During his visit last week to Minot AFB, N.D., Deputy Defense Secretary Ash Carter thanked airmen at the Air Force Global Strike Command installation for their vigilance in keeping the nation safe as part of the US nuclear deterrent force. “What you do here, particularly the nuclear mission, is the bedrock of our security,” said Carter to more than 200 assembled Minot airmen during his Nov. 2 visit, according to a base release. He added, “It is the foundation for everything we do.” Carter received briefings from base leadership and toured the facilities of the 5th Bomb Wing that operates nuclear-capable B-52 bombers and of the 91st Missile Wing that is responsible for 150 of the nation’s Minuteman III ICBMs. “I’ve spent the day learning what you do, appreciating what you do, and being amazed at what you do here. The first thing I want to say is, ‘Thank you,'” said Carter. (Minot report by TSgt. Thomas L. Dow)
Air Force Eyes New-Build F-16s to Boost Fighter Force
Sept. 16, 2026
The Air Force will consider acquiring new F-16 Fighting Falcon jets to answer capacity shortfalls in its aging fighter fleet, according to multiple people familiar with the matter. These discussions are happening as the Air Force is building its proposed fiscal 2028 budget and the five-year spending plan that goes…
