The 2006 defense policy measure directs the Air Force to retain all its KC-135E tankers, F-117 stealth fighters, and C-130E/H model airlifters through Fiscal 2006. USAF had been planning to start shedding some of these older aircraft to save money.
Expanded production of the B-21 bomber can be accomplished at Northrop Grumman's existing Palmdale, Calif., facilities, the Air Force said. It also said test aircraft will be so simular to the production version that early examples could be used in combat if called for.