WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03), a Colonel in the Air Force and combat veteran, voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, which invests $831 billion to strengthen national defense, support servicemembers, and ensure military readiness. The package includes two bipartisan amendments Rep. Nunn secured, both aimed at advancing battlefield innovation and supporting Iowa defense manufacturing.
“As a Colonel in the Air Force, I know that investing in our military means investing in the men and women who serve,” said Rep. Nunn. “This package delivers a historic pay raise for all military personnel and equips our forces with the tools, technology, and training needed to stay ahead. From next-gen airpower to supply chain security and cutting-edge systems built right here in Iowa, this bill ensures America remains the most capable fighting force in the world.”
Among the wins in the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act:
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- 3.8% pay increase for all military personnel.
- Over $2.6 billion for hypersonics programs.
- $174 billion in procurement investments, including next-generation aircraft and armored vehicles.
- $13 billion for missile defense and space programs to enhance situational awareness and strengthen global deterrence.
- $1.2 billion for counter-narcotics efforts targeting international drug trafficking.
- Continued support for critical allies, including $500 million for Israeli missile defense and $500 million for Taiwan Security Cooperation.
- $1.4 billion for strengthening the defense industrial base, including decoupling from Chinese manufacturing for rare earth magnets.
Rep. Nunn led two bipartisan amendments that unanimously passed the House of Representatives:
- Advancing Drone Power Capabilities: Rep. Nunn led a bipartisan amendment to secure a $6 million investment to develop and test U.S.-made wireless power transmission systems for in-flight drone recharging and powering remote ground sensors. This cutting-edge technology has promising applications for both the battlefield and precision agriculture, offering potential benefits to Iowa farmers using drones to monitor crops, manage resources, and boost yields.
- Strengthening European Defense Posture: Rep. Nunn also introduced a bipartisan amendment to provide $10 million to outfit two Patriot Battalions with Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (APNT) systems. An additional $10 million will procure 200 MAPS Gen II systems for forward-deployed Patriot units in Europe. Manufactured in Cedar Rapids, these advanced systems are vital to defending against jamming and spoofing threats and help to protect U.S. and allied forces operating in contested environments like Eastern Europe.
The bill now awaits consideration in the Senate.
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