House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers addressed the committee during a hearing focused on the National Defense Strategy (NDS) and its impact on U.S. defense policy and posture.
Rogers began by emphasizing the significance of the NDS, stating that it “sets the policy direction for the Department’s force planning, resource allocation, and strategic decision-making.” He acknowledged progress in defending American interests, particularly through securing the southern border and actions against narco-terrorist networks. Rogers also noted a recent military operation involving Nicolas Maduro as an example of firm U.S. action against security threats in the Western Hemisphere.
The chairman highlighted rebuilding the Defense Industrial Base as a priority, mentioning that this would be central to upcoming legislative efforts: “This will be a central focus of the FY27 NDAA, because achieving peace through strength depends on reviving America’s arsenal of freedom.”
Rogers referenced ongoing support for deterring Chinese aggression and pointed to congressional commitment, saying: “The One Big Beautiful Bill’s $12 billion investment to improve the readiness of U.S. forces in the Indo-Pacific and strengthen Taiwan’s defense is proof of that commitment.”
He expressed concern about parts of the strategy that reduce focus on U.S. interests in the Middle East and shift responsibility for Iran-related threats to regional partners such as Israel. According to Rogers, this approach differs from recent presidential decisions like Operation Epic Fury aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
On Ukraine, Rogers noted discrepancies between administration policies and actions: “Let me be clear, I agree that Europe should take the lead in Ukraine’s defense… But…a durable end to the war still requires American strength and resolve.” He criticized a temporary pause in U.S. military assistance due to an internal munitions review but welcomed subsequent steps taken by President Biden.
Rogers voiced concerns over how quickly NATO allies are being asked to increase their defense capabilities following President Trump’s initiative pushing NATO members toward higher defense spending targets by 2035. He said: “Europe cannot magically turn that new spending into credible forces and capabilities overnight,” cautioning against unrealistic deadlines.
The chairman also raised issues with reduced security cooperation funding for frontline NATO states such as those in the Baltics and questioned recent decisions regarding troop withdrawals from Romania without prior consultation with Congress or allies. Rogers stated: “Neither Romania nor our other NATO allies were consulted in advance,” adding that after-the-fact notification does not equate to real consultation.
He underscored his concern about communication breakdowns between Pentagon officials and Congress: “We made repeated requests to be consulted on any potential U.S. force posture changes…I am concerned you were not being truthful.” He concluded by emphasizing oversight requirements added by Congress to ensure transparency.
Rogers closed his remarks by affirming bipartisan support for national security goals while insisting on better communication with Congress: “Many of us here support the President’s agenda. All of us here want to strengthen our national security. We can’t achieve those goals if we’re left in the dark.”
The House Armed Services Committee is responsible for overseeing programs related to national defense under jurisdiction set out in Rule X of House Rules (https://armedservices.house.gov/). It plays a key role in shaping legislation such as annual National Defense Authorization Acts (https://armedservices.house.gov/) and includes notable members like Reps. Joe Wilson, Michael R. Turner, and Robert J. Wittman (https://armedservices.house.gov/). The committee operates within congressional oversight frameworks defined for military affairs (https://armedservices.house.gov/), with Rep. Mike Rogers serving as chair during both 118th-119th Congresses (https://armedservices.house.gov/).
