President Trump’s defense spending boost presents major opportunities for the Air Force. However, many officials have spent their entire careers living through extended periods of austerity—with budget toplines driving decisions, not what they really need to meet requirements. Switching gears to grow the force involves a different mindset to address different challenges and maximize opportunities. That’s what we discuss today: how do we grow the Air Force?

We are joined by two legends of airpower for this conversation: Gen. Ron Fogleman, USAF (Ret.), the 15th Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and Gen. Mike Loh, USAF (Ret.), who served as the Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force and later as the first commander of Air Combat Command. They both spent time in key plans and program assignments during the Reagan-era build up, the last time the Air Force saw a surge of investment.

Guests

Gen John Michael Loh, USAF (Ret.)Former Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force & Commander, Air Combat Command

Gen Ron Fogleman, USAF (Ret.)CSAF 15

John VenableSenior Fellow for Airpower Studies, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies

Host

Heather PenneyDirector of Studies and Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies

Credits