Future Total Force in step with PACAF mission

Published: Aug 10, 2005
Source: i-newswire.com



As the Future Total Force initiative integrates with Air Force operations in the Pacific, the transition is looking good, said the Pacific Air Forces commander.

"The transformational pieces of our capabilities are clearly in the form of long-range bombers, the C-17 ( Globemaster III ), F/A-22 ( Raptor ) and Global Hawk to be stationed in the Pacific," said Gen. Paul V. Hester, who is also the air component commander for U.S. Pacific Command.

The Air Force plan to realign missions and organizations is outlined in the Future Total Force concept. The concept’s aim is to strengthen the Air Force by creating synergy among active-duty, Guard and Reserve forces for more capable and efficient airpower.

The general called this transformation "forward thinking" and emphasized the important role the C-17 would have throughout the theater once the transformation is complete at the end of this decade.

As part of the transition in the Pacific, eight C-17s are due to start arriving at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, in January. Following that move, eight more C-17s will arrive at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, in January 2007.continue..