Fighter Update, Vector 2025, and CSAF Priorities: The Rendezvous — Ep. 266

Dec 6, 2025

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Episode Summary:

In this episode, our team explores the top defense issues in Washington, D.C. and beyond. Where do the defense bills stand? What’s up with the new Air Force fighter force structure report, plus Secretary of War Hegseth’s acquisition speech? We also explore Gen. Wilsbach’s new priorities, F-35s to Saudia Arabia, as well as Lt. Gen. White’s nomination for a new job as DRPM. The conversation also covers the Space Force, including Vector 2025, the creation of Combat Forces Command, and new developments regarding their test and validation requirements.

Credits:

Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies

Producer: Shane Thin

Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey

Guest: Mark "Gonzo" Gunzinger, Director of Future Concepts and Capability Assessments, Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies

Guest: Jennifer "Boost" Reeves, Senior Resident Fellow for Space Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE)

Guest: Todd “Sledge” Harmer, Senior Vice President, American Defense International

Guest: Jeff "Rowli" Rowlison, Vice President of Space & Intel Programs, American Defense International

Guest: Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski, Principal, Cornerstone Government Affairs

Post-Credits Discussion:

Guest: Douglas Birkey, Executive Director, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE)

Guest: Charles Galbreath, Director and Senior Resident Fellow for Space Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE)

Guest: Kyle "Puma" Pumroy, Senior Resident Fellow for Space Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE)

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