The Aerospace Advantage
The Aerospace Advantage podcast hosts real discussions with the world's top aerospace power leaders, both military and civilian, to tackle the most pressing aerospace issues that we face.
Episodes
Victory Through Production: Lessons from D-Day — Ep. 293
Episode Summary:
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. Many often think of this industrial boom as an inevitable wartime response. However, the reality was far more complex and precarious.
FY27 Budget, Space Force Launch, and the Future of Airpower — Ep. 292
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 lates
Epic Fury Lessons Learned: Lt. Gen. “Kooler” Krumm, USAF (Ret.) — Ep. 291
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
Allied Leadership Conversation: Maj Gen Wickman, Commander of the Swedish AF — Ep. 290
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 throughou
Want to Reset the Air Force? Lessons from the Reagan Build-Up — Ep. 289
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 maximi
FY27 Defense Budget, Fighter Support in Congress, Space Update: The Rendezvous — Ep. 288
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 importa
Innovate to Survive: Vietnam Air Combat Perspectives Part 2 — Ep. 287
Episode Summary:
The air war over Vietnam represents one of the most dynamic, evolutionary periods of airpower innovation. This impacted tactics, operational concepts, training, and technological developments. 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
Innovate to Survive: Vietnam Air Combat Perspectives Part 1 — Ep. 286
Episode Summary:
The air war over Vietnam represents one of the most dynamic, evolutionary periods of airpower innovation. The U.S. entered the conflict optimized to execute strikes against the Soviet Union, defend the homeland as part of Air Defense Command, and a host of other roles. Few of these missions matched the operational demands of what unfolded over Vietnam. Airmen had to rapidly adapt
A Century of Liquid Rockets: Conversation with ULA's Chief Rocket Scientist John Reed — Ep. 285
Episode Summary:
This week we're talking about space launch. 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of liquid-fueled rockets, when Dr. Robert Goddard successfully pioneered the first launch from his aunt's farm in Auburn, MA. Like the Wright Brothers before him, Goddard’s breakthrough opened the door to a new domain and the exploration, operations, and economic development that have evolved ever since.
Epic Fury Insights, FY27 Defense Budget, and Spacepower Update: The Rendezvous — Ep. 284
Episode Summary:
In this episode, our team discusses Operation Epic Fury from an air and space set of perspectives. We also explore top defense issues in Washington, D.C., with a special focus on the FY27 defense budget. Plus, we explain the latest in spacepower—everything from missile warning & tracking developments to the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP).
Understanding the Threat Environment in Space: Chief Lerch — Ep. 283
Episode Summary:
For decades, adversaries like China have pressed hard to erase the spacepower advantage of the United States. This includes weapons to attack our space systems and technologies on orbit to hold U.S. forces in all domains at risk. Bottom line, space is more contested today than ever before. Our Mitchell Institute team explores these realities with Chief Master Sergeant Ron Lerch, t
Command and Control Air Battle Management: The Air Layer Still Matters — Ep. 282
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 undu
Frontline Spacepower: Command Perspectives from U.S. Space Forces-Central — Ep. 281
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 SPACECEN
Operation Epic Fury: Key Insights and Analysis — Ep. 280
Episode Summary:
Join Mitchell Institute fellows for an in-depth conversation to better understand the strategic, operational, and tactical factors surrounding Operation Epic Fury. Heather Penney leads an unrivaled set of experts for an important dialogue that will help make sense of the conflict—from Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Deptula explaining how to design an air campaign and Charles Galbreath exploring
Top Spacepower Insights: AFA’s Warfare Symposium — Ep. 279
Episode Summary:
Join Mitchell Institute’s Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE) for their key takeaways from this week's Warfare Symposium, in Aurora, Colorado. Get the key takeaways about Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink’s focus on acquisition, Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman's take on growing and modernizing the service, and much, much more. Charles, Jen, and
Want Effective AI? It'll Take Contextualized Mission Data — Ep. 278
Episode Summary:
Autonomy and artificial intelligence are going to have a massive impact upon aircraft, mission systems, weapons, battle management, and other command and control functions. But it isn’t enough to just write the algorithms for the autonomy and AI—we’ll need to train them to effectively coordinate with human teammates, rapidly adjust to a dynamic threat environment, adhere to comman
Air Superiority: It Takes More Fighters — Ep. 277
Episode Summary:
Since the end of the Cold War, Air Force resource shortfalls have hit the fighter inventory hard. Want proof? The Air Force was supposed to procure 750 F-22s, but only got 187. The F-35 inventory was supposed to be double what we currently field on flightlines. Added to that, the service continually cut the legacy inventory of F-15s, F-16s, and A-10s …but COCOM demand never slowed
National Defense Strategy, Budget News, and Spacepower Update: The Rendezvous — Ep. 276
Episode Summary:
In this episode, our team explores the top defense issues in Washington, D.C. and beyond. What are the key details in the defense appropriations legislation that was just signed into law, and what are the important considerations when it comes to the new National Defense Strategy? We also explore the push for acquisition reform in the Department of the Air Force, plus Secretary He
Global Reach, Global Power: B-1 Flightline Update — Ep. 275
Episode Summary:
Global Reach, Global Power—you can’t exercise that without Air Force bombers. We explore the long-range strike mission with Lt. Col. Ryan “Duke” Stillwell. He’s spent most of his career flying the B-1, including time at the weapons school, and he just wrapped up command of the 9th Bomb Squadron at Dyess AFB.
