Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act of 2025

The Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act of 2025 increases the minimum required number of Air Force fighter aircraft to 1,900 (from 1,800) and reserve component aircraft to 1,200 (from 1,145) by October 2030, extending the deadline from 2026. It allows temporary reductions in total inventory (down to 1,800) for up to two years to replace older aircraft with new models, requiring congressional notification and detailed quarterly reports on new acquisitions, retirements, and unit assignments. The bill also protects 25 specific Air National Guard fighter squadrons (as of December 2024) from losing aircraft until 2030 and mandates an annual plan for recapitalizing these units, including budget and operational assessments. These provisions directly affect Air Force active, reserve, and Air National Guard units operating fighter aircraft, ensuring a structured transition to newer models like the F-35 and F-16 Block 70.