Interesting how the AP writer carefully manages to ignore the F-117 which has proven itself very effective, especially in Iraq.
While an apples and corn comparison, it is worth noting that the B-52, an aircraft that is over 50 years old, remains one of the Air Force’s workhorses. In fact, some of today’s B-52 flight crews are flying the same aircraft flown by their fathers!
The article also fails to note that in ANY offensive campaign, the Air Force is one ONE part of the total airborne offensive weapons capability of America. The author deftly manages to avoid including the contributions made by Navy and Marine fighters.
So, while the article attempts to make us feel uneasy about the capability of the Air Force, IMO, we have little to worry about. The Air Force will eventually get its fighter problems sorted out and the US still has plenty of fighters available for air combat roles (should they be needed) courtesy of the Navy and Marines.
Probably because the F-117 is being retired even as we speak.
The US Air Force had 62% of the aircraft during Desert Storm, but took out 92% of the targets. I'm not downplaying to role of the Navy and Marines, but their aircraft don't have the range of the Air Force planes because they're limited by the need to fly from carriers. The Marines are primarily used for tactical targets and close air support and one of the key missions of the Navy is to protect the fleet.
Navy & Marine fighters need the backing of the heavy cavalry if they are to take on major trouble makers like Iran or China.