Gen Tim Ray is a highly decorated, retired United States Air Force General most recently serving as Commander of Air Force Global Strike Command. Concurrently he served as the Commander of Air Forces Strategic-Air, United States Strategic Command with a focus on strategy and operational excellence. He excels at developing, fielding, operating and sustaining security capabilities as a result of his vast experience and insights across multiple disciplines: technology development and acquisition, joint and combined military operations from the tactical to the strategic, executive leadership, civil-military relationships, and international security.  This was demonstrated as a member of the Air Force’s “Corporate Board” team of senior leaders, shaping future force structure, modernization and budget priorities for the United States Air Force.  Tim is recognized for solving huge challenges, developing and leading successful global teams, and aerospace power development. He excels at mitigating risk, managing change and creating positive organizational culture.

Tim led the nation’s Air Force Strategic Strike forces in daily operations in support of national objectives globally.  He directed modernization efforts for command and control, aircraft, ICBM, infrastructure and support equipment.   His leadership and vision were instrumental to the organization thriving and improving in its no-fail mission during the COVID-19 Pandemic and shift to strategic competition with near peer adversaries.

Prior, Tim served as the Deputy Command, US European Command where he was the Deputy Commander for all US Joint Forces in Europe. He was responsible for joint, combined operations, planning and exercises to ensure US and coalition military readiness and regional stability all during Russian efforts to destabilize Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. In his role he worked with partners and allies through Europe and the Middle East on complicated, wide ranging strategic issues.

Previously Tim commanded eight Air Force Wings throughout Europe and Africa supporting the US Joint and coalition operations supporting 5 separate commands.  He led daily air operations to include Reconnaissance, Refueling, Airlift, Command and Control and Strike operations.  Additional he led the Joint Task Force to conduct ballistic missile defense of key allies in the region. Earlier in his career Tim was the Deputy Director of Fighter, Bomber and Weapon Programs to the Air Force Assistant Secretary of Acquisition. In this role he was responsible for fighter and bomber aircraft and weapons acquisition programs.  He was a key interface with the Secretary of Defense’s acquisition staff, Congress and Air Force Major Commands to manage key acquisition and budget decisions.

Tim has a Master of Science degree in Aviation Sciences and Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach Florida and a Master of Science degree in Strategic Studies from Air War College, Maxwell AFB, Alabama.  He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Factors Engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy and is a Distinguished graduate of the Air Command and Staff College.