The Senate on Dec. 14 passed the 2008 defense authorization bill by a 90 to 3 vote. The House had approved the policy bill two days earlier, 370 to 49. We reported earlier on some of its provisions: eight additional C-17s; a 30/30 plan investigation plus a requirements-based, all-inclusive mobility study; no C-5 retirements, but a push to finish C-5 modernization testing; plus ups in some space programs and reductions in others; money for to continue the alternate engine for the Joint Strike Fighter; no Tricare fee hikes; and elevation of the National Guard Bureau chief to four-star rank. The measure now goes to the President for signature. There’s also a requirement for a new, and continuing roles and missions scrub.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
