Last week we demonstrated using Gemini 3 Pro to turn the entire 3,100-page FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) into a single infographic. The immense size of the NDAA required us to break it into 8 equal chunks to fit into Gemini 3 Pro's million token window. Upon further experimentation, we discovered that by converting the PDF of the bill into text, removing line numbers, dehyphenating the text and performing other cleaning tasks, we were able to eventually fit the entire 511,792-word bill into just 818,946 tokens, allowing Gemini 3 Pro to examine the entire bill as a single document, opening the door to everything from visualization to legislation tabulation to interactive Q&A. Below we demonstrate converting the entire bill into a single infographic (this time directly from the original bill, rather than creating 8 component infographics and merging together), creating topic-specific infographics, asking for a thematic breakdown, topical summaries on drones, China, AI and cyber, having it make a table of the existing and proposed legislation cited for key topics and even asking it to come up with a list of 10 likely questions a member of congress might ask their staffer about key sections. All from a single Gemini 3 Pro session reading through the entire 3,100-page NDAA at once. The ability of the world's most advanced AI model to deeply reason through the entire NDAA all at once in a single session is nothing short of extraordinary.

Let's start by making a single infographic representing the entire NDAA. Unlike last time, where we broke it into 8 chunks, made infographics for each and then blended the eight infographics, here we will ask Gemini 3 Pro to make a single infographic all at once over the entire legislation:

Create a prompt for a large illustrated explainer poster designed to be printed on a large-format poster printer and hung up on the wall that narrates the report below as a single large poster that can be printed and hung on a wall that outlines all of the major themes and trends and findings. Focus on the combined story of the report. The poster should be entirely in English.

Let's ask for more detail:

Make the poster way more detailed. Structure entire bill as an overarching narrative and visualize each of the key details in the poster.

Now let's focus on China:

Create a prompt for a large illustrated explainer poster designed to be printed on a large-format poster printer and hung up on the wall that narrates the report below as a single large poster that can be printed and hung on a wall that outlines all of the major themes and trends and findings. Focus on the combined story of the report. Make it very detailed and structure it as an overarching narrative and visualize each of the key details in the poster. Focus only on the China-related parts of the report.

And drones:

Create a prompt for a large illustrated explainer poster designed to be printed on a large-format poster printer and hung up on the wall that narrates the report below as a single large poster that can be printed and hung on a wall that outlines all of the major themes and trends and findings. Focus on the combined story of the report. Make it very detailed and structure it as an overarching narrative and visualize each of the key details in the poster. Focus only on the drone-related parts of the report.

Supply chains:

Create a prompt for a large illustrated explainer poster designed to be printed on a large-format poster printer and hung up on the wall that narrates the report below as a single large poster that can be printed and hung on a wall that outlines all of the major themes and trends and findings. Focus on the combined story of the report. Make it very detailed and structure it as an overarching narrative and visualize each of the key details in the poster. Focus only on the supply chain-related parts of the report.

Cyber:

Create a prompt for a large illustrated explainer poster designed to be printed on a large-format poster printer and hung up on the wall that narrates the report below as a single large poster that can be printed and hung on a wall that outlines all of the major themes and trends and findings. Focus on the combined story of the report. Make it very detailed and structure it as an overarching narrative and visualize each of the key details in the poster. Focus only on the supply cyber-related parts of the report.

Nuclear:

Create a prompt for a large illustrated explainer poster designed to be printed on a large-format poster printer and hung up on the wall that narrates the report below as a single large poster that can be printed and hung on a wall that outlines all of the major themes and trends and findings. Focus on the combined story of the report. Make it very detailed and structure it as an overarching narrative and visualize each of the key details in the poster. Focus only on the supply nuclear-related parts of the report.

What are the major themes of the report?

Make a bulleted list of the top overarching themes of the report. For each theme give a short one-paragraph description of the report's details about that theme. Try to structure the report into its top-level overarching themes.

Here are the top overarching themes of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (S. 2296), detailed based on the provided text.

• • Strategic Decoupling and Economic Warfare Against China
    The bill represents a significant escalation in economic and technological warfare against the People’s Republic of China (PRC), most notably through Title XVII, the "FIGHT China Act." This provision establishes a hard firewall against Chinese integration into the U.S. economy by imposing strict sanctions and prohibitions on "Covered National Security Transactions" to cut off U.S. capital to the Chinese military-industrial complex. The report details a comprehensive effort to purge Chinese influence from defense supply chains, mandating the phase-out of Chinese-owned computers and printers (Sec. 879), banning Chinese photovoltaic modules (Sec. 848) and additive manufacturing machines (Sec. 880), and even prohibiting Chinese-sourced seafood in military dining facilities (Sec. 628). Additionally, the Intelligence Authorization (Division F) mandates reports on the personal wealth and corruption of CCP leadership to counter foreign influence.

