The Pentagon most likely will have to start updating defense plans soon, taking into account projected climate change. Government Executive reports that the Senate-approved version of the 2008 defense authorization bill includes a provision, just as the House version of the policy bill does, to direct DOD to consider climate change effects. Retired Air Force Gen. Charles Wald, member of a study group of retired flag officers, noted earlier this year that climate change-induced food and water shortages have sparked conflicts, particularly in hard-hit Africa, from which we import much of our oil.
It is critical that the Air Force move forward on the replacement for its E-4B “Doomsday” aircraft to keep the capability “viable” into the next decade and beyond, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr. told lawmakers May 8.