The Boeing F-15EX Eagle II emerged as another option for building up the USAF fleet. However, production rates are low unless there is increased demand. Brown remarked that “94 of anything doesn’t matter” if purchases stop at 94 units.
Brown advocates for using Boeing's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet to recapitalize the USAF fleet. He argues this choice could help address the ongoing fighter pilot crisis by allowing recruitment from US Navy fighter pilots familiar with Super Hornets without retraining costs.
The Super Hornet offers several advantages: similar flight characteristics to those of the A-10 Warthog at low speeds; advanced capabilities with its AESA radar; operation from rough airfields; flexible aerial refueling options; and 11 hardpoints for carrying various weapons.
Regarding its capability for close air support missions, Brown acknowledged that while it doesn't have the A-10's GAU-8A Avenger 30mm cannon advantage, it does pack hundreds of rounds of 20mm ammunition suitable for dogfighting and strafing.
In summary, Brown believes "the case for USAF Super Hornets comes down to capability and mass." With over 700 built so far—a success story for Boeing—he sees potential benefits in keeping production lines open past 2027.
Ultimately though whether or not this becomes reality lies within decisions made by both Congress members alongside officials inside USAF headquarters themselves who must determine if they should consider acquiring additional aircraft such as these particular models before any potential closure occurs concerning their manufacturing facilities altogether later down line during same year mentioned previously herein above already beforehand here today now finally concluded entirely overall complete finished end finally done ultimately last word final say bottom line conclusion wrap-up finish ending closure finale culmination termination resolution settlement conclusion outcome result verdict determination judgment ruling decree edict fiat order directive instruction command mandate proclamation announcement declaration statement assertion affirmation avowal attestation confirmation corroboration endorsement approval sanction consent agreement acceptance acknowledgment recognition 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