Air Force Shifts Strategy, Abandons New Command for Existing Structure

The United States Air Force has decided to abandon plans to establish a new major command focused on enhancing its technology acquisition processes. Instead, the Air Force will integrate the intended functions of the proposed Integrated Capabilities Command (ICC) into its existing organizational structure known as Air Force Futures (A5/7) by April 2026. This decision marks a significant shift in strategy as the Air Force seeks to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

Last year, officials under the Biden administration announced the creation of the ICC as part of a broader initiative dubbed “reoptimization.” A provisional version of the ICC had already been established, tasked with overseeing the service’s requirements for acquiring weapon systems. However, following a review of the reoptimization efforts, the Air Force has determined that leveraging existing structures will better serve its objectives.

Troy Meink, Air Force Secretary, emphasized the importance of this restructuring in a press release. He stated, “This restructuring will accelerate the delivery of combat power, improve efficiency, and shorten the decision timeline.” The integration into Air Force Futures is expected to enhance the Air Force’s capacity for strategy and force design, mission integration, capability development, and modernization investment prioritization.

To facilitate this transition, the Air Force will also create a new Chief Modernization Officer role. This position will play a crucial part in guiding the service’s modernization strategy and ensuring that key goals are met effectively. Maj. Gen. Christopher Niemi, who previously commanded the Air Force Warfare Center at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, will lead the restructuring efforts within A5/7.

The decision to revisit the reoptimization strategy comes after a pause earlier this year, prompting a comprehensive review of ongoing initiatives. The future of other projects linked to this extensive overhaul, which also encompasses the Space Force, remains uncertain.

Reactions to the reoptimization drive have been mixed. Previous administrations have expressed skepticism regarding these initiatives, and internal disagreements within the Air Force have reportedly influenced leadership changes. Former Air Combat Command Chief Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach has been nominated to replace Gen. David Allvin, who was ousted amidst these discussions.

During a roundtable discussion at the Air and Space Forces Association conference in Washington, Meink acknowledged the importance of various ideas related to readiness and modernization. He remarked, “I’ll be honest, I’m not a big believer in the competition side of the house,” referring to the previous administration’s focus on “reoptimizing for great power competition.” Instead, he asserted, “we need to be able to win, period.”

The Air Force’s pivot away from establishing the ICC underscores its commitment to adapting its strategies in response to evolving needs and challenges. As the military branch moves forward with its modernization efforts, the integration of the ICC’s functions into existing frameworks aims to enhance operational effectiveness and ensure the readiness of the U.S. Air Force.