This bill increases and preserves the U.S. Air Force's fighter aircraft inventory to strengthen military readiness over the next five years. It raises the minimum number of total fighter aircraft the Air Force must maintain from 1,800 to 1,900 (with reserve components increasing from 1,145 to 1,200) through October 1, 2030, while allowing temporary reductions during transition periods when units upgrade to newer aircraft models. The legislation prioritizes equipping Air National Guard units—requiring that at least 25 existing squadrons receive new advanced and fifth-generation fighters at a similar rate as active-duty Air Force units—and mandates that for every four new advanced fighter aircraft delivered to the Air Force, at least three go to existing service-retained units rather than new ones. The bill requires the Secretary of the Air Force to submit quarterly reports to Congress detailing aircraft acquisitions, retirements, and any delays or challenges, with funding restrictions on the Secretary's travel if reports are not submitted on time. The legislation essentially locks in a commitment to modernize and maintain robust fighter capabilities across active-duty, reserve, and Air National Guard components through 2030.
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