Senior leaders from the Department of the Air Force highlighted the importance of on-time appropriations and discussed the priorities and needs that must be addressed in the upcoming fiscal year 2025 budget. Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall expressed optimism about the passing of the 2024 budget, which has been delayed due to continuing resolutions. The leaders emphasized the importance of securing resources to move forward with their plans and initiatives to strengthen the force for Great Power Competition.
At the 15th Annual McAleese Defense Programs Conference, senior military leaders engaged in discussions with defense experts, members of the industrial base, and congressional representatives about threat-driven budget requirements. U.S. Space Force Vice Chief of Space Operations, Gen. Michael A. Guetlein, highlighted the growing threats to space security from China and Russia. He underscored the need for the Space Force to be resourced and prepared for perpetual competition in order to maintain space superiority.
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin discussed the importance of transforming procurement processes to adapt to the evolving battlespace. He emphasized the need for capabilities and weapon sets that can quickly adjust to meet changing requirements, rather than focusing on endurance. Allvin also stressed the importance of organizational alignment, agility, and enterprise solutions to prepare for potential future conflicts, which will require maximum investment in modernization efforts.
In discussing the future of the Air Force, leaders emphasized the need for a reevaluation of acquisitions and the lifespan of capabilities to maintain an enduring advantage. Gen. Guetlein highlighted the Space Force’s journey to establish domain superiority in a contested space environment. He emphasized the importance of swift action, strong military and civilian partnerships, and investments in training, command and control, and domain control. Overall, the discussions at the conference focused on the need for strategic investments and adaptations to address evolving threats and challenges in the defense landscape.
