILDREN 
OF RETIRED MEMBERS OF THE UNIFORMED SERVICES ENROLLED IN 
FAMILY COVERAGE UNDER TRICARE SELECT.

Section 1077(a)(16)(B)(ii) of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by inserting ``or TRICARE Select'' before the period at the 
end.

SEC. 703. ASSESSMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL HEALTH CONDITIONS 
OF MILITARY PERSONNEL AND THEIR FAMILIES ASSIGNED TO 
CREECH AIR FORCE BASE, NEVADA.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Air Force, in coordination 
with the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall assess the 
behavioral health and social health conditions of members of the Air 
Force assigned to Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, and their families 
related to such assignment.
(b) Tools Used.--In carrying out the assessment required under 
subsection (a), the Secretary of the Air Force shall use tools such as 
site assistance visits, behavioral health epidemiological 
consultations, and community-wide assessments.
(c) Elements of Assessment.--The assessment required under 
subsection (a) shall--
(1) establish the behavioral health and social health 
outcomes that impact individual, family, and unit readiness at 
Creech Air Force Base;
(2) identify factors, to include unique social and 
occupational stressors, affecting the behavioral health and 
social health of members of the Air Force and their families 
stationed at Creech Air Force Base; and
(3) make recommendations to address those factors and to 
improve the health and readiness of members of the Air Force 
and their families stationed at Creech Air Force Base, and in 
doing so, advancing the readiness of the Air Force.
(d) Briefing.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the Secretary of the 
Air Force shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate 
and the House of Representatives on the methods used to conduct the 
assessment required under subsection (a) and on the findings and 
recommendations of the assessment.

SEC. 704. AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE SEXUAL ASSAULT MEDICAL FORENSIC 
EXAMINATIONS ON A NONREIMBURSABLE BASIS TO CERTAIN 
OTHERWISE INELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS.

(a) Authority To Provide Forensic Examinations.--The Secretary of 
Defense, in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary, 
shall authorize medical personnel of the Department of Defense to 
provide sexual assault medical forensic examinations, in a military 
medical treatment facility on a nonreimbursable basis, to an individual 
who--
(1) is not otherwise eligible for health care from the 
Department;
(2) reports a sexual assault offense for which the Defense 
Criminal Investigative Service may initiate an investigation; 
and
(3) is eligible for a forensic examination in accordance 
with those regulations.
(b) Additional Elements.--The regulations prescribed under 
subsection (a) may provide for the handling, storage, and transfer to 
law enforcement of a completed sexual assault medical forensic 
examination kit.

SEC. 705. FERTILITY TREATMENT FOR CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE UNIFORMED 
SERVICES AND DEPENDENTS.

(a) Fertility Treatment.--Chapter 55 of title 10, United States 
Code, is amended by inserting after section 1074o the following new 
section:
``Sec. 1074p Fertility treatment for certain active duty members of the 
uniformed services and their dependents
``(a) Coverage.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that 
fertility-related care for a member of the uniformed services on active 
duty (or a dependent of such a member) shall be covered under TRICARE 
Prime and TRICARE Select.
``(b) In Vitro Fertilization.--In the case of in vitro 
fertilization treatment furnished to an individual pursuant to 
subsection (a), coverage under such subsection shall include--
``(1) not fewer than three completed oocyte retrievals; and
``(2) unlimited embryo transfers provided in accordance 
with the guidelines of the American Society for Reproductive 
Medicine, using single embryo transfer when recommended and 
medically appropriate.
``(c) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `infertility' means a disease, condition, or 
status characterized by--
``(A) the failure to establish a pregnancy or to 
carry a pregnancy to live birth after regular, 
unprotected sexual intercourse in accordance with the 
guidelines of the American Society for Reproductive 
Medicine;
``(B) the inability of an individual to reproduce 
without medical intervention either as a single 
individual or with the partner of the individual; or
``(C) the findings of a licensed physician based on 
the medical, sexual, and reproductive history, age, 
physical findings, or diagnostic testing of the 
individual.
``(2) The term `fertility-related care' means--
``(A) the diagnosis of infertility; and
``(B) fertility treatment.
``(3) The term `fertility treatment' includes the 
following:
``(A) In vitro fertilization or other treatments or 
procedures in which human oocytes, embryos, or sperm 
are handled when clinically appropriate.
``(B) Sperm retrieval.
``(C) Egg retrieval.
``(D) Preservation of human oocytes, embryos, or 
sperm.
``(E) Artificial insemination, including 
intravaginal insemination, intracervical insemination, 
and intrauterine insemination.
``(F) Transfer of reproductive genetic material.
``(G) Medications as prescribed or necessary for 
fertility.
``(H) Fertility treatment coordination.
``(I) Such other information, referrals, 
treatments, procedures, testing, medications, 
laboratory services, technologies, and services 
facilitating reproduction as determined appropriate by 
the Secretary of Defense.''.
(b) Program on Fertility Treatment Coordination.--Chapter 55 of 
title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following new section:
``Sec. 1110c Program on fertility-related care coordination
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall establish a 
program on the coordination of fertility-related care by the Secretary 
for purposes of ensuring patients receive timely fertility-related 
care.
``(b) Training and Support.--In carrying out the program 
established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall provide to 
community health care providers training and support with respect to 
the unique needs of members of the uniformed services and the 
dependents of such members.
``(c) Fertility-Related Care Defined.--In this section, the term 
`fertility-related care' has the meaning given that term in section 
1074p(c) of this title.''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1079(a) of title 10, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(21) Fertility-related care shall be provided in 
accordance with section 1074p of this title.''.
(d) Exclusion From Contracts for Former Members and Their 
Dependents.--Section 1086 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (c), in the matter preceding paragraph 
(1), by striking ``subsection (d)'' and inserting ``subsections 
(d) and (j)''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(j) A plan contracted for under subsection (a) may not include 
coverage for services under section 1074p of this title for former 
members of the uniformed services or dependents of former members of 
the uniformed services.''.
(e) Regulations.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall prescribe 
regulations or subregulatory guidance regarding the implementation of 
the amendments made by this section.
(f) Application.--The amendments made by this section shall apply 
with respect to services provided on or after October 1, 2027.
(g) Rules of Construction.--Nothing in this section or the 
amendments made by this section shall be construed--
(1) to provide new benefits to or alter existing benefits 
for former members of the uniformed services or the dependents 
of former members of the uniformed services; or
(2) to authorize the Secretary of Defense to make payments 
related to human cloning, artificial womb technology, or 
international surrogacy.

SEC. 706. RESTRICTION ON PERFORMANCE OF SEX CHANGE SURGERIES.

(a) In General.--Chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by inserting after section 1093 the following new section:
``Sec. 1093a Performance of sex change surgeries: restrictions
``(a) Restriction on Use of Funds.--Funds available to the 
Department of Defense may not be used to perform or facilitate sex 
change surgeries.
``(b) Restriction on Use of Facilities.--No military medical 
treatment facility or other facility of the Department of Defense may 
be used to perform or facilitate a sex change surgery.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of 
such chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 
1093 the following new item:

``1093a. Performance of sex change surgeries: restrictions.''.

Subtitle B--Health Care Administration

SEC. 711. CODIFICATION OF POSITION OF DIRECTOR OF THE DEFENSE HEALTH 
AGENCY.

(a) In General.--Section 1073c of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (a) through (j) as 
subsections (b) through (k), respectively;
(2) by inserting before subsection (b), as redesignated by 
paragraph (1), the following:
``(a) Director of the Defense Health Agency.--(1) There is in the 
Defense Health Agency a Director.
``(2) The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall--
``(A) be a military officer and hold a rank that is the 
same or greater than the rank of any officer serving as the 
Surgeon General of a military department under section 7036, 
8031, or 9036 of this title; and
``(B) be a joint qualified officer in accordance with 
section 661 of this title.'';
(3) in subsection (b), as redesignated by paragraph (1)--
(A) in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding 
subparagraph (A), by striking ``, by not later than 
September 30, 2021'';
(B) in paragraph (2), in the matter preceding 
subparagraph (A), by striking ``, commencing when the 
Director begins to exercise responsibilities under that 
paragraph,''; and
(C) in paragraph (6), by striking ``subsections (b) 
and (c)'' and inserting ``subsections (c) and (d)'';
(4) in subsection (f), as so redesignated, in the matter 
preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``Not later than September 
30, 2024, and subject to subsection (f)'' and inserting 
``Subject to subsection (g)'';
(5) in subsection (g), as so redesignated, in the matter 
preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``subsection (e)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (f)''; and
(6) in subsection (h), as so redesignated, by striking 
``subsection (e)(1)'' and inserting ``subsection (f)(1)''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1091a(b)(2) of such title is 
amended by striking ``section 1073c(i)'' and inserting ``section 
1073c(k)''.

SEC. 712. ESTABLISHMENT OF POLICIES FOR PRIORITY ASSIGNMENT OF MEDICAL 
PERSONNEL OF DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall establish policies 
for the priority assignment of medical personnel of the Department of 
Defense.
(b) Application to Military Departments.--The Secretary of each 
military department shall assign medical personnel within that military 
department consistent with the policies established under subsection 
(a) and in coordination with the Director of the Defense Health Agency.
(c) Reassignment.--
(1) In general.--If, in the judgment of the Secretary of 
Defense, the Secretary of a military department fails to comply 
with the assignment priorities established under subsection 
(a), the Secretary may authorize the Director of the Defense 
Health Agency to reassign medical personnel of that military 
department in accordance with the policies established under 
subsection (a).
(2) Briefing.--Not later than 90 days after the effective 
date of any reassignment under paragraph (1), the Director of 
the Defense Health Agency shall brief the Committees on Armed 
Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on such 
reassignment.

SEC. 713. GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM.

(a) Demonstration Program Required.--Notwithstanding section 1104 
of title 10, United States Code, the Secretary of Defense shall seek to 
establish a demonstration program to expand partnerships between 
covered medical facilities of the Department of Defense and the 
Department of Veterans Affairs.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of the demonstration program under 
subsection (a) is to increase case volume for graduate medical 
education programs of the Department of Defense.
(c) Parameters.--In seeking to establish a demonstration program 
under subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall make efforts to 
ensure the following:
(1) Credentialing and privileging of medical personnel as 
necessary to work in any covered medical facility.
(2) Expedited access to installations of the Department of 
Defense for the purpose of providing medical care under the 
demonstration program to non-Department of Defense 
beneficiaries.
(3) Inclusion of ``in-kind'' or non-cash payment or 
reimbursement for expenses incurred under the demonstration 
program.
(d) Annual Briefing.--Not later than December 1, 2026, and annually 
thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a 
briefing on the implementation of this section.
(e) Covered Medical Facility Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered medical facility'' means--
(1) a medical facility of the Department of Defense with a 
certified graduate medical education program; and
(2) any medical facility of the Department of Veterans 
Affairs.
(f) Sunset.--This section shall terminate on September 30, 2032.

SEC. 714. MODIFICATION OF ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICAL MALPRACTICE CLAIMS 
BY MEMBERS OF THE UNIFORMED SERVICES.

(a) In General.--Section 2733a of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``subsection (h)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (i)'';
(2) in subsection (b)(6), by striking ``subsection (h)'' 
and inserting ``subsection (i)'';
(3) in subsection (d)(1), by striking ``subsection (h)'' 
and inserting ``subsection (i)'';
(4) by re-designating subsections (g) through (k) as 
subsections (h) through (l), respectively; and
(5) by inserting after subsection (f) the following new 
subsection:
``(g) Appeals.--(1) Any appeal from the denial of a claim under 
this section shall be considered by a third-party review board jointly 
established by the Judge Advocates General of the Army, the Navy, and 
the Air Force.
``(2) The third-party review board established under paragraph (1) 
shall consist of not more than five members, all of whom possess 
sufficient legal or medical background, or both.
``(3) A claimant under this section that seeks an appeal under 
paragraph (1) may submit the appeal directly to the third-party review 
board established under such paragraph.
``(4) In considering an appeal from the denial of a claim under 
this section, the third-party review board established under paragraph 
(1) shall, at the request of the claimant, allow for a hearing on the 
merits of the appeal in an adversarial nature.
``(5) The Secretary of Defense shall provide to a claimant seeking 
an appeal under paragraph (1) a copy of any response to the appeal that 
is submitted on behalf of the Department of Defense.
``(6) The third-party review board established under paragraph (1) 
shall not consist of any member of the uniformed services or civilian 
employee of the Department of Defense.''.
(b) Appointment of Members.--Not later than 180 days after the 
effective date described in subsection (d), the Judge Advocates General 
of the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force shall jointly appoint members 
to the board established under subsection (g)(1) of section 2733a of 
title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a)(5).
(c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the establishment of the 
board required under subsection (g)(1) of section 2733a of title 10, 
United States Code, as added by subsection (a)(5), the Secretary of 
Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate 
and the House of Representatives a report indicating--
(1) the membership of the board;
(2) the qualifying background of each member of the board; 
and
(3) a statement indicating the independence of each member 
of the board from the Department of Defense.
(d) Effective Date.--This section, and the amendments made by this 
section, shall take effect on the date that is 10 years after the date 
of the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 715. IMPROVEMENT OF TRANSITION OF MEDICS IN THE ARMED FORCES TO 
THE CIVILIAN WORKFORCE IN HEALTH CARE OCCUPATIONS.

