A team of Air Force Space Command-led inspectors deemed 24th Air Force, the service’s new cyber operations arm, “ready” after an initial assessment in December of its ability to conduct Air Force network operations and control USAF’s network. This score is an important milestone as the new numbered air force, which is headquartered at Lackland AFB, Tex., advances towards being cleared to assume initial operations. “While this is great news for the entire 24th Air Force team, they know this is just another key step on the path to operational readiness,” said Maj. Gen. Richard Webber, 24th AF boss. This initial operational capability assessment occurred on Dec. 22. Webber said this test was the first of many that 24th AF operators and support staff will undergo in the next year. (Lackland release)
Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III hosted his second Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in a virtual format May 23, drawing 47 nations that back Ukraine’s fight against Russia but leaving questions about when the war might end. New coastal defense systems and more artillery, armor, and tanks were highlighted…