Don’t expect a quick resolution to the Pentagon’s internal Long Range Strike discussions, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz told the Daily Report. Schwartz said the “debate is still raging” about the specific requirements such an aircraft will have, and he doesn’t expect resolution in the next few weeks. Air Force Secretary Michael Donley reiterated Monday that the aircraft will have roles in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and communications, besides strike. Lt. Gen. Christopher Miller, head of strategic plans and programs, said there are budgetary spaceholders for a LRS aircraft “same as last year,” but it remains budgetarily undefined. “We’re working it hard,” Miller said.
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.