Interior Alaska News

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, representing Alaska and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has played a significant role in advancing the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation, amounting to $923 billion, includes 34 provisions authored by Senator Sullivan and allocates over $790 million for military construction projects in Alaska.

Senator Sullivan emphasized the importance of these projects: “This year’s NDAA reinforces Alaska’s critical role in America’s national defense with more than $790 million in military construction projects.” He highlighted efforts to block proposed staffing cuts for the Air National Guard and directed the Navy to consider potential refueling locations in the Arctic. Additionally, he secured amendments prohibiting Chinese seafood sales in U.S. military facilities and addressing federal hurdles for the Ambler Access Project.

Discussing broader national security concerns, Senator Sullivan stated: “The biggest threat to America’s national security and global stability is Communist China.” He stressed that robust military funding is essential to deter threats from Beijing and enhance training with Indo-Pacific allies. His contributions also address shipbuilding challenges faced by the U.S. Navy.

Reflecting on current global threats, Senator Sullivan remarked: “We are facing one of the most dangerous periods since World War II.” He criticized perceived weaknesses in President Biden's defense budget proposals but noted bipartisan support for a defense budget exceeding $900 billion.

The FY 2025 NDAA will proceed to full Senate debate and voting. A corresponding bill will be considered by the House of Representatives. Once both chambers pass their versions, they will reconcile differences before sending a final version to the President.