Peace Garden News

The U.S. Senate has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, marking significant advancements for North Dakota and the nation. The legislation includes a notable pay raise of 14.5% for junior enlisted servicemembers and 4.5% for all other servicemembers, addressing recruitment challenges in the military.

Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, highlighted the bill as a "major victory," though he noted that more needs to be done to bolster U.S. defense capabilities. He emphasized, “The highest Constitutional priority of the Congress every year is to provide for the nation’s defense and our bill this year really secures an amazing, historic pay raise, particularly for our junior enlisted servicemembers.”

The House of Representatives had previously passed the bill with bipartisan support, and it now awaits President Trump's signature. The NDAA emphasizes modernization in various military sectors including nuclear capabilities, hypersonic technology, missile defense, and space operations.

The legislation also features measures championed by Senator Cramer to expand mental health services in rural areas through increased TRICARE-certified providers where access is insufficient. Despite these provisions, a proposed $25 billion increase in defense spending was not included in this year's NDAA.

North Dakota stands to benefit from several initiatives within the NDAA:

In Grand Forks, funding will support critical missions at Grand Forks Air Force Base, sustain Global Hawk operations, and develop new UAV technology through local companies like Technology Applications Group (TAG) and Ideal Aerosmith.

Minot will see investments in modernizing its Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent system with $3.9 billion allocated for Sentinel Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM) development.

Fargo's Happy Hooligans unit will receive additional support with $6 million dedicated to cold spray repair technology development.

The North Dakota National Guard will benefit from $10 million earmarked for maintaining UH-72 Lakota helicopters used in non-combat roles.

Cavalier Space Force Station will receive $5 million for radar system upgrades essential for national defense.

These projects underscore North Dakota's strategic role in national security efforts as outlined by Senator Cramer: “It acknowledges the pivotal role North Dakota plays in our national security as well."