12 in '12: USAF reveals details on budget cuts

Aviation Week is now running an article that outlines the Air Force's plan to reduce its forces. The cuts include:

1. 123 Fighters (102 A-10s and 21 older F-16s)
   
2. 133 Airlifters
   
3. 11 RC-26 Metroliners
4. 18 RQ-4 Global Hawk Block 30s (as previously reported)
   
5. 9,900 Personnel (5,100 ANG, 3,900 AD, and 900 Reserves)
6. Additional cuts to state-level funding through manpower or equipment changes

The rationale for these cuts are to enable the Air Force to mobilze quickly as needed and provide air superiority in any engagement. The force is not cutting the F-35 or the expected procurement of Block 40 GlobalHawks. Additionally, the USAF will move to 115 Associate Units (up from the current 100), and transition ANG units to Unmanned Systems.

I don't have a commentary on this now, but refer to my last post for my thoughts on cutting the A-10 capabilities.