Keeping top combat aircraft flying is expected to only get more expensive

"The cost for the US and other militaries to keep newer combat aircraft ready to fly is going to soar in the coming years, a new report on sustainment trends argues. A new report from the American consulting firm Oliver Wyman projects global military aircraft spending over the next decade, including an annual sustainment cost growth of 1.1% through 2036. That's a pace roughly 11 times faster than the previous decade."

"The report forecasts a spike in deliveries of advanced fourth-generation and fifth-generation aircraft and more aircraft in active service across global militaries. Demand for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike stealth fighter, in particular, is anticipated to remain strong at over 50% of the fighter market as global air forces gradually replace their aging in-service aircraft. The US and many of its allies in Europe"

Global military aircraft sustainment costs are projected to grow about 1.1% annually through 2036, roughly eleven times faster than during the previous decade. Deliveries of advanced fourth- and fifth-generation fighters are expected to spike, increasing the number of high-end aircraft in active service worldwide. Demand for the F-35 Lightning II is anticipated to exceed half of the fighter market as aging platforms are replaced and many US allies acquire F-35 fleets. Some militaries are also exploring sixth-generation designs. Costs may stabilize temporarily as older fleets retire, but US sustainment spending will continue to rise as complex replacement aircraft enter large-scale service. Large drones will see increased production and require less sustainment per airframe due to shorter lifespans.

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