The Aerospace Advantage

Epizody

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  Blueprint for 2040: Inside the Space Force's Objective Force Baseline — Ep. 300 25.07.2026 56min

  Episode Summary: To secure the growing U.S. interests in space, it is imperative we have a capable and ready Space Force that can meet the challenges of the future. The Future Operating Environment 2040 and the Objective Force Baseline are the Space Force’s assessment of what to expect and what forces and capabilities it will need to preserve space superiority. To learn more about these documents we had an in-depth discussion with two of the principal authors, Col. Paul Latour and Lt. Col. Sean Frederick. Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Charles Galbreath, Director & Senior Resident Fellow for Space Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE) Guest: Jennifer "Boots" Reeves, Senior Resident Fellow for Space Studies, MI-SPACE Guest: Col. Paul LaTour Guest: Lt. Col. Sean Frederick Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #Space #Military #Future
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  Air Force Reserve Update: Lt. Gen. Healy — Ep. 299 18.07.2026 46min

  With combatant commands requesting record levels of Air Force airpower, it’s crucial to remember that success comes down to the Total Force: Active, Reserve, and Guard. We learn more about these requirements and discuss future vectors with Air Force Reserve Commander Lt. Gen. John Healy.
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  Next Generation Mobility: Blended Wing Body — Ep. 298 11.07.2026 49min

  Episode Summary: Air Force leaders have clearly stated that it’s time to think about resetting their mobility aircraft inventory—both tankers and airlifters. These mission sets are crucial for empowering modern military power. We chat with JetZero president and chief operating officer Dan Da Silva about how blended wing body technology could better meet these requirements going forward. We also discuss the importance of expanding America’s aerospace innovation and production capacity, including introducing new types of designs, adapting to new operational paradigms, or expanding the workforce where America builds airplanes. Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Dan Da Silva, President & COO, JetZero Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #Air #Military #Aviation
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  Marking America 250: The Air and Space Power Journey — Ep. 297 03.07.2026 1h 12min

  Episode Summary: As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, it's crucial to remember that air and space power have manifested some of our nation's most important achievements. Whether talking about winning wars or exploring the globe and outer space, Airmen, Guardians, astronauts, teams of engineers, support personnel, and top national leaders have repeatedly harnessed the domains of air and space to do what many previously thought was impossible. We gather to discuss the top accomplishments, innovations, and examples of personal sacrifice that our team thinks best exemplify air and space power.  Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #America250 #History #Air #Space
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  CCA Update: What Are the Next Steps? — Ep. 296 27.06.2026 56min

  With the first increment CCA production contract now awarded, it is useful to review where the program stands.
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  What Lessons is China Taking from Epic Fury? Key Considerations — Ep. 295 20.06.2026 44min

  Whether discussing Operation Epic Fury from a strategic, operational, or tactical vantage, there’s no doubt that China watched the conflict with extreme attention. Heather ”Lucky” Penney sits down with Mitchell Institute’s China expert Mike ”JDAM” Dahm to discuss these crucial issues, while also exploring broader Chinese security developments.
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  Allied Airpower Perspectives: Brig Gen Pierre Gaudillière, Commander of the French Air Combat Command — Ep. 294 13.06.2026 46min

  The ties between the French Air Force and U.S. Air Force go back to the dawn of aviation. Brigadier General Pierre Gaudillière, Commander of the French Air Combat Command, joins us to explore how France views the current security environment through an airpower lens.
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  Victory Through Production: Lessons from D-Day — Ep. 293 06.06.2026 1h 3min

  When the United States was drawn into WWII, it was wholly unprepared for conflict. By June 6, 1944, America was unleashing its burgeoning military might. This largely tied back to a miracle of production in nearly every facet of the wartime economy. Eight decades later, America once again faces severe security threats, and we’re unprepared. We need a lot more war materiel. Join us as we explore lessons learned from WWII and apply them to today’s challenges.
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  FY27 Budget, Space Force Launch, and the Future of Airpower — Ep. 292 30.05.2026 54min

