The imperative of a robust national defense

In an era marked by unprecedented global challenges, the necessity for a strong national defense has never been more apparent. The tumultuous events that have unfolded across our world and the threats we face in the near future stress the urgent need for a resilient common defense capable of protecting American interests and values on multiple fronts.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is a reminder of the importance of standing against aggression from tyrannical leaders on sovereign nations. Russia will undoubtedly not stop at Ukraine, and we cannot allow Putin to prevail. Most importantly, if Russia were to succeed in the war, it will signal to Communist China that the U.S. is not ready to help those facing aggression. In addition, as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict persists, a strong national defense will ensure the U.S. can fulfill our commitment to one of our most important allies. Israel has a right to exist and defend itself and we must support our friend and stop a brutal terrorist regime from persevering.

Finally, the increased aggression from China and North Korea on our partners and allies in the Western Pacific demands a well-equipped defense strategy. China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea and North Korea’s nuclear ambitions pose significant challenges to the geopolitical balance. Investing in military capabilities is essential to maintaining our strategic edge in the region, deterring potential adversaries and ensuring the safety of our allies including Taiwan, South Korea and Japan, as well as U.S. forces in the region.

During a time of global instability, I applaud the passage in both chambers of Congress and the president signing into law the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2024. This bill authorizes critical funding necessary to the modernization and readiness of the U.S. military. This NDAA authorizes $886.3 billion to adequately support national defense programs, $28 billion more than the fiscal year 2023 enacted level.

This NDAA provides a well-deserved pay raise for servicemembers at 5.2 percent, the largest pay raise in 20 years, as well as monthly bonuses for junior enlisted members. This is vital to ensuring our men and women in uniform can better keep up with inflation. This authorization also goes above and beyond in supporting military families including by authorizing funding for new construction for housing and childcare centers and providing for programs for military spouses so they can continue to provide for their families without interruption.

Indeed, this bill is not perfect — it does not go as far as I would have liked in some areas — but it represents a good-faith compromise that must be reached in divided government. I wish it would have taken bolder steps in countering the progressive ideological agenda that originated in the Pentagon. However, with the threats we face in today’s world, it certainly addresses the need to modernize our military, ensure we have the battleships and aircraft needed in future conflict and strengthens our strategic deterrence, missile defense and hypersonic missile systems. I was proud to support the passage of this legislation so it can be enacted for the 62nd consecutive year.

As a nation, we must realize the symbiotic relationship between a strong national defense and the well-being of our allies and peace around the globe. Unfortunately, over the last two years we have seen a series of national security failures under the current administration, beginning with his disastrous and deadly withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan that allowed the Taliban to reemerge and retake the country. From wavering commitments to our allies in the face of emerging threats to questionable strategic decisions that have undermined our international standing, President Biden’s missteps have eroded the confidence of our partners and emboldened our enemies. It is critical we reposition our approach to national security to ensure that we can once again stand as a reliable source and international leader, and my commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our nation, citizens and servicemembers remains unwavering.

Tom Cole, (R.), is Representative for the Fourth District in Oklahoma.