USAF Rolls Out Air Expeditionary Wing 2.0
The U.S. Air Force is launching Air Expeditionary Wing 2.0, a revamped deployment model designed to improve readiness and operational cohesion. The new model will be fully implemented in fiscal year 2027, reflecting lessons learned from previous deployment frameworks, including the Expeditionary Air Base, Air Task Force, and Deployable Combat Wing models.
AEW 2.0 is modular and scalable, offering a standardized force package capable of projecting platform-agnostic airpower across any theater. Unlike legacy models, which relied on ad hoc unit assembly via the Air and Space Expeditionary Force process, AEW 2.0 forms approximately 18 months before deployment. This allows components to train and certify together, arriving in theater fully cohesive and combat-ready.
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach emphasized that AEW 2.0 builds on feedback from the total force and major commands. It is the next step in evolving our readiness,” he said, highlighting that Airmen can now train at home in ways consistent with operational deployment.
The AEW 2.0 model retains key benefits of previous concepts, including deliberately teamed, capabilities-based force packages aligned with the AFFORGEN training cycle. This approach balances in-garrison responsibilities with the need to maintain a ready, forward-deployable unit.
Lt. Gen. Case Cunningham, deputy chief of staff for operations, noted that AEW 2.0 enhances agility. A key strength of this unit of action model is the deliberate training and teaming that improves collaboration and readiness across the service,” he said, stressing the importance of empowering wings and commanders with resources for rapid, decisive operations.
Additional updates include group command opportunities at deployed locations and the replacement of traditional A-Staffs with Wing Operations Centers, designed to optimize command and control in austere or forward-deployed environments.
By standardizing deployment, training, and certification, AEW 2.0 strengthens the Air Force’s ability to deter threats and respond to high-end conflicts efficiently, supporting U.S. national priorities worldwide.
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