This legislation authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to convey three specific surplus F-14D Tomcat aircraft to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama, without monetary consideration. The primary purpose is to allow the Commission to restore and operate these aircraft for public display, airshows, and commemorative events, thereby preserving naval aviation heritage. The transfer will be executed through a conditional deed of gift, requiring the aircraft to be devoid of combat capabilities. The Navy will provide specific maintenance manuals and excess spare parts from existing stock to facilitate the display or potential operation of one aircraft, but will not be responsible for repairs or additional support. All costs associated with the conveyance, operation, and maintenance of the aircraft will be borne by the Commission. Crucially, the bill includes a reverter clause , stipulating that ownership will revert to the United States if the Commission breaches conditions such as maintaining FAA compliance or transferring ownership without prior approval. Upon conveyance, the United States will not be liable for any death, injury, loss, or damage resulting from the aircraft's use.
Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent. (text: CR S2075)
Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.
Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.
Measure laid before Senate by unanimous consent.
Measure laid before Senate by unanimous consent. (consideration: CR S2075)
Senate Committee on Armed Services discharged by Unanimous Consent.
Message on Senate action sent to the House.
Received in the House.
Held at the desk.
Armed Forces and National Security
AlabamaAviation and airportsMilitary historyMuseums, exhibitions, cultural centers
Maverick Act
USA119th CongressS-4161| Senate
| Updated: 5/4/2026
This legislation authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to convey three specific surplus F-14D Tomcat aircraft to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama, without monetary consideration. The primary purpose is to allow the Commission to restore and operate these aircraft for public display, airshows, and commemorative events, thereby preserving naval aviation heritage. The transfer will be executed through a conditional deed of gift, requiring the aircraft to be devoid of combat capabilities. The Navy will provide specific maintenance manuals and excess spare parts from existing stock to facilitate the display or potential operation of one aircraft, but will not be responsible for repairs or additional support. All costs associated with the conveyance, operation, and maintenance of the aircraft will be borne by the Commission. Crucially, the bill includes a reverter clause , stipulating that ownership will revert to the United States if the Commission breaches conditions such as maintaining FAA compliance or transferring ownership without prior approval. Upon conveyance, the United States will not be liable for any death, injury, loss, or damage resulting from the aircraft's use.