COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES PASSES MEASURE TO STRENGTHEN THE DEFENSE OF GUAM
(Washington, D.C.) On April 30, the House Committee on Armed Services (HASC) successfully transmitted the reconciliation to the House Budget Committee, passing the measure with a vote of 35-21. This action follows H.Con.Res.14, the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2025, which allocates $150 billion for defense.
Among the key provisions of this bill is the allocation of $200 million for Guam Defense System. This critical investment underscores the administration's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the island. This funding is essential for strengthening our defense capabilities and ensuring that Guam remainsprotected and resilient against emerging threats.
Additionally, the initiative includes a significant allocation of $1.1 billion for infrastructure projects across the Indo-Pacific region. As strategic development in Guam advances, this funding is vital for enhancing the island's power grid, upgrading the naval hospital, repairing essential roadways, and ensuring effective water and waste management. This investment represents not only a financial commitment but also a dedication to the safety, stability, and infrastructure of our forces and allies in the region.
"This measure represents a significant step towards bolstering the defense of Guam and enhancing the safety of our region. The investments made will not only strengthen our capabilities but also reaffirm our commitment to the security of our allies in the Indo-Pacific," stated Congressman Moylan.
Similar to the infrastructure funds, $450 million will be allocated toward improvements of airfields across the Indo-Pacific region, further enhancing security for Guam and solidifying the security framework of our allies in the region.
Another $11 billion has been allocated for Pacific Deterrence to expand military exercises and improve the readiness of Indo-Pacific forces. To bolster national security, the bill also allocates $25 billion for the Golden Dome for America, whichaims to develop space-based assets needed to defend against threats to the homeland. Additionally, $34 billion is allocated for shipbuilding and the maritime industrial base in support of restoring America’s maritime dominance, along with a $100,000 allocation for the expansion of the Defense Industrial Base.
Congressman Moylan remains committed to Guam's defense needs. The substantial investments made in the defense and infrastructure of Guam exemplify the critical role the island plays in bolstering regional security and advancing America's national security interests. This measure has paved the way for strengthening Guam's defense readiness and infrastructure, ensuring a safer and more secure future for the island and its allies in the region.
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