In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney talks to Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Charles Galbreath, and Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski about the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond.

They unpack how the FY26 defense budget is unfolding—what is good and where is it falling short? The factors involving reconciliation versus the standard budget are throwing in some unpredictable factors to consider. They also discuss Golden Dome from a challenges and opportunities perspective. Past that, news coverage suggests that E-7 might be on the chopping block. Are we ready for a set of capabilities that are entirely space-based? Our experts also discuss a broad range of spacepower developments, plus they evaluate Ukraine’s novel strike on Russian bombers. Join us to learn about the latest when it comes to air and space power!

Guests

Lt Gen David A. Deptula, USAF (Ret.)Dean, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies

Charles GalbreathSenior Resident Fellow for Spacepower Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence

Anthony “Lazer” LazarskiPrincipal, Cornerstone Government Affairs

Host

Heather PenneyDirector of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies

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• Air Force Reserve faces steep fighter cuts, uncertain future

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Credits