Gen. Roger Brady, head of US Air Forces in Europe, believes Europe could use irregular forces “very effectively.” Brady explained to the Defense Writers Group in Washington March 26 that allies currently without modern air forces, particularly smaller states, could usher in irregular warfare capabilities “much quicker than [adding] fourth or fifth generation aircraft.” However, when asked if he’d be willing to sacrifice USAFE conventional capability to add irregular forces, Brady drew the line, saying, “I think I’ve given [blood] at the office.” (See “Stop Cutting USAFE“)
After years of experiments and tests, senior Air Force leaders say they're on the verge of using C-17s and other cargo aircraft to launch cruise missiles via airdrop, touting the development as a way to bolster the combat fleet and a major shift in the service’s mindset.