Washington, D.C. – May 27, 2026 — The Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration (PRFAA) highlighted the introduction of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), legislation that establishes critical policies and authorizations for the United States Department of Defense and reaffirms Puerto Rico’s strategic importance within the nation’s national security framework.
The measure includes provisions aimed at strengthening military infrastructure, enhancing the operational security of strategic installations across the nation, ensuring the continuity of previously authorized projects, and reinforcing emergency preparedness and response capabilities, including throughout the Caribbean region. These initiatives underscore Puerto Rico’s role as a key hub for military operations, emergency preparedness, and the protection of national security interests in the hemisphere.
PRFAA Executive Director Gabriella Boffelli emphasized that the legislation further solidifies Puerto Rico’s role within the national defense strategy and highlights the importance of maintaining critical investments secured during the tenure of then-Resident Commissioner and now Governor Jenniffer González Colón.
“In a time when national security requires constant readiness and modernization of capabilities, this legislation reaffirms the importance of continuing to invest in Puerto Rico as a strategic pillar in the defense of our nation,” Boffelli stated.
Among the measure’s key provisions are:
· Strengthening critical military infrastructure at strategic installations, including in Puerto Rico.
· Enhancing energy resilience through microgrid and backup power projects.
· Extending previously authorized military construction projects.
· Expanding operational response capabilities and emergency preparedness efforts.
· Supporting modernization and maintenance programs for Department of Defense facilities.
The legislation includes specific authorizations and extensions benefiting Puerto Rico, including:
· $33.5 million for the Fort Buchanan Emergency Water System, a project authorized to strengthen water resilience and ensure operational continuity at the Caribbean’s most important military installation.
· An extension of authorization for previously approved military construction projects in Puerto Rico through October 1, 2027, or until enactment of the Fiscal Year 2028 NDAA, whichever occurs first.
o $56 million for the Fort Buchanan Microgrid and Backup Power Project — originally authorized in Fiscal Year 2024 and advanced during the congressional tenure of now-Governor Jenniffer González Colón. The project supports the energy modernization of critical facilities.
o $14.5 million for the Camp Santiago Engineering/Housing Maintenance Shops — originally authorized in Fiscal Year 2023 and advanced during her tenure in Congress, focused on modernizing maintenance and housing facilities to strengthen the operational readiness of the Puerto Rico National Guard.
PRFAA underscored that these provisions reinforce Puerto Rico’s role as a critical strategic asset for the nation’s defense, particularly in areas related to maritime security, disaster response, and interagency coordination throughout the Caribbean region.
“Continued investment in Puerto Rico’s critical infrastructure not only strengthens our operational capabilities, but also reaffirms the Island’s indispensable role in the national security of the United States,” the Executive Director concluded.
The committee markup for consideration of the legislation is scheduled for June 4 at 10:00 a.m. PRFAA will continue closely monitoring the measure and its progress throughout the legislative process.
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