Speaking to a breakfast gathering on Capitol Hill Tuesday, US Air Forces in Europe commander Gen. Tom Hobbins said that USAFE hasn’t seen the last of its transformation efforts—or downsizing. Despite earlier comments that USAFE has taken its share of cuts, Hobbins says he may move some elements within the command. He believes that there are more “efficiencies” to be had, specifically mentioning isolated activities at the former Sembach and Bitburg Air Bases in Germany and former Izmir AB, Turkey. Hobbins said there is a NATO facility at Izmir that could be joined up in one location and consolidated with USAFE. Bitburg still houses a medical facility, housing, and a school that USAFE now wants to move over to Spangdahlem. “We want to use resources more effectively and consolidate,” he added.
Work Has Begun to Adapt Qatari 747 to Fly as Air Force One
Sept. 15, 2025
The Air Force has started modifying a Boeing 747 donated by Qatar for "executive airlift," a spokesperson said Sept. 15. President Donald Trump has said he wants to fly the jet as “Air Force One” since new presidential transports, held up by delays, won't be ready until after his term…
