combat flight inspection - CFIN

The Combat Flight Inspection (CFIN) program is a specialized Air Force initiative funded under the Aircraft Procurement, Air Force appropriation, specifically within the Modification of Inservice Aircraft budget activity. The primary goal of this line item is to support the unique military equipment installed on four Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) owned, Air Force operated Bombardier Challenger aircraft, which are designated to provide the Department of Defense (DoD) with a dedicated Combat Flight Inspection capability.

The specific objective of the CFIN program is to validate and certify airfield instrument approach and landing systems, as well as associated instrument procedures, to ensure they are safe and meet operational specifications prior to the commencement of all-weather combat flight operations. This mission is critical for maintaining the safety and readiness of military airfields, particularly in environments where rapid deployment and operational flexibility are required.

The four Bombardier Challenger aircraft used in the CFIN mission are equipped with specialized military modifications. These include secure anti-jam radios to ensure reliable communications in contested environments, military Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Mode IV and V transponders for secure aircraft identification, and survivability equipment to enhance crew and aircraft protection. These modifications are essential for the aircraft to operate effectively in both peacetime and combat scenarios.

Another key objective of the CFIN line item is to address ongoing and emerging issues related to flight safety, reliability, and maintainability of the C-143 fleet. The program allocates funding for low-cost modifications that are necessary to mitigate risks associated with Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (DMS), ensuring that critical components remain available and that the fleet remains operationally viable.

In fiscal year 2026, efforts previously funded under CFIN00 have been transferred to the OSAEA0 (OSA-EA Modifications) budget line item. This consolidation is intended to provide increased funding flexibility and streamline the management of modification programs across similar aircraft platforms. As a result, no new funding is requested under CFIN00 for FY 2026, and future requirements will be addressed within the consolidated line item.

The program is managed under Program Element (PE) 0401314F, which encompasses related modification and sustainment efforts for these specialized aircraft. The justification for the program emphasizes the importance of maintaining a dedicated combat flight inspection capability to support DoD air operations worldwide, ensuring that airfield navigation aids and procedures are validated and certified for safe use in both peacetime and contingency operations.