U.S. Air Force Has A Plan If The F-35 Doesn't Work Out

Michael Peck, National Interest: The Air Force Has a Plan if the F-35 Doesn't Work Out As Planned

That could be part of the impetus behind the Pentagon's long-range plan for U.S. airpower, according to an analysis by the Congressional Research Service (CRS).

Is the Pentagon planning to refurbish F-15Es, F-16s and F-18s just in case the F-35 doesn't work out as planned?

That could be part of the impetus behind the Pentagon's long-range plan for U.S. airpower, according to an analysis by the Congressional Research Service (CRS).

Every year the Department of Defense puts out a thirty-year plan outlining its vision for the future course of American airpower. Usually it's a vague document.

But not this time. "The most recent 30-year aviation plan released in April 2018 is full of details on specific programs, including cancellations, life extensions, and new starts," writes Congressional Research Service analyst Jeremiah Gertler. "Some are explicit; others, between the lines."

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WNU Editor: To me it makes sense to refurbish and modernize F-15Es, F-16s, F-18s, and other support aircraft. Not all conflicts will need to involve the F-35, and more importantly, these planes support aircraft are cheaper to maintain and operate.