The Air Force has nearly completed the mandated training intended to prepare airmen for the repeal of the controversial Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell law on Sept. 20. All airmen going through basic training have already completed the training, as well as 97 percent of the active duty force, and nearly 93 percent of the reserve components, said Col. Jeff White, air force learning division chief, in a release. “Completing this training is important to our success. Leadership at all levels must be engaged to ensure completion,” Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz said. “With steadfast leadership, Secretary Donley and I are confident the high level of professionalism, respect, dignity, and discipline of our airmen will remain unchanged after repeal.” The training, which is designed to prepare airmen for a military that allows openly gay and lesbian troops to serve, is available through the Advanced Distributed Learning Service link on the Air Force portal, said White.
The Air Force and Boeing agreed to a nearly $2.4 billion contract for a new lot of KC-46 aerial tankers on Nov. 21. The deal, announced by the Pentagon, is for 15 new aircraft in Lot 11 at a cost of $2.389 billion—some $159 million per tail.