SASC AF and SF FY25 NDAA Posture Hearing

• Senator Jack Reed inquired about obstacles facing the Space Force.
• Senator Deb Fischer expressed concern with FY25 budget caps and specifically cited concerns tied to the Space Force budget.
• Senator Maize Hirono discussed concerns around the potential transfer of space mission areas from the National Guard to the Space Force.
• Senator Mike Rounds, Senator Kevin Cramer, Senator Eric Schmitt discussed the transition of ISR platforms from Air to space capabilities. Discussion centered around the correct balance of capabilities as transition occurs from air to space-based platforms.
• Senator Mike Rounds posed the question of what the greatest risk is presented in the FY25 budget. In response, Secretary Frank Kendall expressed concerns about the pace of progress in space capabilities, particularly in counterspace capabilities.
• Senator Tuberville inquired about the a new program for space access, mobility, and logistics.

• Kendall outlined the Department of the Air Force’s FY 25 budget submission, which included allocations for the Space Force. Due to budget constraints, there have been marginal reductions in the pace and scope of Space Force modernization programs. The budget request prioritizes defense of the homeland and deterrence against strategic attacks and deter strategic attack against the United States, our allies, and our partners. This includes supporting investments in domain awareness, aerospace defense, early warning in cyberspace defense programs.  Kendall also highlighted the continued need to focus on nuclear modernization. He continued to emphasize the need for capability monetization to keep pace with growing military capabilities, particularly from competitors like China. He mentioned that DAF is undertaking a department wide re-optimization to meet the needs of the great power competition.
• Kendall also thanked the committee for their support in through the DoD QuickStart initiative. He acknowledged the Space Force’s importance within the Department of the Air Force’s budget request, highlighting the challenges in allocating resources, particularly due to the dominance of research and development accounts in the Space Force budget.

• Allvin highlighted the challenges posed by strategic competition and persistent threats, emphasizing the need for the Air Force to maximize readiness and adapt to endure competition. The FY 25 Air Force budget request reflects difficult choices to maintain operational readiness while advancing modernization efforts. Allvin underscored the importance of airmen as the Air Force’s most valuable asset and commits to strategic deterrence and nuclear force recapitalization (including supporting the process triggered by the Nunn McCurdy breach of the Sentinel program). He outlined proposed investments in the F-35 and F-15EX to address evolving threats, alongside efforts to enhance resiliency and readiness. Allvin acknowledged ongoing challenges faced by airmen and stresses the importance of supporting their health, development, and quality of life.

• Saltzman’s goal for the Space Force in this statement is one of dedication, urgency, and appreciation. He emphasized the critical importance of space to national security and highlighted the Space Force’s role in supporting the joint force.
• This also includes contesting and controlling the domain to defend US space capabilities. Saltzman stressed investments in resiliency for missile warning and tracking, satellite communications, PNT, hybrid architectures and proliferated constellations. He acknowledged the budget constraints and the challenges faced in maintaining legacy services while modernizing the force. Despite these challenges, Saltzman expressed gratitude for the committee’s support in the Space Force personnel Management Act and also in the Space Force’s ability to preserve and expand its strategic advantage.

Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) –

• Senator Fischer expressed concern about the impact of budget caps on the Space Force. She highlighted the critical role of space programs in supporting other services’ combat capabilities, such as communications, commanding control, and guidance for weapons systems.
• She questioned the adequacy of the budget request for the Space Force, noting that it is $600 million less than the previous year’s request. She raised concerns about delaying the development of counterspace systems, given the evolving threat environment. General Saltzman acknowledged the importance of these systems and indicates that with additional funding, they could accelerate the delivery of capabilities.
• Fischer also inquired about what the Space Force is doing as part of the DAF re-optimization efforts for the Great Power Competition. General Saltzman discussed the Space Force’s re-optimization efforts to adapt to the changing environment. This included establishing new training standards, creating a new force presentation model, and establishing a Space Futures Command to focus on science, technology, operational concepts, and new missions.
• Fischer inquired about updates on the B-21 program. Kendall provided information on the program’s progress.
• Fisher asked about AF nuclear weapons center leadership changes. General Allvin discussed the establishment of a two-star general position for international ballistic missiles within the Air Force nuclear weapons center. This elevation aims to provide more seniority and authority to oversee the integration of the ICBM leg of the nuclear triad.Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) –
• Senator Hirono inquired about the Air Force’s posture and infrastructure in the Pacific to support agile combat employment. General Allvin acknowledged the importance of such strategies and discusses ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, including the rebuilding of airfields like Tinian and upgrades at other bases.
• Hirono highlighted the strategic importance of basing facilities in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in light of China’s expanding influence. General Allvin emphasized the need for agility to complicate potential adversaries’ targeting calculus and ensure mission success in the theater.
• Senator Hirono expressed concern about the potential transfer of space functions from the National Guard to the Space Force. She highlighted that she supported the Secretary of Defense to conduct a feasiability study regarding the advisability of the transfer of covered space functions of the National Guard to the Space Force and noted that this study has not been released.
• Secretary Kendall explained that they are evaluating which units fit within the Space Force architecture and emphasized the importance of bringing them under the Space Force personnel management structure. He mentioned the Space Force Personnel Management Act as a means to facilitate this transition and ensure efficiency in managing personnel. Senator Hirono continued to raise concerns about the impact of transferring part-time personnel from various states away from their current roles and locations.Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) –
• Senator Rounds asked about views on where FY25 budget is at most risk. Secretary Kendall expressed concerns about the pace of progress in space capabilities, particularly in counterspace capabilities. He highlighted the transition from a space capability designed for operating with impunity to one that requires resilient assets in space to withstand attacks and protect the joint force.
• Rounds emphasized the criticality of ISR capabilities for combatant commanders. He raised concerns about the transition to space-based ISR platforms and the current level of risk assumed during this transition.
• General Allvin discussed the B-21 bomber program, indicating that the acquisition of 100 aircraft is the program of record. However, he suggested that reaching this number may take until the mid-2030s and beyond, and acknowledged the need for technological advancements and a mix of capabilities in the future.Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) –
• Secretary Kendall emphasized the importance of the intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) leg of the triad for nuclear strategic deterrence. He highlighted its responsiveness and role in presenting adversaries with a difficult problem, particularly in light of China’s significant investments in its land-based nuclear capabilities.
• Senator King raised concerns about the acquisition of IP for major weapon systems and its implications for maintaining flexibility in upgrades and maintenance. Secretary Kendall acknowledged the mixed history in IP acquisition and stresses the importance of acquiring ownership rights to effectively manage programs in the long term. This remains important to control both the upgrades and maintenance aspects of the B-21 and F-35 programs for example.
• Senator King expressed concerns about the vulnerability of U.S. assets in space and the need to deny the benefits of attacks on those systems. General Saltzman acknowledged progress in advancing resilient architectures in critical missions but highlighted challenges in scaling up counterspace capabilities to address the rapidly evolving threats from countries like China.Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) –
• Senator Tuberville raised a question about the President’s FY 25 budget containing a new program for space access, mobility, and logistics with a budget of $20 million and also is that enough to get the job done. General Saltzman explained that this funding will be used for studying concepts like dynamic maneuvering to determine if there’s military utility before investing heavily in a program. Saltzman stated that $20 million gets the Space Force along the line to evaluate the military need for the capability.
• Senator Tuberville inquired about recruiting and retention in the Space Force. General Saltzman mentioned that they are still receiving thousands of applicants for hundreds of positions and have a retention rate above 90%, but he expressed a need to provide challenges and opportunities to retain the workforce.
• Senator Tuberville asked about the use of F-35 aircraft in recent confrontations. General Allvin explained that while the F-35 has been used in some recent situations, in others, different assets were deemed satisfactory. He emphasized the importance of the F-35 in highly contested environments and mentions plans for tech upgrades to enhance capabilities.
• General Allvin provided an overview of recruiting efforts in the Air Force, stating that they are improving across active duty, reserve, and National Guard components. He mentioned an increase in goals and efforts to digitize records to streamline administrative work for recruiters.Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) –
• Senator Peters asked for clarification on whether Selfridge Air National Guard Base is still under consideration for a future fighter basing decision. Kendall explained that while Selfridge could potentially be considered for a future fighter mission, the current decision to base KC-46 refueling tankers there is linked to the divestiture of the A-10 aircraft.
• Senator Peters discussed a potential pilot program to study drone operations in medium and high-intensity airspace, which could pave the way for the employment of future platforms like the collaborative combat aircraft (CCA). General Allvin expressed support for such a pilot program, highlighting the importance of investigating all options for maintaining survivability and closing kill chains in a contested environment.
