In this episode, Dr. Wendy Whitman Cobb and Col. Cory Hollon interview Lt Gen (Ret.) David Deptula about the role of air and space power in modern warfare and national security. Deptula discusses the mission of the Mitchell Institute, emphasizing the need to better educate policymakers and the public on the strategic importance of air and space capabilities. The conversation addresses contemporary debates over air superiority, the impact of drones and precision-guided munitions in Ukraine, and critiques arguments that these developments diminish the relevance of airpower. Throughout, Deptula argues that control of the air remains a fundamental condition for effective joint operations and highlights the importance of innovation, resilience, and clear strategic thinking.

Mitchell Institute Website: mitchellaerospacepower.org

If you have questions, comments, or episode recommendations, please email us at bookstobattles@au.af.edu

Books Mentioned

Shyam Sankar and Madeline Hart, Mobilize: How to Reboot the American Industrial Base and Stop World War III (Bombardier Books, 2026)

Jack Broughton, Thud Ridge: Flying the F-105 Thunderchief in Combat Over Vietnam (Crecy Publishing Ltd., 1969)

Martin Caidin, Black Thursday: The Story of the Schweinfurt Raid (E.P. Dutton & Co., 1960)

USAF Doctrine Page: https://www.doctrine.af.mil/

Mitchell Institute Reading List: mitchellaerospacepower.org/aerospace-power-reading-list/

The opinions expressed here are those of the hosts or the guests and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Department of the Air Force, the Depart of Defense, or the United States Government.