To provide a prohibition on certain reductions to MQ-9 aircraft units, and for other purposes.

(a) Report required. Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force, in coordination with the Director of the Air National Guard, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the plan of the Department of the Air Force to recapitalize the MQ–9 aircraft fleet.

(b) Elements. The report required by subsection (a) shall include the following:

(1) An assessment of the current operational status, projected service life, and mission requirements of the MQ–9 aircraft fleet.

(2) A description of planned modernization efforts, sustainment activities, and capability upgrades for MQ–9 aircraft through fiscal year 2035.

(3) An assessment of options for recapitalization or modernization MQ–9 aircraft.

(4) A description of the role of the Air National Guard in the future MQ–9 aircraft force structure and recapitalization strategy.

(5) A projected timeline and estimated funding requirements associated with recapitalization of the MQ–9 aircraft fleet.

(6) An identification of any legislative authorities required to implement the recapitalization plan.