THE US Air Force has vowed to protect costly weapons programs despite budget pressures, saying the country needs the F-35 fighter jet, a long-range bomber and other aircraft.
While acknowledging the need for reductions to the defence budget, Air Force Secretary Michael Donley has listed several big ticket programs that are not up for negotiation.
Australia has a contract to buy up to 100 F-35s for an estimated $16bn and has so far ordered 14.
Initially slated to be up and running in Australia by 2016, production of the jet fighters has been beset by delays.
The RAAF's first squadron is now due to be operating by 2018.
Air Force Secretary Donley insisted the F-35s were still a priority.
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