The Air Force requires 80 percent of its combat squadrons to be full-spectrum ready to meet the requirements of the Nation’s Defense Strategic Guidance and current and future operation plans.  During his confirmation hearing in 2016, General David Goldfein stated that less than 50 percent of combat units were ready for “full-spectrum” (high threat, high intensity) combat.  He went on to say the Air Force could readily project the combat ready forces to execute and win a single major regional conflict (MRC), but the challenge of meeting the remaining demand for global combat ready forces would be significant.  The Air Force must invest in readiness, modernization, grow end strength, and stabilize its civilian workforce to ensure it is ready to meet today’s threats as well as those that lay ahead.

As Congress debates defense budgets for both 2017 and 2018 in the coming months, questions on military readiness will take center stage.  What actions must be taken now to ensure the Air Force remains dominant in the air, and how long will it bring readiness levels above 80%?  Join us as the Nation’s number one Airman discusses readiness, modernization, end strength, and revitalization of the nuclear force.