Our military is stretched thin, and weakness invites aggression. Now, more than ever, America needs to project strength, and that starts with a fully funded and ready Air Force.
- Urgent Need: Air National Guard leaders are pleading for more funding.
- Outdated Fleet: The Air Force is the oldest and least ready in its history.
- Specific Requests: Calls for 48 new F-35s and 24 new F-15EXs annually.
The Air Force is Dangerously Outdated
The head honchos of the Air National Guard aren’t mincing words. They’re telling Congress straight up: the Air Force is ancient and weak. We’re talking about the smallest and least ready it’s been in 78 years. That’s a scary thought when you look at the threats brewing around the globe.
Think about it: we’re sending our brave men and women into the skies with equipment that’s older than some of their grandparents.
The generals are calling for a major upgrade: between 72 and 100 new fighter jets, every single year. It is the only way to start getting our air power back to where it needs to be.
Specific Needs: F-35s and F-15EXs
These aren’t just random wish list items. The Air National Guard needs specific tools for specific jobs. They’re asking for at least 48 F-35s and 24 F-15EXs. These aren’t cheap, but freedom never is.
The F-35 is the future of air combat. It has stealth capabilities and advanced sensors. The F-15EX brings raw power and massive payload capabilities to the table.
According to Brig. Gen. Shannon Smith, this request is “a pretty big deal” coming straight “from the two-star generals”. You bet it is.
What Happens If We Don’t Act?
Here’s where it gets real. Gen. Smith points to “Operation Epic Fury” – a large-scale military campaign – showing the need for the new jets.
He warns, “If we keep dabbling under 72 [new jets per year], that isn’t winning, that is raising the water line.” It is a polite way of saying we are screwed if we don’t open the coffers.
Right now, we’re throwing money at keeping old planes in the air. Soon, they’ll be unflyable.
The Conservative Take: Strength Through Preparedness
Let’s be clear: a strong defense isn’t about warmongering; it’s about preventing war. Ronald Reagan understood this principle of “peace through strength.”
We need to invest in our military. This is the only way to deter our enemies and protect American interests. The proposed $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget is a great start.
Weakness invites aggression. By ensuring our Air Force is equipped with the best technology available, we send a clear message to the world: don’t mess with America.
Our military leaders are speaking out. Are our politicians listening?
