Opinion: The Air Force is adapting its attitudes and workforce to the coronavirus to keep ICBM systems running

April 9, 2020
The ICBM equipment we use is at least 40 years old, many civilian employees are in their 50s and 60s, and are among the most vulnerable to the coronavirus.

Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. – The new coronavirus known as COVID-19 is changing life across America and the world, from massively shifting our daily work habits to triggering necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. C4ISRnet reports. Continue reading original article

The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:

9 April 2020 -- One challenge I have as commander of an Air Force squadron that has to continue operating — no matter the circumstances — is something few of us had given a lot of thought.

Because the equipment we use for our mission is at least 40 years old, many of my civilian workforce are in their 50s and 60s, and among the most vulnerable to the coronavirus.

In fact, a majority of them are in the “at risk” category. They are software developers and maintenance technicians who keep an automated nuclear messaging and targeting system for intercontinental ballistic missiles performing its vital function every day. Adapting to the coronavirus is essential.

Related: Disruptions of coronavirus pandemic to impose 4-to-12-week lag in military electronic parts supply chain

Related: Army asks industry to develop handheld or smartphone test system to screen patients for the coronavirus

Related: The military's role in detecting, containing, and treating the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

John Keller, chief editor
Military & Aerospace Electronics

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Military Aerospace, create an account today!