War on the Rocks Airpower, Advice, and D.C. Favorites with David Deptula
Jan 30, 2026
David Deptula, retired lieutenant general and former F-15 pilot who led the Mitchell Institute, talks airpower challenges and what fixing the Air Force will require. He recounts Desert Storm planning, discusses readiness shortfalls and procurement priorities, explains effects-based thinking and Ukrainian innovations, and shares practical advice for junior Airmen plus his favorite D.C. spots.
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Episode notes
Waiting For The First Strike
- David Deptula described the final hours before Desert Storm's first TOT and the nervous anticipation in the planning room.
- He recounted relying on CNN as the first feedback source when Baghdad broadcasts cut out at the strike time.
Air Force Capacity Is Declining
- Deptula warns the USAF is the oldest, smallest, and flying less than ever, which undermines capacity and readiness.
- He argues recent operations showcased talent but are not repeatable without reversing force-structure decline.
Homeland Defense Returns To Center Stage
- The new national security strategy elevates homeland/Western Hemisphere defense to primary importance with enforceable prioritization.
- Deptula says the Air Force becomes the connective tissue linking homeland defense and global deterrence across domains.
