WASHINGTON, (Sputnik) – US House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith on Monday released a summary of his 2022 defense bill proposal that includes $275 for security assistance to Ukraine and $175 million for an initiative to ensure Baltic security.
“Includes $275 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which provides support and assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, an increase of $25 million above the budget request,” the summary said. “Includes $175 million for the Baltic Security Initiative (BSI).”
Smith’s $744 billion defense bill also includes $6.2 billion for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative to counter China.
The bill would fund additional research and development for laser technology for ballistic and hypersonic defense capabilities, the summary said.
The draft copy of the bill shows nearly $400 million to support research and development of hypersonic missiles.
The legislation would support the procurement of 75 F-35, 12 F-15EX, and 12 F-18 fighter jets for the US military, the summary said.
Sourse: sputniknews.com