What factors have shaped the modern bomber inventory into its current for
Pacific Threat Update: Taiwan Assessment — Ep. 274
Episode Summary:
The global security environment is nearing a fever pitch, but China remains the pacing military challenge for the United States. The central issue shaping that challenge is China’s threat to Taiwan. Can Taiwan defend itself against coercion or invasion from China’s People’s Liberation Army? Join us for an in-depth assessment as Heather Penney explores this critical topic with Mitc
Collaborative Mission Autonomy: The Key to Next Gen Airpower — Ep. 273
Episode Summary:
One of the most cutting-edge topics in combat airpower is collaborative mission autonomy. This is the technology that teams a crewed aircraft, like an F-35 or B-21, with an uncrewed aircraft, like a CCA. Collaboration promises to unlock greater mission effects than what either plane could realize on its own. Heather Penney explores this with Steve Fino and Ryan Bunge from Collins
Charting a Path to Space Superiority: The Cross-Domain Imperative — Ep. 272
Episode Summary:
Space superiority is essential to U.S. national security. Achieving that requires the Department of War to conduct a review of space roles and missions to clarify institutional responsibilities and prioritize cross-domain capability investments. Jennifer Reeves discusses her recommendations from her new policy paper, Charting a Path to Space Superiority: The Cross-Domain Imperativ
National Security Strategy, CCA Developments, & Defense Predictions for ’26: The Rendezvous — Ep. 271
Episode Summary:
In this episode, members of the Mitchell team share some of their most memorable experiences from their time in uniform. You normally hear us talking about policy and budget issues, but over the holiday season, we decided it was time to kick back and reflect upon the high adventures of past years. JV Venable almost ejects from an OV-10, Lt. Gen. David. A. Deptula, USAF (Ret.) jugg
[Part 2] “There I was!”: Stories from Space and the Cockpit with the Mitchell Institute — Ep. 270
Episode Summary:
In this episode, members of the Mitchell Institute team chat about some of their most memorable experiences from their time in uniform. Gen. Kevin P. Chilton, USAF (Ret.) talks about what it’s like to launch in the Space Shuttle, and Kyle Pumroy explains what it was like to pioneer the delivery of spacepower on the front lines of Afghanistan, and Brig. Gen. Houston Cantwell, USAF
[Part 1] “There I was!”: Stories from the Cockpit and Space with the Mitchell Institute — Ep. 269
Episode Summary:
In this episode, members of the Mitchell team share some of their most memorable experiences from their time in uniform. You normally hear us talking about policy and budget issues, but over the holiday season, we decided it was time to kick back and reflect upon the high adventures of past years. JV Venable almost ejects from an OV-10, Lt. Gen. David. A. Deptula, USAF (Ret.) jugg
Even Aces Have Heroes: Major Bob Lodge’s Ultimate Sacrifice — Ep. 268
Episode Summary:
The air war over Vietnam in 1972 was incredibly intense, with campaigns like Linebacker I and II defining the fight. Join us as we chat with Ace Colonel Chuck DeBellevue, USAF (Ret.) as he recounts the bravery and unique abilities of Major Bob Lodge, a fighter pilot from the famed 555th Fighter Squadron who made the ultimate sacrifice over North Vietnam. Lodge’s contributions were
Investing in Airlift: The Price of Tomorrow’s Victory — Ep. 267
Episode Summary:
The U.S. Air Force doesn’t have enough airlift. Today’s inventory is half the size of what it was in the Cold War, but current demands are far higher and more complex. This isn’t just an Air Force problem; it impacts the entire Department of War. Join us as Heather “Lucky” Penney talks with former AMC commander Gen. Mike Minihan, USAF (Ret.) and Mitchell Institute Non-Resident Fel
Fighter Update, Vector 2025, and CSAF Priorities: The Rendezvous — Ep. 266
Episode Summary:
In this episode, our team explores the top defense issues in Washington, D.C. and beyond. Where do the defense bills stand? What’s up with the new Air Force fighter force structure report, plus Secretary of War Hegseth’s acquisition speech? We also explore Gen. Wilsbach’s new priorities, F-35s to Saudia Arabia, as well as Lt. Gen. White’s nomination for a new job as DRPM. The conv
