Maj. Gen. Donald Alston has been selected for assignment to lead the new nuclear-centric office on the Air Staff, the A10. The Pentagon announced Alston’s selection Oct. 31. In his new role, he will be assistant chief of staff for strategic deterrence and nuclear integration, leading efforts at the headquarters level to increase the Air Force’s institutional nuclear focus, policy oversight, and integration. The new office was to officially stand up on Nov. 1. Alston is no stranger to these issues, as he served as director of nuclear operations, plans, and requirements (A3/5N) in the Air Staff’s operations, plans, and requirements directorate since the creation of that position in February. Functions of his former office are transitioning to the A10. Alston received his second star in September. The new office is one of the many changes that the Air Force has made or is in the process of making to reinvigorate its nuclear enterprise. These initiatives are discussed in the service’s new nuclear roadmap issued Oct. 24.
Air Force Changes Rules for Pregnant Aircrew—Again
April 3, 2025
The Air Force is changing its policy for pregnant aircrew, generally reverting to rules set in 2019 that barred female aviators from flying during the first trimester—or from flying in aircraft with ejection seats at all—due to potential risks to the pilot and her unborn fetus.