Inside the Air Force highlights

Some must-reads from this week's issue of Inside the Air Force:

1. The Air Force will be forced to push back procurement of 30 B61-12 tailkit assembly trainers if Congress enacts another short-term continuing resolution this week, according to a service spokeswoman.

Full story: B61-12 tailkit program threatened by another CR

2. As the Air Force prepares to build a fiscal year 2020 budget request that reflects the priorities of the forthcoming National Defense Strategy, the service this week began a two-month zero-base review of its programs to determine how and whether they help increase lethality against future threats.

Full story: Air Force kicks off program review to shape FY-20 POM in light of National Defense Strategy

3. Shaw Air Force Base, SC, expects to fly its first MQ-9 combat line by early spring, and officials there told Inside the Air Force this week they hope service leadership will continue their commitment to sustained funding and flexible planning as the new Reaper control group stands up.

Full story: Shaw AFB prepares to fly first Reapers in next few months

4. Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson has directed the establishment of a new, three-star Air Force Space Command vice commander position that would be based in the national capital region and would advocate for space programs within the Pentagon.

Full story: SECAF to create AFSPC vice commander role to serve as space advocate