Washington, DC. October 22 – The United States Air Force needs 1,509 combat-ready fighter jets by 2035 for a moderate-risk operational profile, according to a new report sent to Congress. This August 2026 analysis revises prior estimates and highlights growing requirements for tactical combat aircraft. Lt. Gen. David Tabor noted that officials plan for moderate risk rather than low risk, needing 1,723 jets. These detailed projections support transparent, data-driven long-term planning for airpower superiority.
Funding constraints challenge goals as nuclear modernization competes with fighter procurement amid budget disputes. Fiscal 2027 includes 24 F-15EX and 24 F-35 in the base budget plus 14 F-35s from uncertain reconciliation. Without total obligation authority, the 1,509 target cannot be met. Tabor said reallocating base funds is undesirable.
Production delays for F-35 Block 4 upgrades and F-15EX deliveries slow timelines. Industry is ramping capacity to meet demand. Multi-year contracts could stabilize signals. New-build F-16s are considered for fleet recapitalization without urgency.
The Air Force prefers Combat Coded Total Aircraft Inventory over Primary Mission Aircraft Inventory for accuracy, including reserves. Recent operations validate this method. Achieving 1,509 combat-ready jets by 2035 demands consistent congressional funding and industrial success to strengthen the overall fighter fleet for future combat readiness and global deterrence needs.