Air Force projects need for 1,509 combat-ready fighters
By The BriefBrief
The U.S. Air Force says it will need 1,509 combat-ready fighters by 2035 to meet a medium-risk operational profile, according to a force-structure report sent to Congress on Oct. 16. Lt. Gen. David Tabor said F-35s would make up about 40% of the fleet, while F-22s and their F-47 replacements would account for about 20%.
WHO:The U.S. Air Force
WHAT:The U.S. Air Force projected that it will need 1,509 combat-ready fighters by 2035.
WHEN:Oct 16, 2026
WHERE:Washington, USA
WHY:The projection is based on what regional commanders say they need to carry out their missions at medium risk.
