AF introduces I2S to improve bases

ARLINGTON, Va. - The Air Force announced its new Infrastructure Investment Strategy (I2S) following a year-long review that is designed to bring new analytical tools and focus to enhance readiness at worldwide bases based on mission needs. The strategy shift changes the “worst is first” approach to facilities prioritization. Instead, the AF will demolish the oldest 5 percent of its buildings and maintain infrastructure before it becomes expensive. “We’ll get more out of every dollar … and, over time, we will improve the quality of life of our Airmen and their families,” Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson said. From hangars and runways to operations centers and ranges, the I2S will require bases to have master plans and prioritized projects based on mission. The new strategy calls for the AF to fund 2 percent of replacement value of its buildings per year. Advanced modeling and simulation done in support of the strategy will result in significant improvements in facilities’ conditions over 20 years. “Infrastructure resilience is critical to our ability to fight, but the mission succeeds or fails at the squadron level,” said Brig. Gen. John Allen, AF director of civil engineers, and will be focused on supporting civil engineer airmen to sustain the strategy. The AF requested $2B in additional spending for IS2 in its proposed FY 2020 budget request. Congress will consider the AF’s FY-20 budget request, and how that process unfolds will dictate actual spending. (Source: Secretary of the Air Force 03/22/19)