Mike Rogers - Chairman of the Armed Services Committee | Official U.S. House headshot
Mike Rogers - Chairman of the Armed Services Committee | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, delivered an opening statement at a hearing on mobility aircraft connectivity capabilities in Washington, D.C. The hearing addressed critical issues regarding logistics chains in joint military operations.
Rep. Kelly's remarks emphasized the importance of mobility aircraft relevance and survivability in contested environments. "Today, this Joint Hearing will receive testimony on Mobility Aircraft Relevance and Survivability in a Contested Environment," he stated.
He highlighted the necessity for timely logistics support to joint forces, noting that U.S. mobility forces provide a significant advantage over adversaries but face challenges operating in contested environments. "It is imperative that our forces can communicate across long distances," Kelly remarked.
Kelly referenced last year's Mobility Guardian Exercise, which exposed a critical issue: the lack of reliable communication links beyond line of sight with airlift and air refueling fleets. He expressed interest in hearing about lessons learned from that exercise and potential modernization solutions.
Additionally, Kelly sought input from the panel on increasing air refueling capacity, addressing concerns raised by INDOPACOM commanders regarding the Joint Force's ability to refuel and operate within the area of responsibility (AOR).
Before concluding his statement, Rep. Kelly extended gratitude to Gen Minihan and his wife Ashley for their 34 years of service and leadership within Air Mobility Command.
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