Security And Tactical Vehicles

The Security And Tactical Vehicles program, as outlined in Line Item 823230 of the Air Force's FY 2026 budget request, is designed to support the procurement of specialized vehicles essential for strategic military operations. The primary objective of this program is to ensure Air Force personnel have access to reliable, mission-capable vehicles that meet installation and unit mission requirements. This includes both security vehicles and tactical platforms, with a focus on maintaining operational readiness and supporting a range of Air Force missions.

The program funds the acquisition of High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWVs) and associated cargo trailers, such as the M1101 and M1102 models. These trailers are engineered to be compatible with HMMWVs, sharing tires, wheels, and track width, but differing in payload capacity and model information. Their primary goal is to provide Air Force units with rugged, nimble solutions for hauling cargo and supporting rapid deployment needs. The procurement of these vehicles is justified by their critical role in enabling mobility and logistics for both routine and contingency operations.

For FY 2026, the budget supports the procurement of vehicles as determined by requirements from the 441 Vehicle Support Chain Operations Squadron (VSCOS) in accordance with Air Force Instruction (AFI) 24-302, Vehicle Management. The program utilizes a priority buy model within the Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution (PPBE) process, which calculates annual vehicle needs based on end-of-life projections, cumulative sustainment costs, and mission priorities. This data-driven approach ensures that procurement quantities align with current operational demands and future projections.

The program supports a broad spectrum of Air Force components, including Active Duty, Air Force Reserve Center (AFRC), Air National Guard (ANG), Rapid Airfield Damage Repair (RADR), and Regional Base Cluster Prepositioning Kits (RBCP) for the Pacific Command (PACOM). It also accommodates emerging initiatives as mission requirements evolve. The flexibility in procurement allows for adjustments in vehicle types and options, such as specialized towing packages, export engines, and mission-specific attachments, to meet diverse operational needs.

Unit costs for vehicles under this line item are subject to annual fluctuations due to factors such as buy quantities, geographic location (CONUS/OCONUS), inflation, and specific user requirements. The FY 2026 request reflects an increase in cargo trailer unit cost, attributed to industry-wide inflation, rising costs of materials, and supply chain shortages. Additionally, expiring contracts and anticipated increases in replacement contract pricing contribute to cost variability.

The program also aligns with broader Department of Defense and Administration efficiency initiatives. The FY 2026 request was reduced for Advisory and Assistance Services to promote cost savings and support Executive Order 14222, which implements government-wide efficiency measures. This reduction is part of ongoing efforts to streamline procurement processes and optimize resource allocation across the Air Force.