Maj. Gen. James A. Hawkins formally assumed command of the 18th Air Force at Scott AFB, Ill. on Nov. 29, taking over from Lt. Gen. William Welser III, who retired Dec. 1. (We reported on the proposed change earlier.) Hawkins has been director of operations at Air Mobility Command. In his new role, as commander of AMC’s sole numbered air force, he oversees 12 wings, three groups, two expeditionary mobility task forces, and the Tanker Airlift Control Center.
The Space Force is proposing to cancel a $3.4 billion program intended to provide missile warning and tracking coverage of the northern polar region as part of its 2027 budget request.