WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) recently advanced the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Department of Defense Appropriations Act, which allocates more than $851.9 billion in discretionary spending to strengthen America’s defense capabilities.
Among the bill’s highlights is a $219.8 million investment to fund 15 additional Abrams tanks, directly supporting operations at the Anniston Army Depot. The facility plays a central role in U.S. armored vehicle production and modernization, making this investment a significant boost for both national security and the local economy.
The legislation also funds major defense projects across Alabama, including:
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$216 million for drone and counter-drone capabilities.
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$4.6 billion for air and missile defense efforts.
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$5.2 billion for munitions procurement across the services.
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$923 million for the Missile Defense Agency in Huntsville to acquire additional THAAD interceptors.
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$450 million to restore funding for the SM-3 Block 1B missile, supporting Huntsville.
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$360 million to procure 12 AH-64E Apache helicopters, supporting Huntsville.
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$175 million for the Improved Turbine Engine Program in Huntsville and Auburn.
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$1.9 billion for Virginia-class submarines and $1.3 billion for Columbia-class subs, supporting Mobile shipbuilding.
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$500 million for the Space Development Agency’s Tranche 3 Transport Layer, with Huntsville as one of its key integration hubs.
In addition to program investments, the FY26 bill includes a 3.8% pay raise for all service members and a 10% additional pay raise for junior enlisted personnel.
“These investments modernize America’s defense while recognizing the vital contributions of Alabama’s workforce,” Britt said. “From Anniston to Huntsville and Mobile, our state continues to lead in advancing national security.”
The package also directs funding for U.S.-Israeli missile defense cooperation, including $500 million for Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow systems.
The measure now advances for full Senate consideration.