Dynamic Space Operations: A New Imperative — Ep. 265
Episode Summary:
Now that space is a warfighting domain, the Space Force and Space Command must pursue capabilities and operational concepts that increase resilience and effectiveness. That’s where dynamic space operations comes into play. By evolving on-orbit capabilities and activities, ground operations, the link segments, and even launch operations, the U.S. space enterprise can be more flexib
Jet Engines at the Merge: Industry Insights — Ep. 264
Episode Summary:
Today, the U.S. Air Force is at a key inflection point when it comes to jet propulsion. Most of the service’s aircraft are flying with engines designed during the Cold War. Newer types are now multiple decades old. This is why the Air Force has invested in multiple programs to pursue new engines. Heather Penney and Brig. Gen. Houston Cantwell, USAF (Ret.) talk with Lt. Gen
Fixing the Readiness Crisis: Better Training — Ep. 263
Episode Summary:
The Air Force is facing a readiness crisis, one that threatens our airmen’s ability to prevail in a peer conflict. A key constraint is the inability to accurately replicate advanced adversary capabilities on open air, live fly ranges. Between constrained physical range space, electromagnetic spectrum challenges, and operational security, it’s tough. However, we must do bet
Ukraine's Frontline: Inside Perspective — Ep. 262
Episode Summary:
Marine veteran Andrew Bain spent the past 30 years living and working in Ukraine. He and Adm. Ihor Voronchenko (Ret), former commander of the Ukrainian Navy, join hosts Heather "Lucky" Penney and Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.) for an inside look at technical and tactical innovation in the fight for survival against Russian aggression.
Credits:
Host: Heather "L
R&D vs Procurement Dollars, Chinese Gains in Space, and Small UAS Defense: The Rendezvous — Ep. 261
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney talks to Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Charles Galbreath, Kyle “Puma” Pumroy, Todd “Sledge” Harmer, and Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski about the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond.
Our team digs into where the defense bills stand in Congress as well as the national security impact of the government s
Solution Vector: What Comprises a Smart Air and Missile Defense? — Ep. 260
Episode Summary:
China, Russia, and other adversaries can strike the U.S. through a range of air and missile technologies. In this episode, we discuss solutions with former NORTHCOM-NORAD commander Gen. Glen VanHerck, USAF (Ret.) and former USAFE commander Gen. Jeff “Cobra” Harrigian, USAF (Ret.); along with Mitchell Institute senior fellows Brig. Gen. Houston Cantwell, USAF (Ret.); Charle
Back to the Future: The Origins of Homeland Air and Missile Defense — Ep. 259
Episode Summary:
When the Soviet Union gained atomic weapons technology in the early days of the Cold War, U.S. homeland defense catapulted to the top of America’s security priorities. The idea that Soviet bombers, and later ICBMs, could strike American targets demanded a response. Two primary pathways took shape: 1) strategic deterrence via the nuclear triad, and 2) an incredibly robust s
Air and Missile Defense: The Imperative for Golden Dome — Ep. 258
Episode Summary:
Adversaries, including China and Russia, possess the means to strike the U.S. through a range of air and missile technologies. While some of these threats, like ICBMs, have existed for decades, a new range of cruise missiles, drones, fractional orbital bombardment technologies, etc. can strike deep within our nation. Given their increasingly aggressive behavior challenging
Government Shutdown and Defense, USSF Force Design, and a new CSAF: The Rendezvous — Ep. 257
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney talks to Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Jennifer "Boots" Reeves, Todd “Sledge” Harmer, Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski, Jeff Rowlison, and Brig. Gen. Houston "Slider" Cantwell, USAF (Ret.) about the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond.