(a) Recommendations Required.--The Secretary concerned, in 
consultation with each of the States (through the Defense-State Liaison 
Office of the Department of Defense), the Secretary of Veterans 
Affairs, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary 
of Labor, shall develop recommendations to improve the transition of 
medics under the jurisdiction of the Secretary concerned into the 
civilian workforce in health care occupations, including as certified 
nurse aides, licensed practical nurses, or medical assistants.
(b) Considerations.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary 
concerned shall--
(1) identify any barriers--
(A) to improving the ability of the Secretary 
concerned to determine and communicate how the military 
credentials and experience of a medic separating from 
the Armed Forces translate to credentialed civilian 
employment in health care occupations;
(B) that exist to the standardization among the 
Armed Forces of military medic credentials and 
experience and the alignment of such credentials and 
experience to credentialed civilian employment in 
health care occupations;
(C) that exist to ensuring members of the Armed 
Forces with military medic credentials and experience 
have earned the equivalent civilian credential prior to 
separation from the Armed Forces in addition to 
receiving their military credentials;
(D) to the increased establishment and uptake of 
accelerated or bridge programs to assist separating 
members of the Armed Forces in translating military 
credentials and experience into civilian health care 
credentials and employment;
(E) to increasing the availability and 
accessibility of preparatory activities under the 
SkillBridge program established under section 1143(e) 
of title 10, United States Code, in the health care 
sector for members of the Armed Forces preparing for 
separation, to include--
(i) the approval timeline for separating 
members to participate in SkillBridge programs 
in the health care sector; and
(ii) requirements to return to their duty 
station for out-processing; and
(F) to providing information on civilian health 
care credentials and employment under the Transition 
Assistance Program to medics separating from the Armed 
Forces, including information on State-by-State 
licensing and credentialing; and
(2) consider the potential impact of--
(A) clarification by States through legislation, 
actions of State licensing boards, or actions of State 
credentialing boards of the civilian equivalents of 
certain military credentials and experience in health 
care;
(B) implementation, including through State-
provided incentives, of accelerated programs to bridge 
military medic credentials and experience with civilian 
health care credentials and licenses;
(C) financial support or incentives by States to 
increase the availability and accessibility of such 
programs;
(D) requiring the military departments to align 
military health care credentials with civilian 
equivalents; and
(E) requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs 
and the Department of Labor to track and report the 
number of separated members of the Armed Forces with 
health care-related military credentials and experience 
who continue in the civilian health care sector, 
including the type of employment they pursue.
(c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary concerned shall submit to the 
relevant committees of Congress a report containing--
(1) the recommendations developed under subsection (a); and
(2) a plan to implement those recommendations.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Medic.--The term ``medic'' means a member of the Armed 
Forces acting in a clinical health care-related occupation 
while serving in the Armed Forces.
(2) Relevant committees of congress.--The term ``relevant 
committees of Congress'' means--
(A) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee 
on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Committee 
on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, and the 
Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate; and
(B) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee 
on Education and the Workforce, and the Committee on 
Veterans' Affairs of the House of Representatives.
(3) Secretary concerned.--The term ``Secretary concerned'' 
means--
(A) the Secretary of Defense, with respect to 
matters concerning the Department of Defense; and
(B) the Secretary of Homeland Security, with 
respect to matters concerning the Coast Guard when it 
is not operating as a service in the Department of the 
Navy.
(4) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several 
States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto 
Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, 
or the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands that have a 
Defense-State Liaison Office.
(5) Transition assistance program.--The term ``Transition 
Assistance Program'' means the program of the Department of 
Defense for pre-separation counseling, employment assistance, 
and other transitional services provided under sections 1142 
and 1144 of title 10, United States Code.

SEC. 716. IMPROVEMENT OF PROVIDER DIRECTORY ACCURACY FOR SPECIALTY CARE 
PROVIDERS UNDER THE TRICARE PROGRAM.

(a) In General.--By not later than five years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Defense Health Agency (in 
this section referred to as the ``Director'') shall ensure that the 
accuracy of the provider directory under the TRICARE program for all 
specialty care provider types reaches an average accuracy across all 
specialty care providers of not less than 70 percent.
(b) Measurement of Accuracy.--Average accuracy under subsection (a) 
shall be measured biannually and shall be disaggregated by provider 
type for each specialty care provider group.
(c) Inclusion in Contracts.--The Director shall ensure that each 
managed care contract under the TRICARE program includes requirements 
that the managed care contractor comply with the accuracy requirement 
under subsection (a), including by requiring each such contractor to--
(1) conduct comprehensive outreach campaigns, to include 
electronic and non-electronic means, and mass email campaigns 
to network providers providing--
(A) information relating to T-5 Contract penalties 
associated with inaccurate provider directory 
information;
(B) resources; and
(C) direct links for providers to update their 
directory information;
(2) make it a condition of joining the TRICARE network 
managed by such contractor for providers to validate their 
provider directory information not less frequently than 
quarterly;
(3) ensure that when providers file for reimbursement, such 
providers are prompted to review and verify their directory 
accuracy; and
(4) create a mechanism by which beneficiaries under the 
TRICARE program can report provider directory inaccuracy to the 
contractor.
(d) Other Methods.--The Director shall carry out any other methods 
that the Director finds useful for the improvement of provider 
directory accuracy.
(e) Testing of Directory Information.--Not less frequently than 
quarterly, the Inspector General of the Department of Defense shall 
conduct random tests, encompassing all specialty care provider types, 
of the accuracy of information relating to specialty care providers 
contained in the provider directory under the TRICARE program.
(f) Reports and Briefings.--
(1) In general.--Not later than one year after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the 
Director shall submit a report and provide a briefing to the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives on progress towards reaching the average 
accuracy target required under subsection (a).
(2) Elements.--Each report under paragraph (1) shall 
include, at a minimum, the following:
(A) A description of the techniques that are most 
effective in improving accuracy of provider 
directories.
(B) An identification of the authorities or tools 
that the Defense Health Agency lacks for improving such 
accuracy.
(C) An identification of challenges specific to 
each specialty care provider type that limit such 
accuracy.
(D) An assessment of the impact of efforts of the 
Defense Health Agency towards improving such accuracy 
on providers either leaving the TRICARE program or on 
the willingness of non-network providers to join the 
TRICARE program.
(g) Comptroller General Review.--Not later than one year after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the 
Comptroller General of the United States shall--
(1) conduct a holistic review of provider directory 
accuracy under the TRICARE program to measure the progress of 
the Director towards meeting the requirement under subsection 
(a); and
(2) submit to Congress a report on the review conducted 
under paragraph (1).

SEC. 717. REVIEW OF DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS UNDER PROCESSES AND FORMS 
RELATING TO HEALTH CARE PROVIDER CREDENTIALING AND 
PRIVILEGING OF DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

(a) Review.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall review all 
processes and forms relating to health care provider credentialing and 
privileging of covered applicants to--
(1) identify questions, required disclosures, or other 
information required to be provided by the applicant that asks 
or requires the applicant to disclose mental, behavioral, 
psychological, or other related health conditions of the 
applicant, including requirements contained in--
(A) applications for credentialing, peer reference, 
or competency assessment; and
(B) employee manuals, guidance, and policies of the 
Department of Defense governing the requirements for 
credentialing, privileging, or employment of health 
care providers;
(2) review and compare credentialing, peer reference, and 
competency assessment forms for health care providers across 
the military departments and the Defense Health Agency, 
including a review of--
(A) which forms require disclosure of mental, 
behavioral, psychological, or other related health 
conditions; and
(B) whether such disclosure of mental, behavioral, 
psychological, or other related health conditions 
include past and current diagnoses and treatment.
(b) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to 
Congress a report containing the following:
(1) The findings of the review require under subsection 
(a).
(2) A detailed plan outlining steps the Secretary has taken 
or will take, including a timeline for completion of such 
steps, to update the processes and forms reviewed under such 
subsection to refrain from requiring disclosures of mental, 
behavioral, psychological, or other related health conditions 
when there is no current impairment, including an 
identification of the steps the Secretary will take to engage 
advocates outside the Department of Defense who have subject 
matter expertise.
(c) Covered Applicant Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
applicant'' means an applicant for a position as a health care provider 
who--
(1) is required to go through a credentialing and 
privileging process; and
(2) provides care--
(A) at a military medical treatment facility or 
other clinic of the Department of Defense; or
(B) through the civilian network of the TRICARE 
program (as defined in section 1072 of title 10, United 
States Code).

SEC. 718. PROVISION OF HEALTH CARE SERVICES AT FORT LEONARD WOOD, 
MISSOURI.

(a) Assessment.--The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the 
Secretary of the Army, shall conduct an assessment of the adequacy of 
health care services available to covered beneficiaries under the 
TRICARE program located at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
(b) Elements.--The assessment required by subsection (a) shall 
include the following elements:
(1) An evaluation of the ability of the local area to 
provide adequate access to care for the covered beneficiary 
population surrounding Fort Leonard Wood.
(2) An evaluation of potential impacts to access and 
quality of care for such beneficiaries if the General Leonard 
Wood Army Community Hospital were to be realigned, downgraded, 
or have its scope of services reduced.
(3) An evaluation of the ability to establish additional 
partnerships with the Department of Veterans Affairs for the 
provision of health care service at the General Leonard Wood 
Army Community Hospital.
(4) Such other matters as the Secretary considers relevant 
for determining the continued viability of the General Leonard 
Wood Army Community Hospital.
(c) Prohibition.--The Secretary of Defense may not close, 
downgrade, or reduce the scope of care offered by the General Leonard 
Wood Army Community Hospital unless--
(1) the Secretary--
(A) completes the assessment required by subsection 
(a) and delivers such assessment to the Committees on 
Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives; and
(B) certifies to the Committees on Armed Services 
of the Senate and the House of Representatives that any 
such changes would not reduce or degrade the health 
care services available to covered beneficiaries and 
the local community; and
(2) the Chief of Staff of the Army certifies to the 
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives that there will be no degradation of medical 
readiness of units assigned to Fort Leonard Wood as a result of 
any changes to the status of the General Leonard Wood Army 
Community Hospital.

Subtitle C--Reports and Other Matters

SEC. 721. STRATEGIC INFECTIOUS DISEASE MEDICAL RESEARCH PLAN.

