Tactical Aircraft Programs : Before the Military Research and Development Subcommittee Joint With Military Procurement Subcommittee of the Committee on National Security House of Representatives, One Hundred Fourth Congress, Seco

A clear briefing on U.S. tactical aircraft modernization reveals how the DoD plans to keep air dominance through programs like the F-22, F/A-18E/F, and the joint strike fighter. It explains the decision process, budget pressures, and the role of joint councils and review boards in shaping new aircraft capabilities.

This material documents a 1996 House hearing that examines procurement and development plans for tactical aviation. It outlines the analytical framework, the evolution from the Bottom-Up Review to the JSF program, and how affordability, lifecycle costs, and risk are balanced in major defense programs. Readers get insight into the challenges of balancing innovation with budget realities, and how acquisition structures aim to ensure fielded capabilities meet strategic needs without wasting resources.

• Key programs discussed include the F-22, F/A-18E/F, and the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF).


• How the Joint Requirements Oversight Council and JWCA process influence weapon system decisions.


• The tradeoffs between development funding, procurement, and lifecycle costs.


• Issues of concurrency, testing, and production ramp-up in major defense programs.

Ideal for readers of defense policy, military procurement, and aerospace program management who want a historically grounded look at how the United States plans and funds its tactical aviation future.