The Air Force is embarking on a transformative journey to enhance its acquisition processes, with five officials newly appointed as portfolio acquisition executives (PAEs). These leaders, previously program executive officers, are tasked with expediting procurement and enhancing decision-making authority in key areas.
The Air Force disclosed that these PAEs will be responsible for overseeing critical programs related to command, control, communications, and battle management; fighters and advanced aircraft; nuclear command, control and communications; propulsion; and weapons. This shift is the initial phase of a larger reform aimed at delivering cutting-edge weapon systems more quickly to military personnel, while also fostering opportunities for smaller and unconventional firms.
These changes align with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s strategy to reshape the Department of Defense’s procurement framework into a more agile Warfighting Acquisition System. “This transformation is a generational opportunity for the Department of the Air Force,” stated Air Force Secretary Troy Meink, emphasizing the holistic reform from requirements to testing to support rapid capability development.
In a speech at the National War College, Hegseth highlighted that the PAEs will have the autonomy to make pivotal decisions without the lengthy approval chains, focusing on balancing cost, schedule, and performance to boost mission effectiveness. Secretary Meink has committed to ensuring these leaders are equipped with “the authority, the resources and the talent” needed to fulfill their roles.
The PAEs, overseeing vital defense programs, play a crucial role in enhancing the Air Force’s readiness for future conflicts. An example is Brig. Gen. Jason Voorheis, who manages the fighters and advanced aircraft sector, including the collaborative combat aircraft and the next-gen F-47 fighter. The Air Force anticipates these adjustments will not only empower its personnel but also streamline processes and strengthen industry partnerships.
William Bailey, acting assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition, technology, and logistics, remarked, “This acquisition transformation is not just about buying things faster. It’s a fundamental overhaul of our culture to empower our airmen, unleash innovation, and deliver the integrated capabilities we need to deter and, if necessary, defeat our adversaries.” Bailey noted that the shift from PEOs to PAEs aims to decentralize authority and accountability to the mission level.
In a parallel move, the Space Force has identified space access and space-based sensing and targeting as its initial portfolio areas for PAEs. Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, acting assistant secretary for space acquisition and integration, stated, “Acquisition is now a warfighting function.” This highlights the Space Force’s commitment to leveraging private sector innovation to maintain technological superiority.
Purdy emphasized the use of iterative development and rapid fielding to expedite system deployment, adhering to the principle of “Speed with discipline.” This approach empowers the acquisition corps to manage risks effectively while delivering capabilities through rapid, iterative cycles.
