How Do You Spell DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION?
Pronunciation: [dɪfˈɛns ˌɔːθəɹa͡ɪzˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [dɪfˈɛns ˌɔːθəɹa͡ɪzˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)
Defense authorization refers to a legislative process that grants legal and financial authority to the Department of Defense (DoD) to carry out its missions and activities. It is a crucial component of the defense budgeting process, as it sets forth the policies and guidelines governing national defense programs, activities, and expenditures. The primary purpose of a defense authorization bill is to provide the legal framework and funding for the defense activities of a country.
A defense authorization bill is typically introduced and passed by the legislature of a nation, such as the United States Congress, and is subject to periodic renewal to ensure continued support for the military. The bill covers a wide range of defense-related matters, including military personnel policies, weapons systems acquisition, research and development, military construction projects, and intelligence activities. It outlines the priorities and objectives of the DoD, along with authorizing the funding necessary to meet these goals.
The defense authorization process involves examination, review, and approval of the proposed budget submissions by various congressional committees, including those responsible for armed services, appropriations, and budget. Congressional hearings are held to assess the funding requirements and strategic priorities of the defense establishment. At the conclusion of this process, a defense authorization bill is passed, which serves as the legal authority for the DoD to obligate and expend funds on defense-related activities for the specified fiscal year.
In summary, defense authorization is a legislative mechanism that provides the necessary legal and financial framework for a nation's defense establishment, allowing it to fulfill its mission of national security through policy setting, resource allocation, and funding approval.
The word "defense" has its roots in the Old French word "defens" which means "defense, protection". It ultimately comes from the Latin word "defensus", the past participle of "defendere", meaning "to ward off, protect, guard". "Authorization" comes from the late Middle English word "authorisation" which was derived from the Old French word "autorisation" with the same meaning. It further traces back to the Latin word "authorizatio", from "authorizare", meaning "to authorize, sanction". When combined, "defense authorization" refers to the act or process of authorizing activities related to defense or the allocation of resources for military purposes.
