Budget sequestration’s return would impact combat support services that special operations forces and counterterrorism activities rely on, like logistics and, in particular, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance work, warned Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations/Low-Intensity Conflict Michael Lumpkin on Tuesday. “We don’t have enough ISR, and we do the best with what we have,” he told the Senate Armed Services Committee’s emerging threats panel. Any cutbacks to the number of overhead ISR orbits supporting combatant commanders around the world would affect those operations, he said. Reduced ISR means less visibility and “fidelity” in areas where SOF forces operate, and over time, would affect counterterrorism work, too, he said. Lumpkin also highlighted the need for SOF aircraft modernization. Even though the services buy special-mission aircraft, US Special Operations Command makes modifications to them, he said. Reduced funding means the services would purchase airplanes at a slower rate, which would have “long-term impacts for capabilities,” said Lumpkin. (Lumpkin’s written testimony)
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach said July 16 that the airpower contribution of allied nations is vital for deterring adversaries and endorsed deeper interoperability between the U.S. and its partners.