Bill > HR1851

This bill aims to preserve and recapitalize the fighter aircraft capabilities of the Air Force and its reserve components by establishing several key provisions. The legislation mandates maintaining a minimum of 1,900 total fighter aircraft in the Air Force's inventory by October 1, 2030, with 1,200 in the primary mission aircraft inventory, while allowing temporary reductions during unit recapitalization periods. The bill introduces quarterly reporting requirements for the Secretary of the Air Force, detailing new aircraft acquisitions, assignments across Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard components, and aircraft retirements. It prioritizes assigning new advanced capability and fifth-generation fighter aircraft to existing service-retained squadrons, ensuring that for every four new aircraft, at least three go to current squadrons. The bill also specifically protects the Air National Guard's fighter fleet by maintaining 25 fighter squadrons and preventing the retirement of existing aircraft until 2030, with exceptions for non-mission capable aircraft. Additionally, the legislation requires an annual recapitalization plan for the Air National Guard fighter fleet, including a detailed timeline and assessment of operational readiness. The bill provides comprehensive definitions for various fighter aircraft types and establishes a framework for modernizing the Air Force's fighter capabilities through 2030.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1851/all-info