Gen. Mark Welsh 
assumed command of US Air Forces in Europe Monday during a ceremony at Ramstein AB, Germany. He replaced Gen. Roger Brady, who led the command since January 2008 and is retiring, effective Feb. 1, 2011, after 41 years in uniform. “This command is in great shape,” said Welsh at the change-of-command ceremony. He added, “My goal is just to make things even better.” Welsh said his priorities are taking care of airmen and executing the mission. He joins USAFE after more than two years as the CIA’s associate director for military affairs in Washington, D.C. This is the Welsh’s third assignment in Europe during his 34-year career. From 1981 to 1984, he was stationed at RAF Woodbridge, England, as an A-10 instructor pilot. From 2001 to 2003, he was USAFE’s director of plans and programs. (Ramstein report by Capt. Tristan Hinderliter)
The Air Force has embraced new technical approaches like open mission systems and rapid software updates for cutting-edge aircraft like the B-21 and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Increasingly, though, the service is also working to apply these to its older, “legacy” aircraft, officials said this week.