• Senator Peters mentioned the possibility of employing KC-46 refueling tankers as command and control nodes for future CCA aircraft.Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) –
• Senator Schmitt raised concerns about the Air Force moving on from the A-10 aircraft, particularly in relation to Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. Rosecrans Air National Guard Base in St. Joseph, Missouri, is mentioned in relation to the aging fleet of C-130H aircraft.
• Schmitt questioned the number and role of DEI coordinators in the Air Force, citing a significant number of full-time positions compared to other branches. Secretary Kendall explained that these coordinators oversee DEI programs, training, and data collection, addressing disparities in areas like promotions and command selection and that the Air Force is in the process of complying with the law and will comply with it.
• Schmitt expressed concern about the rapid transition of ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) capabilities to space, potentially moving away too quickly from traditional airborne platforms like AWACS and JSTARS. Kendall acknowledged the need for a balance between airborne and space-based capabilities but emphasized the shift to space due to the vulnerability of airborne platforms in contested environments.Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) –
• Senator Warren highlighted concerns about foreign governments recruiting retired military personnel, including officers, pilots, maintainers, and technical experts, who may possess valuable insights into US military tactics. There are loopholes in current regulations regarding retired personnel working for foreign governments, particularly when they are hired by private entities that may indirectly serve foreign interests.
• Senator Warren emphasized the need to close these loopholes to better protect classified information and US national security.
• General Alvin acknowledged the importance of raising awareness among military personnel about the risks associated with working for foreign entities and that efforts have been made to educate transitioning service members about these risks.
• Senator Warren mentioned her provision in the Senate version of the National Defense Authorization Act, which requires approval from the US government for retired personnel working on behalf of foreign governments, even indirectly through private companies.Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) –
• Senator Ernst discussed the need for airfield expansion at the Iowa National Guard facility in Sioux City to accommodate the KC-46 tankers, which will replace the KC-135 tankers.
• Kendall assured Ernst that the transition from the KC-135 tankers to the KC-46 tankers is being conducted without compromising mission readiness. This transition is part of the broader modernization efforts within the Air Force, which includes upgrading its aerial refueling capabilities.
• Allvin briefly touched upon the role of Air Force Special Warfare and Special Operations Command (AFSOC) in great power competition and future conflicts.Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) –
• Senator Kelly discussed the creation of a new power projection wing at Davis Monthan AFB, which is oriented towards the Indo-Pacific region.
• Kelly emphasized the importance of realistic EW training, especially in preparing for operations in the Indo-Pacific. Kelly advocated for expanding training ranges to provide more realistic EW training opportunities. Kendall acknowledged the critical importance of realistic EW training and expresses openness to exploring opportunities for such training, including at locations like Fort Huachuca.Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) –
• The focus is primarily on the capabilities and assessments of the F-15E Strike Eagles in various combatant commands, particularly their importance in scenarios across different regions. The conversation also touched on the planned divestment of F-15 aircraft and the timeline for receiving the fighter roadmap required by the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) –
  The focus is primarily on various aspects related to the Air Force, including the importance of specific Air National Guard units, housing and dormitory shortages, and childcare services for military families.Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) –
• Cramer raised concerns about ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) capabilities and the perceived vulnerability of airborne platforms compared to space-based capabilities.
• Kendall acknowledged the importance of ISR but emphasizes the Air Force’s shift of ISR capacity to space due to the vulnerability of airborne platforms. He mentioned the importance of maintaining a balanced mix of capabilities for both less contested and highly contested environments.
• Allvin added that while ISR may not be specifically mentioned in the optimization plans, there are efforts to align wings to deploy how they expect to fight, including the categorization of combat generation wings.
  Cramer inquired about rumors regarding the commercial engine replacement program for the B-52 bomber, expressing concern about its modernization. Secretary Kendall confirmed that the program is proceeding as planned.Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) –
• Cotton expressed his support for the practice of retired military members working with foreign partners, highlighting its role in helping partner nations develop more professional and proficient armed forces. He emphasized the distinction between retired officers working with friendly nations like ones with recent NATO membership versus for adversaries like China, which he views as concerning.Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) –
• Mullin raised concerns about the divestment of airframes and the implications for mission capability, particularly in light of budget constraints and the transition to new aircraft. He expressed worries about the gap between the delivery of new planes and the retirement of old ones, as well as the escalating costs associated with modernization efforts.
• Kendall and General Allvin acknowledged the challenges posed by maintaining mission capability during this transition period. They highlighted the need to balance current readiness with the imperative to modernize and prepare for future threats, particularly in the face of adversaries with potentially overwhelming numerical advantages.Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) –
• Sullivan expressed concerns about defense budget cuts and their impact on deterrence, particularly in the face of adversaries like China. He questioned whether inflation-adjusted cuts to the Department of Defense send the right message to potential adversaries and emphasizes the importance of maintaining readiness and modernization efforts.
• Kendall acknowledged the challenges posed by budget constraints but highlights ongoing modernization efforts within the Air Force. He underscored the need to balance current readiness with future capabilities and expresses confidence in the budget presented to Congress.
• Sullivan discussed the strategic importance of Alaska in military operations, particularly in the context of training and readiness for potential conflicts with China.
• He emphasized the significance of investments in training facilities like the Joint Integrated Test and Training Center (JITTC) at Jay Park, highlighting its role in enhancing military preparedness.
  Sullivan raised concerns about the placement of KC-135 tankers, advocating for their deployment in Alaska to enhance strategic mobility.