Air Education and Training Command leader Gen. William Looney has ordered a standdown for all T-38C Talon training, following the second fatal accident in two weeks involving the primary trainer for initial fighter-bomber pilot training. In a May 1 statement, Looney said that the service had “no evidence” that the incidents at Columbus AFB, Miss., and Sheppard AFB, Tex., are related and added, “until we have a more complete understanding of the causes of both accidents, it’s prudent to stand down the T-38s.” Both accidents are still under investigation.
The Air Force is requesting about $141 million for initial enlistment bonuses in its fiscal 2026 budget, while Space Force wants $13 million.
