House Passes FY2023 Defense Bill Authorizing 13 Battle Force Ships, Saves 5 LCS

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The House voted to approve its $839 billion defense authorization bill that raises the topline for defense spending by $37 billion and signed off on major additions to the Department of the Navy’s budget.

In a 329-101 vote, the bill authorized 13 battle force ships for the service – five more than the Navy requested in this year’s budget request.

The bill authorizes an additional Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, a Constellation-class guided-missile frigate, a fleet oiler and two ambulance variants of the Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF). The bill also authorizes a 15-ship, multi-year destroyer contract.