Industry News and Headlines

U.S. Air Force Plans to Expand Use of Portfolio Acquisition Executives over the Next Year

The U.S. Air Force will expand its portfolio acquisition executive (PAE) model to about 18 leaders within the next year, replacing the traditional program executive officer structure. PAEs will directly control contracting, finance and sustainment functions, aiming to embed lifecycle considerations early in development. The Space Force is following suit, targeting nine PAEs after initially naming two. Full implementation across both services is expected within 12‑18 months, aligning with the Pentagon’s broader acquisition overhaul.