Extending USAF F-16 Force Structure

By fiscal year 2008, the Air Force will have a 108-fighter deficit based on a 20 Fighter Wing Equivalent requirement. That number grows to 311 by fiscal year 2021. These numbers are based on the today's programmed F-16 attrition rate of 3.6%, an estimated 8,000-hour F-16 service life, and fielding of the Joint Strike Fighter beginning in fiscal year 2009. This research study will attempt to answer the question, Will there be sufficient combat-capable F-16 aircraft available to meet USAF force structure requirements prior to fielding of the JSF? The study attempts to answer the question by looking at the current state of the USAF F-16 fleet and then by looking at the Joint Strike Fighter Program as the replacement for the F-16, it's forecast schedule, funding, and associated risk.