Department of Air Force releases $169bn budget proposal for 2021

The US Department of the Air Force has released a $169bn budget proposal for the fiscal year 2021, which includes funding for the newly created US Space Force for the first time.

The proposal also includes funding to help both services upgrade, address potential threats from Russia and China, and sustain readiness.

Additionally, it calls for increased investments in space and ensures enough combat power is in place to respond to any attack against the US or allies decisively.



The department noted that the spending plan carries a $900m rise from the previous year. For 2021, $153.6bn is directed to the airforce and $15.4bn for the space force.

US Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett said: “Our fiscal year ‘21 budget proposal helps drive irreversible momentum as we implement the National Defense Strategy.



“The strategic advantages the airforce and the spaceforce bring to our nation are vital. This budget allows us to meet today’s national security challenges while taking important steps toward the air and space forces we need in 2030.”

As part of the budget, funds will be provided for a rapid experimentation, prototyping and development effort that supports the overall initiative led by joint staff to connect every sensor and shooter in land, sea, air, space and cyber.