"This bill is a strong commitment to provide the United States military with the modern weapon systems it needs to fight the global war on terror," said Akin. "It also is a commitment to military personnel with an across-the-board pay raise and improvements to veteran and survivor benefits."

The House began debate on the conference report today, and it is expected to pass late this evening or Saturday.

The bill authorizes $447.2 billion in budget authority for the Department of Defense and the national security programs of the Department of Energy, including $25 billion to support the Global War on Terror's operational costs, personnel expenses and procurement of equipment.

"I am also very proud of the authorization of billions of dollars in weapon systems which will be built here in St. Louis, including $357 million in funding for further research on Boeing's new electronic attack aircraft which is a project that I have long championed," said Akin. "Boeing's new EA-18 G will ensure that the U.S. Navy will have the best and most modern jamming and electronic attack capabilities. It will mean greater battlefield effectiveness as well as greater pilot survival rates.

"In addition, the funding obtained for St. Louis-based projects will not only bolster our country's military, but will also boost our regional economy and provide employment for men and women throughout our area," Akin noted.