  • Radical Intervention in Housing and Quality of Life
    Beyond standard pay raises, the bill aggressively tackles the housing crisis affecting both service members and the general public through Division I, the "ROAD to Housing Act." This division is a massive legislative package attached to the NDAA that seeks to increase national housing supply, reduce regulatory barriers (like zoning and parking minimums), and reform disaster recovery housing. Specific to the military, the bill mandates strict oversight on privatized housing, requires the elimination of mold in barracks (Sec. 2824), and establishes a pilot program for food coupons for junior enlisted members to combat food insecurity (Sec. 5621). The bill also expands healthcare benefits significantly, covering fertility treatments (Sec. 705) and mandating brain health assessments for operators at high-stress locations like Creech Air Force Base.

  • Industrial Base Sovereignty and Supply Chain Remediation
    The report outlines a transition from a globalized "just-in-time" supply chain to a "just-in-case" domestic arsenal. It establishes the "SkyFoundry Program" (Sec. 882) to mass-produce small drones and energetics using Army depots and public-private partnerships. The bill places heavy emphasis on "onshoring" critical inputs, prohibiting the procurement of strategic minerals like gallium, germanium, and molybdenum from non-allied nations (Sec. 846) and accelerating the modernization of Army arsenals to produce essential chemicals like nitrocellulose domestically (Sec. 849). It also introduces "Supply Chain Illumination" programs (Sec. 863) to force contractors to expose and remediate vulnerabilities deep within their sub-tier supply networks.

  • Nuclear Modernization and Next-Gen Power Projection
    The bill reinforces the commitment to a modernized nuclear triad and high-end conventional power projection. It authorizes multi-year procurement for Columbia-class submarines (Sec. 121) and mandates the maintenance of a specific inventory of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), ensuring the transition to the LGM-35A Sentinel weapon system (Sec. 1511). It institutes accountability matrices for the B-21 Raider bomber program (Sec. 131) and establishes a "W93 nuclear warhead acquisition process" (Sec. 5645). In the maritime domain, it authorizes the procurement of Medium Landing Ships and creates a pilot program to utilize automated shipbuilding technologies to resolve workforce constraints in naval shipyards (Sec. 1018).

  • Technological Supremacy: AI, Cyber, and Unmanned Systems
    The report details a pivot toward "high-impact" artificial intelligence and autonomous warfare. It establishes an Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) Steering Committee (Sec. 1626) to prepare the DoD for the implications of AGI and explicitly bans the use of AI models from specific Chinese entities like "DeepSeek" (Sec. 1628). The bill mandates the creation of "Digital Sandbox Environments" for safe AI testing and directs the retrofitting of weapons platforms with real-time cyber threat monitoring (Sec. 1612). Furthermore, it heavily invests in uncrewed systems, creating joint drone programs with Taiwan (Sec. 1237) and transferring oversight of Counter-UAS capabilities to centralize purchasing power and standardization across the services (Sec. 912).

  • Fortifying Global Alliances and Regional Deterrence
    The bill prioritizes the strengthening of the Indo-Pacific security architecture through the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (Sec. 1231) and specific support for Taiwan, including assessments of Taiwan's critical digital infrastructure resilience against a blockade (Sec. 1238). It formalizes the "AUKUS Improvement Act" to streamline technology transfers between the U.S., UK, and Australia (Subtitle E). In the Middle East, the bill supports the integration of air and missile defense architectures with allies (Sec. 1251) and authorizes co-production of the Iron Dome and David’s Sling systems with Israel (Sec. 1534). Additionally, it includes the "BUST Fentanyl Act" (Title LXI) to leverage international pressure and sanctions against transnational criminal organizations and countries like China that facilitate the synthetic opioid trade.

How about a deep-dive on drones?

Tell me in detail what the report says about drones. Give me a one-page detailed report on it.

REPORT: UNMANNED SYSTEMS (UAS) & COUNTER-UAS PROVISIONS IN S. 2296
Subject: Analysis of Drone Policy, Procurement, and Industrial Base in FY2026 NDAA
Source: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

Executive Summary
The FY2026 NDAA signals a decisive shift from "just-in-time" acquisition to mass domestic production of unmanned systems. The legislation prioritizes decoupling the small UAS (sUAS) supply chain from China, integrating drones into logistics and strategic deterrence missions, and centralizing the oversight of Counter-UAS (C-UAS) capabilities.

1. Industrial Base & Manufacturing: The "SkyFoundry" Initiative
The bill explicitly identifies a lack of domestic capacity for small drones. To remedy this, Section 882 establishes the "SkyFoundry Program."

• • • Mission: To rapidly develop, test, and manufacture scalable sUAS and energetics (explosives) by leveraging the Army’s Organic Industrial Base (depots/arsenals) alongside voluntary public-private partnerships.

    • Infrastructure: The Army must select at least two sites (one innovation facility, one production facility) at existing Army Depots to mass-produce drone components.

