Repairing capability before buying new equipment

Procurement is a force-structure problem rather than a shopping list. New money should first reinforce programs already under way and restore capabilities previously cut to the bone. Buying more of an existing aircraft may be cheaper than adding a second type with a superficially attractive unit price. A new type duplicates logistics, training, basing, command, certification, safety, consultation, and business-case costs, while an enlarged existing fleet can use support arrangements already in place. The relevant price is the complete supported capability, not just the advertised platform.