Space Force budget stays at requested level
The U.S. House Appropriations Committee has released a defense appropriations draft that funds the Pentagon at the discretionary levels sought by the administration, including a $55.5 billion annual budget for the Space Force.
Reconciliation funding excluded
The proposal, however, does not contain the roughly $350 billion in additional spending that was slated for inclusion through a reconciliation process. The omission creates uncertainty about financing for larger space initiatives.
Impact on key programs
Without the reconciliation money, the Golden Dome program—intended to modernize satellite communications networks—could face budget shortfalls. Other projects that anticipated the extra funds are likewise left in a precarious position.
Congressional reactions
Some committee members argue that the current budget covers the Space Force’s essential needs, while others warn that leaving out the reconciliation resources may create strategic gaps over the long term.
Next steps
The draft will now move to the full House and the Senate for further debate. A final decision on the $350 billion reconciliation allocation is expected to be made during the broader annual appropriations negotiations.