The National Defense Authorization Act that passed in the Senate Monday night includes $600 million for the construction of a new littoral combat ship, a request originally put in by the Trump administration.
Sen. Luther Strange, R-Ala., said in a press release the $700 billion bill — which he worked on in the Senate Armed Services Committee — includes pay raises for military personnel, a lobbying ban for former Pentagon workers, the construction of the new ship, and more.
"Alabama's men and women in uniform, and the researchers and manufacturers who support them, are truly the pride of our state," Strange said. "With today's vote, I ensured that Alabamians will continue to play a pivotal role in keeping the United States safe and secure. From the shipyards of Mobile to the launch pads of Huntsville, I am proud to work alongside Senator Shelby in representing the grit behind the finest fighting force in the world."
There are currently nine littoral combat ships in the Navy's fleet. Two more will be built starting next year. The USS Gabrielle Giffords is the most recent addition to that portion of the fleet, having been commissioned in June.
Monday's vote was 89-8 in favor of the defense spending bill. A sizable chunk of the legislation — $60 billion — would fund wartime missions in the Middle East.
The House must now pass the bill before it heads to President Donald Trump's desk.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.