    • Supply Chain Remediation: Section 842 mandates a strategy to "onshore" sUAS component production to eliminate reliance on the Chinese industrial base, while Section 220A directs the additive manufacturing (3D printing) qualification of 1 million parts, specifically prioritizing loitering munitions.

2. Operational Integration & New Mission Sets
The bill expands the use of uncrewed systems beyond surveillance into logistics and strategic operations:

• • • ICBM Resupply: Section 1518 authorizes a pilot program to use unmanned aerial vehicles to resupply intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch control centers, reducing the need for ground convoys.

    • Navy Reliability Standards: Section 124 mandates that no contract for Medium or Large Unmanned Surface Vessels (MUSV/LUSV) may be awarded until the main propulsion and electrical systems undergo a 720 continuous hour operational demonstration without requiring preventative maintenance, ensuring these vessels can survive long-duration autonomous deployments.

    • Maritime Autonomy: Section 1013 exempts uncrewed surface and underwater vessels from certain legacy senior technical authority requirements to accelerate development.

3. Counter-UAS (C-UAS) & Defense
Recognizing the drone threat to U.S. forces, the bill reorganizes how the DoD buys and manages defensive systems:

• • • Centralized Oversight: Section 912 terminates the Army’s "Joint Counter-Small UAS Office" and transfers all responsibility, assets, and personnel to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, centralizing oversight at the OSD level.

    • Base Protection: Sections 350 & 1560 expand statutory authorities to detect, track, and disrupt (jam or destroy) unmanned aircraft threatening military facilities, nuclear assets, and missile defense sites.

    • Homeland Defense: Section 1542 directs the acceleration of "autonomous agents" capable of defending the U.S. homeland against raids by large cruise missiles and unmanned systems.

4. Geopolitics & Personnel

• • • Taiwan Partnership: Section 1237 establishes a joint program between the U.S. and Taiwan specifically to field uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed capabilities to deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific.

    • Israel Cooperation: Section 1256 extends and modifies U.S.-Israel cooperation specifically regarding C-UAS technologies.

    • RPA Crew Recognition: Section 524 mandates the creation of a status identifier for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) crew members to formally recognize their "combat participation," ensuring they receive appropriate benefits and recognition for direct support of combat operations.

5. Coast Guard & Maritime Systems (Division H)

• • • Capabilities Office: Section 5236 requires a plan to establish an "Uncrewed Systems Capabilities Office" within the Coast Guard.

    • Advisory Committee: Section 5231 establishes a National Advisory Committee on Autonomous Maritime Systems to advise on the regulation of autonomous vessels in U.S. waters.

Let's get a legislative readout on drones:

What legislation does the report reference with respect to drones? Give me a table of the specific bills and a brief description of how each is used in the NDAA.

Based on the text of S. 2296, the following table lists the specific legislation referenced regarding unmanned systems (drones), including definitions, authorities, and modifications to existing laws.

How about AI?

Tell me in detail what the report says about AI. Give me a one-page detailed report on it.

REPORT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) PROVISIONS IN S. 2296
Subject: Strategy, Security, and Procurement of AI in the FY2026 NDAA
Source: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

Executive Summary
The FY2026 NDAA aggressively pivots the Department of Defense (DoD) from theoretical AI exploration to operational implementation and defensive hardening. The bill establishes high-level governance for Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), mandates the creation of digital testing infrastructures ("sandboxes"), explicitly bans specific Chinese AI models from DoD networks, and codified export controls on advanced AI hardware.

1. Strategic Governance: Preparing for AGI
Recognizing the rapid evolution of frontier models, Section 1626 establishes the Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) Steering Committee.

• • • Leadership: Co-chaired by the Deputy Secretary of Defense and the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

    • Mandate: To analyze the trajectory of "agentic algorithms" and "neuromorphic computing," assess adversarial progress toward AGI, and develop a strategy for the DoD’s adoption of AGI with ethical guardrails.

    • Operational Oversight: Section 1623 creates a Cross-Functional Team led by the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer (CDAO) to develop standardized assessment frameworks for all AI models used by the Department.

2. Prohibitions & Security: The "DeepSeek" Ban
The bill treats AI models as potential vectors for espionage and sabotage.

• • • Specific Bans: Section 1628 explicitly prohibits the DoD from using AI systems developed by the Chinese companies DeepSeek and High Flyer, or their subsidiaries. It requires the removal of any such models from DoD systems within 30 days of enactment.

    • Model Security: Section 1627 mandates a new cybersecurity framework specifically for "highly capable" AI. This includes securing the "model weights" (the mathematical parameters that define the AI's behavior) against theft and preventing "data poisoning" attacks.

    • Intelligence Community: Division F, Sec. 610 prohibits intelligence agencies from pressuring AI vendors to alter models to favor specific viewpoints, mandating tools be "neutral, nonpartisan," and prioritizes accuracy.

