Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Air Force has reduced its planned procurement of F-35 fighter jets due to dissatisfaction with delays in the Block 4 upgrade and adjustments in the Pentagon's budget, requesting only 24 new aircraft in its 2026 budget proposal, which is half of last year's plan and lower than the 44 jets procured in 2025 [1] Group 1 - The U.S. Air Force's request for 24 new F-35 jets in 2026 is a significant reduction from previous plans, reflecting budget constraints and the need to address urgent threats [1] - The delays in the Block 4 upgrade and TR-3 developments have directly impacted the Department of Defense's procurement decisions [1] - The Pentagon's project office announced delays in F-35 deliveries due to software improvements, leading to withholding of up to $5 million in final payments per aircraft until upgrades are validated [1]
美媒称美军缩减F-35战机采购量