The United States House of Representatives has narrowly passed the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), approving a record $1.15 trillion in defence spending as lawmakers remain divided over military policy and the country’s ongoing conflict with Iran.

The bill passed on Wednesday in a 216-212 vote and now heads to the Senate for consideration.

If enacted, the legislation would authorise about $250 billion more than the 2026 defence budget and includes a pay increase of between five and seven per cent for members of the armed forces.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said the measure would strengthen the country’s military capabilities, provide long-awaited salary increases for service members and support the development of the proposed Golden Dome missile defence system.

The Golden Dome project is a key defence initiative backed by President Donald Trump and is modelled after Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system.

Republicans on the House Armed Services Committee said the legislation would also help replenish US military stockpiles depleted during the country’s ongoing conflict with Iran.

Democrats, however, strongly opposed the bill, arguing that it would significantly increase military spending while supporting policies they disagree with.

Representative Jerry Nadler criticised the legislation, describing it as an expensive measure that would fund what he called an illegal war and expand military expenditure.

The bill also includes the SAVE America Act, a proposal backed by Trump that seeks to introduce new nationwide voting restrictions. Its inclusion has drawn criticism from Democrats and could complicate the bill’s prospects in the Senate.

Another provision calling for expanded military cooperation between the United States and Israel has also generated debate among lawmakers in recent weeks.