TROY MEINK HAS BEEN CONFIRMED AS SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE
On Tuesday, the Senate confirmed Troy Meink as the next Secretary of the Air Force. Meink was confirmed in a 74-25 vote, with many Democrats voting in favor of Meink. As one of the leaders of the U.S. Air Force (USAF), Meink is bringing his expertise to tackle complicated, global threats. Learn more about his background, expertise, and plan for the U.S. military.
Who Is the Secretary of the Air Force?
On January 16, 2025, Donald Trump announced on social media that he was nominating Dr. Troy Meink as the Secretary of the Air Force.
"I am pleased to announce that Dr. Troy Meink will be the next United States Secretary of the Air Force. Troy currently serves as the Principal Deputy Director of the National Reconnaissance Office, and began his career as a KC-135 Tanker Navigator, and later, as a test engineer for missile defense systems.
Troy will work with our incredible Secretary of Defense Nominee, Pete Hegseth, to ensure that our Nation’s Air Force is the most effective and deadly force in the World, as we secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH," wrote Trump on Truth Social.
On May 13th, the Senate confirmed his as the next Air Force secretary, nearly five months after President Trump picked him to be the top civilian overseeing both the Air Force and Space Force.
What Does the Secretary of the Air Force Do?
The role of the Secretary of the Air Force is to oversee the organization, training, and equipping of the U.S. Air Force and Space Force.
The secretary manages a budget of $200+ billion and ensures almost 700,000 personnel are ready to defend our nation.
Reporting to the Secretary of Defense, the role works with the Under Secretary, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and Chief of Space Operations in the pursuit of excellence.
As Secretary of the Air Force, Meink will be tasked with handling many concerns, including a limited recruiting pool and rising global conflicts.
Dr. Troy Meink's Background & Experience
Air Force Veteran Troy Meink began his career in 1988 through the ROTC program at South Dakota State University, serving as a KC-135 Stratotanker navigator and instructor.
Over his career, he completed 100 sorties, including eight combat missions in Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Provide Comfort.
He later became a lead test engineer for the Missile Defense Agency and held prominent roles, including deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force for space under President Obama.
Meink also directed the acquisition of signals intelligence systems for the National Reconnaissance Office.
His selection by President Trump as the next U.S. Air Force Secretary underscores the emphasis on space as a critical component of national defense and the development of the Space Force.
Troy Meink Will Be in Charge of Overseeing Significant Transformations
Meink is taking over the Department of the Air Force, during a time when the branch is modernizing their aircraft fleet. During his time as secretary, Meink will be overseeing the Air Force’s 6th generation fighter, known as the F-47.
Additionally, the Air Force is working on multiple versions of collaborative combat aircraft that are scheduled to join the F-47 in flight, including the F-25A Joint Strike Fighter. Additionally, the Air Force is revamping its bomber force with the new B-21 Raider stealth bomber. They are retiring the B-1 and B-2 bombers.
Meink’s background in acquisitions will also be valuable as he moves to make these major transformations. Additionally, his expertise about space will be of benefit to the Space Force, who is working to expand and grow its budget.
During his nomination hearing in March, Meink promised that he would push for the Space Force to get access to necessary resources, prioritizing the growth of the branch and its growing role in military actions. All eyes will be on Meink during the next few months as he works to make our military stronger.
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