U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell | Mitch McConnell Official website
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell | Mitch McConnell Official website
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has successfully secured several priorities for Kentucky in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was passed by the Senate and is now awaiting the President's signature.
“The National Defense Authorization Act, like all major legislation, is a compromise product," said Senator McConnell. "While this legislation falls short of the topline increase in defense investments my Republican colleagues and I have advocated, I’d be remiss not to mention several important priorities this bill secures for Kentuckians.”
The NDAA includes provisions that enhance Kentucky's contribution to national defense. It establishes a new aviation facility at Fort Knox and supports Kentucky-based manufacturers within the defense industrial base. The bill also expands telehealth services across state lines for servicemembers and their families.
The legislation authorizes measures to strengthen America's defense capabilities, including modernizing procurement practices, boosting munitions production, and streamlining Department of Defense acquisitions. It addresses emerging technologies such as counter-drone systems, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, nuclear advancements, hypersonic weapons, missile defense systems, and space capabilities.
Senator McConnell emphasized expanded access to mental healthcare through interstate authority for Tricare providers. This allows delivery of telehealth services across state lines, offering more provider options and reducing wait times for servicemembers.
Additionally, the bill requires a review of military training and technology related to subterranean threats from adversaries like Hamas, Iran, and North Korea.
Specific initiatives include:
- A $138 million aviation maintenance facility at Fort Knox.
- An Army-wide security monitoring center based on a feasibility study.
- Strengthening cybersecurity workforce development with the University of Louisville.
- Accelerating development of an Improved Turbine Engine by GE Aerospace in Madisonville.
- Supporting Kentucky defense manufacturers' role in national defense.
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