Initial Spares/Repair Parts

The Initial Spares/Repair Parts program is a critical component of the Air Force's Aircraft Procurement budget, specifically under Budget Activity 06, which focuses on the acquisition of spares and repair parts for newly fielded aircraft systems. The primary objective of this line item is to ensure the availability of essential repairable and consumable components, assemblies, and sub-assemblies at all levels of supply to support new aircraft, modifications, and support equipment. This readiness is necessary to maintain operational capability and minimize downtime for both combat and support aircraft across the Air Force fleet.

The mandatory funding for this program supports initial spares for air vehicle propulsion, survivability, airframe, and avionics programs, as detailed in Sections 20007 (Air Superiority) and 20010 (Readiness) of the Reconciliation Exhibit. The program's budget was reduced to account for prior year execution balances, ensuring efficient use of resources and alignment with actual requirements.

The program is divided into two main segments: Working Capital Fund (WCF) Spares and Exempt Spares. WCF Spares utilize obligation authority to procure initial spares, which are reimbursed upon delivery. This segment covers Readiness Spares Packages, New Acquisition Spares, Modification Spares, Support Equipment, Other Production, and Consumables. Exempt Spares are financed directly through contract budget authority and include Whole Spare Engines, Quick Engine Change Kits, Contractor Logistics Support, Simulators/Trainers, New Acquisition Spares, Modification Spares, Support Equipment, Classified Equipment, and Munitions.

Several major aircraft programs receive funding under this line item, each with specific goals. Funding for F-35 squadrons supports procurement of initial spares for air vehicle, propulsion, and site activation, ensuring readiness for new production aircraft and depot maintenance. The program also maintains the USAF share of the JSF Global Spares Pool, a collaborative effort among U.S. and international partners to optimize spares inventory and support operational and training needs. B-2 and B-52 squadrons receive funding directed toward modernization programs, such as communications upgrades and radar modernization, to maintain mission capability and support ongoing fleet improvements.

Other notable programs include C-5 and C-17 airlift squadrons, where funding ensures viability and availability of strategic airlift capabilities, supporting readiness studies and modification efforts like Beyond Line of Sight communications and fire mitigation. KC-46A and KC-135 tanker squadrons receive funding for initial spares pipelines, including spare engines and communication upgrades, to support Air Mobility Command's bed-down plans and compliance with statutory requirements. F-22A squadrons funding covers spares for advanced avionics, sensor enhancements, and survivability upgrades, supporting air superiority missions and national security mandates.

The program also addresses spares for specialized platforms such as MQ-9 UAVs and RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft, supporting new mission kits, electronic components, and global operational requirements. Precision attack systems procurement funds initial spares for advanced targeting pods and related components, aiming to enhance combat identification, reduce collateral damage, and improve mission effectiveness for multiple aircraft types. T-7A advanced trainer replacement and MH-139A helicopter programs receive spares funding to support initial fielding and training system readiness.