Unprecedented increase with key programs facing reductions sparks debate between Pentagon and Congress
Significant Boost in Defense R&D Budget
The Department of Defense (DoD) is requesting approximately $142 billion in research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) funding for its base budget, complemented by an expected $37 billion from budget reconciliation, bringing the total to roughly $179 billion—an increase of nearly $38 billion over FY25’s $141.3 billion. The fiscal 2026 budget document, obtained by Breaking Defense, reflects both continued priorities and emerging uncertainties due to pending reconciliation funds and shifting policy.
Key Program Highlights in the FY2026 RDT&E Request
- Overall Growth and Priorities: The RDT&E expansion underscores investments in next-generation systems, space capabilities linked to “Golden Dome,” and emerging technologies for future warfare. Yet, some programs face steep cuts or face delays, fuelling intra-governmental debates.
- Navy and Marine Corps: The Navy requests around $25.7 billion, supplemented by roughly $3.4 billion from reconciliation. A notable setback is the F/A-XX sixth-generation fighter, with only $75 million allocated—far below the previously projected $1 billion—raising concerns about the program’s future. The Navy’s unmanned surface vessels and undersea vehicles also rely heavily on reconciliation funds, with some previous funding reduced but expected to be bolstered by Congress.
- Air Force: The Air Force’s R&D rises to approximately $62.2 billion, driven by investments in the B-21 Raider stealth bomber ($4.7 billion) and hypersonic weapons development ($802.8 million). The “F-47” sixth-generation fighter program gets about $3.5 billion, with nearly $900 million from reconciliation. Nonetheless, programs like next-gen engine development (Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion) see cuts, indicating shifts in modernization priorities.
- Space Force: The agency is a major beneficiary, with requests of $29 billion—over $10 billion more than FY25—bolstered by substantial reconciliation support. Critical programs include the “Golden Dome” missile defense shield, missile warning systems, and rapid satellite deployment, with some initiatives such as the Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI) program receiving billions to support homeland defense ambitions.
- Army: The Army’s budget requests $15.4 billion, with funds directed toward key projects like its Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA), ground vehicle development, and missile defense. Notably, $1.2 billion is allocated for FLRAA, and missile defense programs such as the Indirect Fire Protection Capability and hypersonics see significant investments.
- Emerging Technologies and Other Programs: The budget supports cyber warfare, DARPA’s innovations ($4.9 billion total including reconciliation), and defense information systems. Offsets for biological and chemical defense, and digital transformation projects also see funding continuity.
Program Facing Potential Cancellation: F/A-XX
Despite prior industry and congressional interest, the F/A-XX program appears on the chopping block, with only about $75 million allocated—raising likelihood of cancellation or major overhaul. This contrasts sharply with House lawmakers’ push to accelerate next-generation fighter fielding, indicating a key flashpoint in FY2026 defense debates.
Uncertainty and Political Dynamics
While the budget proposes historic increases, the reliance on reconciliation funds—still subject to congressional approval—introduces uncertainty. The ongoing debate between the Pentagon’s priorities and Congress’s oversight will shape the final landscape of U.S. defense modernization for years to come.
Conclusion
The FY2026 RDT&E plan marks a significant escalation in military technological investments, especially in space, hypersonics, and next-generation aircraft. Yet, the proposed cuts to critical programs like the Navy’s sixth-generation fighter highlight internal and external pressures that could redefine America’s future warfighting capabilities.
