The Air Force’s Plan for the Future: A-10s Until 2030s

Warrior Maven Video Above: Analyzing the Air Force Hypersonic Weapons Strategy

By Michael Peck,The National Interest

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 Serviceanalyst Jeremiah Gertler. “Some are explicit; others, between the lines.”

Gertler discerns some patterns in the airpower plan, particularly regarding the F-35. He points to the Air Force’s intention to extend the life of the F-15E Strike Eagle attack aircraft as well as the F-16 fighter, even though the F-15C air superiority fighter is being retired.