3. Infrastructure: Sandboxes and Data Ontology
To move AI from the lab to the field, the bill mandates the construction of digital foundations:

• • • Digital Sandboxes: Section 1622 directs the creation of secure, isolated computing environments ("Sandboxes") where personnel with varying technical skills can train and test AI models without risking operational networks.

    • Data Standardization: Section 1624 establishes a working group to create a "Department of Defense Data Ontology." This creates a common structural representation of data across the military services to ensure AI models can communicate and interoperate.

    • Compute Power: Section 1625 updates the High-Performance Computing Roadmap to include estimates for electricity and water usage required for new AI data centers on military bases.

4. Operational Integration: Logistics & Defense

• • • Logistics: Section 328 directs the Secretary to integrate commercially available AI into logistics operations during fiscal year 2026 exercises to improve supply chain tracking and planning.

    • Missile Defense: Section 1542 accelerates the development of "autonomous agents" to defend the homeland against raids by cruise missiles and unmanned systems. Section 1544 calls for an AI-driven information fusion platform to detect threats across air, land, and space.

5. Export Controls: The "GAIN AI Act"
Subtitle H (Sec. 6081) incorporates the "Guaranteeing Access and Innovation for National Artificial Intelligence Act of 2025."

• • • Export Restrictions: It creates a statutory requirement to deny export licenses for "advanced integrated circuits" (AI chips) with a total processing performance of 4,800 or above to countries of concern (China).

    • Right of First Refusal: It mandates that U.S. chipmakers must certify that U.S. customers have been given a "right of first refusal" before selling less-advanced but still powerful chips to foreign entities in countries of concern.

And our legislative readout:

What legislation does the report reference with respect to AI? Give me a table of the specific bills and a brief description of how each is used in the NDAA.

Based on the text of S. 2296, the following table lists the specific legislation referenced regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI), covering definitions, export controls, and organizational structures.

How about preemptively guessing what a member of congress might ask about the report?

You are a staffer to a senior member of congress. Make a bulleted list of 10 likely questions your member might ask you about this report's contents and give me a one paragraph answer to each that cites its sources in the report.

Here are ten questions a senior Member of Congress might ask regarding the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (S. 2296), along with detailed answers citing specific sections of the text.

• • • "What are we actually doing to cut off Chinese influence in our defense supply chain, and are we banning anything new?"
      Yes, we are significantly escalating prohibitions. The bill introduces strict bans on procuring Chinese-made additive manufacturing (3D printing) machines (Sec. 880) and photovoltaic modules (solar panels) (Sec. 848). Furthermore, Title XVII, the 'FIGHT China Act,' creates a new statutory framework to block "Covered National Security Transactions" that channel U.S. capital into the Chinese military-industrial complex. We are also explicitly banning AI models from Chinese companies like "DeepSeek" from DoD networks (Sec. 1628) and phasing out computers and printers from any entity owned or controlled by China (Sec. 879).

    • "How does this bill address the housing crisis for our servicemembers, and does it touch civilian housing policy?"
      This bill takes an unusually broad approach by incorporating Division I, the 'ROAD to Housing Act,' which targets national housing supply shortages, not just military housing. For the military specifically, we are mandating the elimination of indoor mold in barracks (Sec. 2824) and requiring increased transparency in Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) calculations (Sec. 603). To assist junior enlisted members immediately, we are establishing a pilot program to provide monthly food coupons for use at commissaries (Sec. 5621). Division I also includes grant programs to incentivize local governments to remove regulatory barriers like zoning restrictions to spur construction (Sec. 5209).

    • "Are we finally moving forward with a modernized nuclear triad, or are there delays?"
      The bill signals full commitment to modernization but acknowledges significant cost and schedule pressures. It mandates the maintenance of 400 deployed ICBMs and fully funds the transition to the LGM-35A Sentinel (Sec. 1511), though it acknowledges a breach of the Nunn-McCurdy Act regarding cost overruns. It authorizes multi-year procurement for up to five Columbia-class submarines (Sec. 121) and establishes strict accountability matrices for the B-21 Raider bomber (Sec. 131) to keep it on track. Additionally, it establishes a formal process for acquiring the W93 nuclear warhead (Sec. 5645) to support the submarine leg of the triad.

    • "What is the 'SkyFoundry' program, and how does it help us compete with China on drones?"
      The SkyFoundry Program (Sec. 882) is a new initiative designed to break our reliance on foreign supply chains for small drones. It directs the Army to select at least two organic industrial base sites (depots or arsenals) to serve as innovation and production hubs for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) and energetics. The goal is to leverage public-private partnerships to rapidly mass-produce drone components and explosives domestically, bypassing the Chinese supply chain that currently dominates the commercial drone market.

