The 2006 defense policy measure directs the Air Force to retain all its KC-135E tankers, F-117 stealth fighters, and C-130E/H model airlifters through Fiscal 2006. USAF had been planning to start shedding some of these older aircraft to save money.
The Air Force's new Aircraft Readiness Unit will maintain and provide Collaborative Combat Aircraft for operations, but won’t serve as a “schoolhouse” teaching fighter pilots how to manage these escort drones.