Specifically to sustainment funding: key components of the avionics system must be upgraded due to avionics Diminishing Manufacturing Source (DMS) and new FAA/ICAO requirements (airspace access limitations).

Recapitalize the E-8C (JSTARS) with a modern state-of-the-art aircraft containing sufficient margins for growth to meet future DoD mission requirements in both the areas of Command and Control (C2) and Intelligence Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR). Support JSTARS Recapitalization (RECAP) program to Full Operational Capability. Require funding of the JSTARS RECAP program to reach Initial Operational Capability no later than 2024 (four combat-coded aircraft, necessary support assets to include initial spares, technical documents, and maintenance equipment; fully trained flight, mission, maintenance and mission support personnel; and training systems to support 4-ship deployment) and Full Operational Capability no later than 2028

Instruct the Air Force to not program or implement any reduction in Air National Guard end-strength tied to the E-8C and instruct the Air Force to ensure a smooth transition of the same Air National Guard manpower and personnel into JSTARS RECAP (retains operational capacity and capability, yields reduced in-garrison manpower and personnel costs, and enables a high surge capacity) and RECAP assigned missions at a rate concurrent with the Active Duty Air Force.

Increase Air National Guard Crew Ratio from 0.5 combat coded crews for each JSTARS RECAP mission coded aircraft to as high as 2.0 ANG combat coded crews to reduce the risk associated with Force Structure (outlined in the HAF FY17 Core Function Support Plan) and to yield improved accessibility and delivery of C2 forces to Combatant Commanders in support of rotational steady-state operations at the lower annual DoD cost of drill-status personnel (compared to RegAF MILPERS cost) and a robust surge capacity for Deter and Defeat operations associated with Opportunistic Aggressors.