Our team digs into what a government closure means for national security an
Space Warfighting: Key Insights — Ep. 256
Episode Summary:
Major Kyle “Ghengis” Rimando, Chief of the Space Strategy Branch at SF S5/8, and Dr. John J. “Patsy” Klein, Senior Fellow and Strategist at Falcon Research Inc., join host Heather “Lucky” Penney—along with Mitchell Institute Senior Fellows Charles Galbreath and Jen “Boots” Reeves—to discuss key concepts regarding space domain awareness, offensive and defensive counterspace
Artificial Intelligence and Aerospace Power: Industry Leadership Insights — Ep. 255
Episode Summary:
Heather Penney explores national security artificial intelligence applications and considerations with Sean Moriarty and Leonard Law of Primer, a leading AI company. We explore how AI can help improve U.S. defense capabilities, discuss how vulnerabilities and challenges can be managed, while also addressing market conditions required to transition this technology to realit
CCA and Pilots: How Do We Communicate? — Ep. 254
Episode Summary:
AI is one of the hottest topics in defense, especially when it ties to Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). While seeing these new aircraft fly is super impressive, it’s crucial that we think about all phases of the mission, including how warfighters will interact with the CCA agents. To be clear, this goes beyond the tactical user interface during mission execution – we n
A New CSAF, CCA Airborne, and Starship Success: The Rendezvous — Ep. 253
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney talks to Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Charles Galbreath, Todd “Sledge” Harmer, Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski, JV Venable, and Brig. Gen. Houston Cantwell, USAF (Ret.) about the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond.
Our team digs into what a new Chief of Staff of the Air Force will mean for the service and t
Want to Prevail Against China? It’s Time to Reinvest in Air Force Capacity, Capabilities, and Readiness — Ep. 252
Episode Summary:
America’s ability to secure its interests, whether deterring conflict or fighting and wining, demands a robust Air Force. The current security environment will tolerate nothing less. The service has traditionally measured its prowess via capacity, capabilities, and readiness. The Air Force currently lags in each of these three areas. Want proof? The service’s FY 2025 budge
Disconnected by Design: The Case for 5th and 6th Generation Airpower — Ep. 251
Episode Summary:
This week we’re talking about what it’ll take to project airpower into the heart of the fight in a conflict with China. Most of the time we think about enemy fighter planes, surface-to-air missiles, and AAA, but the biggest challenge might come down to electromagnetic spectrum operations. China has long-studied US warfighting constructs and they know that our forces are hi
Homeland Sanctuary Lost: The Arctic Domain Awareness Challenge — Ep. 250
Episode Summary:
During the Cold War, all eyes faced north anticipating a Soviet attack across the North Pole. The U.S. Air Force was front and center operating air defense radars and sitting alert. Decades later, America finds itself coming full circle. Modern airborne threats like cruise and hypersonic missiles, plus long-range drones threaten the homeland. Maj. Gen. Pete Fesler, USAF (Ret.), Ma
Fixing the Munitions Gap: Building the Bullseye — Ep. 249
Episode Summary:
America is running short on munitions. With so many conflicts ongoing, our consumption is outpacing what we can build, and we are digging into their stockpiles to sustain current operations. And to be clear…if America is in a fight, we can’t stop until we win. This episode explores this the munitions gap and what folks are doing to try and fix it. And we’re doing this thro
Fighter Recapitalization, Trump on Ukraine, and the X-37B Mission: The Rendezvous - Ep. 248
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney talks to Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Jen Reeves, and Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski about the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond.
