The U.S. House Committee on Appropriations held an oversight hearing on June 10, 2025, focusing on the Department of Defense's budget and operational challenges. A key discussion point was the financial implications of recent military deployments in California, particularly concerning the National Guard and Marines. Committee members expressed concerns about how these deployments would affect the current budget and what training missions might be delayed as a result.

One congresswoman pressed for clarity on the costs associated with these deployments and the potential gaps in funding that could arise. The Secretary of Defense acknowledged the importance of these budgetary questions and noted that the current defense budget has seen a 13% increase, which should help cover contingencies related to maintaining law and order in major cities.

Another significant topic was the retirement of legacy military systems, particularly the E-3 AWACS aircraft, which has been phased out without immediate replacements. Concerns were raised about the speed of these retirements and the need for new technology, such as the E-7, to ensure the military remains capable against evolving threats. The Secretary emphasized the necessity of making tough decisions regarding which systems to support, citing lessons learned from global conflicts and the need for modernization.

The hearing also touched on personnel issues, including hiring freezes affecting critical positions like aircraft mechanics and firefighters. The committee members highlighted the importance of addressing these staffing challenges to maintain operational readiness.

Overall, the discussions underscored the balancing act the Department of Defense faces in managing its budget while ensuring effective military readiness and response capabilities in an increasingly complex global landscape. The committee plans to follow up on these budgetary concerns and the implications for future military operations.