Overview
- Senior officials told a House panel the 100‑aircraft plan may fall short, with internal reviews still underway inside the FY2027 budget process.
- The Air Force set a six‑year plan to upgrade KC‑135 tankers with new radios, tactical data links, and hybrid satellite connectivity.
- Leaders said they are funding protection systems, improved satellite communications, and other countermeasures to let tankers operate nearer contested airspace.
- Officials said shooting a million‑dollar missile at a $4,000 drone does not make sense, echoing lawmakers’ push for cheaper counters.
- Officials also confirmed early planning for a future transport program to replace aging C‑17 and C‑5 airlifters.