War Consumables

The War Consumables program within the Air Force's Aircraft Procurement budget is designed to ensure the availability of critical expendable items necessary for aircraft self-protection and operational readiness. This line item focuses on procuring advanced expendable countermeasures and consumable support equipment for aerial targets, with the goal of maintaining effective defense capabilities against evolving threats. The program is service-ready and supports both multi-platform electronic warfare systems and aerial target operations, aligning with operational requirements and inventory objectives set by combatant commanders.

The primary objective of the Advanced Expendable Countermeasures (AECM) subprogram is to procure and sustain systems such as towed decoys and expendable decoys. These countermeasures are integrated into multiple aircraft platforms, including the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, to provide protection against radar-guided air-to-air and surface-to-air missile threats. Funding is allocated for all system components, including decoys, canisters, and explosive cartridges necessary for deployment. The procurement supports both hardware acquisition and qualification activities to address production challenges such as diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages.

The Aerial Targets subprogram supports the procurement of Rocket-Assisted Take-Off (RATO) motors and associated support items for the Air Force Subscale Aerial Target (AFSAT) drone. RATO motors are solid propellant rockets that provide the necessary thrust for launching aerial targets used in weapons testing and training. Support items include reefing line cutters, igniters, and initiators, all of which are single-use consumables. The program also covers costs related to first article testing, transportation, and inert motors for training purposes, ensuring that aerial target operations remain effective and safe.

Procurement quantities for both subprograms are subject to change based on negotiated options, pricing bands, and available funding, in accordance with Title 10, U.S. Code Section 2308 (Buy-to-Budget Acquisition). Inventory objectives are updated throughout the year to reflect changes in operational plans and requirements from combatant commanders. This flexible approach allows the Air Force to adapt to shifting priorities and maintain readiness in response to emerging threats and technological advancements.

Another key objective of the War Consumables program is to address production and supply chain risks, particularly those associated with electronic components that are commercially available and in short supply. Funds may be used for studies, bridge buys, life-of-type buys, and supplier or parts replacement activities. These efforts are critical for preserving future production capabilities and capacities, ensuring that the Air Force can continue to procure and sustain essential consumables without interruption.

In FY 2026, the program's funding request was reduced for Advisory and Assistance Services, in alignment with Executive Order 14222, which promotes government efficiency and cost-saving initiatives. This adjustment reflects the Air Force's commitment to advancing administrative policies while maintaining the effectiveness of its procurement activities. The program is supported by several related Program Elements, which provide additional context and resources for the execution of these objectives.