By: Gen. Larry O. Spencer (ret.), AFA
I was director of Air Force budget when F-22 aircraft production was cancelled. The rationale was, it is better to “leap” to the F-35 because it was cheaper and could be purchased in higher quantities. That decision made the F-35 the single most important defense program in the nation. That decision declared the F-35 would be crucial to meeting U.S. objectives in the National Security Strategy.
At the time, it was said the Air Force must have the F-35 in sufficient numbers to enable the world’s greatest Air Force to engage around the world, shaping the security environment and maintaining peace and stability. As an expeditionary aircraft, the F-35 would provide the unique capability to deploy around the globe on very short notice. Additionally, there was an emphasis on having sufficient numbers to allow a rotational base for peacetime training, and if necessary, fight and win a conflict.
During Thanksgiving dinner, my siblings asked me why the U.S. should purchase this new fifth generation aircraft at the numbers requested. They reasoned, “why not use the aircraft we already have? Wouldn’t that be cheaper?” My inquisitive siblings were shocked with my answer. They did not realize that today, the Air Force has a “geriatric” fighter aircraft fleet. The aircraft are old, tired and no longer hold an unquestioned advantage over potential adversaries. They were also surprised when I told them many Air Force aircraft would qualify for an antique license plate in most states. My siblings perked up when I explained the F-35 helps the U.S. to maintain a clear technology gap over potential adversaries and they really got excited when I explained that the best pilots flying the most technologically advanced aircraft may actually prevent a war by providing a clear and unambiguous deterrent.
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