ND North News

The Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) has advanced the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes significant investments in North Dakota's role in national security and military readiness. The legislation will now move to the Senate floor for further consideration.

The NDAA codifies support for President Trump's Golden Dome architecture, addresses staffing shortfalls at military medical facilities, and improves the transition process for service members moving to civilian life. "Well, advancing the [National] Defense Authorization Act out of the Armed Services Committee really is an important first step to fulfilling our Constitutional duty by providing for the common defense," said Senator Kevin Cramer. He highlighted investments in Grand Forks' intelligence capabilities, modernization of Minot's nuclear triad, and radar upgrades at Cavalier Space Force Station.

Senator Cramer has used his position on SASC to strengthen defense missions based in North Dakota. The FY26 NDAA authorizes several projects across the state, including modernization of the Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS) at Cavalier SFS. This system tracks over half of all earth-orbiting objects and its modernization will enhance detection of missile threats and space domain awareness.

Cavalier SFS is central to President Trump's Golden Dome initiative, which aims to modernize U.S. missile defense capabilities against various threats. Senators Cramer and Dan Sullivan introduced the GOLDEN DOME Act to complement this initiative.

The bill also invests in intelligence capabilities at Grand Forks Air Force Base and maintains RQ-4 Global Hawks inventory requirements. It allocates $277 million for Tranche 3 of SDA’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture and $17 million for corrosion-resistant coatings development by Technology Applications Group in Grand Forks.

Additionally, it secures funding for the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile program as part of nuclear deterrence efforts. The NDAA encourages establishing wing-level additive manufacturing facilities to improve readiness while reducing repair costs and time.

North Dakota's "Happy Hooligans" operate MQ-9 Reapers as part of their growing role in Remotely Piloted Aircraft operations. The NDAA establishes a formal combat identifier for RPA crew members conducting combat mission support operations, enabling them access to related benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Senators Cramer and Jacky Rosen introduced the CARE Act for RPA Crews to ensure recognition and access to services they deserve.

Finally, the legislation authorizes planning and design funds for an Armory project in Jamestown, a top priority for NDNG.