January 25, 2006—According to the latest Congressional Budget Office defense spending estimate, the Air Force investment for development and procurement of weapons systems reflects a short rise through 2008 for the purchase of the F-22A, with another slow increase during production of the F-35. CBO admits to uncertainty on procurement of other aircraft—bomber and tanker replacements—so projects a fairly stable investment through 2024. Note, though, the downslope for RDT&E. This view of USAF spending, of course, likely will change with the release of the 2007 budget and the Quadrennial Defense Review.
Source: Congressional Budget Office, “The Long Term Implications of Current Defense Plans and Alternatives: Detailed Update for Fiscal Year 2006.”
