Pentagon's Plan to Shrink Fighter Fleet Draws Scrutiny
The Pentagon has proposed a significant reduction in its fighter jet fleet, aiming to shrink the total from 2,100 to around 1,800 aircraft. As part of this plan, the US Air Force intends to divest its entire fleet of 218 older F-15C/D Eagle fighters. Additionally, the proposal includes the early retirement of 32 of the oldest F-22A Raptor air superiority fighters. These aircraft would be partially replaced by a smaller procurement of 80 new F-15EX Eagle II jets. This strategy aims to free up funds for the next-generation fighter program, despite the short-term reduction in combat-ready aircraft.
Official Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/38-fighter-jets-why-pentagons-160017763.html
Related Aviation News:
- Pentagon Plans to Strengthen Air Power with Purchase of 85 F-35 Fighters
- Pentagon plans to buy 85 F-35 fighters and fund "Iron Dome" in 2027
- U.S. Plans Military Expansion in Greenland
- Pentagon identifies 6 US Air Force members killed in refueling plane crash in Iraq
- Plane used in boat strike painted like civilian aircraft: Report