  Episode Summary: In this episode, our team assesses Congress' response to the FY27 defense budget request. We also discuss SDA's new leadership, as well as Space Force's requirement for a third heavy launch site. When it comes to airpower, we explain the importance of the MQ-9 in current ops, plus the significance of E-7, EA-37B, and B-21 program developments. Our team wraps up exploring the latest trends in the Ukraine conflict. Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Dean, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Guest: Charles Galbreath, Director & Senior Resident Fellow for Space Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE) Guest: Doug Birkey, Executive Director, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Guest: Todd "Sledge" Harmer, Senior Vice President, American Defense International Guest: Anthony "Lazer" Lazarski, Principal, Cornerstone Government Affairs Related Reading: Dynamic Space Operations Paper Military Human Spaceflight Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #rendezvous #budget #capitolhill
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  Epic Fury Lessons Learned: Lt. Gen. “Kooler” Krumm, USAF (Ret.) — Ep. 291 23.05.2026 48min

  Episode Summary: Operation Epic Fury has yielded important lessons learned, especially when it comes to the increasing importance of electronic warfare, the scale and scope of America’s munitions inventories, and the need for radically enhanced base protection measures. Heather "Lucky" Penney discusses these themes with Lt. Gen. David "Kooler" Krumm, USAF (Ret.) of BAE Systems. What are important operational considerations? How does the industrial base help deliver solutions to harness this recent combat experience? Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Lt. Gen. David "Kooler" Krumm, USAF (Ret.), VP, Mission Integration, BAE Systems Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #electronicwarfare #industry #epicfury
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  Allied Leadership Conversation: Maj Gen Wickman, Commander of the Swedish AF — Ep. 290 16.05.2026 35min

  Episode Summary: As the newest member of NATO, Sweden plays in instrumental role in securing the alliance’s northern flank. With the Swedish Air Force celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, we are excited to chat with Major General Jonas Wikman, Commander of the Swedish Air Force. We discuss the current security environment and how that is shaping decision-making both in Sweden and throughout NATO. This touches upon strategy, operational concepts, and modernization equities. Our conversation also covers lessons learned from ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.  Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Dean, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Guest: Maj. Gen. Jonas Wikman, Commander, Swedish Air Force Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #allies #europe #airpower
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  Want to Reset the Air Force? Lessons from the Reagan Build-Up — Ep. 289 09.05.2026 1h 11min

  Episode Summary: President Trump's defense spending boost presents major opportunities for the Air Force. However, many officials have spent their entire careers living through extended periods of austerity—with budget toplines driving decisions, not what they really need to meet requirements. Switching gears to grow the force involves a different mindset to address different challenges and maximize opportunities. That’s what we discuss today: how do we grow the Air Force? We are joined by two legends of airpower for this conversation: Gen. Ron Fogleman, USAF (Ret.), the 15th Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and Gen. Mike Loh, USAF (Ret.), who served as the Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force and later as the first commander of Air Combat Command. They both spent time in key plans and program assignments during the Reagan-era build up, the last time the Air Force saw a surge of investment. Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Gen. John Michael Loh, USAF (Ret.), Former Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force & Commander, Air Combat Command Guest: Gen. Ron Fogleman, USAF (Ret.), Former Chief of Staff of the Air Force, #15 Guest: John "JV" Venable, Senior Fellow for Airpower Studies, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #history #airpower #veterans
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  FY27 Defense Budget, Fighter Support in Congress, Space Update: The Rendezvous — Ep. 288 02.05.2026 52min

  Episode Summary: In this episode, our team assesses the FY 27 defense budget request from an air and space set of perspectives. We also explore fighter developments in Congress via legislation introduced by Senators Budd (R-NC) and Shaheen (D-NH), as well as a powerful letter submitted by the Adjutants General calling for more F-35s and F-15EXs. When it comes to space power, we explain the importance of the Future Operating Environment and Objective Force 2040, plus the significance of Space Force selecting Reservists to become part-time Guardians. Our team wraps up exploring the conflict with Iran and America's munitions deficit. Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #thehill #government #rendezvous
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  Innovate to Survive: Vietnam Air Combat Perspectives Part 2 — Ep. 287 25.04.2026 1h 1min

