According to US Central Command, a deployed C-17 airlifter unit, the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, has hauled in more than 100 tons of food, water, tents, and other supplies to Akrotiri, Cyprus in anticipation of the arrival of Americans brought there from Lebanon. They also have delivered Navy construction teams and equipment. The unit is based in Southwest Asia on a 120-day rotation.
China thinks it will be able to invade Taiwan by 2027 and has developed a technology edge in many key areas—but it is artificial intelligence that may be the decisive factor should conflict erupt, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said.