The $1.15 trillion spending package would fund the government in Fiscal 2016 if passed by both chambers of Congress. It includes $572.7 billion for defence, of which $111 billion procures new hardware and $69.8 funds research and development.

If passed, the spending deal would bless the F-35 programme with $1.33 billion in additional procurement money for an extra three F-35As, six F-35Bs and two F-35Cs, just as production ramps up in Fort Worth, Texas.

Congress also extended the at-risk Boeing F/A-18 production line in St Louis, Missouri, by funding seven more EA-18G Growlers and five F/A-18E/F Super Hornets for the navy.

Congress offers Christmas cheer to F-35 and F/A-18 programmes
https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/congress-offers-christmas-cheer-to-f-35-and-fa-18-p-420170/