C-40 Fleet Expansion

The C-40 Fleet Expansion program, as outlined in the Air Force's FY 2026 budget request under line item C0400D, is focused on the procurement of additional C-40 aircraft to support the Air Force's mission support fleet. The C-40 is a military version of the Boeing 737, primarily used for airlift of personnel and cargo. It serves a critical role in providing flexible, rapid-response transportation for senior military and civilian leaders, as well as logistical support for various missions.

For the FY 2026 budget cycle, the primary goal of the C-40 Fleet Expansion was to address ongoing requirements for mission support aircraft by increasing the number of available C-40s. The program's objectives included enhancing the Air Force's ability to transport key personnel and mission-essential equipment efficiently, improving readiness, and ensuring that the fleet remains capable of meeting both routine and emergent transportation needs. The expansion was intended to address gaps in airlift capability and to replace aging aircraft in the mission support fleet.

However, the budget documentation specifies that this effort will not be executed in FY 2026. The justification provided indicates that no funding is requested for FY 2026, and that funds previously allocated for FY 2025 will be reprogrammed to support other Air Force priorities. This decision reflects a shift in resource allocation, likely due to changing operational requirements or higher-priority needs elsewhere within the Air Force's procurement portfolio.

The C-40 Fleet Expansion line item falls under the Aircraft Procurement, Air Force appropriation (3010F), specifically within Budget Activity 04 (Other Aircraft) and Budget Sub Activity 4 (Mission Support Aircraft). The program element code associated with this line is 0401314F. The absence of a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) or Major Automated Information System (MAIS) code suggests that this is not considered a major acquisition program, but rather a targeted procurement effort within the broader mission support aircraft category.

In previous years, the program's objectives would have included the procurement of new aircraft, associated initial spares, and support equipment necessary to integrate the new C-40s into the operational fleet. The line item would also have covered costs related to aircraft modifications, testing, and certification to meet Air Force requirements. However, with the decision not to execute this effort in FY 2026, these activities will not proceed as originally planned.

The reprogramming of FY 2025 funds underscores the Air Force's ongoing process of reassessing and realigning its budget to better support evolving strategic objectives. While the expansion of the C-40 fleet remains a recognized requirement for mission support, the Air Force has determined that other priorities warrant immediate attention and resources. This approach allows for greater flexibility in addressing emerging needs and sustaining overall force readiness.