<p>Multi-role versatility is seen by many in the Air Force as the key to an effective force in the days of stringent budgets. It also accounts for the fact that the most numerous aircraft in the inventory is a true multi-role performer: the Lockheed F-16. Initially, the F-16 was seen as a lightweight fighter, but in USAF service it is primarily an attack aircraft, armed with conventional ordnance, but with an outstanding and regularly practiced air-to-air ability if required. Later versions mirror the trend towards sophistication by adding night/adverse weather capability and better weapons. Although not able to carry as much as far as an F-15E, or deliver with the same accuracy, the F-16 in its own right is a potent warplane able to perform many different missions. At a purchase cost considerably below the big McDonnell Douglas fighter, it is no wonder that so many are in service, and its future development is inextricably linked with the USAF's future plans.
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<p>As for other attackers, the Fairchild A-10A is in the twilight of its career. A specialist anti-armor platform, the A-10 put up a good show in the Gulf War, but it is considered vulnerable in the close air support mission, and is intended for eventual replacement by a missionized F-16C. The A-10 still plays an important part in the USAF's make-up, and several have been re-roled to perform the forward air control mission, a task incidentally also performed by F-16s in the Gulf War.
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<p>Procurement for the strike/attack fleet is in abeyance, perhaps pending the outcome of the still-secret development of ultra-stealthy aircraft, which is believed to be ongoing. An F-16 follow-on is required for the next century, and the success of the F-117 and F-15E would suggest that a stealthy and highly potent strike platform will certainly be required. In addition to stealthiness, rapid deployment capability and ease of maintenance, the ability to perform a multitude of roles without compromising any of them will be paramount in the procurement plans of any new aircraft. New weapons are under development for all classes of attack aircraft, based on inertial guidance for bombs and missiles to allow greater accuracy from greater stand-off range. The new JDAM/JSOW family will be available to aircraft from the B-2 to the F-16.