    • "I keep hearing about AI. Are we actually fielding it, or just studying it?"
      We are moving toward fielding, but with heavy emphasis on safety and governance. Section 1542 explicitly calls for accelerating the development of "autonomous agents" for homeland missile defense. Section 328 mandates the integration of commercial AI into logistics operations during FY26 exercises. However, we are also creating significant oversight structures: Section 1626 establishes an "Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) Steering Committee" to prepare for high-level AI, and Section 1622 mandates the creation of "Digital Sandbox Environments" so personnel can test these tools safely before they touch operational networks.

    • "How does this bill support our partners in the Indo-Pacific, specifically Taiwan?"
      Support for Taiwan is explicit and focused on asymmetric capabilities. Section 1237 establishes a joint program to field "uncrewed systems" (drones) and counter-drone capabilities directly with Taiwan. We are also requiring a classified report on the resilience of Taiwan’s "critical digital infrastructure" in the event of a blockade (Sec. 1238). Broader regional deterrence is supported by the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (Sec. 1231) and a new strategy to counter the PRC's global basing intentions (Sec. 6232).

    • "Are we doing anything to recognize the drone operators who are fighting wars from screens in Nevada?"
      Yes. Section 524 mandates the creation of a specific status identifier for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) crew members. This identifier is designed to formally denote their "combat participation," ensuring that operators who conduct strikes or support missions from places like Creech Air Force Base receive appropriate recognition and benefits from the VA, acknowledging that their service constitutes direct combat support despite their physical location.

    • "What is the 'BUST Fentanyl Act,' and why is it in the NDAA?"
      Title LXI is the 'BUST Fentanyl Act.' It frames the fentanyl crisis as a national security issue, not just a law enforcement one. It expands sanctions under the Fentanyl Sanctions Act (Sec. 6105) and mandates a report on efforts to address fentanyl trafficking specifically from the People’s Republic of China (Sec. 6103). It also directs the President to prioritize the identification of Chinese nationals involved in the precursor supply chain (Sec. 6104), effectively treating the flow of synthetic opioids as a form of asymmetric warfare supported by foreign adversaries.

    • "How are we securing our critical infrastructure from cyberattacks, specifically undersea cables?"
      We are taking specific action on the physical backbone of the internet. Section 1620C establishes a Working Group and requires a strategy to ensure the security and resiliency of "undersea cables" against tampering by Russia or China. Additionally, Section 1603 requires a strategy for deterrence against cyberattacks on "defense critical infrastructure." We are also mandating a modernization program for "Full Content Inspection" of data entering DoD networks (Sec. 1611) to catch threats at the boundary.

    • "What are the major changes to the Coast Guard in this bill?"
      Division H is the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025. It focuses on modernizing the fleet and workforce. Section 5114 mandates a strategy and pilot program for a new Great Lakes Icebreaker to keep waterways open. Section 5115 requires regular updates on the delayed Polar Security Cutter program. On the personnel side, Section 5158 establishes a pilot program to embed behavioral health technicians at Coast Guard clinics to improve mental health support, and Section 5236 calls for a plan to establish an "Uncrewed Systems Capabilities Office" to integrate drones into Coast Guard operations.

How about a set of targeted questions about China?

You are a staffer to a senior member of congress. Make a bulleted list of 10 likely questions your member might ask you about this report's contents that relate to China and give me a one paragraph answer to each that cites its sources in the report.

• • • "What is the 'FIGHT China Act' included in this bill, and how does it stop U.S. capital from funding the Chinese military?"
      Title XVII is the "Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart China Act of 2025" (FIGHT China Act). It creates a new statutory framework to prohibit U.S. persons from knowingly engaging in "Covered National Security Transactions" involving "prohibited technology" with a "covered foreign person" (defined as entities connected to the PRC or the CCP). It specifically targets the "Non-SDN Chinese Military-Industrial Complex Companies List" (Sec. 1731), requiring divestment from securities of these entities to prevent American investment from fueling China's defense and surveillance sectors.

    • "Are we finally banning Chinese computers and printers from the Department of Defense, or are there loopholes?"
      We are instituting a hard phase-out. Section 879 explicitly prohibits the Secretary of Defense from acquiring any computer or printer if the manufacturer is a "covered Chinese entity." This applies to indirect sales through subsidiaries to prevent circumvention. The bill sets strict percentage thresholds for the phase-out: at least 10% of total procurement must be non-Chinese by FY2026, ramping up to a 100% ban by FY2029.

    • "How does this bill address our dependence on China for critical minerals like gallium and germanium?"
      The bill moves to sever this dependency entirely for defense needs. Section 846 amends existing law to explicitly prohibit the procurement of molybdenum, gallium, or germanium mined, refined, or separated in non-allied foreign nations (specifically targeting the PRC). To mitigate the immediate supply shock, it authorizes the production of these materials from recovered material (recycling), prioritizing domestic and allied sources over Chinese imports.

