S.Amdt. 6096

SA 6096, submitted by Mr. Padilla, aims to limit the removal of U-2 Dragon Lady aircraft from the active inventory during fiscal year 2027.

The amendment proposes the following changes and additions to bill S. 4784:

• Divestiture Limits: It prohibits the Secretary of the Air Force from retiring, divesting, transferring, or removing more than two U-2 Dragon Lady aircraft from the active inventory in fiscal year 2027.

• No Acceleration: The Secretary of the Air Force cannot accelerate the divestiture of these aircraft beyond the two-plane limit, even if replacement platforms are operationally ready.

• Reporting Requirements: The Secretary of the Air Force must provide a report to congressional defense committees within 90 days of the Act's enactment. This report must include:

  • A transition plan for divestiture with milestones and timelines.
  • A description of bridging capabilities to prevent degradation in capacity or operational capability.
  • An independent assessment of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance gaps that would occur if U-2 aircraft are retired before replacement systems reach full operational capability.

• Definition: The amendment defines active inventory as aircraft in storage for potential future use, as well as those assigned to Air National Guard units, Air Force Reserve units, and active flying units.