(a) Plan.--Not later than 90 days after the date on which the 
President submits a budget for fiscal year 2027 to Congress pursuant to 
section 1105(a) of title 31, United States Code, the Secretary of 
Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of each military 
department, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a 
comprehensive, strategic infectious disease medical research plan 
(referred to in this section as the ``Plan'').
(b) Matters to Be Included.--The Plan shall describe--
(1) all infectious disease medical research conducted by 
the Department of Defense, including the coordination process, 
to ensure that such research is linked to--
(A) military readiness;
(B) joint force requirements; and
(C) relevance to individuals eligible for care at 
military medical treatment facilities or through the 
TRICARE program (as defined in section 1072(7) of title 
10, United States Code);
(2) the infectious disease research projects funded under 
the Defense Health Program Account under section 1100 of title 
10, United States Code, including projects under--
(A) the Congressional Directed Medical Research 
Program of the Department of Defense;
(B) the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency;
(C) the United States Army Medical Research 
Institute of Infectious Diseases;
(D) the Chemical and Biological Defense Program; 
and
(E) the Defense Threat Reduction Agency;
(3) the process for ensuring synergy across the military 
medical research community--
(A) to address gaps in military infectious disease 
research;
(B) to minimize duplication of research;
(C) to promote collaboration within research focus 
areas; and
(D) to leverage and modernize the existing medical 
research and development infrastructure of the 
Department of Defense; and
(4) the efforts of the Secretary to coordinate with other 
Federal departments and agencies to increase awareness of 
complementary infectious disease research efforts that are 
being carried out by the Federal Government.
(c) Budget Display Information.--The Secretary shall submit to the 
President, in conjunction with the materials of the Department of 
Defense supporting the fiscal year 2027 budget request submitted to 
Congress by the President pursuant to section 1105(a) of title 31, 
United States Code, and annually thereafter in conjunction with each 
subsequent budget request through fiscal year 2032, a detailed budget 
for carrying out the Plan that includes--
(1) the resources necessary for infectious disease medical 
research to carry out the activities described in subsection 
(b) for the applicable fiscal year and the 4 following fiscal 
years, disaggregated by the activities described in paragraphs 
(1) through (4) of subsection (b);
(2) with respect to procurement accounts--
(A) amounts displayed by account, budget activity, 
line number, line item, and line item title; and
(B) a description of the requirements for such 
amounts specific to the Plan;
(3) with respect to research, development, test, and 
evaluation accounts--
(A) amounts displayed by account, budget activity, 
line number, program element, and program element 
title; and
(B) a description of the requirements for such 
amounts specific to the Plan;
(4) with respect to operation and maintenance accounts--
(A) amounts displayed by account title, budget 
activity title, line number, and subactivity group 
title; and
(B) a description of the specific manner in which 
such amounts will be used;
(5) with respect to military personnel accounts--
(A) amounts displayed by account, budget activity, 
budget subactivity, and budget subactivity title; and
(B) a description of the requirements for such 
amounts specific to the Plan;
(6) with respect to each project under military 
construction accounts, the country, location, project title, 
and project amount by fiscal year;
(7) with respect to the activities described in subsection 
(b)--
(A) amounts displayed by account title, budget 
activity title, line number, and subactivity group 
title; and
(B) a description of the specific manner in which 
such amounts will be used;
(8) with respect to each military department--
(A) amounts displayed by account title, budget 
activity title, line number, and subactivity group 
title; and
(B) a description of the specific manner in which 
such amounts will be used;
(9) with respect to the amounts described in each of 
paragraphs (2)(A), (3)(A), (4)(A), (5)(A), (6), (7)(A), and 
(8)(A) for a fiscal year--
(A) a comparison between--
(i) the amount requested in the budget of 
the President for such fiscal year; and
(ii) the amount projected in the previously 
submitted budget request of the President for 
such fiscal year;
(B) a detailed summary of the amounts obligated for 
the Plan during the most recently concluded fiscal 
year; and
(C) a detailed comparison between--
(i) the amounts obligated for the Plan 
during the most recently concluded fiscal year; 
and
(ii) the amounts requested for the Plan in 
the budget of the President for the applicable 
fiscal year.

SEC. 722. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY FOR JOINT DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE-
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MEDICAL FACILITY 
DEMONSTRATION FUND.

Section 1704(e) of the National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2010 (Public Law 111-84; 123 Stat. 2573), as most recently 
amended by section 1421 of the Servicemember Quality of Life 
Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 
(Public Law 118-159), is amended by striking ``September 30, 2026'' and 
inserting ``September 30, 2027''.

SEC. 723. PILOT PROGRAM ON WASTEWATER SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM OF DEPARTMENT 
OF DEFENSE.

(a) Pilot Program Required.--Commencing not later than 180 days 
after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense 
shall carry out a pilot program under which the Secretary shall develop 
and implement a comprehensive wastewater surveillance system at not 
fewer than four installations of a military department at which the 
Secretary seeks to improve the testing, identification, and analysis of 
usage of covered drugs and to identify the prevalence of infectious 
diseases among members of the Armed Forces at the installation (in this 
section referred to as the ``pilot program'').
(b) Technologies and Data System Used.--In carrying out the pilot 
program, the Secretary shall ensure the system developed and 
implemented under subsection (a) is comprised of appropriate 
technologies and a uniform data system across the Department of 
Defense.
(c) Minimum Requirements.--In carrying out the pilot program, the 
Secretary shall establish, at a minimum--
(1) at least one wastewater surveillance system for 
monitoring of use of covered drugs at one installation; and
(2) at least one wastewater surveillance system for 
monitoring of infectious diseases at one installation.
(d) Duration.--The pilot program shall be carried out during a two-
year period beginning on the date of the commencement of the pilot 
program.
(e) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the termination of the 
pilot program, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report that includes the following:
(1) A summary of the findings from the wastewater 
surveillance system under the pilot program.
(2) Recommendations for interventions or policy changes 
based on trends observed under the pilot program.
(3) An assessment of the effectiveness of the pilot program 
in enhancing force health protection and readiness.
(f) Covered Drug Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
drug''--
(1) except as provided in paragraph (2), means a drug 
included on schedule I or schedule II established under section 
202 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812); and
(2) does not include a drug that--
(A) was newly included on such schedule I or 
schedule II;
(B) was previously approved under section 505 of 
the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 
355); and
(C) received such approval not later than 20 years 
before the date of the enactment of this Act.

SEC. 724. IMPROVEMENT OF AVAILABILITY OF CARE FOR VETERANS FROM 
FACILITIES AND PROVIDERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

(a) Outreach on Available Care.--Not less frequently than annually, 
the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall 
conduct outreach to increase awareness among veterans enrolled in the 
system of annual patient enrollment of the Department of Veterans 
Affairs established and operated under section 1705(a) of title 38, 
United States Code, of the ability of those veterans to receive care at 
military medical treatment facilities.
(b) Training on Referrals.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall 
ensure training for staff and contractors involved in scheduling, or 
assisting in scheduling, appointments for care under the community care 
program specifically includes training regarding options for referral 
to facilities and providers of the Department of Defense.
(c) Preferred Providers.--Subsection (g) of section 1703 of title 
38, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the subsection heading, by inserting ``and Preferred 
Providers'' after ``Network''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(3) The Secretary shall consider providers under subsection 
(c)(2) to be preferred providers under this section.''.
(d) Action Plans.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary 
of Veterans Affairs shall develop and implement action plans at 
covered facilities--
(A) to expand the partnership between the 
Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans 
Affairs with respect to the provision of health care;
(B) to improve communication between the Department 
of Veterans Affairs and pertinent command and director 
leadership of military medical treatment facilities;
(C) to increase utilization of military medical 
treatment facilities with excess capacity;
(D) to increase case volume and complexity for 
graduate medical education programs of the Department 
of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs;
(E) to improve resource sharing agreements or 
permits, as applicable, between the Department of 
Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, which 
would also ensure lessened barriers to shared facility 
spaces; and
(F) to increase access to care for veterans 
described in subsection (a) in areas in which a 
military medical treatment facility is located that is 
identified by the Secretary of Defense as having excess 
capacity.
(2) Matters to be included.--The action plans required 
under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
(A) Cross-credentialing and privileging of health 
care providers, including nurses, medical technicians, 
and other support staff, to jointly care for 
beneficiaries in medical facilities of the Department 
of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
(B) Expediting access to installations of the 
Department of Defense for staff and beneficiaries of 
the Department of Veterans Affairs.
(C) Including in-kind or non-cash payment or 
reimbursement options for expenses incurred by either 
the Department of Defense or the Department of Veterans 
Affairs.
(D) Allowing eligible veterans to seek certain 
services at military medical treatment facilities 
without referral or preauthorization from the 
Department of Veterans Affairs, for which reimbursement 
to the Department of Defense will be made .
(E) The designation of a coordinator within each 
covered facility to serve as a liaison between the 
Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans 
Affairs and to lead the implementation of such action 
plan.
(F) A mechanism for monitoring the effectiveness of 
such action plan on an ongoing basis, to include 
establishing relevant performance goals and collecting 
data to assess progress towards those goals.
(G) Prioritize the integration of relevant 
information technology and other systems or processes 
to enable seamless information sharing, referrals and 
ancillary orders, payment methodologies and billing 
processes, and workload attribution when Department of 
Veterans Affairs personnel provide services at 
Department of Defense facilities or when Department of 
Defense personnel provide services at Department of 
Veterans Affairs facilities.
(H) Any other matter that the Secretary of Defense 
and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs consider 
appropriate.
(3) Approval of action plans.--Before implementing any 
action plan required under paragraph (1) at a covered facility 
or covered facilities, the Secretary of Defense and the 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that approval for 
the action plan is obtained from--
(A) the co-chairs of the Department of Veterans 
Affairs-Department of Defense Joint Executive Committee 
established under section 320 of title 38, United 
States Code;
(B) the local installation commander for the 
covered facility of the Department of Defense; and
(C) the director of the relevant medical center of 
the Department of Veterans Affairs with respect to any 
covered facility or covered facilities of the 
Department of Veterans Affairs.
(4) Reports.--
(A) Initial report.--Not later than 90 days after 
the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of 
Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall 
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a 
report containing the action plans required under 
paragraph (1).
(B) Subsequent report.--Not later than one year 
after submitting the report required under subparagraph 
(A), the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress a report containing--
(i) a status update on the progress of 
implementing the action plans required under 
paragraph (1); and
(ii) recommendations for developing 
subsequent action plans for each facility with 
respect to which there is a sharing agreement 
in place.
(e) Requirements Relating to Sharing Agreements.--
(1) Lead coordinator.--The Secretary of Defense and the 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that there is a lead 
coordinator at each facility of the Department of Defense or 
the Department of Veterans Affairs, as the case may be, with 
respect to which there is a sharing agreement in place.
(2) List of agreements.--The Secretary of Defense and the 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall maintain on a publicly 
available website a list of all sharing agreements in place 
between medical facilities of the Department of Defense and the 
Department of Veterans Affairs.
(f) Treatment of Existing Laws Regarding Sharing of Health Care 
Resources.--The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans 
Affairs shall carry out this section notwithstanding any limitation or 
requirement under section 1104 of title 10, United States Code, or 
section 8111 of title 38, United States Code.
(g) Funding.--The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs may use funds available in the DOD-VA Health Care 
Sharing Incentive Fund established under section 8111(d)(2) of title 
38, United States Code, to implement this section.
(h) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section or the 
amendments made by this section shall be construed to require veterans 
to seek care in facilities of the Department of Defense.
(i) Extension of Certain Limits on Payments of Pension.--Section 
5503(d)(7) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``November 30, 2031'' and inserting ``April 30, 2032''.
(j) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
``appropriate committees of Congress'' means--
(A) the Committee on Armed Services and the 
Committee on Veterans Affairs of the Senate; and
(B) the Committee on Armed Services and the 
Committee on Veterans Affairs of the House of 
Representatives.
(2) Community care program.--The term ``community care 
program'' means the Veterans Community Care Program under 
section 1703 of title 38, United States Code.
(3) Covered facility.--The term ``covered facility'' 
means--
(A) a military medical treatment facility ias 
defined in section 1073c(j) of title 10, United States 
Code; or
(B) a medical facility of the Department of 
Veterans Affairs located nearby a military medical 
treatment facility described in subparagraph (A).
(4) Sharing agreement.--The term ``sharing agreement'' 
means an agreement for sharing of health-care resources between 
the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans 
Affairs under section 1104 of title 10, United States Code, or 
section 8111 of title 38, United States Code.
(5) Veteran.--The term ``veteran'' has the meaning given 
that term in section 101 of title 38, United States Code.

SEC. 725. MILITARY-CIVILIAN MEDICAL SURGE PROGRAM.

