Secretary Frank Kendall stated that the downturn in the US Air Force budget could delay strategic programs that would be advantageous in the current global power competition.
US Air Force budget downturn could affect defence’s programs (Photo: CNBC)
USAF Programs Will Come To Screeching Halt Due to US Air Force Budget Downturn
According to Space News, the current temporary funding is running out and lawmakers are scrambling to extend funding for some agencies until January. Kendal stated at the Center for a New American Security Forum that the US Air Force budget downturn could bring uncertainty to the programs that should be gearing up for production.
The US Air Force budget is seeking billions of dollars in 2023 for the next generation of technologies such as hypersonic weapons, a new intercontinental ballistic missile, and modern satellite networks. The absence of the US Air Force budget could bring the programs to a screeching halt, as per the statement of Kendall. Also, note that there would be a time when the US has to be in a strategic competition against China and Russia.
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US Air Force Budget Downtun Harms USAF Effort
According to Air and Space Forces, the US Air Force budget downturn could harm the USAF’s effort to compete against China and other adversaries as it would depend on how long the continuing resolution is in effect, and noted that a yearlong would not be guaranteed.
Rep. Michael McCaul also stated that there would be a need for more time as the CRs always hurt the military, and also hurt national security. He additionally stated that there’s no choice. Kendall also warned other defenses that the service’s programs would take an increasing toll.
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