Other Aircraft

The LI OTHACF - Other Aircraft line item in the Air Force's FY2026 budget supports a range of aircraft modifications, primarily focused on enhancing operational capability, reliability, and maintainability across multiple platforms. This line item encompasses both procurement and research activities, targeting systems that receive varying levels of annual funding. The objective is to ensure that in-service aircraft remain mission-ready and technologically current, supporting both combat and training operations. Agencies involved include various Air Force program offices, with funding distributed across several Program Elements (PEs).

MAF Training (Mobility Air Forces Training) is a significant component of this line item, with funding allocated to modify and enhance high-fidelity aircrew training and support systems. The goal is to improve combat readiness by fully integrating Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) capabilities. Efforts include software and hardware upgrades to training systems, the development of a Mobility Air Force Common Visual Database, and enhancements to simulators for virtual aerial refueling and threat avoidance training. These modifications also address Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and move toward a modular, cyber-resilient open system architecture, guided by the Simulator Common Architecture Requirements and Standards initiative.

Tactical Data Link Communications Capabilities funding is directed at the modernization of the Multi-functional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System, specifically through Block Upgrade 3. This upgrade is essential for robust, interoperable communications, supporting Integrated Fire Control and Joint Tactical Grid information exchange at the tactical edge. The program includes procurement and integration of new communication equipment, such as Link 16 terminals, and supports broader Advanced Battle Management System and Joint All Domain Command and Control initiatives. Agile Communications efforts further enable secure, resilient data sharing in highly contested environments, leveraging open standards and advanced network management tools.

ATP-TI Increment 1 (Advanced Targeting Pod Technical Insertion) funding supports the procurement of upgrade kits for targeting pods. These upgrades are designed to improve long-range target acquisition, weapon delivery envelopes, and aircraft survivability for multiple platforms. Enhancements include high-resolution imagery, larger apertures, eye-safe lasers, and digital video integration. The program also implements the Bandwidth Efficient-Common Datalink and Type-1 Encryption mandates, which are critical for secure communications and compliance with Office of the Secretary of Defense requirements. The ATP-TI program continuously integrates new technology to increase standoff range and combat identification capabilities.

LGM-35A Sentinel Secondary Launch Platform-Airborne (SLP-A) is another key objective within this line item. The SLP-A is being developed as a dual-capable, air-based secondary launch system for both Minuteman III and Sentinel ICBM weapon systems, ensuring continued U.S. strategic nuclear deterrence. The program aims to replace aging hardware in the Airborne Launch Control System, mitigate operational risks, and provide enhanced launch capabilities including two-way voice and data, Emergency Action Message relay, and beyond-line-of-sight launch options. The design leverages modular open-system architecture for future adaptability and integration with Navy E-6B aircraft.

Additional funding within LI OTHACF - Other Aircraft may be used to address Diminishing Manufacturing Sources issues, obsolescence resolution, and emerging requirements as authorized under Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. This ensures the active and reserve components have the necessary capabilities for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civilian authorities. The budget also supports miscellaneous low-cost modifications and program management activities to maintain fleet-wide operational effectiveness.