  The air war over Vietnam represents one of the most dynamic, evolutionary periods of airpower innovation. In part two of this conversation, we continue our interview with two legendary Vietnam veteran airmen: Col Leonard “Lucky” Ekman, USAF (Ret) and ace Col Chuck DeBellevue, USAF (Ret). We focus on how air-to-air tactics and technology evolved as well as key details behind the Wild Weasel mission.
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  Innovate to Survive: Vietnam Air Combat Perspectives Part 1 — Ep. 286 18.04.2026 58min

  The air war over Vietnam represents one of the most dynamic, evolutionary periods of airpower innovation. The U.S. entered the conflict optimized to face the Soviet Union, but few Vietnam combat missions matched that paradigm. Airmen had to rapidly adapt and innovate. This episode explores this era by speaking to two legendary Vietnam veteran airmen: Col Leonard “Lucky” Ekman, USAF (Ret) and ace Col Chuck DeBellevue, USAF (Ret).
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  A Century of Liquid Rockets: Conversation with ULA's Chief Rocket Scientist John Reed — Ep. 285 11.04.2026 55min

  2026 marks the 100th anniversary of liquid-fueled rockets. Mitchell Institute experts and John Reed, the Chief Rocket Scientist at United Launch Alliance, discuss this milestone event, launch advancements over the past 100 years, the future of this technology, and why it all matters.
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  Epic Fury Insights, FY27 Defense Budget, and Spacepower Update: The Rendezvous — Ep. 284 04.04.2026 1h 8min

  We discuss Operation Epic Fury, key items to track in the FY27 defense budget, and the latest in spacepower—everything from missile warning & tracking developments to the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP).
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  Understanding the Threat Environment in Space: Chief Lerch — Ep. 283 28.03.2026 1h 3min

  China is pressing hard to gain a spacepower capability advantage over the United States, including offensive and defensive capabilities on orbit. Our Mitchell Institute team explores these realities with Chief Master Sergeant Ron Lerch, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Deputy of Chief of Space Operations. This is a crucial conversation you won’t want to miss.
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  Command and Control Air Battle Management: The Air Layer Still Matters — Ep. 282 21.03.2026 59min

  Episode Summary: As the United States military works to ensure its forces can effectively employ military power in an increasingly dangerous threat environment, it is imperative that its command-and-control air battle management (C2ABM) enterprise is postured for success. The ability to ensure forces are positioned at the right time and place to best secure the desired effects, while avoiding undue risk, is crucial and will make the difference between winning and losing in future conflicts. Current C2ABM capabilities are too old, are increasingly fragile, lack sufficient capacity, and are too vulnerable. Heather “Lucky” Penney and Doug Birkey explore this topic with air battle managers Lt. Col. Alex “Big Bobby” Wallis and Lt. Col. Grant “SWAT” Georgulis . The time for change is now. U.S. forces must always retain a tactical decision advantage. Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Doug Birkey, Executive Director, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Guest: Lt. Col. Alex "Big Bobby" Wallis, Air Force Strategic Policy Fellow Alumni Guest: Lt. Col. Grant "SWAT" Georgulis, Air Force Senior Developmental Education Fellow Alumni Visit: c2coord.com Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #air #battlemanagement
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  Frontline Spacepower: Command Perspectives from U.S. Space Forces-Central — Ep. 281 14.03.2026 42min

  Episode Summary: Since the end of the Cold War, Central Command (CENTCOM) has been front and center for U.S. combat operations, with space playing an ever-increasing essential role in daily operations. That’s why the Space Force stood up its first component command,  U.S. Space Forces-Central (SPACECENT), in this combatant command. We discuss the history, current operations, and future of SPACECENT with its first commander, Col Chris “Tool” Putman.” Learn about how spacepower provided key contributions to defending Isreal from Iranian air and missile strikes, empowered Operation Midnight Hammer, and more. All these experiences have major implications for tactics, planning, operational employment, and integration of spacepower. Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Col. Chris "Tool" Putman, USSF (Ret.), Former Commander, U.S. Space Forces - Central (SPACECENT) Guest: Jennifer "Boots" Reeves, Senior Resident Fellow for Spacepower Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence Guest: Charles Galbreath, Director and Senior Resident Fellow for Spacepower Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence Links: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #space #militaryleadership