What decisions does the US’s 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) bring?
The bill regarding the 901 billion dollar budget, which causes radical changes in the global security architecture, stands out as a critical turning point not only in terms of domestic politics but also in terms of international balances. As one of the most critical financial decisions of the presidency, the NDAA provides a framework that strengthens the defense industry, deepens cooperation with allies, re-evaluates some old sanctions and focuses on some strategic areas. The bill combines support for Ukraine and decisions that will affect the presence in Europe, as well as elements aimed at maintaining balance in the Asia-Pacific region.
Ukraine, Taiwan and the Philippines: Strategic Financing and Defense Funds
The NDAA and the total financial support allocated to Ukraine, Taiwan, and the Philippines clearly demonstrate the United States’ global security commitments. Figures such as $400 million to Ukraine and $1 billion to Taiwan are seen as a guarantee of defense cooperation and continuity. The $1.5 billion strategic defense fund allocated to the Philippines represents a new layer in the Asia-Pacific security architecture. These funds target capacity building in critical areas such as air defense, maritime security and cyber defense. However, the implementation of this support package requires careful management in terms of operational flexibility and adaptability, as such financial assistance must act through the right channels and coordination to achieve the intended effects.
Return to the Caesar Act: New Era in Syria and Cancellation of Sanctions
The bill focuses on one of the most publicly debated issues: repealing the Caesar Act. This law, which came into force in 2019, is known as the cornerstone of the heavy sanctions imposed on Syria. With the establishment of the new administration in March 2025, the removal of these sanctions aims to pave the way for foreign investments and accelerate the country’s economic recovery. However, conditions are also imposed: if the law is to be repealed, strict reporting and control mechanisms on minority rights and the fight against terrorism will be in place. It is also recommended that management submit regular reports. This framework brings with it the question of whether action will be taken at the expense of gaining the trust of the international community in the process of Syria’s reintegration.
Unwavering Support for Israel: Iron Dome and Regional Security
The NDAA contains a number of articles that reinforce support for Israel. Financing of missile defense systems such as the Iron Dome and David’s Sling is presented as one of the key elements of the regional security balance. This financing strengthens Israel’s defense capabilities while ensuring the sustainability of its presence in Western Europe. In addition, thanks to the article that gives a deterrent message against Russia, a unified approach is taken against short and medium-range threats. These steps aim to establish a balance against China’s increasing technological and military influence.
China, Chinese Biotechnology Companies and Technology Transfer: Redefining Strategic Control
In order to strengthen the technological superiority of the USA, measures such as sanctions against Chinese biotechnology companies and notification of sensitive technology transfers send important signals on the global competitive scene. These policies are of great importance in terms of reducing dependency and protecting critical infrastructure, especially in the field of high technology. Security standards and cyber security protocols in intercompany collaborations are being further tightened within this framework. But these steps will constantly test the balance between innovation speed and security: over-participation can lead to lack of competitiveness and uncertainty in investment decisions.
Expanding Operational Scope: Multidimensional Asset Management from Europe to Asia
The overall purpose of the NDAA is to implement a multi-dimensional defense strategy. This covers a wide spectrum, from maintaining a military presence in Europe to strengthening balance policies in Asia. While alliance ties are strengthened with the article that prevents the presence in Europe from being reduced below 76 thousand, deterrence against Russia is also increasing. A faster response capacity is being created on both continents through joint exercises, smart defense systems integration and logistics support lines. This approach is seen as a proactive resilience mechanism against rising threat perceptions around the world.
Key Priorities and Implementation Constraints
Although the NDAA includes major investments and new sanctions, enforceability stands out as the most critical issue. Specifically, reporting obligations, transparency in budget use, audit mechanisms and compliance with international law play a central role in this context. This determines how the defense budget will be transformed for the benefit of citizens, which projects should be prioritized, and which projects are the most efficient way to integrate them into the national security strategy. Additionally, technology transfer notifications and control of sensitive technologies stand out as critical decisions affecting both US industry and global supply chains.
Conclusion: Definitive Steps and Possible Risks in the Search for a New Balance
The US’s 2026 NDAA strengthens the defense budget and triggers a search for a new balance in the global security architecture. The financial support provided to Ukraine, Taiwan and the Philippines embodies the US security guarantee on the East-West axis. While the abolition of the Caesar Act in Syria aims to accelerate economic recovery, the balance this step will create in terms of human rights and security will be closely monitored. The support given to Israel and regional security measures strengthen stability efforts in the Middle East and strengthen the framework needed to maintain technological superiority against China. But practicality challenges and the dynamic nature of international balances will continually test the real-world impacts of these decisions. Therefore, decision makers must ensure that the budget remains compatible with current targets; It needs to carefully guard the fine line between investment, security and human rights.
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