CBO Report Flags Coast Guard Aviation Readiness

CBO’s Nov 21, 2025 analysis shows readiness and resource strains across US Coast Guard aviation that will influence upcoming Congressional budget fights.

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released a report on November 21, 2025, assessing availability and operational use of United States Coast Guard (USCG) aircraft. The report—focused on fleet composition, mission types and utilization rates—calls attention to limits in sustainment and operational availability.

Officials and analysts say the report frames concrete choices for lawmakers: whether to increase maintenance funding, accelerate recapitalization, or shift mission priorities. The CBO document catalogues missions from maritime patrol to search and rescue (SAR), and highlights how reduced availability can ripple into homeland security and port protection tasks.

Why Coast Guard aviation readiness matters

Readiness shortfalls affect day-to-day operations and surge capacity during storms, migrant events, and maritime crises. Lawmakers and defense analysts are reviewing the findings as Congress prepares FY2026 budget deliberations; the report is expected to inform decisions about modernization timelines and resource allocation for aviation sustainment.

CBO data on fleet availability and mission utilization.
Readiness gaps that can degrade maritime patrols and SAR (search and rescue) response.
Budget choices now will determine Coast Guard aviation readiness and future recapitalization plans.

Observers say the report does not prescribe a single fix but provides a data-driven snapshot for policymakers. Expect hearings and briefings in the coming months as Congress weighs trade-offs between near-term repairs and longer-term aircraft modernization. Read the full CBO summary via the source below for the detailed findings.