The Pilot Project Podcast Episode 52: The Commander: Commanding the RCAF and flying the CF-188 Hornet Part 2 - Eric Kenny
May 6, 2025
Join Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, Commander of the RCAF, as he shares insights on leading the Royal Canadian Air Force. He tackles the current state of the RCAF, addressing challenges in recruitment and modernization amid rising geopolitical tensions from adversaries like Russia and China. Kenny discusses the path towards a 2035 operational readiness goal, the evolution to 5th generation capabilities, and the importance of investing in both technology and personnel. He also highlights the significance of military family support and educational advancements in air and cyber warfare.
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Future Tech Shapes RCAF
- Focus now is onboarding 5th generation technology, with attention to integrated missile defense and human-machine teaming.
- Quantum computing and AI are future technologies to incorporate responsibly.
Adapt Policies Through Feedback
- Approve serving beyond 60 for reservists based on individual contribution and fitness.
- Listen and act on bottom-up member feedback, such as introducing the RCAF ball cap.
Recruit and Retain Balance
- Recruitment and retention must balance quantity and quality to build required skills and experience.
- Retaining experienced personnel is crucial as attrition is natural but training takes long.