SUSTAIN Act

The SUSTAIN Act prevents the Air Force from reducing the number of MQ-9 unmanned aircraft or cutting staff levels for these units during the period from enactment until September 30, 2032. This restriction applies to both the active Air Force and the Air National Guard, ensuring that existing mission capabilities and personnel assignments remain at current levels unless specific exceptions are met. Exceptions allow for removing individual aircraft that are unsafe or obsolete, or for converting entire units to new missions if approved by the relevant governor and supported by a detailed plan. Additionally, the bill requires the Air Force to consult with National Guard leaders before making any changes to these units and mandates a report within 180 days outlining a long-term plan to modernize the MQ-9 fleet.