Rebuilding the Iraqi Air Force is a matter of focusing on “one small victory at a time,” says Air Force Reserve Command Brig. Gen. Frank Padilla, who led an assessment of the work ahead. Padilla, who serves as an IMA to the commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, notes that the Iraqis now have 38 aircraft, but only six are airworthy. His team includes specialists from around USAF. Their task is to help coalition forces plan and implement the rebuilding—including infrastructure, organization, and training. The plan has a timeline extending out five to 10 years, he says.
US Military Blows Up Second Alleged Drug Boat in Caribbean
Sept. 15, 2025
The U.S. military conducted its second deadly strike on an alleged drug-carrying vessel off the coast of Venezuela, President Donald Trump announced Sept. 15, as his administration continues an aggressive military campaign in the Caribbean.