Save for the F-22, Democratic House funds Pentagon programs slated for termination

House funds Pentagon programs set for termination

President Barack Obama recommended killing several high profile Pentagon programs in his 2010 budget. Here’s how he fared in a defense funding bill passed by the House on Thursday:

F-22 fighter jet — After receiving $2.9 billion this year, the F-22 fighter jet was slated for elimination by Obama. The measure provides $64 million to shut down its production line and $139 million for spare engines for the F-22 and the C-17 cargo jet.

VH-71 presidential helicopter — Obama recommended just $85 million for program termination costs after the troubled helicopter received $835 million this year. The House provided $400 million, drawing a White House veto threat.

F-35 alternative engine — The House provided $560 million for the alternative engine; Obama proposed “zeroing out” the second engine project and threatens a veto if the final bill would “seriously disrupt” the overall F-35 program.

C-17 cargo jets — Obama wants to kill the program and requested only $91 million to shut down the production line. Congress funded eight planes in this year’s war funding bill; the House bill provides $674 million for three more planes.

Kinetic Energy Interceptor — Obama requested no funding for the Kinetic Energy Interceptor, aimed at shooting down enemy ballistic missiles during their boost and early mid-course phases of flight. The House provided $80 million.