We’ve Got To Start Now

We’ve Got To Start Now: Air Combat Command is starting soon to study the F-22 replacement or supplement—a 6th-generation fighter—Air Combat Command chief Gen. William Fraser said in an interview. "We’re in the very early stages of this and doing a capabilities-based assessment," he said, adding, "we'll get started in the not-too-distant future." Other ACC officials said in the next few months the command would launch an 18-month analysis of alternatives that will look at options for replacing the F-22 when the first ones begin to reach their planned life expectancies, about 20 years from now. Those alternatives will consider unmanned aircraft, as well as manned aircraft, and new munitions, but Fraser said a penetrating platform will still likely be essential. "We are mindful that we’ve got to be prepared for the future," Fraser said. "That’s why we’ve got to start now."

—John A. Tirpak

12/22/2009

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Appreciative Host
"I know you're here during a difficult time. You're here through Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's. I promise you, we will find turkeys."
—Republic of Lithuania Chief of Defence Maj. Gen. Arvydas Pocius, expressing his thanks to airmen of the 493rd Fighter Squadron from RAF Lakenheath, Britain, who on Sept. 1, 2010, began a four-month stint with their F-15s in Lithuania to protect the airspace of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania under NATO's Baltic air policing mission.

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Family Momentum
"In many ways, this was what the Year of the Air Force Family was all about—connecting airmen and their families with the resources they need. I have confidence the Air Force will capitalize on this strong momentum in the years ahead by continuing to improve our family support programs and ensuring people know what resources are available."
—Suzie Schwartz, wife of USAF Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz, commenting on the accomplishments of the Year of the Air Force Family initiative that concluded in July, in a statement provided to the Daily Report, Aug. 22, 2010.