Source: United States Air Force
Headline: The maintainers behind global power
For approximately 100 crew chiefs who call the 171st home, their work goes far beyond routine maintenance and pre-flight inspections. Every takeoff is backed by hours of training, working in year-round weather conditions, and nonstop troubleshooting to keep the nearly 70-year-old KC-135s flying.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: Basic Cadet Training program prepares basics for Academy life
Every summer, the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Basic Cadet Training program introduces its newest basic cadets to military life. Over 38 days, MTIs and Cadet Cadre teach the customs, standards and teamwork that prepare them for the academic year and life in the Cadet Wing.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: McConnell AFB team member creates innovative solution to persistent problem
A McConnell Air Force Base Innovation Lab initiative led to the creation of a 3D-printed funnel that improves KC-46A Pegasus engine servicing. The innovation, developed by Tech. Sgt. Brandon Branstetter, reduces oil spillage and saves the Air Force procurement time and money by utilizing durable, fuel-resistant thermoplastic polyurethane.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: Air Force conducts live-fire test for Collaborative Combat Aircraft program
The Department of the Air Force successfully conducted a live-fire test of a YFQ-44A Collaborative Combat Aircraft, firing an AIM-120 weapon at a digital target. The test demonstrates program maturity and operational validation while emphasizing the retention of human oversight for weapon release.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: CSAF, CMSAF discuss readiness, quality of life during Aviano AB visit
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach and Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force David R. Wolfe visited Aviano Air Base, Italy, to discuss readiness and quality-of-life initiatives with Airmen of the 31st Fighter Wing. The leaders addressed challenges such as the Italian visa process, dormitory conditions, and physical fitness standards, emphasizing that caring for Airmen and their families directly enhances operational readiness and combat capability.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: Air Force shapes requirements for a new era of uncrewed airpower
The Air Force is partnering with the Defense Innovation Unit to leverage DIU’s expertise in rapidly prototyping and fielding commercial technologies. This partnership is crucial for developing next-generation capabilities that will inform the future of the MQ-9 Reaper fleet.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: F-15EX returns to Pacific
The 85th TES deployed the F-15EX Eagle II to Japan’s Kadena AB to train with the 18th Wing and test human-machine teaming with an uncrewed MQ-28 Ghost Bat, advancing Defense of War’s lethality goals in the Indo-Pacific.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: Air Force earns top accolades in 2026 DoW Environmental Awards
In the 2026 DoW Environmental Awards, the Department of the Air Force earned top honors in four categories highlighting its commitment to environmental stewardship strengthening mission readiness and improving the quality of life for Airmen, Guardians and their families and the communities that host DAF installations.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: LEAP scholar facilitates historic CSAF counterpart visit
When U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach hosted Argentine air force Chief of Staff Brig. Gen. Gustavo Valverde for an official counterpart visit on May 19, the mission was clearly defined: deepen bilateral defense cooperation and advance shared security priorities in the Western Hemisphere.
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: DAF reassigns advanced intelligence formal training units to ACC
The Department of Air Force has initiated the reassignment of combat air forces advanced intelligence formal training units from Air Education and Training Command to Air Combat Command, a streamlining process designed to align intelligence Airmen directly with combat-focused missions.