What Will It Take to Recover Air Force Readiness?
Air & Space Forces Magazine | October 29, 2025
R&D vs Procurement Dollars, Chinese Gains in Space, and Small UAS Defense: The Rendezvous
In this episode, our team explores the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond. Where do the defense bills stand as well as the shutdown? We also discuss the latest developments in Ukraine, plus the latest and greatest with spacepower. Plus, we explore organizational happenings, like the decision to role the ICC function into A5/7, not pursue Space Force Futures, and downgrading USAFE to a 3-star billet. We wrap up by highlighting the new small UAS test efforts at Grand Forks AFB and jump into the renewed debate on whether too much is being spent on Air Force R&D vs procurement and readiness.
Ten-year fighter plan is aspirational without money to back it up, Air Force says
Inside Defense | October 30, 2025
Former US fighter pilot warns America’s airpower edge is slipping as China builds a bigger, more capable, and readier force
Business Insider | October 30, 2025
More Issues
Acquisition
Empowering actors at all levels with a smart set of options at the right time and place demands procuring the most effective, efficient, and resilient set of tools.
Budgeting
Resource investment must prioritize investments that will yield best value for the Air Force, Space Force, and national security establishment as a whole.
Industry
Nuclear
Strategic deterrence is the bedrock of the national security enterprise thanks to the virtues and value of the triad.
Space
National security space activities are essential facets of any military operation, while also creating conditions essential for the civilian economy.
Strategy
Meeting national security requirements today and tomorrow requires insightful, creative approaches that prioritize America’s strengths, while not projecting undue vulnerability.