A European Perspective on Secretary Wynne’s Contribution Airpower and Defence

In the years following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the global order seemed poised to embrace a new era dominated by liberal democracies. The United States (U.S.) emerged as the sole superpower, while Western Europe, confident in a newfound “peace dividend,” dismantled much of its defense infrastructure. This was a time of optimism, where the specter of great power rivalry appeared to fade into history.

Yet, as the 1990s gave way to the 21st century, the events of September 11, 2001, dramatically shifted the focus of American foreign policy. The attacks on U.S. soil catalyzed a war on global terrorism, leading to prolonged military engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq. The emphasis on “stability operations” overshadowed the need to prepare for the resurgence of great power competition—a reality that Beijing and Moscow never ceased to recognize.

Now, in an era defined by rapid technological advancements, shifting global power dynamics, and evolving military challenges, the United States stands at a critical juncture. The pursuit of military superiority has never been more complex, nor has it been more imperative.

Robbin Laird’s book, which you hold in your hands, offers an incisive exploration into these multifaceted challenges, drawing on the experiences and insights of one of the most influential figures in modern defense strategy—Michael Wynne.

In this pivotal work, America, Global Military Competition, and Opportunities Lost: Reflections on the Work of Michael W. Wynne, Robbin Laird delves into this lost decade of American strategic focus. He scrutinizes how the United States, amidst the land wars and counterinsurgency operations, neglected the essential task of building a military force capable of contending with the re-emerging global powers.

A critical turning point came in 2008 with the dramatic firing of the Chief of Staff and the Secretary of the U.S. Air Force, an event that symbolized a shift in military focus. Michael W. Wynne, the 21st Secretary of the USAF, was a vocal advocate for preparing the U.S. military for future great power competition.

However, his vision was not fully embraced by the Department of Defense, particularly under the leadership of Undersecretary Robert Gates, whose priorities were aligned more with ongoing counterinsurgency efforts and stability operations than with innovating for a new era of global rivalry.

Laird presents a detailed examination of this divergence in strategic vision, highlighting how Wynne’s foresight regarding the importance of developing capabilities for future geopolitical challenges was often overshadowed by the immediate demands of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Despite the prevailing focus, Wynne and his team persistently advocated for a course correction, emphasizing the necessity of preparing for the challenges posed by China, Russia, and other multipolar authoritarian states.

The book underscores the importance of the F-35 program, which, despite limited support, became a critical component in the United States’ belated reawakening to the realities of great power competition.

As the Western “rules-based” order faces increasing pressure from authoritarian regimes, Laird’s reflections offer invaluable insights into the strategic missteps of the past and the urgent need to adapt to a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Furthermore, this book addresses the broader implications of defense modernization, from the termination of the F-22 program to the rise of hypersonics and cyber warfare. The discussions on the industrial impact of shrinking manufacturing capabilities and the future of the large deck carrier illustrate the multifaceted nature of defense strategy in the 21st century.

This foreword, therefore, serves not only as an introduction to the lessons of the past but also as a call to action. It is a reminder that the preservation of global stability and the defense of democratic values require constant vigilance and a willingness to innovate in the face of new challenges.

As we look back on the pivotal decisions of the early 21st century, this book encourages us to learn from our mistakes and to prepare more effectively for the complexities of the future.

This book is a testament to the enduring importance of leadership, vision, and adaptability in ensuring that the United States maintains its edge in global military competition.

It is a must-read for anyone committed to understanding the future of warfare and the role of American power in a rapidly changing world.

Lieutenant General Pasquale Preziosa is a retired Italian Air Force officer, who served as Chief of the Italian Air Force.

From August 2003 to September 2006 he served as the Defense Attaché at the Embassy of Italy, Washington, D.C., and Chief of the Cabinet of the Minister of Defence from December 2011 to February 2013. He was appointed Chief of the Air Force in 2013.

Since retirement, he has remained extensively engaged in European defense issues and is a regular contributor to the Italian press, radio and television on defense and foreign policy issues.