According to the US Department of Defense, the US Air Force plans to retire 250 combat aircraft in 2025 as part of preparations for future purchases of newer aircraft.
What is known
One of the main purposes of retiring old aircraft is to make room for more modern models. For example, out of these 250 aircraft, there are 65 F-15C/D heavy fighters that were used from 1979 to 1985. According to the plan, they will be replaced by new multi-role F-15EX models.
Also on the list of those to be retired are 26 F-15E fighters, in particular because they have old Pratt & Whitney F110-PW-220 engines. The aircraft will be replaced with more modern models with more reliable F110-PW-229 engines.
Another important step is the write-off of 56 A-10C attack aircraft. Although these aircraft are noted for their relative affordability, their outdated equipment and limited range make them less effective in today’s combat environment.
The company also wrote off F-22 fighters, of which there are about 32 units. This is also due to aging equipment and high modernization costs, as the F-22 was used to test new technologies that, after improvements and modifications, were incorporated into the F-35 production aircraft.
We also remind you: Ukraine may receive the first F-16s in July, but the number of aircraft is limited
