The National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2020, passed by the Senate on Thursday authorizes for Minot Air Force Base fully funding a program to replace the UH-1N Huey helicopters and funding for upgrades to the B-52, and legislation to support the intercontinental ballistic missile modernization, according to Senators Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven.

“Today the United States Senate passed the NDAA with strong bipartisan support,” said Sen. Kevin Cramer. “It bolsters our nuclear triad, improves the livelihood of our all-volunteer military force, establishes the United States Space Force, and reflects the priorities of North Dakota. I am thankful to my colleagues for their efforts and collaboration on this bill. Congress now moves one step closer to fulfilling its obligation to provide for the common defense of our nation. Now the House must act.”

“North Dakota holds a unique position in our nation’s defense, playing an essential role in our nuclear forces, which are central to our national security, while also acting as a leader in the cutting edge field of unmanned aviation,” said Hoeven. “This year’s NDAA helps provide the pay our servicemembers deserve, while also authorizing the funds they need to be successful in these vital missions. At the same time, it includes my legislation emphasizing the continued importance of the ICBMs in ensuring we have a credible nuclear deterrent. It is vital that we maintain our progress in updating the ICBM fleet, and our legislation will help do just that.”

NDAA continues to prioritize the modernization strategy, including fully funding the B-52 program and an increase in nuclear deterrence modernization. Cramer also included language that prohibits the drawdown or reduction of ICBMs.

To support the missions at Minot AFB, home to two legs of the nuclear triad, NDAA authorizes:

– Nearly $350 million for upgrades to the B-52, including the procurement of new engines.

– $170 million to replace the UH-1N Huey helicopters that provide security for the ICBM silos. Cramer included language to hold the Air Force accountable on its future timing and funding of the replacement program.

– $5.5 million for the new helicopter facility at Minot AFB. The existing facilities will not accommodate the anticipated helicopter replacement.

– More than $700 million for the Long Range Stand Off (LRSO) missile to replace the aging Air Launched Cruise Missile carried on the B-52.

– Nearly $900 million for the new cruise missile nuclear warhead.

– Nearly $550 million to sustain the existing fleet of ICBMs.

– $592 million for the Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) to replace the Minuteman III

– Hoeven cosponsored a measure in the bill to ensure the NNSA can produce enough warheads for the new ICBMs, a delay of which would impact the progress of the GBSD program.

NNSA also includes:

– Hoeven-cosponsored legislation requiring a report on China and Russia’s activities in the Arctic, helping build the case for more attention and investment by the U.S. in the Arctic region.

– Requires a Department of Defense report on how “Northern Tier” bases, including Minot and Grand Forks, can be utilized to advance U.S. interests in the Arctic region.