Section 1096 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by adding at the end the 
following ``; medical surge program''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(e) Medical Surge Program.--(1) The Secretary of Defense, in 
collaboration with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall 
carry out a program of record known as the Military-Civilian Medical 
Surge Program to--
``(A) support locations that the Secretary of Defense 
selects under paragraph (3)(B); and
``(B) enhance the interoperability and medical surge 
capability and capacity of the National Disaster Medical System 
in response to a declaration or other action described in 
subparagraphs (A) through (E) of paragraph (4).
``(2)(A) The Secretary of Defense, acting through the National 
Center for Disaster Medicine and Public Health at the Uniformed 
Services University of the Health Sciences (or such successor center), 
shall oversee the operation, staffing, and deployment of the Program.
``(B) In carrying out the Program, the Secretary shall maintain 
requirements for staffing, specialized training, research, and 
education regarding patient regulation, movement, definitive care, and 
other matters the Secretary determines critical to sustaining the 
health of members of the armed forces.
``(3)(A) In carrying out the Program, the Secretary shall establish 
partnerships at locations selected under subparagraph (B) with public, 
private, and nonprofit health care organizations, health care 
institutions, health care entities, academic medical centers of 
institutions of higher education, and hospitals that the Secretary 
determines--
``(i) are critical in mobilizing a civilian medical 
response in support of a wartime contingency or other 
catastrophic event in the United States; and
``(ii) have demonstrated technical proficiency in critical 
national security domains, including high-consequence 
infectious disease and special pathogen preparedness, and 
matters relating to defense, containment, management, care, and 
transportation.
``(B)(i) The Secretary shall select not fewer than eight locations 
that are operationally relevant to the missions of the Department of 
Defense under the National Disaster Medical System and are aeromedical 
or other transport hubs or logistics centers in the United States for 
partnerships under subparagraph (A).
``(ii) The Secretary may select more than eight locations under 
clause (i), including locations outside of the continental United 
States, if the Secretary determines such additional locations cover 
areas of strategic and operational relevance to the Department of 
Defense.
``(4) The Secretary shall ensure that the partnerships under 
paragraph (3)(A) allow for civilian medical personnel to quickly and 
effectively mobilize direct support to military medical treatment 
facilities and provide support to other requirements of the military 
health system pursuant to the following:
``(A) A declaration of a national emergency under the 
National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1621 et seq.).
``(B) A public health emergency declared under section 319 
of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d).
``(C) A declaration of war by Congress.
``(D) The exercise for the President of executive powers 
under the War Powers Resolution (50 U.S.C. 1541 et seq.).
``(E) Any other emergency or major disaster as declared by 
the President.
``(5)(A) Not later than July 1, 2026, and annually thereafter, the 
Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services and the 
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and 
the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Energy and 
Commerce of the House of Representatives a report on the status, 
readiness, and operational capabilities of the Program.
``(B) Each report required under subparagraph (A) shall include an 
assessment of personnel readiness, resource availability, interagency 
coordination efforts, and recommendations for continued improvements to 
the Program.
``(6) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to authorize 
the Department of Defense to control, direct, limit, or otherwise 
affect the authorities of the Secretary of Health and Human Services 
with respect to leadership and administration of the National Disaster 
Medical System, public health and medical preparedness and response, 
staffing levels, or resource allocation.
``(7) In this subsection:
``(A) The term `institution of higher education' means a 
four-year institution of higher education (as defined in 
section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
1001(a))).
``(B) The term `National Disaster Medical System' means the 
system established under section 2812 of the Public Health 
Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300hh-11).
``(C) The term `Program' means the Military-Civilian 
Medical Surge Program established under paragraph (1).''.

TITLE VIII--ACQUISITION POLICY, ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT, AND RELATED 
MATTERS

Subtitle A--Acquisition Policy and Management

Sec. 801. Transition of program executive officer role to portfolio 
acquisition executive.
Sec. 802. Capstone requirements.
Sec. 803. Modification to acquisition strategy.
Sec. 804. Modifications to modular open systems approach.
Sec. 805. Alternative test and evaluation pathway for designated 
defense acquisition programs.
Sec. 806. Department of Defense member of Cost Accounting Standards 
Board.
Sec. 807. Combatant command experimentation authority.
Subtitle B--Amendments to General Contracting Authorities, Procedures, 
and Limitations

Sec. 821. Modification to nontraditional defense contractor 
definitions.
Sec. 822. Financing for covered activities.
Sec. 823. Exemptions for nontraditional defense contractors.
Sec. 824. Modifications to treatment of certain products and services 
as commercial products and commercial 
services.
Sec. 825. Modifications to commercial products and commercial services.
Sec. 826. Modifications to commercial solutions openings.
Sec. 827. Modifications to other transactions.
Sec. 828. Modifications to procurement for experimental purposes.
Sec. 829. Consumption-based solutions.
Sec. 830. Modifications to prohibition on contracting with persons that 
have fossil fuel operations with the 
Government of the Russian Federation or the 
Russian energy sector.
Sec. 831. Modifications to relationship of other provisions of law to 
procurement of commercial products and 
commercial services.
Sec. 832. Limitation on required flowdown of contract clauses to 
subcontractors providing commercial 
products or commercial services.
Sec. 833. References in contracts to Department of Defense policy 
documents, instructions, and manuals.
Sec. 834. Uninsurable risk on certain contracts.
Sec. 835. Reporting of price increases.
Sec. 836. Instructions for continued operational readiness.
Sec. 837. Indemnification of contractors against nuclear and unusually 
hazardous risks.
Sec. 838. Late submission of cost and pricing data as invalid defense 
to contract price reductions for defective 
cost or pricing data.
Sec. 839. Modifications to submissions of cost or pricing data.
Subtitle C--Industrial Base Matters

Sec. 841. Repeal of limitations on certain Department of Defense 
Executive Agent authority.
Sec. 842. Small unmanned aircraft system industrial base remediation 
plan.
Sec. 843. Application of national security waiver for strategic 
materials sourcing requirement to sensitive 
materials.
Sec. 844. Prohibition on acquisition of clothing and fabric from 
countries of concern under domestic-
sourcing waivers.
Sec. 845. Mitigation of risks related to foreign ownership, control, or 
influence of Department of Defense 
contractors or subcontractors.
Sec. 846. Prohibition of procurement of molybdenum, gallium, or 
germanium from non-allied foreign nations 
and authorization for production from 
recovered material.
Sec. 847. Sourcing options for certain critical products.
Sec. 848. Prohibiting the purchase of photovoltaic modules or inverters 
from Foreign Entities of Concern.
Sec. 849. Modernization of Army arsenals.
Sec. 849A. Modifications to Defense Industrial Base Fund.
Subtitle D--Small Business Matters

Sec. 851. APEX Accelerators.
Subtitle E--Other Matters

Sec. 861. Clarification of procurement prohibition related to 
acquisition of materials mined, refined, 
and separated in certain countries.
Sec. 862. Independent study on the acquisition workforce of the 
Department of Defense.
Sec. 863. Expedited acceptance program for supply chain illumination.
Sec. 864. Simultaneous conflicts critical munitions report.
Sec. 865. Permanent extension and modification of demonstration and 
prototyping program to advance 
international product support capabilities 
in a contested logistics environment.
Sec. 866. Estimate of ally and partner demand for United States-
produced munitions and specified 
expendables.
Sec. 867. Reform of contractor performance information requirements.
Sec. 868. Repeals of existing law to streamline the defense acquisition 
process.
Sec. 869. Enhancement of defense supply chain resilience and secondary 
source qualification.
Sec. 870. Enhanced product support management for integrated 
sustainment of weapon systems.
Sec. 871. Modifications to current defense acquisition requirements.
Sec. 872. Minimum production levels for munitions.
Sec. 873. Processes for incentivizing contractor expansion of sources 
of supply.
Sec. 874. Duty-free entry of supplies procured by Department of 
Defense.
Sec. 875. Other transaction authority reporting.
Sec. 876. Assessment of competitive effects of defense contractor 
transactions.
Sec. 877. Evaluation of TP-Link telecommunications equipment for 
designation as covered telecommunications 
equipment or services.
Sec. 878. Country-of-origin disclosure requirements for generic drugs 
purchased by the Department of Defense.
Sec. 879. Phase-out of computer and printer acquisitions involving 
entities owned or controlled by China.
Sec. 880. Prohibition on operation, procurement, and contracting 
related to foreign-made additive 
manufacturing machines.

TITLE VIII--ACQUISITION POLICY, ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT, AND RELATED 
MATTERS

Subtitle A--Acquisition Policy and Management

SEC. 801. TRANSITION OF PROGRAM EXECUTIVE OFFICER ROLE TO PORTFOLIO 
ACQUISITION EXECUTIVE.

(a) Definition.--Section 1737(a) of title 10, United States Code, 
is amended by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following:
``(4) The term `portfolio acquisition executive' refers to 
the member of the acquisition workforce responsible for the 
overall management of requirements, programming, and 
acquisition of defense acquisition capabilities. These 
capabilities are assigned by the service acquisition executive 
or component acquisition executive. The portfolio acquisition 
executive has direct control over all necessary officials and 
functional support, including the ability to provide input into 
performance evaluations, to the maximum extent practicable. 
This authority provides them with all necessary authority to 
develop, procure, and sustain military capabilities. For 
purposes of managing requirements, the portfolio acquisition 
executive is subject to the authority, direction, and control 
of the chief of the military service, while remaining under the 
overall authority, direction, and control of the service 
acquisition executive or component acquisition executive. The 
Secretary of Defense shall ensure a minimum of non-statutory 
guidance and approvals issued by officials external to the 
portfolio acquisition executives.''.
(b) Critical Acquisition Positions.--Section 1731(a)(1)(B)(i) of 
title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking ``Program 
executive officer'' and inserting ``Portfolio acquisition executive''.
(c) Position Qualifications.--Section 1735(c) of title 10, United 
States Code, is amended--
(1) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Program 
Executive Officers'' and inserting ``Portfolio Acquisition 
Executive''; and
(2) by striking ``program executive officer'' and inserting 
``portfolio acquisition executive''.
(d) Government Performance of Certain Acquisition Functions.--
Section 1706(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``Program executive 
officer'' and inserting ``Portfolio acquisition executive''; 
and
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``Deputy program 
executive officer'' and inserting ``Deputy portfolio 
acquisition executive''.
(e) Duties Related to Cadre of Intellectual Property Experts.--
Section 1707(c) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``program executive officer'' and inserting ``portfolio acquisition 
executive''.
(f) Portfolio Acquisition Executive Office .--Section 1509 of the 
James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 
(Public Law 117-263; 10 U.S.C. 167b) is amended--
(1) by striking ``program executive office'' each place 
that it appears and inserting ``portfolio acquisition executive 
office''; and
(2) in subsection (c), by striking ``Program Executive 
Office'' in the subsection heading and inserting ``Portfolio 
Acquisition Executive Office''.
(g) Technology Release and Foreign Disclosure Reform Initiative.--
Section 918(a)(2)(D)(ii) of the National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31; 10 U.S.C. 301 note) is amended by 
striking ``program executive officer'' and inserting ``portfolio 
acquisition executive''.
(h) Software Development and Software Acquisition Training and 
Management Programs.--Section 862 of the National Defense Authorization 
Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116-92; 10 U.S.C. 1741 note) is 
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(2)(A), by striking ``program 
executive officers'' and inserting ``portfolio acquisition 
executives''; and
(2) in subsection (c)(1)--
(A) in the paragraph heading, by striking ``program 
executive officer'' and inserting ``portfolio 
acquisition executive''; and
(B) by striking ``program executive officer'' and 
inserting ``portfolio acquisition executive''.
(i) Authority to Establish Different Minimum Requirements.--Section 
1764(b)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``Program executive officer'' and inserting ``Portfolio acquisition 
executive''.
(j) Prizes for Advanced Technology Achievements.--Section 
4025(g)(2)(C) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``program executive officer'' both places it appears and inserting 
``portfolio acquisition executive''.
(k) Rating Chains for System Program Managers.--Section 323 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 (Public Law 
112-239; 126 Stat. 1696) is amended by striking ``program executive 
officer'' and inserting ``portfolio acquisition executive''.
(l) Space System Acquisition and the Adaptive Acquisition 
Framework.--Section 807 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283; 10 
U.S.C. 9081 note) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(1)--
(A) in the paragraph heading, by striking ``Program 
executive officer'' and inserting ``Portfolio 
acquisition executive''; and
(B) by striking ``program executive officer'' and 
inserting ``portfolio acquisition executive''; and
(2) in subsection (e)(6)--
(A) in the paragraph heading, by striking ``Program 
executive officer'' and inserting ``Portfolio 
acquisition executive''; and
(B) by striking ``program executive officer'' and 
inserting ``portfolio acquisition executive''.

SEC. 802. CAPSTONE REQUIREMENTS.

