In a new enlisted perspective letter to airmen, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Rodney McKinley questions the practice of calling young airmen—enlisted and officer—“kids,” which he says does not reflect the “highly trained and motivated airmen” that USAF sends into battle. He goes on to relate a few significant statistics: The Air Force today has more than 30,000 airmen deployed around the world and many more deployed in place; 4,000 protect America’s skies in Operation Noble Eagle; USAF flies more than 250 missions each day, including 45 strike missions against enemy forces; one Air Force mobility aircraft takes off every 90 seconds, hauling troops and equipment of all services; airmen complete more than 450 satellite supports every day; more than 4,500 airmen are filling in for US soldiers.
Meink: Air Force Has Five More E-7s Under Contract
April 30, 2026
The Air Force has contracts in place for five additional E-7A Wedgetail airborne battle management aircraft, Secretary Troy Meink told lawmakers April 30. Meink also said the Department of the Air Force wants to work with Congress to find ways to continue to fund the E-7 next year and beyond,…