Senate Hearing on Defense Nominations: Dahmer, Kadlec, Borders – Nov. 4, 2025

The United States Senate Committee on Armed Services convenes this nomination hearing on November 5, 2025, to evaluate the qualifications and visions of three key appointees to senior Department of Defense and Air Force positions. These roles are pivotal in shaping U.S. national security strategy, nuclear and biological defense postures, and environmental sustainability within military operations. The proceedings will feature testimonies from the nominees, followed by rigorous questioning from committee members on topics ranging from strategic planning amid global threats to innovative approaches in energy management and chemical defense. This hearing underscores the Senate's constitutional role in advising and consenting on executive nominations, ensuring alignment with congressional priorities for a robust defense apparatus.
Witnesses
Mr. Austin J. Dahmer, Nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans, and Capabilities
Honorable Robert P. Kadlec, Nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs
Mr. Michael J. Borders, Jr., Nominee to be Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Energy, Installations, and Environment