Summary

Directs the Air Force to modernize Air National Guard fighter squadrons by replacing aging jets with newer, more capable aircraft. It sets a national policy to preserve the fighter force’s capability, experience, and strength and requires continuous recapitalization until complete. Requires ongoing procurement of at least one advanced‑capability fighter and one fifth‑generation fighter while the replacement effort is underway. It also orders planning, feasibility studies, regular briefings and reports to congressional defense committees, and an independent GAO review with recommendations to address procurement challenges.

Key Points

• Sets national policy to fully recapitalize Air National Guard fighter squadrons.
• Requires the Air Force to replace aging Air National Guard fighters with newer models.
• Mandates continued procurement of at least one advanced‑capability and one fifth‑generation fighter during recapitalization.
• Directs feasibility and procurement studies on cost, schedule, risks, and industrial base capacity.
• Imposes recurring briefings and reports to congressional defense committees with specific deadlines.
• Requires a GAO review of procurement challenges and recommendations for improvement.
• Defines core terms to guide implementation and oversight.
• Keeps focus on readiness and continuity of capability during the transition.

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