Chapter 221 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 3209. Capstone requirements
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of each military department shall 
establish a capstone requirement approach for three or more portfolio 
acquisition executives for which that official has responsibility to 
enable greater speed, agility, and innovation in fielding military 
capabilities. Each such capstone requirement shall be established in 
consultation with the Joint Requirements Oversight Council.
``(b) Elements.--Under the capstone requirements for an acquisition 
portfolio, the Secretary of the military department shall--
``(1) develop a general set of requirements for the 
acquisition portfolio in accordance with subsection (c) under 
which programs or projects may be initiated;
``(2) authorize the portfolio acquisition executive or 
similar portfolio manager for the portfolio to change the scope 
and requirements for programs within the portfolio, subject to 
subsection (d);
``(3) assign representatives of operational forces to the 
acquisition portfolio and authorize them to perform the 
functions specified in subsection (e);
``(4) maximize commercial market research, the use of 
commercial and nondevelopmental items, and minimum viable 
products to shape capability scope and requirements;
``(5) authorize the portfolio acquisition executive or 
similar portfolio manager to resource and acquire commercial or 
non-developmental items under the capstone requirement by 
validating the need with the representatives assigned under 
paragraph (3);
``(6) manage information technology requirements using 
dynamically prioritized lists of user needs rather than large 
static requirements documents; and
``(7) iteratively define, prioritize, and refine 
requirements at the portfolio, program, and iteration levels 
based on user input, previous deliveries, and continuous 
commercial market research.
``(c) Capstone Set of Requirements.--The capstone set of 
requirements for an acquisition portfolio developed under subsection 
(b)(1) shall be designed--
``(1) to guide the iterative delivery of an integrated 
suite of capabilities to maximize operational impact;
``(2) to provide enduring themes based on strategic needs 
and relevant concepts of operation, not system-specific;
``(3) to include measures of force effectiveness for a 
force mix of capabilities to be measured against; and
``(4) to include kill chains, effects chains, vignettes of 
operational scenarios, the effect of timely delivery of 
capability, and related mission engineering initiatives across 
the Department of Defense.
``(d) Authority to Revise Programs Within a Portfolio.--The 
authority under subsection (b)(2)--
``(1) shall be carried out in consultation with operational 
commands and the Joint Requirements Oversight Council; and
``(2) does not include authority to change key performance 
parameters for a major defense acquisition program.
``(e) Functions of Operational Representatives.--An operational 
representative assigned to an acquisition portfolio under subsection 
(b)(3) shall be provided authority--
``(1) to shape the vision and priorities for key capability 
areas;
``(2) to provide the acquisition community and developers 
insights into operations;
``(3) to provide feedback on interim developments;
``(4) to validate the suitability of existing commercial or 
non-developmental items, or the likelihood that the commercial 
market may be enticed to produce those items, or, as a last 
resort, validate that no commercial vendor will ever produce a 
suitable product and a developmental program is necessary;
``(5) to foster collaboration among the acquisition 
community, developers, and users of the capability to be 
fielded; and
``(6) to provide advice to the portfolio acquisition 
executive or similar portfolio manager.''.

SEC. 803. MODIFICATION TO ACQUISITION STRATEGY.

(1) Section 4211 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended--
(1) in subsection (b), by striking ``the Under Secretary of 
Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, or the milestone 
decision authority, when the milestone decision authority is 
the service acquisition executive of the military department 
that is managing the program,'' and inserting ``the portfolio 
acquisition executive, or the decision authority, when the 
decision authority is the service acquisition executive of the 
military department or the Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition and Sustainment,'';
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``the Under Secretary, or 
the milestone decision authority, when the 
milestone decision authority is the service 
acquisition executive of the military 
department that is managing the program,'' and 
inserting ``the portfolio acquisition 
executive, or the decision authority, when the 
decision authority is the service acquisition 
executive of the military department or the 
Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and 
Sustainment,'';
(ii) by amending subparagraph (A) to read 
as follows:
``(A) the strategy clearly describes the proposed 
business case and capability management approach for 
the program or system, and to the maximum extent 
practicable, describes how a portfolio of capabilities 
within an enduring set of requirements will be 
developed, procured, and fielded rather than detailing 
a specific end-item;''; and
(iii) in subparagraph (B), by striking 
``how the strategy is designed to be 
implemented with available resources, such as 
time, funding, and management capacity'' and 
inserting ``the resources, such as time, 
funding, and management capacity required to 
deliver the capability''; and
(B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Each strategy shall, where appropriate, consider the 
following:
``(A) An approach that delivers required 
capabilities in increments, each depending on available 
mature technology, and that recognizes up front the 
need for future capability improvements or transitions 
to alternative end-items through use of continuous 
competition.
``(B) Requirements related to logistics, 
maintenance, and sustainment in accordance with 
sections 2464 and 2466 of this title, and the 
acquisition of technical data, computer software, and 
associated licenses, to enable such requirements in 
accordance with sections 3771 through 3775 of this 
title.
``(C) A process for collaborative interaction and 
market research with the science and technology 
community, including Department of Defense science and 
technology reinvention laboratories, government 
innovation cells, academia, small businesses, 
nontraditional defense contractors, and other 
contractors.
``(D) Identification of enterprise-wide designs and 
standards in support of an architecture that provides 
for an integrated suite of capabilities that focuses on 
simplicity of implementation and speed of delivery.
``(E) Overarching roadmaps that create integrated 
strategic schedules of legacy systems and new 
capabilities and a mapping of enduring requirements to 
elements of the portfolio of capabilities.
``(F) A contracting strategy that develops long-
term partnerships with multiple companies to actively 
contribute to architectures, development, production, 
and sustainment across the portfolio of capabilities by 
decomposing large systems into smaller sets of projects 
across time and technical component.
``(G) An assignment of roles and responsibilities 
to the acquisition workforce within the portfolio 
acquisition executive, identification of external 
stakeholder dependencies, and the need for subject 
matter expert inputs at critical points in the program, 
including the need for special hiring authority or 
advisory and assistance services.
``(H) A process of testing and experimentation with 
the test community and end users to ensure continuous 
user feedback, acceptance, and development of concepts 
of operations.''; and
(4) by striking subsections (d) and (e) and inserting the 
following:
``(d) Review.--The decision authority shall review and approve, as 
appropriate, the acquisition strategy for a major defense acquisition 
program or major system prior to the acquisition decision memorandum 
and ensure that the strategy is updated at regular intervals to 
incorporate significant changes to program requirements, resourcing, or 
acquisition decisions.
``(e) Decision Authority Defined.--In this section, the term 
`decision authority', with respect to a major defense acquisition 
program or major system, means the official within the Department of 
Defense designated with the overall responsibility and authority for 
acquisition decisions for the program or system, including authority to 
approve entry of the program or system into the next phase of the 
acquisition process.''.

SEC. 804. MODIFICATIONS TO MODULAR OPEN SYSTEMS APPROACH.

(a) In General.--Section 4401 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 4401. Definitions
``In this chapter:
``(1) The term `authorized third party' means an entity 
approved by the Department of Defense to access developer 
resources for integration or sustainment.
``(2) The term `industry standards' means widely adopted 
technical standards or protocols from recognized organizations.
``(3) The term `machine-readable format' means a format 
that can be easily processed by a computer without human 
intervention.
``(4) The term `major system component' --
``(A) means a high-level subsystem or assembly, 
including hardware, software, or an integrated assembly 
of both, that can be mounted or installed on a major 
system platform through modular system interfaces; and
``(B) includes a subsystem or assembly that is 
likely to have additional capability requirements, is 
likely to change because of evolving technology or 
threat, is needed for interoperability, facilitates 
incremental deployment of capabilities, or is expected 
to be replaced by another major system component.
``(5) The term `major system platform' means the highest 
level structure of a system that is not physically mounted or 
installed onto a higher level structure and on which a major 
system component can be physically mounted or installed.
``(6) The term `modular open systems approach (MOSA)' means 
a system design approach using modular systems, enabling 
innovation and competition in the development, sustainment, or 
upgrade of weapon systems.
``(7) The term `modular system' refers to a weapon system 
or weapon system component that--
``(A) is able to execute independently without 
relying on the execution of other specific systems or 
components;
``(B) can communicate across component boundaries 
and through modular system interfaces; and
``(C) functions as a module that can be separated, 
recombined, and connected with other weapon systems or 
weapon systems components in order to achieve various 
effects, missions, or capabilities.
``(8) The term `modular systems interfaces' means a shared 
boundary between modular systems, defined by various physical, 
logical, and functional characteristics, such as electrical, 
mechanical, fluidic, optical, radio frequency, data, 
networking, or software elements, that is free of proprietary 
restrictions and documented via a machine-readable format, 
including--
``(A) software-defined interface syntax and 
properties, specifically governing how values are 
validly passed to and received;
``(B) definition of the relationship between the 
delivered interface and interfaces available in the 
repositories established pursuant to section 4403 of 
this title; and
``(C) test cases, including example code, 
demonstrating the proper use of the modular systems 
interface.
``(9) The term `operational data' means government-owned 
data generated by or necessary for system operation, 
maintenance, or enhancement.''.
(b) Requirements.--Section 4402 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by striking subsections (a) through (f) and inserting the 
following:
``(a) Program Compliance and MOSA Implementation.--(1) The 
Secretary of Defense shall ensure that every major defense acquisition 
program (as defined in section 4201 of this title) submits a modular 
open systems approach (MOSA) implementation plan within its acquisition 
strategy, detailing compliance with this section. Other defense 
acquisition programs shall incorporate MOSA to the maximum extent 
practicable.
``(2) In the case of a major defense acquisition program that uses 
a modular open system approach, the acquisition strategy required under 
section 4211 of this title shall--
``(A) clearly describe the modular open system approach to 
be used for the program;
``(B) differentiate between the major system platform and 
major system components being developed under the program, as 
well as major system components developed outside the program 
that will be integrated into the major defense acquisition 
program;
``(C) clearly describe the evolution of major system 
components that are anticipated to be added, removed, or 
replaced in subsequent increments;
``(D) clearly describe security classification requirements 
for each major system component as related to the modular 
system interface for that component;
``(E) clearly describe how intellectual property and 
related issues, such as technical data deliverables, that are 
necessary to support a modular open system approach, will be 
addressed; and
``(F) clearly describe the approach to systems integration 
and systems-level configuration management to ensure mission 
and information assurance.
``(3) Contracts for covered programs shall include enforceable 
clauses requiring delivery of data rights consistent with sections 3771 
through 3775 of this title and modular systems interfaces as specified 
in subsection (c).
``(b) Waivers and Exceptions.--The Secretary of Defense may waive 
specific MOSA requirements, or deviate from the requirements in 
subsection (c), for a program only if--
``(1) deviation would demonstrably impair national security 
or operational capability; and
``(2) a detailed justification is submitted to the 
congressional defense committees not later than 30 days after 
issuing the waiver.
``(c) MOSA Requirements.--(1) All covered programs shall require 
the use of modular systems, including--
``(A) modular systems interfaces published to the 
repositories established pursuant to section 4403 of this 
title;
``(B) delivery of sufficient data rights to share developer 
resources with authorized third parties for government 
purposes, as determined by the Secretary of Defense;
``(C) allowing for the use of existing industry standards 
for interfaces where applicable;
``(D) government ownership of operational data in a usable, 
nonproprietary format, extractable without original equipment 
manufacturer dependency; and
``(E) system designs allowing integration of new or 
substitute modules with minimal manual reconfiguration, 
provided they conform to relevant modular systems interfaces 
published to the repositories.
``(2) The Secretary of Defense, secretaries of military 
departments, and commanders of combatant commands with acquisition 
authorities shall not--
``(A) unless required for operational compatibility with 
existing legacy systems, mandate specific internal technical 
implementations, data structures, defense specific standards, 
or formats beyond the necessity that there are modular systems 
with modular systems interfaces published to the relevant 
repository; or
``(B) permit contracts restricting government control over 
developer resources or operational data, or locking the 
government into a single vendor, absent a national security 
exemption.
``(3) Contractors providing modular systems shall upload required 
modular systems interface data to an appropriate repository. Contract 
closeout shall not occur until such uploads are verified by the 
contracting officer.
``(d) Implementation and Flexibility.--(1) Not later than one year 
after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Under Secretary 
of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall issue regulations and 
guidance to implement this section across military departments, Defense 
agencies, and combatant commands.
``(2) The requirements of this section shall not apply to programs 
with approved acquisition strategies at the time of the date of the 
enactment of this subsection.
``(3) Requirements shall not prescribe specific technologies or 
limit contractor innovation, provided interface documentation 
obligations are met, nor exclude new entrants or small businesses 
capable of compliance.
``(4) Requirements shall not force the use of industry or 
consensus-based standards except as necessary to interface with 
existing systems using such standards.''.
(c) Repositories and Interface Access.--Section 4403 of title 10, 
United States Code, is amended by striking paragraphs (1) and (2) and 
inserting the following new paragraphs:
``(1) establish a federated set of digital repositories 
within the Department of Defense to store modular systems 
interfaces required under subsection (c) of section 4402 of 
this title, which shall--
``(A) feature authentication and access controls to 
protect sensitive data;
``(B) enable contractors to publish and manage 
their contributions (at approved access levels) with 
accountability and version control;
``(C) be searchable and accessible to authorized 
Department of Defense components and contractors based 
on access levels; and
``(D) incorporate cybersecurity measures consistent 
with Department of Defense standards;
``(2) ensure distribution of interfaces to promote 
interoperability, consistent with the requirements of section 
3771 of this title, by--
``(A) providing access to interfaces and relevant 
documentation in the repository established in 
paragraph (1) to authorized Federal Government and 
nongovernmental entities; and
``(B) restricting nongovernmental entities that 
receive access under subparagraph (A) from further 
release, disclosure, or use such data except as 
authorized;''.

