The record of decision for the precedent-setting land management strategy developed for the Barry Goldwater Range has been signed. According to Teresa Walker of the 56th Range Management Office at Luke AFB, Ariz., it took seven years and an act of Congress. Jim Uken, 56th RMO director, says the Goldwater Range Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan is one of several being prepared within DOD, but its “scope and complexity … is clearly at the upper end of the spectrum.” The Air Force and Marine Corps share responsibility for eastern and western portions of the range, respectively.
As Air Force leaders consider concepts of operations for Collaborative Combat Aircraft, sustainment in the field—and easing that support by using standard parts and limiting variants—should be a key consideration, according to a new study from AFA's Mitchell Institute of Aerospace Studies.