Our team digs into the status of the defense bills on Capitol Hill. This includes a discussion on spacepower policy and investment decisions, plus a focus on fighter recapitalization a
Cyber: The Backbone of Spacepower — Ep. 247
Episode Summary:
Spacepower is fundamentally reliant on the cyber domain—it is the backbone of connectivity for constellations on orbit, their ground stations, and connectivity to warfighters. Point blank: every bit of data and every command sent to space systems transits the cyber domain. Tackling the challenges of leading cyber and data efforts of the Space Force falls on the small, but
Guardians in Space: The Next Frontier? — Ep. 246
Episode Summary:
As America’s interests in space grow and humanity ventures further from Earth, the need to have Guardians in space to secure and protect U.S. interests will likely stand as an emerging requirement. We’ve seen this with every form of exploration: human presence will be interlinked with national standing, economic expansion, setting norms, and guarding security interests. Th
Evolving Munitions for Tomorrow’s Fight: Industry Insights — Ep. 245
Episode Summary:
The Air Force increasingly needs a broader set of munitions to achieve mission effects in the modern age. Combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq required a specific range of capabilities. Tomorrow’s fights will be different. We need to ensure that we evolve our munitions toolkit to cover these new mission demands. This is especially true when looking at missions in the
Readiness Precipice, FY26 Budget Pressures, and E-7 on the Line: The Rendezvous — Ep. 244
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney talks to Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Charles Galbreath, Todd “Sledge” Harmer, Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski, JV Venable, and Jeff Rowlison about the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond.
Our team digs into newly released FY26 budget details. There are some key issues to track for both the Air Force and Spa
11th Space Warning Squadron: Guardian Perspectives — Ep. 243
Episode Summary:
This week, we're shining a spotlight on the men and women of the 11th Space Warning Squadron (SWS). They provide theater missile warning to warfighters around the world. Given the nature and intensity of the threat environment, they have been incredibly busy. The 11 SWS is the inaugural recipient of the General Atomics United States Space Force Unit of the Year Award. Join Heather
USAF Airpower Over Iran: Key Insights — Ep. 242
Episode Summary:
We’re bringing you a special edition of the Aerospace Advantage to discuss Saturday’s strike on Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities. Everyone has read the news by now—the story of the 7 B-2s flying from Whiteman Air Force Base, numerous aerial refuelings along the way, air superiority aircraft joining the raid, tomahawk missiles fired from a submarine, and significant support fro
China In Space: Deterring Hostile Use of Force — Ep. 241
Episode Summary:
This week we’re taking a deep dive into deterrence, specifically deterring China from using force in space. Air University’s China Aerospace Studies Institute (CASI), in partnership with the Center for Naval Analysis (CNA), just released a new report exploring this topic. Results suggest that the U.S. security establishment has serious room for growth. Their experts analyzed ten d
Quadcopters Do Not Redefine Air Superiority: They Redefine Land Warfare — Ep. 240
Episode Summary:
Combat operations in Ukraine and the Red Sea clearly demonstrate the impact of small lethal drones as portable precision-guided munitions. Some have suggested that their use has made such a change in the character of war that a new category of airspace must be introduced. Casting it as the “air littoral,” they claim the military should move beyond traditional notions of ai
Episode 239 — Budget Battles, Golden Dome, and Ukraine’s Strike on Russia: The Rendezvous
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather "Lucky" Penney talks to Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Charles Galbreath, and Anthony "Lazer" Lazarski about the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond.
They unpack how the FY26 defense budget is unfolding—what is good and where is it falling short? The factors involving reconciliation versus the standard budget are thro
Episode 238 - Logistics While Under Attack: Key to a CCA Force Design
Episode Summary:
With threats surging around the world, the Air Force must figure out how to reset and do it fast. They can’t just buy more of what the service fielded in past decades. Fighting and winning tomorrow will require new operational concepts and technologies that’ll give airmen an edge.
That’s where CCA come into the mix. They’re designed to bring new capabilities, more capacity, and em
Episode 237 — Want Next Gen Electronic Attack? Better Invest in Operational Analysis
Episode Summary:
Fighting and winning in the twenty first century requires next gen electronic attack capabilities. Designing that technology and developing effective concepts of operation demands operational analysis. Heather Penney discusses this reality with Lt Gen David “Kooler” Krumm, USAF (Ret.) of BAE Systems.
It comes down to empowering strategists, operational leaders, and technol
Episode 236 — China Update: 6th Gen Fighters, Russia Relations, and Taiwan Strait Drills
Episode Summary:
Join us to learn more about the latest developments in Chinese airpower and spacepower developments. Heather Penney and Mike "JDAM" Dahm discuss a wide range of topics, including an update on China’s 6th generation fighters and recent PLA exercises in the Taiwan Strait. They discuss what is happening with more missing PLA generals and dynamics between Xi Jinping and Vladam
Episode 235 — Understanding the CCA Edge: Innovators’ Insights
Episode Summary:
Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) stand forth as one of the most important airpower developments of the twenty-first century. We learn more about CCA by talking to two of the people involved with developing and building them: Mike Atwood from General Atomics and Andrew “Scar” Van Timmeren of Anduril.
