BLUF
The US Air Force says it needs nearly 300 more combat-coded fighters to reduce risk; but achieving this amid modernization, budget limits, and production delays remains aspirational, with F-35s forming the fleet’s foundation.Learning Outcomes
- Explain the Air Force’s fighter force-structure requirements and associated risk levels.
- Analyse the challenges and constraints affecting the modernization of the Air Force fighter fleet.
- Evaluate the role of emerging technologies in shaping future Air Force capabilities.
