(c) Feasibility study on advanced capability fighter aircraft.—

(1) STUDY.—The Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the Air National Guard, shall conduct a study to determine the need for procuring advanced capability fighter aircraft for use by the active and reserve components of the Air Force.

(2) ELEMENTS.—The study under paragraph (1) shall—

(A) take into account any plans of the Secretary to implement unmanned or autonomous capabilities in any fighter aircraft of the active or reserve components of the Air Force;

(B) calculate any cost savings in long-lead time, supply chain acquisition, and labor attributed to any sales of the Block 70/72 variant or later variant of the F–16 fighter aircraft by the military of a foreign country;

(C) identify which reserve and active fighter units of the Air Force would be eligible for recapitalization with advanced capability fighter aircraft;

(D) identify how advanced capability fighter aircraft would meet steady state and contingency force presentation and mission requirements of combatant commanders; and

(E) identify whether a multiyear contract would be the best method for acquiring advanced capability fighter aircraft.

(3) REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees the findings of the study conducted pursuant to this subsection.