    • "What new assistance are we providing to Taiwan to help them defend against a blockade or invasion?"
      Beyond standard arms sales, the bill focuses on asymmetric and digital resilience. Section 1237 establishes a "Joint Program" with Taiwan specifically to field uncrewed systems (drones) and counter-uncrewed capabilities. Additionally, Section 1238 mandates a classified report analyzing Taiwan's "critical digital infrastructure" (such as undersea cables and cloud systems) to identify what DoD actions are necessary to protect that infrastructure during a PRC military invasion or blockade.

    • "I’ve heard concerns about Chinese AI models. Are we banning them from our networks?"
      Yes, we are enacting specific bans. Section 1628 prohibits the DoD from using artificial intelligence systems developed by specific Chinese entities, explicitly naming "DeepSeek" and "High Flyer" (and their subsidiaries). The Secretary is required to remove any such covered AI from DoD systems within 30 days of enactment. Furthermore, Section 6083 (Subtitle H) restricts the export of advanced U.S. AI chips to countries of concern to slow their own AI development.

    • "Is the Intelligence Community going to expose the personal corruption of Xi Jinping and the CCP leadership?"
      Yes, the bill mandates this exposure. Section 513 of the Intelligence Authorization (Division F) requires the Director of National Intelligence to submit a report on the "wealth of the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party," specifically targeting the General Secretary (Xi Jinping) and members of the Politburo. This report must include details on their hidden financial holdings, corruption, and the use of proxies to obscure wealth, effectively weaponizing transparency against the regime.

    • "How are we stopping China from harvesting American DNA and genomic data?"
      We are establishing a firewall around U.S. biotechnology. Section 604 requires the Director of National Intelligence to establish a policy prohibiting the Intelligence Community from procuring products made using synthetic DNA or RNA unless the processing and assembly occur in the United States. Additionally, Section 512 prohibits the Intelligence Community from entering into contracts with Chinese military companies engaged in biotech research, and Section 603 requires support to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to review transactions where foreign entities attempt to acquire U.S. genomic data.

    • "Does this bill address China's role in the fentanyl crisis?"
      Yes, extensively. Title LXI is the 'BUST Fentanyl Act.' It mandates a study and report on efforts to address fentanyl trafficking specifically from the PRC (Sec. 6103).Crucially, Section 6104 directs the President to prioritize the identification of PRC nationals and entities involved in the precursor supply chain. The bill frames Chinese involvement in the synthetic opioid trade not just as a criminal matter, but as a national security threat requiring sanctions and diplomatic pressure.

    • "Are we doing anything about Chinese solar panels on our bases?"
      We are closing the door on them. Section 848 prohibits the use of funds to enter into contracts for the procurement of photovoltaic modules (solar panels) or inverters manufactured by a "foreign entity of concern" (the PRC). While there is a waiver authority if no alternative exists, the default stance is a prohibition to ensure our energy resilience is not dependent on adversarial manufacturing.

    • "What are we doing about China's attempts to build military bases around the world?"
      The bill demands a proactive strategy. Section 6232 requires the Secretary of State, in coordination with the DoD, to submit a strategy to respond to the PRC's "global basing intentions." It explicitly cites PRC activities in Djibouti and Cambodia (Ream Naval Base) and requires the identification of at least five locations posing the greatest risk for future PRC bases, along with a comprehensive plan to use diplomatic and security tools to persuade partner nations to deny the PRC military access.

And AI and cyber?

You are a staffer to a senior member of congress. Make a bulleted list of 10 likely questions your member might ask you about this report's contents that relate to AI and cyber and give me a one paragraph answer to each that cites its sources in the report.

• "Are we preparing for 'Artificial General Intelligence' (AGI), or is that just science fiction?"
  We are treating it as an imminent strategic reality. Section 1626 establishes an "Artificial General Intelligence Steering Committee," co-chaired by the Deputy Secretary of Defense and the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This committee is mandated to analyze the trajectory of "agentic algorithms" and "neuromorphic computing," assess adversarial progress toward AGI, and develop a strategy for the DoD’s adoption of AGI with specific ethical guardrails and funding mechanisms.

• "I’ve heard about Chinese AI companies like 'DeepSeek.' Are they in our systems, and can we ban them?"
  We are instituting a hard ban. Section 1628 explicitly prohibits the Department of Defense from using artificial intelligence systems developed by DeepSeek or High Flyer, as well as any entity effectively controlled by them. The provision requires the Secretary to exclude or remove any such covered AI from DoD systems and devices within 30 days of the bill's enactment, treating these models as national security risks.

• "How are we stopping our adversaries from getting the advanced chips they need to build their own AI weapons?"
  We are codifying strict export controls through the "GAIN AI Act of 2025" (Title LX, Subtitle H). Section 6083 amends the Export Control Reform Act to mandate a license requirement for the export of advanced integrated circuits (AI chips). Specifically, it directs the denial of licenses for chips with a "total processing performance of 4,800 or above" to countries of concern (China), and requires U.S. manufacturers to certify that U.S. customers had a "right of first refusal" before selling less-advanced chips to foreign entities.

