Washington, D.C. – The House of Representatives has advanced the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a significant legislative move that underscores critical priorities for the Louisiana defense community, particularly Barksdale Air Force Base. U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) has lauded the passage, highlighting the bill’s substantial investments in defense infrastructure and personnel well-being.
Key Provisions for Barksdale Air Force Base
The FY25 NDAA includes several pivotal provisions for Barksdale Air Force Base, ensuring it remains a linchpin of U.S. national security:
- $22 Million for Childcare Development Center: This allocation will enhance childcare facilities, improving support for military families stationed at Barksdale.
- Nuclear Triad Modernization: Full authorization of funds for the modernization of the nuclear triad, with two-thirds of these assets commanded, trained, and equipped at Barksdale, reinforces the base’s strategic significance.
- Manning Analysis Requirement: The Air Force is required to conduct an analysis to ensure that the Air Force Global Strike Command at Barksdale is adequately staffed to meet its mission requirements.
B-52 Program Modernization
The act also allocates significant funding to the B-52 Bomber Program, a cornerstone of Barksdale’s operations:
- $1.2 Billion for B-52 Modernization and Sustainment: These funds will ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the B-52 fleet.
- Crew Comfort and Capability Enhancements: The Air Force is mandated to brief Congress on potential modifications to improve crew comfort and enhance the airborne electronic attack capabilities of the B-52.
- Increased Nuclear Capability: Authorization for the Secretary of the Air Force to increase the number of B-52s capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
Fort Johnson and Other Investments
Beyond Barksdale, the FY25 NDAA includes substantial investments for other military installations in Louisiana:
- $117 Million for Military Construction Projects at Fort Johnson
- $834 Million for the Long Range Standoff Weapon Development and Procurement
Quality of Life Improvements for Service Members
Speaker Johnson emphasized the NDAA’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for service members and their families:
- Pay Raises: A 19.5% increase for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% increase for all other service members.
- Housing and Childcare: Nearly $1 billion authorized for the improvement and construction of new barracks and childcare centers, alongside ensuring the basic housing allowance covers 100% of housing costs and expanded allowances for housing and food.
Reaffirming Military Focus
The legislation also aims to streamline and refocus the military’s mission and expenditure:
- Elimination of DEI Bureaucracy: The bill redirects focus towards the military’s core mission of defense.
- Restrictions on Expenditures: Bans the use of taxpayer dollars for abortions, gender transition surgeries, drag shows, and the use of Critical Race Theory on bases and in Department of Defense schools.
Speaker Johnson’s Commitment
Since joining the House Armed Services Committee in 2021, Speaker Johnson has secured nearly $759 million in military construction projects for Louisiana. This includes $352.5 million for Barksdale Air Force Base, $378.8 million for Fort Johnson, $13.8 million for Camp Minden, $3.5 billion for the Air Force B-52 program, and $2.67 billion for the Long Range Stand Off Weapon program.
“As we confront increasingly hostile threats from Communist China, Russia, and Iran, we must provide our military with all the tools they need to defend our nation and deter our enemies,” said Speaker Johnson. “This year’s NDAA will refocus our military on its core mission of defending America and its interests across the globe.”
The passage of the FY25 NDAA marks a crucial step in ensuring that Barksdale Air Force Base and other Louisiana military installations remain robust and capable of meeting both current and future defense challenges.