Getting the Days Right:

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The optimum number of days airmen should deploy for air expeditionary force rotations is 120 days, according to Lt. Gen. Roger Brady, Air Staff manpower and personnel chief. Talking with Pentagon reporters earlier this week, Brady noted that about 65 percent of the force currently deploys for 120-day rotations, and while some serve longer tours in certain locations and billets, he believes the 120-day rotation is the right time period because “it helps limit the footprint,” he said. Sending airmen for longer than that requires more aircraft maintenance and other support. Earlier this year, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Michael Moseley questioned whether 120 days might be too long because it pushes the edge of a larger footprint.

Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.org