Statement of Robert F. Hale, Assistant Director, National Security Division, Congressional Budget Office
Abstract
I appreciate the opportunity to testify today on the costs and effects of transferring portions of the active Air Force to the part-time reserve forces. The Congress has frequently considered such transfers because they offer cost savings without changing the numbers of forces available to the United States in the event of a major war. My testimony examines three options that would transfer 125, 149, and 305 aircraft, respectively, from active to reserve forces. The largest of these options would reduce operating costs by $320 million a year. While these savings represent only a small fraction of the total defense budget, they roughly equal the operating savings that would be achieved by eliminating two Air Force wings. Thus, they compare favorably with the operating savings associated with major changes in the number of forces. My statement first provides background on Air Force missions and current Administration plans for Air Force aircraft. I will then discuss in some detail the savings associated with the three transfer options, as well as their various advantages and disadvantages.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA529825
Entities
People
- Robert F. Hale
Organizations
- Congressional Budget Office