# Senator Kelly Advocates US-Flag Fleet Funding

Senator Mark Kelly is actively promoting the inclusion of funding for a 250-ship US-flag fleet within the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) negotiations. This effort centers on advancing provisions from the Ships for America Act, which aims to bolster maritime security and support the US shipbuilding industry. While the House NDAA contains some maritime security measures, it lacks full fleet funding, prompting Senator Kelly to suggest that separate legislation may be necessary to secure appropriations. This development signals potential new procurement opportunities in US shipbuilding and maritime logistics sectors as Congress continues reconciliation discussions.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals and contractors in shipbuilding and maritime logistics should monitor NDAA negotiations for emerging contract opportunities tied to the 250-ship fleet initiative.
- The inclusion of fleet funding could lead to increased federal spending on US-flag vessels, impacting supply chains and subcontracting in maritime industries.
- Organizations should prepare for possible separate legislative actions that may create additional procurement pathways beyond the NDAA.
- Engagement with congressional stakeholders and industry coalitions may be beneficial to influence and capitalize on evolving maritime procurement priorities.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 19, 2026

### Government Entities
- United States Senate (Senate)
- United States House of Representatives (House)
- United States Congress (Congress)

### Key Quotes
> The fact that there are pieces included in the House version of the NDAA, to me, means everything is up for negotiation at this point.
> — Mark Kelly, US Senator

### Sources
- [Senator sees opportunity to get 250-ship US-flag fleet into US military spending bill](https://www.tradewindsnews.com/law/senator-sees-opportunity-to-get-250-ship-us-flag-fleet-into-us-military-spending-bill/2-1-2046081) - TradeWinds News