Senate Armed Services Committee members questioned nominees about installations funding, quality-of-life shortcomings in service housing and barracks, energy resilience on bases, and the growing problem of unmanned aircraft system (UAS) incursions.

William J. Gillis, the nominee for Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy, and Environment, told the committee he supports the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act provision directing the department to budget toward a 4% plant replacement value by 2030 and said that provision would strengthen his ability to compete for funds. Gillis said, "As the advocate for Army installations, that gives me ammunition in the budget fight," and committed to "advocate unequivocally to be sure that we fund FSRM and MILCON to meet requirements."

Members pressed nominees about an Army reprogramming reported in the hearing that moved about $1.1 billion from facilities sustainment, restoration and modernization (FSRM) accounts to support Southwest border operations. Senators asked how installations leaders would address housing and barracks shortfalls if sustainment funds are diverted. Gillis acknowledged he was not part of the prior decision but pledged to seek funding to address housing and readiness shortfalls.

Committee members raised Hawaii-specific infrastructure challenges including fragile electrical grids, aging barracks and water systems. Gillis cited efforts to privatize electric infrastructure in places such as Kalaeloa (formerly Barber's Point) and said he would work with Hawai‘i delegation members to prioritize base infrastructure needs.

Senators also asked about UAS incursions and counter‑UAS authorities. Witnesses and members agreed the issue requires a technical and authorities solution that balances installation security with public safety. Gillis noted coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is necessary and committed to working on authorities and technology choices. Committee members asked nominees to pursue both kinetic and non‑kinetic counter‑UAS options and to resolve authority gaps where FAA or FCC rules constrain responses.

Separately, Senator Kelly raised concerns about proposed staffing cuts at the Electronic Proving Ground (EPG) at Fort Huachuca, which provides a geographically isolated environment for developmental testing of electronic warfare systems. Kelly told witnesses that the EPG's testing environment and protected airspace are unique and urged nominees to work to prevent cuts that would degrade developmental testing. Nominees replied they would engage with the committee and provide follow-up information for the record.

The committee did not vote on installations matters at the hearing, but senators requested written follow-up and continued oversight.