Air National Guard Leaders Warn of Critical Readiness Shortfalls, Demand Significant Jet Procurement A recent letter penned by leaders of the Air National Guard to Congress highlights severe readiness issues within the U.S. Air Force, citing it as the oldest, smallest, and least prepared in its 78-year history. The adjutants general are urging a substantial increase in fighter jet procurement, requesting an immediate acquisition of 72 to 100 new aircraft, including at least 48 F-35s and 24 F-15EXs, with a long-term goal of acquiring 72 F-35s and 36 F-15EXs annually. This plea is amplified by the ongoing demands of Operation Epic Fury, a large-scale military operation in Iran, which is reportedly stressing existing aircraft and personnel. The proposed procurement surge significantly outpaces recent Air Force requests and comes at a time when the Pentagon is seeking a massive budget increase. Leaders within the Air National Guard have issued a stark warning to Congress regarding the current state of U.S. Air Force readiness, characterizing it as critically inadequate. In a compelling letter that has garnered attention, they assert that the Air Force is now the oldest, smallest, and least prepared it has been in its entire 78-year history. This assessment underscores a profound concern about the service's capacity to meet evolving global threats and operational demands. To address this historic deficiency, military leadership is advocating for a substantial increase in the acquisition of new fighter jets. The request spans across the Air Force's active duty, reserve, and Air National Guard components, with a specific call for between 72 and 100 new fighter aircraft in the near term. The adjutants general, who serve as the leaders of the National Guard in their respective states, have jointly proposed the procurement of at least 48 new F-35 Lightning II aircraft and 24 new F-15EX Eagle II aircraft. This represents a significant escalation in the desired acquisition rates compared to recent years, signaling a clear intent to revitalize the aging fighter fleet and ensure air superiority. The urgency behind this request is further emphasized by the ongoing military operations, particularly Operation Epic Fury, a large-scale and extensive campaign being conducted in Iran. This operation is placing considerable strain on existing aircraft and personnel, as highlighted by Brig. Gen. Shannon Smith, Assistant Adjutant General of the Idaho National Guard. He described how the current operations are leading to the accelerated wear and tear on aircraft and the continuous exertion of Airmen in their efforts to support the joint force and achieve the president's strategic objectives in the conflict with Iran. The sustained commitment to such operations, without adequate replenishment of resources, is seen as unsustainable and detrimental to long-term readiness. The procurement goals outlined in the letter signify a substantial departure from the Air Force's prior requests to Congress. In fiscal year 2024, the Air Force sought to procure 48 F-35s, followed by a request for 42 in fiscal year 2025. For the F-15EX, the service asked for 24 in 2024 and 18 in 2025. The adjutants general's proposed annual procurement of 72 F-35s and 36 F-15EXs represents a nearly doubling of the current acquisition rates for the F-35 and a significant increase for the F-15EX, indicating a more ambitious and comprehensive strategy for fleet modernization and expansion. Brig. Gen. Smith articulated the critical need for this accelerated procurement, stating that operating at the current procurement levels is not conducive to winning or achieving strategic superiority. He metaphorically described it as merely raising the water line, implying a reactive approach rather than a proactive one that ensures decisive advantage. Smith further warned that if procurement rates do not increase substantially, numerous fighter squadrons will continue to rely on aircraft from the 1970s. The majority of the budget allocated to these aging platforms would be directed towards maintaining their operational status, rather than investing in advanced capabilities. In a few years, he predicted, these aircraft would struggle to remain airworthy, let alone maintain relevance in the face of evolving threats and technological advancements. This concern extends to the sustainability of pilot training and operational effectiveness, as relying on outdated equipment can impede the development of crucial skills and the adoption of new tactics. The ambitious procurement request comes at a time when the Pentagon is seeking unprecedented levels of funding. President Trump's proposed fiscal year 2027 budget includes a staggering $1.5 trillion allocation for the Department of Defense, marking an increase of nearly $700 billion from the fiscal year 2026 budget. This substantial budgetary increase suggests a broader strategic push towards military modernization and expansion, aligning with the Air National Guard's calls for enhanced fighter capabilities. The letter, signed by all 22 adjutants general who lead Air National Guards in states that possess them, carries significant weight. Brig. Gen. Smith emphasized the importance of this unified stance, describing it as a significant development and a strong message from the two-star generals responsible for commanding the National Guards across these states. The unified voice aims to impress upon lawmakers the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for legislative action to bolster the Air Force's combat power. The implications of these readiness concerns are far-reaching, affecting not only the U.S. military's ability to project power and respond to crises but also its capacity to deter potential adversaries. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, ensuring a modern, well-equipped, and highly ready Air Force is paramount for national security. The current reliance on aging platforms and the strain placed on existing assets by ongoing operations highlight a growing vulnerability that the Air National Guard leaders are determined to address proactively through increased investment and strategic procurement