Air Force Readiness: Actions Needed to Rebuild Readiness and Prepare for the Future
Abstract
The 2018 National Defense Strategy emphasizes that restoring and retaining readiness across the entire spectrum of conflict is critical to success in the emerging security environment. Air Force readiness has steadily declined primarily due to the persistent demand on a fleet that has aged and decreased in size since the 1990s. The Air Force is working to both rebuild the readiness of its forces and modernize its aging fleet to meet future threats. However, according to the Air Force, its readiness goals will take years to achieve as it continues to be challenged to rebuild readiness amid continued operational demands. This statement provides information on Air Force (1) readiness and management challenges including personnel, equipment, training, and organization and utilization, and (2) plans to grow and modernize its force in the context of readiness recovery across DOD. Also, GAO summarizes recommendations to address these challenges and actions taken by the Air Force. This statement is based on previously published work since 2016 related to Air Force readiness challenges, fighter pilot workforce requirements, weapon sustainment, aviation training, and force structure. GAO has made 14 recommendations in prior unclassified work described in this statement. DOD generally concurred with most of them and has implemented 1. Continued attention to these recommendations can assist and guide the Air Force moving forward as it seeks to rebuild the readiness of its forces.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 10, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1170688
Entities
People
- Amie Lesser
- Chris Watson
- John H. Pendleton
- Lillian Yob
- Michael Silver
- Nick Cornelisse
- Nicole Volchko
- Shari Nikoo
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office