The Air Force has revised its guidelines to contractors vying for the new combat search and rescue aircraft, asking them to plan to introduce more capability sooner. According to Reuters news service, over the next five years, USAF plans to add $849 million to the effort to replace its HH-60 CSAR helicopters. With the additional funds, Air Force Special Operations Command can advance delivery of aircraft with a full complement of equipment. The change probably will delay contract award from spring to late summer.
Airmen and Guardians in the Active and Reserve component, as well as civilian employees, in “mission critical and high-risk populations” are now required to receive influenza vaccinations annually to “preserve force readiness,” according to a recent Department of the Air Force memo.