Keeping top combat aircraft flying is expected to only get more expensive

The US and other top militaries will be spending more on aircraft sustainment than in previous years.

US Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Nicole Stuart

• Sustainment costs for complex aircraft like the F-35 are on the rise.
• A new report analyzes what's driving these costs, as well as global military aviation trends over the next decade.
• Increased production of large drones is a notable trend, as these systems have shorter lifespans and require less sustainment.

The...