**Location and Context**
SIMI VALLEY, California – During the Reagan National Defense Forum, Air Force Chief Gen. David Allvin addressed potential changes under the Trump administration regarding the Pentagon. Allvin expressed readiness to adapt regardless of the incoming administration’s priorities.
**General Insights**
Allvin emphasized his role is to provide advice amidst changes, whether they involve budget cuts or additions. He stated, “I am not going to have the hubris to say I know which of these things are right or wrong or different,” acknowledging the uncertainty ahead.
**Trump Administration’s Impact**
With President-elect Donald Trump’s selection for Air Force secretary and his administration’s defense priorities still unknown, military officials are preparing for possible cuts. Such adjustments have been suggested by Trump advisors who aim to make the Pentagon more “efficient.”
**Core Responsibilities**
Allvin clarified that his fundamental job will be to advise on the implications of budgetary decisions, focusing on maintaining a force that is agile, lethal, and survivable according to the national defense strategy, stating, “I don’t have angst. Quite frankly, I am ready to understand and adapt the force.”
**New Force Design Concept**
The Air Force has recently submitted a new force design concept to Congress, aiming to remain flexible amidst varying funding levels and evolving threats. An unclassified summary outlines three crucial mission areas: long-range fires, short-range fires, and adaptable systems.
**Dependency on Funding**
Allvin indicated that the future composition of the Air Force is contingent on funding availability. He mentioned, “We are designing the force in a way that it’s the right shape… fundamentally… an Air Force that needs to deal with different threat environments.”
**7th Generation Fighter Program**
The Air Force’s ongoing analysis of its Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program is significant. Secretary Frank Kendall recently announced a decision on this 6th-generation fighter jet will be deferred to the next administration, allowing companies to refine their proposals.
**Holistic Analysis of Future Programs**
Allvin pointed out that recent assessments have revealed many interdependencies that will affect the NGAD program. This includes considerations for the aircraft’s protection, survivable air refueling, and collaborative combat aircraft capabilities.
**Technological Integration and Human-Machine Teaming**
Allvin highlighted the necessity of balancing human involvement with technological advancements. Noting that “war is a human endeavor,” he stated the importance of mastering human-machine teamwork for future military operations.
**Advisory Opinions**
Though Elon Musk, an advisor to Trump, has criticized expensive manned fighter jets in favor of drones, Allvin believes a shift in human-to-machine ratios is possible and essential. He emphasized, “Whoever masters that… will have the key” to success in future military engagements.
