The 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, or N-D-A-A, is advancing through Congress. This year’s act features major boosts for the future of Ellsworth Air Force Base.
Ellsworth, which was once on the chopping block for closure, secures just under $400M dollars in the package.
That money, which includes extra funding to contend with inflation, will primarily be used for infrastructure improvements like a new B-21 fuel systems facility and weapons generation space.
The bill also authorizes $2.35B for B-21 purchases.
The N-D-A-A has passed out of the Senate Armed Services Committee, which Sen. Mike Rounds is a member.
Rounds pushed for several cybersecurity items in the package. That includes the beginning of cyber operations against Mexican cartels, including the formulation of strategies to counter them.
Further, artificial intelligence and machine learning were priorities, as was broader of modernization in cyberattack defense efforts.
A 5.2 percent increase for military service members and civilian Department of Defense employees was also included.
This fiscal year’s NDAA next heads to the Senate floor.