The n
ation must preserve its “unparalleled airpower capabilities” to deter and defeat conventional competitors and respond to global crises, writes the new Administration in its newly issued defense agenda. (Full document) To do so, it calls for “greater investment in advanced technology,” ranging from “revolutionary capabilities” like unmanned aerial vehicles and electronic warfare systems “to essential systems” like the C-17 and KC-X tanker, “which provide the backbone” of global power projection. There is no mention of other Air Force systems, like the F-22 or F-35, by name.
The rate of building B-21 bombers would speed up if the fiscal 2026 defense budget passes. But it remains unclear how much capacity would be added, and whether the Air Force would simply build the bombers faster, or buy more.
