Bill > HR8331

This bill, known as the "Maverick Act of 2026," authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer three specific F-14D Tomcat aircraft (Bureau Numbers 163283, 164602, and 159437) to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama, as a gift without cost to the United States. The Commission will be responsible for all associated costs, including operation and maintenance. The aircraft will be conveyed in their current condition, but the Secretary will provide specific operations manuals and excess spare parts or equipment deemed necessary for restoration and display. The bill mandates that the aircraft must be demilitarized, meaning they cannot be used for combat or to launch munitions, and can only be used for public display, airshows, or commemorative events to preserve naval aviation heritage. The Commission must also comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. If the Commission violates these conditions, ownership of the aircraft will revert to the United States. Importantly, after the transfer, the United States will not be liable for any damages resulting from the use of these aircraft by any party other than the U.S. government. The transfer and subsequent use of the aircraft will be subject to various federal laws and regulations governing arms exports and national security.