Air Force nominees face questions on fighter recapitalization, tanker shortfalls and basing for C‑130Js

Committee members pressed Dr. Troy Mink and other nominees on Air Force force structure and readiness, including the size and age of fighter fleets, pilot shortages, tanker procurement and specific basing requests for C‑130Js and KC‑46 tankers.

Senators raised specific readiness concerns: retention and training for fighter pilots, the average age of Air Force aircraft and whether active and reserve components will get fair shares of recapitalized airframes. Mink acknowledged the fleet is aging and said he intends to take a holistic look at modernization requirements and advocate for resources to preserve readiness and required force structure.

Several senators sought commitments on concrete basing and procurement matters. Senator Rosen asked Mink to ensure the 150th Airlift Wing in Reno be considered for eight C‑130J aircraft appropriated in the FY24 defense appropriations; Mink said he would work with her and consider basing decisions when confirmed. Senators Sullivan, Peters and others pressed for tanker allocations to Alaska and Michigan and asked Mink to support long‑term infrastructure planning (a 30‑year infrastructure plan) to stabilize base modernization funding; Mink committed to work with the committee and support coordination across services.

Discussion of NGAD, the F‑15EX and other fighter recapitalization choices occurred in a policy context: nominees said they needed to review the detailed analyses supporting force‑structure decisions before endorsing specific divestitures or basing outcomes. No final basing or procurement decisions were announced in the hearing.