The Mitchell Institute’s Aerospace Nation Podcast Keynote: Gen. David W. Allvin | 1st Annual Airpower Futures Forum
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Mar 7, 2025 
General David W. Allvin, the 23rd Chief of Staff of the Air Force, shares insights on the evolution of the Air Force in tackling global threats. He discusses the shift towards unified training to enhance readiness for high-stakes conflicts, emphasizing strategic foresight and adaptability. Agility and speed in military operations are highlighted as key factors for maintaining a competitive edge. Allvin advocates for integrated capabilities to tackle emerging challenges, ensuring the Air Force remains prepared for future airpower needs.
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Post-Cold War Air Force
- Gen. Allvin reflects on the Cold War era when the Air Force was built to counter a major existential threat.
- After the Cold War, this threat diminished, leading to a shrinking defense industrial base and a less focused Air Force.
Adapting to Changing Demands
- In the 1990s, lacking a major threat, the Air Force modernized existing platforms without a comprehensive future design.
- After 9/11, the Air Force adapted to provide specific capabilities like close air support and ISR, but often in fragmented deployments.
Need for Holistic Force Design
- The Air Force's piecemeal approach to deployments has hindered its ability to train and operate cohesively as a unified force.
- This fragmented approach poses challenges in confronting complex threats and requires a holistic reevaluation of force optimization.