AF, Space Force FY-21 budget plan

ARLINGTON, Va. - The Department of the Air Force released a $169 billion FY 2021 budget proposal on Feb. 10, which for the first time includes funding for the newly created U.S. Space Force. It also focuses funds to help both services modernize, address threats, and sustain readiness. The spending plan is $900M above FY-20. But unlike last year, 2021 funding is apportioned differently, with $153.6B to the AF and $15.4B for the Space Force. The F-21 budget proposal “helps drive irreversible momentum as we implement the National Defense Strategy” (NDS), said Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett. “This budget allows us to meet today’s national security challenges while taking important steps toward the Air and Space Forces we need in 2030.” NDS is an overarching blueprint for the entire military for defending the nation and its interests. At the heart of the AF’s strategy is creating a resilient battle network that connects ships, ground forces, planes and satellites to fight together at speeds surpassing any adversary. and cyber. The proposal calls for spending $5.8B to buy 48 F-35A Lightning II aircraft; $3B for 15 KC-46A Pegasus tankers; and $1.4B for 12 F-15EX fighters. Research and development will grow by $1.5B to $26.9B, which includes increased investment in the Advanced Battle Management System – development and capability demonstrations connecting the joint force. In order to strike a balance between the capabilities of today and those required in the future, the FY21 plan anticipates retiring some planes for critical new equipment. The list includes 13 KC-135 Stratotankers and 16 KC-10 Extenders; 24 C-130H Hercules, 17 B-1 Lancers and 24 RQ-4 Global Hawk Block 20/30 aircraft. Threaded throughout the budget document is a focus on people and readiness. Funding to pay for flying hours increases to $6.6B. The budget envisions an increase in its force of active duty, Guard, and Reserve by 1,500 personnel. That would bring the uniformed force to 512,100. (Source: Secretary of AF 02/10/20) https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2080164/air-forces-proposed-169-billion-budget-focuses-on-great-power-competition-readi/