SEC. 805. ALTERNATIVE TEST AND EVALUATION PATHWAY FOR DESIGNATED 
DEFENSE ACQUISITION PROGRAMS.

(a) Authority.--The Secretary of Defense shall issue guidance to 
establish an alternative test and evaluation (T&E) pathway for certain 
Department of Defense acquisition programs to enhance agility, 
accelerate delivery of capabilities, and ensure data-driven 
decisionmaking, while maintaining independent oversight of evaluation 
outcomes.
(b) Alternative Test and Evaluation Pathway.--The Secretary of 
Defense shall establish an alternative test and evaluation pathway for 
covered programs that includes the following requirements:
(1) For each covered program, the military department 
concerned, through its service test activities, shall--
(A) design and execute a unified test and 
evaluation strategy that aligns developmental testing 
(DT) and operational testing (OT) to a single set of 
test objectives that build system understanding 
throughout the test program to more effectively support 
capability delivery within rapid prototyping and 
iterative updates with early and continuous operational 
feedback;
(B) develop and execute a test data strategy, 
updated as needed, that includes--
(i) collection of raw data from system 
components during test events and operational 
activities, including submission of industry 
derived data from their development and testing 
evolutions;
(ii) evaluation criteria to assess the 
mission effects and suitability of the system 
based on the data to be collected, including 
from live-fire test events, if applicable;
(iii) a process for independently 
validating industry test results, if needed;
(iv) provision of resources for automated 
data collection, storage, and access; and
(v) automated analytics tools to assess 
performance trends, reliability, and 
maintenance needs;
(C) incorporate, to the maximum extent practicable, 
best practices such as--
(i) hardware-in-the-loop testing to 
validate system integration;
(ii) continuous data collection from 
prototypes and fielded systems to refine 
designs and update lifecycle costs;
(iii) test subsystem prototypes throughout 
system development to assess their contribution 
to the mission effect of the fielded system; 
and
(iv) integration of supporting or 
complementary data from digital twins or other 
model-based systems engineering tools;
(D) define general test and evaluation objectives 
and data needs while allowing detailed execution plans 
to evolve based on test results and emerging 
requirements, avoiding rigid milestone-driven 
schedules; and
(E) ensure all raw test data and associated 
analytics are owned by the government, stored in 
accessible repositories, and available to authorized 
Department entities, including the Director of 
Operational Test & Evaluation (DOT&E), throughout the 
program lifecycle.
(2) Covered programs under this pathway shall be exempt 
from--
(A) the requirement to develop and submit a Test 
and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP) under Department of 
Defense Instruction 5000.02 or other policies, provided 
a unified test and evaluation strategy and data 
strategy under subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph 
(1) are implemented;
(B) milestone-specific operational test events, 
such as Initial Operational Test and Evaluation 
(IOT&E), mandated under section 4171 of title 10, 
United States Code, or related regulations; and
(C) any other test and evaluation documentation or 
approval processes that the Secretary determines are 
inconsistent with the agile and iterative nature of 
this pathway.
(c) Role of the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation.--For 
covered programs under the alternative test and evaluation pathway 
designated for oversight by the Director of Operational Test and 
Evaluation, the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation shall--
(1) provide independent evaluation of test data across all 
phases of the program lifecycle, including--
(A) assessing the sufficiency of the program's test 
and evaluation strategy and data strategy to 
demonstrate military effectiveness;
(B) evaluating whether the program collects and 
analyzes sufficient raw data, learns from test results 
at a pace relevant to operational needs, and converges 
on military effectiveness based on data trends;
(C) identifying deficiencies in test and evaluation 
strategies that risk system performance, suitability, 
or survivability; and
(D) providing continuous oversight through ongoing 
analysis of test data;
(2) have unrestricted access to all raw test data, data 
repositories, and analytics maintained by military departments 
for covered programs;
(3) not require of covered programs--
(A) specific test plans, execution methods, or 
documentation formats or require pre-approval of test 
and evaluation activities as a condition of testing, 
data collection, or evaluation; or
(B) Director of Operational Test and Evaluation-
approved Test and Evaluation Master Plans or other pre-
execution documentation under existing policies; and
(4) include in its annual report to Congress under section 
139(h) of title 10, United States Code, a summary of the 
adequacy of data strategies, rates of learning, and risks that 
aligns with the evaluation processes established in this 
section.
(d) Guidance Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation 
with the Secretaries of the military departments and the Director of 
Operational Test and Evaluation, shall issue guidance to implement the 
alternative test and evaluation pathway, including standards for data 
strategies and modern testing practices and procedures to support 
evaluation by the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation under 
subsection (c)(2).
(e) Report.--Not later than three years after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report on the implementation of this 
section, including an assessment of the effectiveness of the pathway in 
accelerating capability delivery and improving system performance and 
any recommendations for expanding or modifying the pathway.
(f) Covered Program Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
program'' means a defense acquisition program that is--
(1) designated under the Software Acquisition Pathway 
pursuant to section 3603 of title 10, United States Code, 
initiated on or after the date of the enactment of this Act; 
and
(2) designated by the Secretary of Defense on or after the 
issuance of guidance under subsection (d).

SEC. 806. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE MEMBER OF COST ACCOUNTING STANDARDS 
BOARD.

The Department of Defense representative on the Cost Accounting 
Standards Board pursuant to section 1501 of title 41, United States 
Code, shall be the Director of Defense Pricing, Contracting, and 
Acquisition Policy or its successor organization.

SEC. 807. COMBATANT COMMAND EXPERIMENTATION AUTHORITY.

(a) Authority.--Each commander of a combatant command shall have 
the authority to conduct experimentation, prototyping, and technology 
demonstrations to support the development and testing of innovative 
technologies and capability solutions to address operational needs 
identified by the combatant command.
(b) Procedures.--For activities carried out under subsection (a), 
the commander of a combatant command may use--
(1) operation and maintenance funds, including for the 
purchase of items having an investment item unit cost not 
greater than the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense 
(Comptroller) guidance regarding threshold for determination of 
expense and investment costs; and
(2) special contracting authorities described in section 
843 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2024 (Public Law 118-31; 10 U.S.C. 3601 note), provided that 
the procedures described in such section are followed.
(c) Recommendation for Follow-on Production.--Upon completion of an 
experiment, prototype, or technology demonstration, if a combatant 
command submits a written determination that the demonstrated 
technology or capability successfully meets the operational need of the 
combatant command, the written determination may be used to fulfill the 
following requirements:
(1) A justification for using other than competitive 
procedures under section 3204 of title 10, United States Code, 
or follow-on production authorities under section 4022 of such 
title, to acquire the technology or capability which was 
successfully demonstrated.
(2) A validated capability needs statement or other 
requirement document.

Subtitle B--Amendments to General Contracting Authorities, Procedures, 
and Limitations

SEC. 821. MODIFICATION TO NONTRADITIONAL DEFENSE CONTRACTOR 
DEFINITIONS.

Section 3014 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``means an entity that is not currently 
performing'' and inserting the following: ``means an entity 
that--
``(1) is not currently performing''; and
(2) by striking ``such section.'' and inserting the 
following: ``such section; or
``(2) does not qualify as a covered segment as defined 
under the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
231.205-18 or successor regulation.''.

SEC. 822. FINANCING FOR COVERED ACTIVITIES.

(a) Financing Costs.--Financing costs incurred for a covered 
activity shall be allowable and allocable as a direct or an indirect 
overhead cost for contracts and subcontracts of the Department of 
Defense, provided such costs are--
(1) reasonable in amount and consistent with prevailing 
market rates for similar financing; and
(2) incurred to pay a financing entity.
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``covered activity'' means an activity taken 
by a prime contractor or subcontractor--
(A) to manage an inventory of completed products or 
components used in production;
(B) to improve inventory management of products or 
components necessary for sustainment or maintenance;
(C) to materially expand the capacity of production 
or sustainment and maintenance through capital 
expenditures; or
(D) to carry out any other purpose identified by 
the Secretary of Defense.
(2) The term ``financing costs'' means interest on 
borrowings, bond discounts, and costs of financing and 
refinancing capital.
(3) The term ``financing entity'' means any corporation, 
limited liability company, partnership, trust, or other 
organization that is created under Federal or State law and 
that, as part of its regular business activities, extends 
credit, loans, or other forms of financing to other persons or 
entities, provided that such legal entity is not owned by, 
controlled by, or under common control with the person or 
entity receiving such financing.

SEC. 823. EXEMPTIONS FOR NONTRADITIONAL DEFENSE CONTRACTORS.

Nontraditional defense contractors, as defined by section 3014 of 
title 10, United States Code, shall not be subject to any of the 
following requirements:
(1) Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
252.242-7006, or successor regulation.
(2) Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
252.234-7002, or successor regulation.
(3) Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
252.215-7002, or successor regulation.
(4) Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
252.242-7004, or successor regulation.
(5) Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
252.245-7003, or successor regulation.
(6) Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
252.244-7001, or successor regulation.
(7) Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
252.242-7005, or successor regulation.
(8) Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 
215.407, or successor regulation.
(9) Section 3702 of title 10, United States Code.
(10) Part 31 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, or 
successor regulation.

SEC. 824. MODIFICATIONS TO TREATMENT OF CERTAIN PRODUCTS AND SERVICES 
AS COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES.

Section 3457 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by inserting ``(1)'' before 
``Notwithstanding'';
(B) by striking ``may be treated'' and inserting 
``shall be treated''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new 
paragraph:
``(2) The requirement under paragraph (1) may be waived or modified 
with a written determination approved by the head of contracting 
activity, delegable to no lower than the senior contracting official. 
The written determination shall include a justification for why 
commercial procedures should be waived or modified, such as tailored 
market research demonstrating that potential suppliers could not 
effectively provide the required product or services under commercial 
procedures.'';
(2) by striking subsection (b);
(3) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b); and
(4) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(c) Preference Inapplicable.--The authority under subsection 
(a)(1) shall not be construed to give preference to the purchase of a 
product or service pursuant to section 3453 of this title solely on the 
basis that such offered product or service is deemed commercial as a 
result of the exercise of such authority.''.

SEC. 825. MODIFICATIONS TO COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES.

(a) In General.--Section 3453 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended--
(1) in subsection (b), by striking ``procurement officials 
in that agency,'' and inserting ``acquisition officials in that 
agency, including consultants, researchers, and any individuals 
providing advisory services to acquisition officials,'';
(2) in subsection (c), by redesignating paragraphs (3) 
through (5) as paragraphs (4) through (6), respectively;
(3) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following new 
paragraph:
``(3) The head of an agency shall establish a process for 
determinations regarding the non-availability of commercial products or 
services, including that--
``(A) a defense unique-development product or service may 
not be procured until the head of the agency determines that 
the market research conducted in accordance with paragraph (2) 
of this section resulted in no commercial product, commercial 
service, or nondevelopmental item suitable to meet the agency's 
needs; and
``(B) prior to acquiring a defense-unique development 
product or service, a program manager shall, consistent with 
the policies and regulations of the Department of Defense, 
submit a written memorandum summarizing why a defense-
development unique product is required based on results of the 
determination in subparagraph (A), which shall be signed by the 
program executive officer.''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) Definition.--The term `defense-unique development' means a 
Department of Defense financed product or service to provide a defense-
unique capability that does not repurpose a commercial product, 
commercial service, or nondevelopmental item.''.
(b) Determinations.--Section 3456 of title 10, United States Code, 
is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by amending paragraph (2) to read as 
follows:
``(2) assist military departments and Defense Agencies with 
performing market research and satisfying the requirements 
under section 3453 of this title pertaining to market research 
and the determination regarding the non-availability of 
commercial products or services and analysis used to determine 
the reasonableness of price for the purposes of procurements by 
the Department of Defense.''; and
(2) in subsection (b)(2), by inserting after the first 
sentence the following: ``The contracting officer should 
consider the results summarized in the memorandum issued by the 
program manager in accordance with the requirement in section 
3453(c)(3)(B) of this title when issuing the written commercial 
or noncommercial determination.''.

