F-15EX

Air National Guard leaders warned Congress that the U.S. Air Force is the oldest, smallest, and least ready in its history, requesting 72-100 new fighter jets (including F-35s and F-15EXs) to address readiness gaps. The plea comes amid heightened military operations like Operation Epic Fury in Iran and a proposed $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget for 2027.

Air National Guard leaders warn Congress that the U.S. Air Force is the oldest, smallest, and least ready in its 78-year history, requesting 72–100 new fighter jets (including 48 F-35s and 24 F-15EXs) to address readiness gaps. They cite Operation Epic Fury in Iran as evidence of urgent resource needs, with Brig. Gen. Shannon Smith emphasizing that current procurement rates risk leaving squadrons with outdated aircraft.