Air National Guard Leaders Demand Massive Increase in Annual Fighter Jet Procurement

Adjutants general from more than 20 states have issued a formal appeal to Congress, calling for an immediate and significant increase in the acquisition of new fighter aircraft. The coalition argues that the United States Air Force currently faces its lowest levels of readiness and smallest fleet size in 78 years. To address these vulnerabilities and counter the rapid military modernization efforts of China, the group is requesting multiyear funding to secure between 72 and 100 new fighters annually. This proposed procurement rate would represent a major shift in policy, as the Air Force has not purchased more than 72 fighters in a single year since 1998.

The requested inventory expansion specifically targets a minimum annual purchase of 48 F-35A Lightning IIs and 24 F-15EX Eagle IIs, with an ideal goal of reaching 72 and 36 respectively. While these requests originate from Air National Guard leadership, the aircraft are intended to bolster the capabilities of the Active, Guard, and Reserve components alike. The push comes at a time when the military is grappling with fluctuating procurement budgets and persistent technical delays within the F-35 program, including issues surrounding radar upgrades. Military officials maintain that a robust and modernized air fleet is essential to ensuring the nation remains prepared for future global conflicts.