SEC. 826. MODIFICATIONS TO COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS OPENINGS.

Section 3458 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) Authority.--The Secretary of Defense and the Secretaries of 
the military departments may acquire commercial products, commercial 
services, and nondevelopmental items through a competitive selection of 
proposals resulting from a general solicitation and the peer review, 
technical review, or operational review (as appropriate) of such 
proposals, and may issue, without further justification, follow-on 
contract awards or agreements, including sole source awards or 
agreements, to the recipient.'';
(2) by striking subsection (e);
(3) by redesignating subsection (c) and (d) as subsections 
(d) and (e), respectively;
(4) by inserting after subsection (b) the following new 
subsection:
``(c) Sole-source Follow-on.--The Secretary of Defense and the 
Secretaries of the military departments may issue follow-on contract 
awards or agreements, including sole source awards, for any products, 
services, or items acquired through the competitive procedures 
described under subsection (a) subject to approval requirements in 
sections 3204 or 4022 of this title.''.
(5) in subsection (d), as redesignated by paragraph (2) of 
this section--
(A) by striking paragraph (1); and
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as 
paragraphs (1) and (2), respectively.

SEC. 827. MODIFICATIONS TO OTHER TRANSACTIONS.

Section 4022 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(2)(B)(ii), by striking ``at least 30 
days before'' and inserting ``at the time''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(j) Authority to Award a Production Transaction to Rapidly Field 
an Existing Capability.--A production transaction may be awarded, with 
or without the use of competitive procedures, to acquire emergent and 
proven technologies and field production quantities of new or upgraded 
systems that do not require additional development and have been 
demonstrated in a relevant environment when the appropriate service or 
component acquisition executive determines in writing that exceptional 
circumstances justify the use of such a transaction to address a high 
priority warfighter need. The Secretary of Defense shall provide the 
written determination to the congressional defense committees at the 
time such authority is exercised.''.

SEC. 828. MODIFICATIONS TO PROCUREMENT FOR EXPERIMENTAL PURPOSES.

Section 4023 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``ordnance, signal, 
chemical activity, transportation, energy, medical, space 
flight, telecommunications, and aeronautical supplies, 
including parts and accessories, and designs thereof,'' and 
inserting ``demonstrations, prototypes, products, supplies, 
parts, accessories, auxiliary services, and design for defense-
related articles''; and
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by inserting ``or modified'' after ``may be 
made''; and
(B) by inserting ``prototyping,'' after ``greater 
than necessary for''.

SEC. 829. CONSUMPTION-BASED SOLUTIONS.

Chapter 253 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 3605. Authority to acquire consumption-based solutions
``(a) Authority.--The Secretary of Defense and the Secretaries of 
the military departments may acquire technology-supported capabilities 
through consumption-based solutions.
``(b) Guidance Required.--The Secretary of Defense shall amend the 
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to implement the 
authority under subsection (a), including creating a new subcategory of 
services under part 237 of the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation 
Supplement , entitled `Consumption-based solutions' that--
``(1) is any combination of hardware, equipment, software, 
labor, or services that together provides a seamless 
capability;
``(2) has the ability to be metered and billed based on 
actual usage;
``(3) has predetermined pricing at fixed price units;
``(4) requires the awardee to notify the Department of 
Defense contracting officer when consumption under the contract 
reaches 75 percent and 90 percent of the funded amount, 
respectively, of the contract; and
``(5) treats modifications to a contract entered into under 
the authority established in subsection (a) to add new features 
or capabilities in an amount less than or equal to 25 percent 
of the total value of such contract, as originally awarded, as 
competitive procurements under chapter 221 of this title.
``(c) Funding.--Amounts authorized to be appropriated for 
acquisitions using the authority under subsection (a)--
``(1) may be used for expenses for--
``(A) research, development, test and evaluation;
``(B) procurement;
``(C) production;
``(D) modification; and
``(E) operation and maintenance; and
``(2) may be used to enter into incrementally funded 
contracts or other agreements, including advanced payments.
``(d) Consumption-based Solution Defined.--In this section, the 
term `consumption-based solution' means a model under which a 
technology-supported capability is provided to the Department of 
Defense and may utilize any combination of software, hardware or 
equipment, data, and labor or services that provides a capability that 
is metered and billed based on actual usage at fixed price units.
``(e) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to prohibit the use of the authority created under this 
section in combination with another contract type provided for under 
the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement.''.

SEC. 830. MODIFICATIONS TO PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING WITH PERSONS THAT 
HAVE FOSSIL FUEL OPERATIONS WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF THE 
RUSSIAN FEDERATION OR THE RUSSIAN ENERGY SECTOR.

Section 804 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31; 10 U.S.C. 4651 note prec.) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1)--
(A) by striking ``not less than 50 percent'' and 
inserting ``majority''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``operates'' 
and inserting ``has fossil fuel business operations'';
(2) in subsection (b)(3), by inserting ", including by 
general license," after ``Department of the Treasury''; and
(3) in subsection (e)--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by redesignating clauses (ii) and (iii) 
as clauses (iii) and (iv), respectively; and
(ii) by inserting after clause (i) the 
following new clause:
``(ii) activities related to fulfilling 
contracts with a fossil fuel company that has 
fossil fuel business operations in the Russian 
Federation that were entered into prior to the 
date of the enactment of this section;'' and
(B) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``that has 
fossil fuel business operations'' after ``person''.

SEC. 831. MODIFICATIONS TO RELATIONSHIP OF OTHER PROVISIONS OF LAW TO 
PROCUREMENT OF COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL 
SERVICES.

Section 3452 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
striking subsections (b) through (e) and inserting the following new 
subsections:
``(b) Applicability of Defense-unique Statutes to Contracts for 
Commercial Products and Commercial Services.--The Defense Federal 
Acquisition Regulation Supplement shall include a list of defense-
unique contract clause requirements based on statute, executive orders, 
or acquisition policies that are applicable to contracts for the 
procurement of commercial products and commercial services entered into 
by the Department of Defense.
``(c) Applicability of Defense-unique Statutes to Subcontracts for 
Commercial Products and Commercial Services.--(1) The Defense Federal 
Acquisition Regulation Supplement shall include a list of defense-
unique contract clause requirements based on statute, executive orders, 
or acquisition policies that are applicable to subcontracts for the 
procurement of commercial products and commercial services.
``(2) In this subsection--
``(A) the term `other supply agreements' means any 
agreement entered into by a contractor or subcontractor for the 
supply of products, materials, or services that are intended 
for use in the performance of multiple contracts with the 
Department of Defense or other parties and are not identifiable 
to any particular contract; and
``(B) the term `subcontract'--
``(i) includes a transfer of commercial products 
and commercial services between divisions, 
subsidiaries, or affiliates of a contractor or 
subcontractor; and
``(ii) does not include other supply agreements.
``(3) This subsection does not authorize the waiver of the 
applicability of any provision of law or contract clause requirement 
with respect to any first-tier subcontract under a contract with a 
prime contractor reselling or distributing commercial products and 
commercial services of another contractor without adding value.
``(d) Applicability of Defense-unique Statutes to Contracts for 
Commercially Available, Off-the-shelf Items.--The Defense Federal 
Acquisition Regulation Supplement shall include a list of defense-
unique contract clause requirements based on statute, executive orders, 
or acquisition policies that are applicable to subcontracts for the 
procurement of commercially available off-the-shelf items entered into 
by the Department of Defense.''.

SEC. 832. LIMITATION ON REQUIRED FLOWDOWN OF CONTRACT CLAUSES TO 
SUBCONTRACTORS PROVIDING COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS OR 
COMMERCIAL SERVICES.

Chapter 247 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 3459. Limitation on required flowdown of contract clauses to 
subcontractors providing commercial products or 
commercial services
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense may not require that a 
clause be included in a subcontract for the acquisition of commercial 
products or commercial services other than a clause required by a 
provision of law that is on the lists required by section 3452 of this 
title or unless otherwise applicable pursuant to subsection (e) of such 
section.
``(b) Applicability to Other Supply Agreements.--The Secretary of 
Defense shall not require the flowdown of any contract clauses to other 
supply agreements unless otherwise applicable pursuant to subsection 
(e) of section 3452 of this title.
``(c) Definitions.--In this section, the terms `other supply 
agreement' and `subcontract' have the meanings provided in subsection 
(c)(2) of section 3452 of this title.''.

SEC. 833. REFERENCES IN CONTRACTS TO DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE POLICY 
DOCUMENTS, INSTRUCTIONS, AND MANUALS.

It shall be the policy of the Department of Defense that references 
to Department of Defense policy documents, instructions, and manuals in 
contracts shall contain a specific version or date. If the version or 
date of a policy document, instruction, or manual is not referenced, 
the contractor will comply with the version of the document in effect 
at the time the solicitation is issued. Updated versions of referenced 
policy documents, instructions, and manuals shall not apply unless 
mutually agreed.

SEC. 834. UNINSURABLE RISK ON CERTAIN CONTRACTS.

(a) Consideration of Risk of Loss.--The Secretary of Defense shall 
ensure that due consideration is given to a contractor for equitable 
adjustments resulting from the loss of work in process on a covered 
contract.
(b) Limitations.--Considerations limiting the contractor's 
assumption of the risk of loss in subsection (a) shall not apply to 
loss caused by the willful misconduct or lack of good faith on the part 
of any of the contractor's directors or officers, managers, 
superintendents, or other equivalent representatives.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Covered contract.--The term ``covered contract'' means 
any classified, fixed-price type contract, entered into with 
the Department of Defense on or after the date of the enactment 
of this section where, due to the classified nature of the 
underlying program--
(A) the contractor cannot get a third-party 
commercial insurance provider to insure the work in 
process; or
(B) the third-party commercial insurance provider 
cannot process the contractor's claim.
(2) Lack of good faith.--The term ``lack of good faith'' 
has the meaning given the term in section 252.228-7001 of the 
Department of Defense Supplement to the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation, or any successor regulation.
(3) Willful misconduct.--The term ``willful misconduct'' 
has the meaning given the term in section 252.228-7001 of the 
Department of Defense Supplement to the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation, or any successor regulation.
(4) Work in process.--The term ``work in process''--
(A) means an item at any stage of production or 
manufacture at any time from the initiation of contract 
performance until delivery to and acceptance by the 
government; and
(B) specifically includes a ``covered aircraft'' as 
that term is defined in section 252.228-7001 of the 
Department of Defense Supplement to the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation, or any successor regulation.
(d) Conforming Regulations.--Not later than 120 days after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall revise the 
Department of Defense Supplement to the Federal Acquisition Regulation 
to conform with the changes made by this section.

SEC. 835. REPORTING OF PRICE INCREASES.

(a) Reporting of Increases Above Specified Prices.--Chapter 271 of 
title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following new section:
``Sec. 3709. Reporting of increases above specified prices
``(a) In General.--An offeror shall be required to report to the 
relevant contracting officer not later than 30 days after becoming 
aware that the price of a product or service under a covered contract 
reaches or exceeds--
``(1) 25 percent above the price specified in the contract 
bid or the government paid for that product or service the 
previous calendar year; or
``(2) 50 percent above the price paid for such a product or 
service 5 years earlier.
``(b) Covered Contract Defined.--In this section, the term `covered 
contract' means a cost-reimbursement contract awarded without 
competition under section 3204 of this title and as defined under 
section 6.302 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation.''.
(b) Inclusion of Noncompliance Information in FAPIIS.--Chapter 271 
of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), is 
further amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 3710. Inclusion of noncompliance information in Federal Awardee 
Performance and Integrity Information System
``The Director of the Defense Contract Audit Agency or the relevant 
service acquisition executive shall report in the Federal Awardee 
Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS) housed within the 
System for Award Management the following information:
``(1) Contractors who fail to report price increases as 
required under 3705(a)(2) of this title.
``(2) Updated findings from audits conducted by the Agency 
regarding noncompliance with the requirement.
``(3) With respect to unreported product or service price 
increases, the product or service's National Stock Number, 
order quantity, unit cost, total cost, purchasing or 
reimbursing entity, and date of the order.''.

