Summary
The U.S. Air Force may soon lack enough fighter jets for its needs. A report for Congress outlines the Air Force's requirement for more combat-ready jets and highlights issues with funding and aging aircraft that threaten its readiness.
Key Facts
- The U.S. Air Force might not have enough fighter jets to meet future needs.
- A report to Congress says an additional 300 combat-ready jets are needed by 2026.
- The current inventory of combat-coded jets is about 1,271, while the Air Force needs 1,558.
- The Air Force has nearly 5,000 aircraft, the smallest number in its 78-year history.
- Funding issues and aging jets are impacting the Air Force's readiness.
- Plans include investing in new fighter jets like the Fâ47 and upgrading existing models such as the Fâ35 and Fâ15.
- The U.S. military faces competition from other countries like China and Russia, which have large numbers of combat-capable aircraft.
