Washington D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Rogers (AL-03), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, lauded the recent passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), H.R. 5009. The legislation not only strengthens national security but also delivers substantial benefits to Anniston and Alabama as a whole.
In a statement, Rep. Rogers highlighted the FY2025 NDAA’s focus on improving the quality of life for servicemembers, deterring global threats, and ensuring the U.S. military remains unparalleled in its capabilities.
Anniston Army Depot Receives Significant Funding
Central to the bill is the increased funding for the Anniston Army Depot, a cornerstone of Alabama’s defense industry. Notable investments include:
- Procurement and Modernization: Boosted funding for the production of PIM combat vehicles and Abrams tanks, as well as research, development, testing, and evaluation for Stryker modernization.
- Infrastructure Enhancements:
- $3 million for designing a general-purpose warehouse.
- $5 million for designing a guided missile maintenance building.
- $56 million for constructing a power generation and microgrid project.
- $14 million for designing a small arms warehouse.
These investments secure Anniston Army Depot’s position as a key player in defense manufacturing and innovation, ensuring long-term economic growth for the region.
Beyond Anniston, the NDAA underscores Alabama’s prominence in national defense. Investments at Redstone Arsenal and other facilities include:
- $40 million for constructing Ground Test Facility Infrastructure.
- $20 million for advanced spacecraft security.
- Funding for cutting-edge projects such as AI-based threat countermeasures, missile defense systems, and radar enhancement facilities.
Rep. Rogers also emphasized the strategic necessity of deterring China, describing the NDAA as “laser-focused” on addressing the Indo-Pacific threat while bolstering the U.S.’s nuclear deterrent and modernizing the defense industrial base.
The FY2025 NDAA includes a landmark 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers, expanded housing and childcare access, and support for military spouses. “Providing for our servicemembers is the most important job that Congress has,” Rogers said.
Rep. Rogers urged the Senate to swiftly pass the legislation, underscoring its importance for national defense and the benefits it provides to Alabama communities.
Anniston continues to stand as a testament to the critical role local industries play in safeguarding national security. With this legislation, Alabama’s contributions to the nation’s defense remain unparalleled.