SEC. 836. INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED OPERATIONAL READINESS.

(a) In General.--Chapter 363 of title 10, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 4664. Instructions for continued operational readiness
``(a) Requirement to Deliver Instructions.--(1) The Secretary of 
Defense (referred to in this section as the `Secretary') may not enter 
into a contract or agreement for the procurement, sustainment, or 
subsequent modifications of covered defense equipment unless the 
contract or agreement requires that the contractor deliver, or offer as 
a negotiated price option, Instructions for Continued Operational 
Readiness (`ICOR') to the Secretary upon delivery of the equipment.
``(2) The Secretary may grant an exception to paragraph (1) if the 
product support strategy and associated business case analysis for the 
covered defense equipment indicates that the Government does not have a 
justified need for ICOR, consistent, when applicable, with section 3771 
of this title.
``(3) The contractor shall deliver the ICOR to the Department of 
Defense (referred to in this section as the `Department') and provide 
the Secretary with the rights to diagnose, maintain, and repair the 
covered defense equipment.
``(4) The Secretary shall withhold payment to the contractor under 
the contract or agreement until the Secretary accepts the ICOR as 
complete under subsection (c)(2).
``(5) When ICOR are required to be delivered under a contract or 
agreement, the Secretary shall ensure that updated ICOR data is 
required as necessary in subsequent contracts or agreements or included 
as priced options to reflect modifications in data deliverables.
``(b) Contents of Instructions for Continued Operational 
Readiness.--A contractor for covered defense equipment shall include in 
the ICOR, at a minimum, data that is necessary for operations, 
maintenance, installation, and training, form fit, and function data, 
and any additional data required for operational readiness, which may 
include--
``(1) recommended methods, techniques, inspections, 
processes, procedures, maintenance manuals, service bulletins, 
diagnostic procedures, proprietary systems, special tooling, 
special testing procedures, and equipment necessary to 
maintain, repair, and sustain the covered defense equipment in 
a condition for safe and effective operation, including 
diagnostic protocols, troubleshooting guides, and overhaul 
instructions, consistent with the maintenance practices of the 
contractor or those of the authorized maintenance providers of 
the contractor;
``(2) an operational limitations section (`OLS') that 
includes mandatory schedules for replacement of life-limited 
components, inspection intervals, and other sustainment 
requirements critical to equipment reliability and safety, 
approved by the Secretary;
``(3) engineering drawings, schematics, software, and 
wiring diagrams;
``(4) a complete list of replacement parts, components, and 
specialized equipment required for maintenance and repair, 
including part numbers, specifications, and sources, to ensure 
availability to authorized maintenance providers;
``(5) procedures for documenting maintenance actions, life-
limited component replacements, and compliance with the OLS, 
including standardized formats for maintenance logs to ensure 
traceability and verification of operational readiness; and
``(6) clear identification of maintenance information 
essential for safe operation, distinguished from non-safety-
related service enhancements, to facilitate compliance with 
operational readiness requirements.
``(c) Submission, Acceptance, and Updates.--(1) A contractor shall 
submit the ICOR to the Secretary as a contract deliverable prior to 
equipment delivery or within a timeframe specified by the contract.
``(2) The Secretary shall review and accept the ICOR, verifying 
that they provide sufficient information to maintain the operational 
readiness of the equipment.
``(3) In accordance with design changes and contract modifications 
approved by the Secretary and in a manner that is in accordance with 
subsection (a), the contractor shall deliver updates to the ICOR for 
approval by the Secretary whenever modifications, upgrades, safety 
issues, or new sustainment requirements are identified.
``(d) Maintenance and Repair Providers.--A contractor shall not 
impose restrictions on the use of the ICOR by authorized maintenance 
providers of the Department, including requirements to use only 
contractor-supplied parts, unless such restrictions are explicitly 
approved by the Secretary as necessary for safety or operational 
reliability.
``(e) Conditions for Alternative Maintenance and Repair.--(1) 
Notwithstanding restrictions approved by the Secretary pursuant to 
subsection (d), the Secretary may authorize alternative maintenance or 
repair actions for covered defense equipment, if any of the following 
conditions are met:
``(A) A program cannot reasonably obtain sufficient data to 
maintain operational readiness.
``(B) The contractor fails to deliver complete and current 
ICOR.
``(C) The contractor cannot deliver required parts, 
repairs, or ICOR within a timeframe that meets operational 
needs, as defined by the Secretary, resulting in unacceptable 
readiness degradation.
``(D) The contractor discontinues support for a component 
or software critical to the equipment's operation without 
providing a viable substitute or sufficient ICOR to enable 
sustainment of the equipment by the Department.
``(E) An urgent operational or logistical circumstance, 
such as wartime conditions, active combat, or disrupted 
logistics, necessitates immediate repair or part production to 
maintain mission readiness.
``(F) The Secretary determines alternative maintenance or 
repair actions would result in significant cost savings.
``(2) If an alternative action is authorized under paragraph (1), 
the Secretary may--
``(A) issue a written determination citing the relevant 
condition described in paragraph (1), including evidence of 
contractor practices that prevent delivery of or restrict 
license rights to the ICOR in a manner that may impede 
competition, consistent with antitrust laws; and
``(B) authorize data delivery for the alternative action.
``(3) If time permits, the Secretary shall notify the contractor if 
any of the conditions described in paragraph (1) are met and shall 
provide the contractor with not more than 30 days to address the issue 
before the alternative action is taken.
``(4) Alternative maintenance or repair actions may include, but is 
not limited to, reverse engineering, use of existing technical data, 
fabrication of parts by the Department or third-party providers, or 
advanced manufacturing, as necessary to restore operational readiness. 
This provision does not restrict the ability of the Secretary to employ 
these practices in other contexts.
``(f) Contractor Responsibilities.--(1) A contractor shall ensure 
the ICOR contains sufficient information to maintain the operational 
readiness of the equipment, including updates to address safety or 
performance issues and necessary information on systems or components 
produced by subcontractors.
``(2) A contractor shall promptly notify the Secretary of any 
safety-related deficiencies in the ICOR and provide corrected materials 
at no additional cost.
``(3) If a contractor fails to comply with the requirements of this 
section, the Secretary may withhold contract payment, enforce contract 
penalties, take corrective action, reduce contractor performance 
ratings, or exclude the contractor from future contracts or agreements 
with the Department.
``(g) Oversight.--(1) The Secretary shall establish procedures to 
verify contractor compliance with the requirements of this section, 
including periodic audits of the content and availability and 
maintenance of ICOR.
``(2) The Secretary shall maintain a centralized repository of ICOR 
for covered defense equipment, accessible to maintenance providers 
authorized by the Secretary, to ensure consistent application.
``(h) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the 
enactment of this section, and every year thereafter, the Secretary 
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a list of the 
items designated as excluded commercial items to which the requirement 
to deliver ICOR does not apply.
``(i) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `covered defense equipment' means any 
system, subsystem, or component procured by the Secretary, 
including aircraft, ships, ground vehicles, electronic systems, 
and other systems, that require contractor-provided maintenance 
or repair data to ensure operational readiness, excluding any 
excluded commercial items.
``(2) The term `excluded commercial item' means an 
unmodified product customarily used by the general public or by 
nongovernmental entities or sold, leased, or licensed to the 
general public and maintained under standard commercial 
practices, as designated by the Secretary.
``(3) The terms `Instructions for Continued Operational 
Readiness' and `ICOR' mean contractor-provided technical data, 
software, and other information, including maintenance 
instructions and manuals, operational limitations, parts 
identification, record-keeping procedures, safety-related 
provisions, engineering drawings, schematics, software, service 
bulletins, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, and other 
data or information necessary to maintain and repair covered 
defense equipment in a condition for safe and effective 
operation.''.
(b) Compliance Oversight.--Not later than two years after the date 
of the enactment of this Act, and every two years thereafter, the 
Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report that assesses--
(1) the compliance of the Secretary of Defense with section 
4664 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection 
(a);
(2) the effectiveness of the requirements of section 4664 
in ensuring operational readiness and reducing sustainment 
costs;
(3) contractor compliance with the requirements of section 
4664;
(4) the frequency and impact of the conditions described in 
section 4664(e)(1); and
(5) recommendations for improving the maintenance and 
repair capabilities of the Department of Defense.
(c) Implementation Guidance.--Not later than 180 days after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue 
guidance to implement this section that includes--
(1) procedures for integrating the requirements of section 
4664 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection 
(a), into acquisition contracts and agreements of the 
Department of Defense;
(2) the criteria for designating items as excluded 
commercial items, as defined in section 4664(i);
(3) processes for reviewing, accepting, and updating 
instructions for continued operational readiness (as defined in 
section 4664(i)) and operational limitations sections, in 
accordance with section 4664;
(4) mechanisms for tracking contractor compliance and 
resolving disputes over instructions for continued operational 
readiness and compensation; and
(5) directions for the operation, repair, and maintenance 
of defense equipment that government-owned, government-operated 
entities of the Department of Defense can use if the contract 
or agreement for the defense equipment does not require the 
delivery of ICOR.
(d) Applicability.--Section 4664 of title 10, United States Code, 
as added by subsection (a), applies to contracts and agreements for 
covered defense equipment, as defined in subsection (i) of that 
section, entered into on or after one year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act.

SEC. 837. INDEMNIFICATION OF CONTRACTORS AGAINST NUCLEAR AND UNUSUALLY 
HAZARDOUS RISKS.

(a) In General.--The review of requests submitted by a contractor 
to a Department of Defense contracting officer pursuant to Public Law 
85-804 (50 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.) for indemnification against nuclear and 
unusually hazardous risks, including those involving the procurement of 
commercial nuclear technology, shall include, to the maximum extent 
practicable, input from the Defense Contract Management Agency, 
including reviews of insurance markets and coverage availability from 
the Contractor Insurance/Pension Review group.
(b) Deadline.-- The review of all indemnification requests 
submitted by contractors as described in subsection (a) shall be 
completed with a final decision on approval or denial, including an 
executed Memorandum of Decision, within 90 days.
(c) Delegation.--The Secretary of each military department should 
delegate authority to provide indemnification under Public Law 85-804 
(50 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.) for contracts relating to advanced nuclear 
energy systems or components to such subordinate officials, commands, 
or agencies as the Secretary determines appropriate to ensure timely 
and effective program execution.

SEC. 838. LATE SUBMISSION OF COST AND PRICING DATA AS INVALID DEFENSE 
TO CONTRACT PRICE REDUCTIONS FOR DEFECTIVE COST OR 
PRICING DATA.

Section 3706(c) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (3), by striking ``; or'' and inserting a 
semicolon;
(2) in paragraph (4), by striking the period and inserting 
``; or''; and
(3) by adding at the end of the following:
``(5) the cost or pricing data were obtained by or 
otherwise made available to the prime contractor or 
subcontractor more than 30 days before, but submitted to the 
head of the agency after, the date of agreement on the price of 
the contract or, if applicable consistent with subsection 
(a)(2), such other date agreed upon between the parties.''.

SEC. 839. MODIFICATIONS TO SUBMISSIONS OF COST OR PRICING DATA.

Section 3702(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking ``June 30, 2018'' each place it 
appears and inserting ``June 30, 2026'';
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``$2,000,000'' 
and inserting ``$10,000,000''; and
(C) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``$750,000'' 
and inserting ``$2,000,000'';
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``$2,000,000'' and 
inserting ``$10,000,000''; and
(3) in subparagraph (3)(A), by striking ``$2,000,000'' and 
inserting ``$10,000,000''.

Subtitle C--Industrial Base Matters

SEC. 841. REPEAL OF LIMITATIONS ON CERTAIN DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 
EXECUTIVE AGENT AUTHORITY.

Section 1792 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization 
Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115-232; 132 Stat. 2238; 50 U.S.C. 
4531 note) and section 226 of the National Defense Authorization Act 
for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law 115-91; 50 U.S.C. 4531 note) are 
repealed.

SEC. 842. SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM INDUSTRIAL BASE REMEDIATION 
PLAN.

(a) In General.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the Under Secretary 
of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, acting through the Director 
of the Joint Production Accelerator Cell of the Department of Defense 
and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, 
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a strategy for 
ensuring that the defense industrial base of the United States can meet 
requirements for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS).
(b) Coordination.--In developing the strategy required under 
subsection (a), the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and 
Sustainment shall coordinate with the following officials:

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