Conventional-Nuclear Integration (CNI), Resource Prioritization, and Allied Capabilities

TOPIC SPONSOR: AF/A10C

What are the effects of prolonged conventional conflict on the nuclear air leg capabilities? How credible will that deterrent be after engaging in a prolonged conventional conflict? Is it possible to bring mass fire effects without committing the entire strength of our bomber force, thus subjecting them to attrition? Will the U.S. still have a credible air leg after tanker losses through attrition and maintenance backlogs? How will current recapitalization programs (medium bomber and fewer nuclear-certified tankers) affect the future air leg's capabilities and contribution to deterrence?

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• Tallman, Lt. Col. William B., "Strategic Implication of Commercial Aerial Refueling Integration into US Defense Operations," AFGC thesis, 2025.
  • Tallman answers this by confirming that the current USAF tanker fleet is severely stressed by KC-135 retirements, KC-46 procurement delays, and mission-capable rates that have fallen to between 65% and 69% due to maintenance issues. He argues that to maintain a credible and ready force, commercial aerial refueling must be integrated to absorb routine flying hours, thereby preserving the lifespan and readiness of the aging organic fleet. By outsourcing training and exercise sorties, aircraft undergo less peacetime wear and tear, and organic tankers remain available for higher-priority missions, thereby maintaining the U.S. military's overall strategic deterrence capabilities without burning out existing assets.
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