• "Are we testing these AI tools safely before we let them touch our classified networks or weapons?"
  Yes, we are mandating safe testing environments. Section 1622 directs the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer (CDAO) to establish "Digital Sandbox Environments." These are secure, isolated computing environments where personnel can train, test, and experiment with AI models and capabilities without affecting operational systems. Additionally, Section 1623 establishes a Cross-Functional Team to create a standardized assessment framework for all AI models used by the Department.

• "How are we securing the physical backbone of the internet, specifically undersea cables, from tampering by Russia or China?"
  This is a major priority in the bill. Section 1620C establishes a "Department of Defense Working Group" and requires a comprehensive strategy to ensure the security and resiliency of undersea cables. The strategy must address threats posed by the "naval and shadow fleets" of adversaries and identify methods to detect and prevent tampering at cable landing stations, acknowledging that these cables carry the vast majority of critical military and economic data.

• "Can our existing weapons platforms—like ships and jets—detect if they are being cyber-attacked in real-time?"
  Not well enough yet, which is why Section 1612 mandates a comprehensive assessment and a new program to implement "automated, real-time monitoring" for threat detection on weapon system platforms. The Secretary must identify which platforms lack this self-protection capability and develop an implementation schedule to retrofit existing systems, ensuring that our hardware can detect and mitigate cyber threats autonomously during combat.

• "What are we doing to get 5G networks onto our military bases?"
  We are moving from strategy to deployment. Section 1616 requires the Secretaries of the military departments to develop a prioritized list of bases that merit investment in "Private 5G Open Radio Access Networks (ORAN)." The provision requires the Department to determine an optimal investment plan to deploy these networks to support high-connection density operations, such as logistics, maintenance using augmented reality, and flight line operations.

• "Intelligence analysts use commercial AI tools. How do we ensure vendors aren't tweaking the models to give biased answers?"
  We are prohibiting that practice. Section 610 of Division F (Intelligence Authorization) explicitly states that no office or employee of the intelligence community may "direct or pressure a vendor" to alter a commercial AI model to favor a particular viewpoint. The bill mandates that these tools must serve as "neutral, nonpartisan" assets that prioritize accuracy, preventing the politicization of AI-assisted intelligence analysis.

• "We have a massive shortage of cyber talent. Does this bill actually help us hire people?"
  Yes, it modernizes our recruitment approach. Section 1601 mandates a "Comprehensive Cyber Workforce Strategy" that includes opportunities to leverage "Cyber Civilian Reserves." Furthermore, Section 1107 overhauls "Cyber Workforce Recruitment and Retention" authorities, allowing the Secretary to establish positions in the excepted service (Defense Digital Service) with pay rates up to 150% of Level I of the Executive Schedule to compete with the private sector for high-end talent.

• "How does AI help us with logistics? We struggle to move supplies in contested environments."
  We are forcing the integration of AI into logistics exercises. Section 328 directs the Secretary to facilitate the integration of commercially available AI capabilities into at least two logistics exercises in Fiscal Year 2026. The goal is to use AI for "tracking, planning, operations, and analytics" to improve supply chain resilience, ensuring that we can effectively sustain the force even when logistics lines are under attack.

And finally drones?

You are a staffer to a senior member of congress. Make a bulleted list of 10 likely questions your member might ask you about this report's contents that relate to drones and give me a one paragraph answer to each that cites its sources in the report.

• • "We're reliant on China for small drones. Does this bill actually fix that?"
    Yes, it takes direct action to rebuild domestic capacity. Section 882 establishes the 'SkyFoundry Program,' which mandates the Army to select at least two organic industrial base sites (depots/arsenals) to serve as innovation and production hubs for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). The program leverages public-private partnerships to mass-produce sUAS components and energetics domestically. Additionally, Section 842 requires a remediation plan to "onshore" sUAS component production specifically to eliminate reliance on the Chinese industrial base.

  • "How are we protecting our bases from drone swarms? It seems like a growing threat."
    The bill expands our defensive posture significantly. Section 1560 extends the authority to protect certain facilities and assets from unmanned aircraft through 2027. Section 350 modifies existing law to ensure we can detect and disrupt drones threatening not just bases, but also nuclear assets and missile defense sites. Furthermore, Section 912 transfers responsibility for Counter-Small UAS (C-sUAS) from the Army to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, centralizing oversight and purchasing power at the highest level of the DoD to ensure a unified response.

  • "Are we using drones for anything other than surveillance and strikes? What about logistics?"
    We are opening up a new mission set for them. Section 1518 authorizes a pilot program to use unmanned aerial vehicles to resupply intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch facilities, replacing ground convoys. This "low cost and repeatable" method is intended to improve the efficiency and security of maintaining our nuclear deterrent forces in remote areas like Minot and Malmstrom Air Force Bases.

