This project examines the history of the Total Force policy since its inception in 1970 through its implementation today in an effort to determine a future direction for the Air Force's Future Total Force initiative. It cites histories of the Air Force, the Air National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve to depict the historical reference for the Total Force policy. The project relies on the Congressional testimony by subject matter experts such as undersecretaries of defense, the Secretary of the Air Force, and the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, as well as the Air Force's own Future Total Force policy pamphlet to relate the current implementation and potential future direction for the policy. Analysis of the past implementation does offer lessons for future implementation of the policy. These lessons include the undeniable efficacy of the policy, given proper manning and funding of the Air Reserve Component. The vital importance of maintaining a symbiotic relationship between the active duty and Air Reserve Component represents another lesson of the history of the Total Force policy. Finally, realizing the limitations of the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve within the context of the Air and Space Expeditionary Force is a final lesson to consider when determining the future of the Air Force's Future Total Force.

Planning Future U.S. Fighter Forces offers a general discussion on force structure and planning options the air force will most likely face over the next few years. It addresses the growing controversy over how to modernize U.S. fighter forces in the post-Cold War era--a controversy that is intensified by the critical role that airpower plays in defense strategy and its high cost. The author's purpose is to explore the many factors that will have to be evaluated in order to develop sound policy for modernization. Although new models for defense planning are needed, the writer warns against hasty and abrupt changes that may limit flexibility and choices for U.S. fighter forces in the short term.