Defense and Homeland Security bills fund increases across most services.
Congress has authorized and funded increases to active-duty military and Coast Guard personnel under fiscal year 2026 defense and homeland security legislation. The fiscal 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which was signed into law on December 18, authorizes the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security to expand the size of their services.
The Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard are set to grow, with the largest increases occurring in the Army and Navy. As active-duty numbers rise, reserve and National Guard forces are expected to see modest net decreases, with variations across components. The total active-duty force is projected to exceed 1.3 million service members—the largest level since 2023.
“[The bills reflect] the core tenets of American strength: combat-ready forces, secure communities, effective education and health systems, and modern transportation,” stated Appropriations Committee Chairman Representative Tom Cole of Oklahoma.
Legislators cited improved recruiting performance in recent years as a factor supporting the expansion.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For members of Congress as they assess funding, oversight, and readiness within the Defense and Homeland Security Departments.
- For wisdom for President Trump and Secretary Hegseth as they determine national defense strategies.
- For U.S. service members and their families as force levels and assignments change.
Sources: Military Times, Gov Con Wire, Townhall
