I think that’s the way the US AF has always operated - a high low mix; a handful of expensive ultra capable “mission” aircraft with lots cheaper mass produced o

I think that’s the way the US AF has always operated - a high low mix; a handful of expensive ultra capable “mission” aircraft with lots cheaper mass produced ones for “routine” use. E.G. F-15 vs F-16 The F-22 vs F-35 was suppose to fit that mould too but the F-35 turned out to be more expensive than expected - although the cost has dropped in recent years and they are hard at work to reduce it further.