Graves secures key victories for North Missouri through Defense Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KQTV) -- Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) delivered wins for North Missouri in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

The act was passed on Wednesday, and the bill will support troops abroad and at home, their families and their mission in keeping America safe.

Graves said it's important to give troops the resources they need.

“To do that, we have to give our troops the tools they need to fight and win—while supporting them and their families at home and abroad. I’m proud to have worked in the House Armed Services Committee to ensure this year’s defense bill does just that, while also supporting the vital mission of the 139th Airlift Wing in St. Joseph and good-paying, skilled jobs at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence,” Graves said.

The bill allocates $200 million for two C-130Js and maintains protections through FY28, covering fleet minimums, annual report, training and development at Rosecrans Memorial Airport

The bill will also fund private sector and academic institutions like the University of Missouri – Kansas City domestic production of critical materials from domestic mineral sources. It provides nearly $700 million for Lake City small arms ammunition and another $1 billion to modernize small-arms facilities, including Lake City.

The bill protects the A-10 fleet from being reduced and requires briefing on plans to fully divest the A-10 before FY29, ensure recapitalization of the 442nd Fighter wing and protect Fort Leonard Wood’s medical facility.

The bill will also provide major investments, including $2.59 billion for B-21 bombers and related construction at the Whiteman Air Force Base, $407 million for MQ-25 Stringrays, over $650 million for F/A-18 and EA-18G work in St. Louis and $132.6 million for the Joint Assault Bridge made in Bridgeton.

The troops will receive a 3.8% pay raise, expanded bonuses and special pay and increases in the Family Separation Allowance for deployed service members.

Around $1.5 billion will go toward new barracks and housing. The bill also requires plans and independent reviews to address health, safety and environmental issues within military housing.

The FY2026 NDAA now heads to the Senate for final passage before it can be signed into law by President Trump.