Exclusive: New Legislation to Strengthen U.S.-UK Military Alliance Unveiled on D-Day Anniversary

As the world marks the 81st anniversary of D-Day, new legislation aimed at strengthening the historic alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom is being introduced in Congress. Representative Mark Green of Tennessee has unveiled the Special Relationship Military Improvement Act of 2025, a bill that seeks to enable greater sharing of advanced U.S. military technology with the UK—a move he says will reinforce enduring friendship and adaptability amid escalating global threats.

The proposed legislation would amend the Arms Export Control Act, granting the United Kingdom an exemption under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), similar to the current status enjoyed by Canada. Under existing regulations, U.S. advancements in military technology remain exclusive property when sold to foreign governments, limiting allied cooperation on sensitive defense innovations. Supporters argue that this exemption is long overdue for the UK, given the deep-rooted defense collaboration between the two nations.

Rep. Green emphasized the significance of the timing, stating, "On the 81st anniversary of D-Day, I’m reintroducing the Special Relationship Military Improvement Act of 2025." Reflecting on the sacrifices made at Normandy, he said, "Our nation can never forget the sacrifice of thousands of Allied soldiers who lost their lives on D-Day and the invasion of Normandy. The price they paid ensured millions could live free from tyranny." Green argued that the best way to honor that legacy is to further strengthen the transatlantic partnership through increased technological cooperation.

“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,” Green explained. He described closer coordination on military technology as “common sense”, particularly in a climate where global security faces new and complex threats.

Green’s personal connection to the D-Day commemoration runs deep. As a veteran and former commander in the 82nd Airborne Division—the same division that parachuted into Normandy during the historic invasion—he regards the anniversary as highly meaningful. Last year, he joined fellow veterans in Congress parachuting out of original C-47 transport planes over Normandy to mark the event’s 80th anniversary. “American and British soldiers have fought shoulder to shoulder for over 100 years,” Green noted, underlining the unparalleled trust and camaraderie between the allies.

The congressman highlighted the steadfast solidarity shown by the UK through history, referencing both the Normandy landings and post-9/11 actions. “On the beaches of Normandy, it was British soldiers who ran in the sand alongside Americans, and after 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 that gave them safe haven," he said. "We will never forget their friendship in our time of need."

With mounting international instability and evolving security challenges, proponents of the bill believe that expanding technology sharing with trusted allies like the UK is more important than ever. “With global threats increasing, sharing technology is crucial,” Green asserted, aiming to ensure the alliance remains at the forefront of defense innovation and preparedness for whatever challenges may arise in the future.