Thune Applauds Senate Passage of NDAA, Urges Democrats to Stop Holding Troops’ Paychecks Hostage

WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today issued the following statement after the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, which authorizes significant investments for Ellsworth Air Force Base and the future B-21 bomber mission.

"This year's NDAA builds on the historic security investments we secured in the One Big Beautiful Bill and will strengthen the important role that South Dakota plays in keeping our nation safe by providing critical resources to Ellsworth Air Force Base and the B-21 mission," said Thune. "The NDAA is one of the most important bills that Congress considers every year, and I'm pleased that the Senate made it a priority this year to ensure our military has everything it needs to project American strength and promote peace.

"While I'm pleased we were able to get this legislation across the finish line, it is imperative that Senate Democrats stop holding the federal government - and military pay - hostage and reopen the government," Thune continued. "Democrats need to do the right thing and vote to reopen the government so our troops can get paid and continue to provide for their families."

The NDAA includes significant investments that will benefit South Dakota:

• Fully authorizes the B-21 Raider program, including over $3.4 billion for procurement;
• Authorizes $378 million in military construction projects to support the future B-21 Raider mission at Ellsworth Air Force Base;
• Authorizes $28 million for the Watertown Army National Guard Vehicle Maintenance Shop;
• Requires a "bomber roadmap" detailing bomber force structure, modernization, and transition plan for fielding the B-21;
• Modifies the Defense Community Infrastructure Program to better support the quality of life of the airmen stationed at Ellsworth;
• Supports munitions production, leveraging South Dakota industries; and
• Authorizes robust munitions production for the B-1 and future B-21.

Permalink: https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/10/thune-applauds-senate-passage-of-ndaa-urges-democrats-to-stop-holding-troops-paychecks-hostage