Arlington, VA, September 17, 1997 - The Air Force Association
said that superior technology is even more important now than it
was during the Cold War.
In its 1997-1998 Force Capabilities Issue Paper, adopted by
delegates during AFA's 1997 National Convention and Aerospace
Technology Exposition, being held in Washington, D.C., from Sept.
15-17, AFA said "the national military strategy requires that
smaller forces be prepared to fight two nearly simultaneous major
theater wars and at the same time be capable of addressing a range
of small-scale contingencies, from peacekeeping and humanitarian
operations to counter-terrorism actions."
According to the paper, "The United States Air Force must
have the most advanced technical systems and an adequate force
structure to successfully perform its core competencies -
Air Superiority, Global Attack, Precision Engagement, Rapid
Global Mobility, Information Superiority, and Agile Combat
Support. These form the foundations enabling fulfillment
of our nation's military strategy."
AFA renewed its support for key modernization programs,
including the F-22 air superiority fighter; the Joint Strike
Fighter (JSF) program; the Airborne Laser (ABL) program;
expansion of the B-2 bomber force beyond the 21 now planned;
investment in range of cost-effective space systems and
capabilities; expansion and development of advanced technology
information systems; and a robust missile defense program.
AFA criticized the current Administration's modernization
policies, pointing out that "investment in procurement,
research, development, and test and evaluation is down by
47.6% since 1989. Given these trends, the nation's interests
are at risk." The Association also remained critical of
the low priority that is given to maintaining a strong and
viable U.S. industrial base.
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