Wynne promised a “holistic evaluation” of the benefits of re-engining large chunks of the Air Force’s 707-derived fleet of aircraft. The E-3 AWACS and the E-8 Joint STARS, in particular, need new engines for performance and power generation. Wynne said the Air Force will examine the “fleet on fleet” implications of re-engining, such as whether it reduces the tanker requirements and reduces the need to acquire more aircraft.
After years of experiments and tests, senior Air Force leaders say they're on the verge of using C-17s and other cargo aircraft to launch cruise missiles via airdrop, touting the development as a way to bolster the combat fleet and a major shift in the service’s mindset.