  • "The Navy is buying unmanned ships. How do we know they won't break down in the middle of the ocean?"
    We are imposing a strict reliability standard. Section 124 mandates that the Navy cannot award a contract for Medium or Large Unmanned Surface Vessels (MUSV/LUSV) unless the main propulsion and electrical systems undergo a 720 continuous hour operational demonstration (30 days) without requiring preventative maintenance. This ensures that these autonomous vessels are mechanically reliable enough for long-duration deployments before we commit to buying them.

  • "Are we helping Taiwan build their own drone fleet to deter China?"
    Yes, we are establishing a specific partnership for this. Section 1237 directs the Secretary of Defense to establish a "Joint Program" with Taiwan to enable the fielding of uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed capabilities. This includes co-development and co-production, aiming to flood the zone with asymmetric assets that can complicate a potential invasion or blockade by the People's Liberation Army.

  • "Do our drone pilots get the same recognition as pilots in the cockpit? They are fighting the war too."
    We are fixing a long-standing disparity. Section 524 mandates the creation of a status identifier for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) crew members to denote their "combat participation." This ensures that operators who conduct strikes and support combat operations from ground control stations receive appropriate recognition and are eligible for benefits and services from the VA that account for their combat-related service.

  • "Is the Coast Guard getting any drone capabilities in this bill?"
    They are getting a roadmap for it. Section 5236 requires the Commandant to submit a plan to establish an "Uncrewed Systems Capabilities Office" within the Coast Guard. This office would be responsible for acquiring and developing uncrewed technologies to expand maritime domain awareness. Additionally, Section 5231 establishes a "National Advisory Committee on Autonomous Maritime Systems" to advise on regulating autonomous vessels in U.S. waters.

  • "Are we using advanced manufacturing to build these drones faster?"
    Yes, we are linking 3D printing directly to drone production. Section 220A directs the DoD to qualify and approve 1,000,000 parts using advanced manufacturing techniques. Subsection (b) of that section specifically mandates a program to use additive manufacturing to produce 25 to 100 percent of the parts for various categories of unmanned aerial systems, including tactical loitering munitions and logistics drones, to speed up production and reduce costs.

  • "How are we defending the homeland against cruise missiles and drones?"
    We are looking to autonomy for defense. Section 1542 explicitly directs the "Golden Dome" Program Manager to accelerate the development of "autonomous agents" to defend the United States homeland and forward-deployed forces against raids of both large cruise missiles and unmanned systems. This suggests a move toward AI-driven interceptors capable of reacting faster than human operators to saturation attacks.

  • "Is there any cooperation with Israel on counter-drone technology?"
    Yes, we are doubling down on that partnership. Section 1256 extends and modifies United States-Israel cooperation specifically to counter unmanned aerial systems through 2028. This allows us to continue leveraging Israel's real-world combat experience and advanced technology in the C-UAS fight to benefit U.S. forces.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

For those who want to replicate this workflow, you can use the code below:

#download the PDF
wget https://www.congress.gov/119/bills/s2296/BILLS-119s2296es.pdf
#convert to text, but maintain the visual layout
time pdftotext -layout BILLS-119s2296es.pdf BILLS-119s2296es.layout.txt
#clean
time perl -0777 -pe 's/^\s*\d+\s+//gm; s/-\n\s*//g; s/\n/ /g; s/\s+/ /g' BILLS-119s2296es.layout.txt > BILLS-119s2296es.layout.clean.txt

Gemini 3 Pro actually wrote that code from the following prompt:

i have the text of a congressional bill in PDF format that looks like the below. i want to remove the line numbers and reflow the text, including connecting hypenated words. give me linux one-liners to do that:

1       Force submits the matrices required by subsection
2       (a), concurrent with the submittal of each annual
3       budget request to Congress under section 1105 of
4       title 31, United States Code, thereafter, and not
5       later than 180 days after each such submittal, the
6       Secretary of the Air Force shall submit to the con-
7       gressional defense committees and the Comptroller
8       General updates to the matrices described in sub-
9       section (b).
10              (2) ELEMENTS.—Each update submitted under
11       paragraph (1) shall detail progress made toward the
12       goals identified in the matrix described in subsection
13       (b)(1) and provide updated cost estimates.
14       (d) ASSESSMENT BY COMPTROLLER GENERAL OF
15   THE UNITED STATES.—Not less frequently than annually,
16 the Comptroller General shall—
17              (1) review the sufficiency of each matrix re-
18       ceived under this section; and
19              (2) submit to the congressional defense commit-
20       tees an assessment of such matrix, including by
21       identifying cost, schedule, or performance trends.
22       (e) REPEAL.—Section 238 of the National Defense
23 Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–
24 328; 130 Stat. 2067) is repealed.