North Austin News

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2025 Defense Appropriations Bill.

“Protecting U.S. national security is one of my greatest responsibilities,” said Rep. McCaul. “I am committed to supporting the men and women who defend our country, and I was pleased that the 2025 Defense Appropriations Act includes a pay raise for all military personnel. This bill prioritizes funding for combat-ready forces to deter our adversaries, promotes defense technology innovation, and supports our strategic partners around the world.”

The FY25 Defense Appropriations Bill incorporates several of Rep. McCaul’s requests aimed at bolstering U.S. national security:

- Increases funds for additional F-35 fighter jets and critical upgrades.

- Secures resources to develop the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft to replace the aging Blackhawk helicopter.

- Supports the completion of the Ballistics, Aero-Optics, and Materials (BAM) range at Texas A&M’s RELLIS campus for hypersonic weapons research.

- Ensures childhood cancer researchers funded by the Department of Defense have necessary resources.

- Advances capabilities of autonomous drones for tactical advantages on land and sea.

- Develops advanced man-portable counter-drone technology for battlefield use.

The bill also includes several other measures aligned with conservative priorities:

- Combats the CCP by prioritizing defense resources to Taiwan.

- Promotes innovation and modernization in the military through emerging technology and manufacturing advancements.

- Supports servicemembers with an increased pay raise for all military personnel.

- Enhances the Department of Defense’s role in countering fentanyl and opioid flow.

- Restores the Department of Defense's core responsibility to maintain U.S. military strength.

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