Episode 52: The Commander: Commanding the RCAF and flying the CF-188 Hornet Part 2 - Eric Kenny
May 6, 2025
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Join Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, Commander of the RCAF, as he shares insights on leading the Royal Canadian Air Force. He tackles the current state of the RCAF, addressing challenges in recruitment and modernization amid rising geopolitical tensions from adversaries like Russia and China. Kenny discusses the path towards a 2035 operational readiness goal, the evolution to 5th generation capabilities, and the importance of investing in both technology and personnel. He also highlights the significance of military family support and educational advancements in air and cyber warfare.
Lieutenant General Eric Kenney emphasizes a strategic direction for the RCAF, aimed at clarifying its mission and operational objectives for the next decade.
The celebration of the RCAF's 100th anniversary reflects the importance of public engagement and inspires future generations to pursue aviation careers.
Geopolitical tensions from adversaries like Russia and China necessitate a modernization plan focused on advanced technologies and enhanced operational capabilities.
Deep dives
Establishing a Clear Strategy for the RCAF
Upon taking command of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in August 2022, Lieutenant General Eric Kenney's primary focus was to finalize and implement a strategic direction for the next decade. This strategy aimed to clarify the RCAF's mission and objectives, allowing for better communication of its role to both internal personnel and the public. Kenney collaborated with his predecessor to ensure continuity and success in articulating the future vision of the Air Force, emphasizing the importance of establishing a cohesive approach in operations. This structured strategy is viewed as vital for guiding the RCAF towards achieving its goals effectively and consistently.
Celebrating the RCAF Centennial
One of the most rewarding aspects of Kenney's command has been overseeing the celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the RCAF, which will culminate in March 2025. The centennial activities have not only allowed for the recognition of past and current aviators but also aimed to inspire future generations to consider a career in aviation. Despite initial resource constraints, the team successfully executed a series of events that resonated well with Canadians, giving them a newfound recognition and pride in their Air Force. The success of this initiative has reinstated the importance of public engagement and visibility for the RCAF.
Current Strengths and Areas for Improvement
The RCAF is recognized for its professionalism and rapid responsiveness to both domestic and international needs. This agility enables the Force to efficiently deliver effects where needed but also exposes limitations regarding troop numbers and capabilities, particularly in adapting to new threats. The need for improved recruitment and retention is a pressing issue, with thousands of positions currently unfilled in both regular and reserve forces. A strategic effort is underway to enhance training and ensure personnel are adequately supported to match the increasing operational demands.
Navigating Challenges from Adversaries
The primary challenges currently faced by the RCAF stem from geopolitical tensions, with notable threats identified from nations like Russia and China, as well as rogue states and extremist organizations. Kenney underscores the importance of maintaining a state of readiness, particularly in the context of potential conflict and the necessity for effective deterrence. This involves a multifaceted approach that prioritizes enhancing capabilities, including the integration of advanced technologies and equipment to counter adversarial advances. The Commander stresses that a comprehensive understanding of the adversary's motives is essential to derive successful deterrence strategies.
Modernization Efforts and Future Investment
The RCAF's modernization plan reflects a commitment to transition to new technologies and capabilities, especially as a response to evolving global threats. With significant investments in replacing aging fleets and enhancing operational capabilities, the goal is to ensure the Air Force maintains its competitive edge against peer adversaries. Upcoming contracts, including those for new aircraft, aim to fill critical capability gaps to project power and sustain air superiority. Kenney emphasizes the urgency of these modernization efforts, aligning them with the overarching mission of continental defense and readiness for major combat operations.
What is it like to command the RCAF? What is the RCAF good at, and what needs fixing? Who are our potential main adversaries and why? What challenges will we face as we pursue modernization? Have US politics (as of recording mid-March) affected our strategies with the F35 and other acquisitions? What does the future hold for the RCAF? We will talk about all of this and much more, plus questions from the audience in this interview with Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, Commander of the RCAF. Tune in today!
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