The Air Force is offering experienced pilots and combat systems officers incentives to stay on Active Duty as part of its Fiscal 2014 Aviator Retention Pay program, according to a June 25 release. Eligible airmen have until Sept. 30 to apply for this program, under which they would receive from $15,000 to $25,000 per year depending on the aviator category and length of ARP contract, states the release. Air Force mission requirements mean the service has to focus on retaining high-performing airmen, and ARP is a “necessary hedge against external factors that could adversely impact the Air Force’s rated inventory,” said Brig. Gen. Brian Kelly, director of force management policy. This fiscal year, the incentives are in exchange for Active Duty service commitments of five years, said Kelly. Much like the 2013 ARP, fighter pilots are eligible for longer contracts up to nine years. The ARP also allows airmen who complete their undergraduate flight training Active Duty commitment any time in Fiscal 2015 to lock in a contract for next year, states the release.?
The Space Force has awarded 20 contracts worth up to $3.2 billion to 12 companies since last year to develop space-based interceptor capabilities, Space Systems Command announced April 24, providing new details on the firms involved and the scope of their work.