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The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act will allocate at least $528 million to Mississippi, confirmed by U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker.

This funding encompasses military installations, educational institutions, and research programs statewide. Specific allocations include $53 million for construction projects at Columbus Air Force Base, Camp Shelby, Meridian's Readiness Center, and Key Field Air National Guard Base.

The act also provides funds for cybersecurity, AI research, autonomous vehicle testing, and advanced manufacturing initiatives. Additional provisions protect services at Keesler Medical Center and authorize a 3.8% military pay raise.