(VOVWORLD) - The US Senate passed a record 886 billion USD in annual military spending for 2024 by a vote of 87 to 13 on Wednesday. The package authorizes 28 billion USD, or about 3%, more than the 2023 fiscal year package.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2024 decides the budget for every aspect of the military, from salary increases for soldiers (up 5.2%) to purchases of ships, ammunition, and aircraft, as well as assistance for Ukraine.
Before voting, the Democratic majority leader of the Senate, Chuck Schumer, said that the 2024 NDAA will ensure that the US military always be the most modern force in the world.
The House of Representatives is expected to pass the bill later this week, then send it to the White House for President Joe Biden’s signature.