Air Force Abandons New Command for Integrated Capabilities

The United States Air Force announced a significant policy shift today, opting to abandon plans for a new major command aimed at transforming technology acquisition. Instead, the Air Force will integrate the intended responsibilities of the proposed Integrated Capabilities Command (ICC) into an existing organization known as Air Force Futures, also referred to as A5/7.

The initial plans for the ICC were revealed last year under the Biden administration as part of a broader initiative called “reoptimization.” The Air Force had established a provisional version of the ICC, which commenced operations as the primary body responsible for overseeing the acquisition of weapon systems. However, with the new decision, the integration into the A5/7 structure is set to be completed by April 2026.

Troy Meink, the Secretary of the Air Force, stated that this restructuring aims to “accelerate the delivery of combat power, improve efficiency, and shorten the decision timeline.” The decision to reallocate the ICC’s functions reflects a review of the Air Force’s reoptimization efforts, which had previously been paused earlier this year.

As part of the transition, the Air Force will create a new position titled Chief Modernization Officer. This role will be responsible for leading critical aspects, including strategy and force design, mission integration, capability development, and modernization investment prioritization. According to the service’s press release, these changes are expected to enhance the overall effectiveness of the Air Force’s modernization efforts.

Maj. Gen. Christopher Niemi, who previously commanded the Air Force Warfare Center at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, will spearhead the organizational restructuring within A5/7. This appointment underscores the Air Force’s commitment to strengthening its modernization initiatives while adjusting its strategic approach.

The decision to forgo establishing the ICC comes amid ongoing discussions regarding the reoptimization initiatives. These initiatives, which also encompass developments within the Space Force, have faced scrutiny, particularly from former officials associated with the Trump administration. Disagreements within the ranks regarding the direction of these initiatives have reportedly contributed to the recent ousting of Air Force Chief of Staff David Allvin. Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, the former chief of Air Combat Command, has been nominated to succeed Allvin.

During a recent roundtable discussion at the Air and Space Forces Association conference in Washington, Meink emphasized the importance of readiness and modernization, stating, “I think a lot of the ideas that have been floated around, regardless of where they came from, are important.” He acknowledged the need for the Air Force to adapt but expressed skepticism about the terminology used by previous officials, suggesting that the focus should remain on winning rather than competing.

As the Air Force navigates these changes, the outcome of other initiatives under the reoptimization strategy remains uncertain. The service’s latest decisions reflect an evolving approach to modernization in a rapidly changing global landscape.