The number of new fighter jets was scaled back to 60, with six fewer F-35As and F-15EXs each compared to the initial request. This reduction stems from congressionally mandated spending caps that have placed a squeeze on the Department of Defense (DoD) budget.
Impact on Modernization Goals
The revised budget plan raises concerns about how it might affect the Air Force’s long-term modernization goals.
Air Force officials, like Maj. Gen. Michael Greiner, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Budget, acknowledge the impact, stating last March that the budget “marks the end of procurement for the F-15EX at a final total of 98 fighters.”
This falls short of the program’s initial goal of 144 aircraft.
While the F-35 program appears to be less severely impacted, with the reduction seen as a potential deferral rather than a permanent cancellation, it still creates uncertainty in terms of how quickly the Air Force can ramp up its F-35 fleet.
Silver Linings: Prioritizing Essential Areas
Despite the cuts to fighter jet procurement, the FY25 budget plan does show positive developments in other areas.
Recognizing the vital role aerial refueling plays in global power projection, the budget allocates funding for 15 new KC-46 Pegasus tankers.
These next-generation tankers will be crucial for extending the range of fighter jets and bombers, allowing them to operate effectively over long distances.
Additionally, the procurement of seven T-7A Redhawk jet trainers signifies a continued focus on pilot training and ensuring a robust pipeline of skilled aviators to fly the Air Force’s future jets.
Planned US Air Force Procurements 2025
- F-15EX Eagle II (4.5 gen multirole strike fighter): 18
- F-35A Lightning II (5th gen multirole stealth fighter): 42
- T-7A Redhawk (Supersonic advanced jet trainer): 7
- C-40C Clipper: 1
- MH-139 Grey Wolf (Multi-mission helicopter): 8
- KC-46A Pegasus (Strategic tanker): 15
Looking Ahead: Uncertainties and Opportunities
The initial budget request might not be the final word.
The upcoming congressional markup process offers a chance for lawmakers to adjust the spending plan.
By allocating additional funding, Congress could help the Air Force bridge the gap between its current budget limitations and its long-term modernization goals.
Furthermore, the possibility of a supplemental appropriation package similar to the one requested last year for Ukraine and Israel could offer an additional avenue for securing funding for new fighter jets.
However, whether such a package would include funding for fighters remains unclear.
Conclusion: Navigating Turbulent Skies
The US Air Force’s FY25 aircraft procurement plan highlights the delicate balancing act between military needs and budgetary constraints.
The service grapples with the crucial task of maintaining a modern and effective fighting force while facing financial limitations.
While the budget prioritizes essential areas like aerial refueling and pilot training, questions remain about the pace of fighter jet modernization.
Whether Congress provides additional funding or the Air Force needs to adjust its approach, one thing is certain: the Air Force’s quest for a fully modernized fighter fleet will continue to navigate turbulent financial skies.
COMMENTS