CCA’s ability to harness the traditional attributes of range, speed, su
Episode 234 — Defense Budget, Fighter Modernization, and Warfighting in Space: The Rendezvous
Episode Summary:
In this Rendezvous episode, we discuss top Air Force and Space Force developments in Washington, D.C., and beyond.
Topics include the latest defense budget plus-up via reconciliation and what this means for air and space power. We also discuss INDOPACOM Commander Admiral Paparo’s testimony regarding airpower gaps in the Pacific and Lockheed’s new vision for the F-35 in the
Episode 233 — Securing Air and Space: Allied Insights
Episode Summary:
France is America’s oldest ally. We’ve been through a lot: the American Revolution over 250 years ago, two World Wars, and ongoing worldwide military operations. Our two nations have stood side by side when it mattered most. This connection endures.
These days, it’s more important than ever, considering China’s rise, Russia’s aggression in Europe, and other elements of ins
Episode 232 — Air Combat Survivability Through a POWs Experience
Episode Summary:
This week, The Aerospace Advantage takes a break for Easter, but that doesn't mean our listeners need to take a pause. In this week's episode we reach back to a previously recorded conversation where the Mitchell team reflects on the air war over Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and speaks with combat pilot and POW Lt Col Gene Smith, USAF (Ret). Not only did Lt Col Sm
Episode 231 — The Future of Uncrewed Airpower: Pilot Perspective
Episode Summary:
As the Air Force develops the operational construct for Collaborative Combat Aircraft, Doug Birkey and Brig Gen Houston "Slider" Cantwell, USAF (Ret.) urge the service to tap into two decades of lessons learned flying highly sophisticated uncrewed aircraft like the MQ-1 Predator, MQ-9 Reaper, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and RQ-170. Harnessing his experience as an uncrewed aircraft p
Episode 230 — F-47 Insights, Chinese “Dog Fighting in Space,” and DC Defense Developments: The Rendezvous
Episode Summary:
In this Rendezvous episode, we discuss top Air Force and Space Force developments in Washington, D.C., and beyond.
We review key themes from Chief of Space Operations Gen. B. Chance Saltzman's visit with the Mitchell Institute last week, as well as a broad range of spacepower topics, from Chinese “dogfighting” in space to the new lunar landing to new launch contracts and t
Episode 229 — From EW to ISR: the 55th Wing
Episode Summary:
Heather “Lucky” Penney and Col. Mark "Chili" Howard explore one of the Air Force’s largest, most diverse units: the 55th Wing.
Operating from multiple installations, members of the 55th Wing execute everything from the EC-130 and EA-37B Compass Call electronic attack mission to the RC/WC/TC-135 ISR mission and elements of the nuclear command, control, and communications en
Episode 228 — Remotely Piloted Aircraft in Action: Insights from Air Force RPA Commanders
Episode Summary:
Heather “Lucky” Penney and Senior Fellow Brig Gen Houston "Slider" Cantwell, USAF (Ret.) chat with some of the nation’s top remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) commanders about on-going combat contributions and the Air Force’s future development path for this incredible mission. They are joined by Brig Gen Christopher "Reggie" Hammond, Director of RPA and Airborne ISR Capabili
Episode 227 — Modern Combat Power: It Takes a Weather Advantage
Episode Summary:
Heather “Lucky” Penney and Col Patrick Williams explores one of the most important make-or-break factors in warfare: weather. Environmental conditions control when and how we employ military power…and what enemies can do to us.
People tend to take weather assessments for granted, but that’s a mistake. Collecting environmental data, analyzing it, and transforming it into ac
Episode 226 — AFA Colorado 2025 Recap: Key Takeaways for Air & Space Power
Episode Summary:
The Mitchell Institute team shares insights from the AFA Warfare Symposium, in Aurora, CO—it was the spot for air and space power professionals this week.
Hear from Gen Kevin Chilton, USAF (ret), Lt Gen Dave Deptula, USAF (ret), Heather Penney, and Charles Galbreath as they discuss the crucial messages coming from Chief of Space Operations Gen Chance Saltzman and Chief of
Episode 225 — Trump Defense Priorities, Congressional Update, and Ukraine: The Rendezvous
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney chats with members of the Mitchell Institute team about the latest air and space power developments in Washington DC.
