A key aspect of the Air Force’s newly unveiled strategic document is building modularity and flexibility into its platforms and capabilities, and allowing for “decision points” in acquisition programs to introduce new tools and technologies efficiently. “Our best opportunities are in new programs,” Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James said Wednesday. To the extent USAF can build in “modularity” to new programs, this could enable new technologies to inform future programs. Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh went further, saying even existing programs could benefit. “If the (advanced engine technology demonstrator) probes you can create systems that save 30 to 45 percent of fuel, we should build that into every fleet,” he said. “We have to take advantage of things as they change,” he said. Asked for specific examples of which programs would benefit from this approach, James highlighted the Joint STARS replacement program and the new trainer aircraft competition as programs where a more flexible and modular approach could be implemented. (James/Welsh transcript).
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.