Threatening Language, Revised:

Almost overnight, standard Air Force language about threats to watch out for in the future has changed, owing to Russia’s resumption of strategic aviation operations and a pledge to renew its air force to 21st century standards. In a statement about Russia’s new moves, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Michael Moseley said it’s a reminder that “the international security environment is complex, dynamic, and uncertain. We must carefully balance our need to fight today’s war with the need to keep an eye on emerging and re-emerging peer competitors and on a growing number of international actors with access to increasingly lethal threats.” Previous messages highlighted only the “emerging” peer competitors—read, China.