So how many F-22s are needed?
For security of the U.S. and our allies, we need more of this aircraft.
Japan could use about 150 or more. Israel--given the lessening security situation over the long haul--about the same number. Australia, now with the F-111 gone, certainly could use about 72.
The U.S. Air Force--based on an actual study--needs as a minimum 380+ to support 10 deployment contingency tours known as AEF's.
All of this would give the program health to fund other variants and the FB-22.
However, now that the U.S. has no air power leadership of worth, this is all lost.
Future conventional wars will now be more costly. The loss of credible deterrent puts the U.S. and its allies at more risk.
