The White House has submitted nominations for six U.S. Air Force and Space Force major generals to assume three-star command positions, pending Senate confirmation. The appointments, sent to the Senate on September 29, signal significant leadership changes across critical commands, including Air Education and Training Command, Space Forces-Space, and Air Force Global Strike Command.
These nominations will place new leaders in charge of military training, space operations, nuclear deterrence, and sustainment, reflecting the services' ongoing efforts to adapt their command structures and priorities.
Key Takeaways
- Six major generals from the Air Force and Space Force have been nominated for promotion to lieutenant general.
- New commanders are slated for Air Education and Training Command (AETC) and Space Forces-Space.
- Maj. Gen. Clark J. Quinn is nominated to lead AETC, the command responsible for all Air Force training.
- Maj. Gen. Dennis O. Bythewood is tapped to head Space Forces-Space, the U.S. Space Force's component to U.S. Space Command.
- Other key nominations include new leaders for the Air Force Sustainment Center and the role of Air Force Inspector General.
New Leadership for Air Education and Training Command
Maj. Gen. Clark J. Quinn has been selected to lead Air Education and Training Command (AETC). Currently serving as the command's deputy, Quinn is poised to succeed Lt. Gen. Brian S. Robinson if his nomination is confirmed by the Senate. AETC is a foundational command for the Air Force, managing everything from basic military training for new recruits to advanced flight training for pilots and the educational programs of Air University.
This leadership change comes at a time of organizational review for the command. In 2024, the Air Force announced plans to rename AETC as "Airman Development Command" as part of a broader "re-optimization" initiative. However, these plans were paused in January 2025, and the proposed name change is now considered unlikely to proceed.
An Experienced Aviator at the Helm
Quinn's background is deeply rooted in aviation. As a command pilot, he has flown both the F-15E Strike Eagle and the F-16 Fighting Falcon. His operational experience is extensive, with missions flown in support of major U.S. operations over several decades, including Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve.
His leadership experience also includes serving as the second-in-command at the 20th Fighter Wing and Air Forces Central, giving him a broad perspective on both training and operational airpower.
Changes in Space Force and Strategic Commands
The U.S. Space Force is also set for a major leadership transition. Maj. Gen. Dennis O. Bythewood has been nominated to take command of Space Forces-Space, the service's primary component that provides forces to U.S. Space Command (SPACECOM).
If confirmed, Bythewood will succeed Lt. Gen. Douglas A. Schiess. This move creates a ripple effect, as Schiess has been nominated to become the deputy chief of space operations for operations, a role being vacated by the retiring Lt. Gen. DeAnna M. Burt. The command of Space Forces-Space is one of only five three-star positions within the entire Space Force, highlighting its importance.
Bythewood is familiar with the command, having previously served as its deputy commander. He has spent the past year as a special assistant to the Chief of Space Operations. His career includes command roles at the squadron and group levels and leadership of the Joint Task Force-Space Defense.
Key Nominations Across Global Strike and Sustainment
Several other major generals have been nominated for crucial three-star roles that impact the Air Force's nuclear and sustainment missions. These appointments are vital for maintaining readiness and modernizing the force.
Air Force Global Strike Command
Maj. Gen. Jason R. Armagost is nominated to become the deputy commander of Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC). This command is responsible for the nation's land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and strategic bomber fleet. Armagost currently commands the 8th Air Force, which oversees the bomber and nuclear command-and-control fleets. His confirmation would place him as the second-in-command to Gen. Stephen L. Davis, who was recently confirmed to lead AFGSC.
Air Force Sustainment Center
Maj. Gen. Jennifer Hammerstedt has been nominated to lead the Air Force Sustainment Center. This organization is the backbone of Air Force logistics, responsible for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft, engines, and ICBMs. Hammerstedt is currently the director of logistics, engineering, and force protection at Air Combat Command. Her prior experience as commander of the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex in Georgia makes her uniquely qualified for this role, which is central to the Air Force's renewed focus on mission readiness.
New Inspector General and Air University President
The nominations also include appointments for two other significant leadership positions within the Air Force bureaucracy, focusing on oversight and professional military education.
- Inspector General of the Air Force: Maj. Gen. David B. Lyons has been tapped for this role, serving as the service's top watchdog. Lyons, the current commander of the 15th Air Force, has previous experience in this area, having served as the Inspector General for Air Combat Command. He will take over from Lt. Gen. S.L. Davis at a time when the Pentagon is reforming its inspector general complaint processes.
- Commander and President of Air University: Maj. Gen. Daniel H. Tulley is nominated to lead the Air Force's primary institution for professional military education. Air University oversees a wide range of schools and programs, including the Community College of the Air Force, the Air Force Institute of Technology, and Air Force ROTC. Tulley is currently the director of operations at U.S. Transportation Command.
All nominations must be reviewed and confirmed by the U.S. Senate before the officers can assume their new roles and ranks.