We explore President Trump’s defense priorities, including recent top defense leadership changes. The team also provides a Ukraine update and assess where defense issues stand in Congress, especially the budget. Anoth
Episode 224 — Want Combat Airpower? Then Fix the Air Force Pilot Crisis
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney discusses why the Air Force has a chronic pilot shortfall and solutions to solve it with Lt Gen Joseph Guastella, USAF (Ret) and Lt Gen Marc Sasseville, USAF (Ret).
Bottom line: the Air Force’s pilot corps is now too small to sustain a healthy combat force that can prevail in a peer conflict and meet the nation’s other national secur
Episode 223 — Will the Chinese Defense Surge Continue? Insights for 2025
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney discusses the latest Chinese security developments with Mitchell Institute Senior Fellow Mike Dahm.
Whether discussing the creation of a new service branch focused on space—the PLA’s Aerospace Force; continued development of their nuclear arsenal; or the “Christmas surprise” flight of multiple new combat aircraft—2024 was a busy and
Episode 222 — Countering China and Russia in the High North: The Arctic Challenge
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney discusses the rising strategic importance of the Arctic with Maj. Gen. Mark Piper, USAF, NORAD Deputy Director of Operations; BGen James Hawthorne, RCAF, NORAD Deputy Director Strategy, Policy and Plans; and Brig. Gen. Houston Cantwell, USAF (Ret.) of our Mitchell Institute team.
With Russia and China aggressively increasing their Ar
Episode 221 — Will Congress Boost Air and Space Power in 2025? The Rendezvous
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney chats with members of the Mitchell Institute team about air and space power issues through the congressional lens.
Not only is Washington DC seeing the arrival of President Trump, but the year is also seeing major changes on Capitol Hill. What will this mean for programs like the F-35, B-21, and Sentinel? Will the Space Force be able
Episode 220 — Airpower Perspectives | Advice for President Trump’s Defense Team
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Doug Birkey chats with Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.); Maj. Gen. Larry Stutzriem, USAF (Ret.); Mark Gunzinger; and JV Venable about key considerations that President Trump’s defense team, especially the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Air Force, should be thinking about when it comes to airpower.
It's clear that the Air Force needs to mo
Episode 219 — Spacepower Perspectives | Advice for President Trump’s Defense Team
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Doug Birkey chats with Gen. Kevin Chilton, USAF (Ret.); Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.); Jennifer "Boots" Reeves; and Charles Galbreath about key considerations President Trump’s defense team, especially the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Air Force, should be thinking about when it comes to spacepower.
We all know that President Trump cr
Episode 218 - Air Force Readiness Crisis: It’s Time for a Reset
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney chats with Maj Gen (Ret) Larry “Stutz” Stutzriem, Col (Ret) Barry “Papa” Murphy, Col (Ret) Robert “Otis” Winkler, and Col (Ret) JV Venable about the Air Force’s current readiness crisis. The severity of the global threat environment demands a fix. This isn't just an Air Force problem. Without effective and reliable airpower, no modern comba
Episode 217 — It’s All About Munitions: New Perspectives
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney chats with Anduril’s Steve Milano—from their Strike and Air Dominance Sector—and our very own Maj Gen (Ret) Larry “Stutz” Stutzriem about what it means to deliver enhanced munitions capabilities at scale.
Anyone who has watched security developments around the globe knows that we’ve got serious issues that risk us being out produced
Episode 216 — “There I was!”: Stories from the Cockpit and Space with the Mitchell Institute
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney chats with members of the Mitchell team about some of their most memorable experiences from their time in uniform.
You normally hear us talking about policy and budget issues, but over the holiday season, we decided it was time to kick back and reflect upon the high adventures of past years. JDAM recounts an ill-conceived field trip
Episode 215 — Global Spacepower: Allied Perspective
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney and members of the Mitchell Institute team discuss allied spacepower with French Space Command Commander Major General Philippe Adam.
We talk about it all the time: the U.S. will always operate with allies and partners. With space now standing as an ever-crucial domain and with our adversaries seeking to contest it—the notion of alli
Episode 214 — Launch: The Fundamental Prerequisite for Space Superiority
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney explores space launch operations, infrastructure, and technologies with Brad Appel, the Chief Technology Officer of Ursa Major, and Mitchell Institute’s Charles Galbreath.
Today, all U.S. military operations rely on space capabilities and effects delivered from the on-orbit architecture. Assured access to space and robust launch infr
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