Exclusive: New Bill Reinforces UK-US Military Alliance as D-Day Commemorates 79 Years

In a move timed to coincide with the 81st anniversary of D-Day, a House Republican has announced new legislation aimed at deepening military ties between the United States and the United Kingdom. The Special Relationship Military Improvement Act of 2025, introduced by Rep. Mark Green, proposes expanded sharing of advanced military technology between the two longstanding allies.

Rep. Green underscored the importance of such cooperation in his announcement. “Our nation can never forget the sacrifice of thousands of Allied soldiers who lost their lives on D-Day and the invasion of Normandy,” he said, highlighting the bill’s symbolic connection to one of history’s most significant military operations. “The best way to commemorate this momentous day is to strengthen our partnership with the United Kingdom—and that’s exactly what this bill does.”

Currently, U.S. law restricts the transfer of military technology under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), granting exceptions only to select countries such as Canada. The UK does not currently benefit from such exemptions. Green’s bill would amend the Arms Export Control Act, adding the United Kingdom to the list of trusted nations eligible for advanced technology sharing, placing the U.K. on par with the U.S.’s closest defense partners.

Calling the move “common sense,” Green emphasized the depth of cooperation between the two countries. “The U.S. and the U.K. work together in almost every aspect to share intelligence, fight terrorism around the globe, and ensure that, through our combined military strength, the world can enjoy unprecedented peace,” he stated. This measure, he argued, reflects real-world military and intelligence collaboration already practiced by both nations.

The Tennessee lawmaker, himself a veteran and former 82nd Airborne Division commander, described the anniversary of D-Day as “very personal.” He recalled joining fellow congressional veterans in commemorative parachute jumps from WWII-era C-47 transport planes over Normandy last year, marking the occasion with a tribute to the enduring bond forged by American and British servicemembers. “American and British soldiers have fought shoulder to shoulder for over 100 years,” Green said. “There are no better warriors to fight alongside the United States. Our friendship cannot be overstated.”

Green stressed the shared sacrifices throughout history, referencing not just D-Day but more recent events as well. “When we were attacked on 9/11, it was the United Kingdom that sent soldiers into Afghanistan to help us destroy al-Qaeda and the Taliban,” he noted, reinforcing the idea that technological sharing is not just symbolic but a practical step forward amid rising global threats.

“As danger grows across the world stage, sharing technology with trusted allies is crucial,” Green said. He closed his statement with a vow: “We will never forget their friendship in our time of need.” The bill’s introduction comes at a critical moment for transatlantic relations, as policymakers adapt to shifting security challenges and look to reinforce the U.S.-U.K. alliance for the next generation.