It is not only what we do, but also what we do not do, for which we are accountable.Moliere
Airmen,
As we continue to navigate the complexities of an ever-changing global security landscape, it is essential that we stay informed and engaged on a wide range of topics that impact our profession and our nation. To that end, this Leadership Library release includes three exceptional resources curated to stimulate critical thinking, challenge prevailing assumptions, and provoke informed discussion. My goal is for you to be empowered at all levels, prepared to lead the Air Force we need.
The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers by Paul Kennedy serves as a comprehensive exploration of the past five centuries, offering a unique perspective on the interplay between economic resources, politics, and military conflict that has shaped the rise and decline of global powers. As we consider the contemporary dynamics shaping the world today, this book provides a rich historical context that will help us better understand the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Andy Stanley’s podcast, The Foundation of Exceptional Leadership, frames growth as a personal responsibility, emphasizing the importance of aligning our actions with our values. As Airmen, we are called to lead and serve with integrity. This podcast offers practical wisdom and insights to help us become better leaders and better versions of ourselves..
CSIS's report, Understanding the Military AI Ecosystem of Ukraine, is a timely and informative study that captures the modern application of AI in current warfare. This report offers valuable lessons learned regarding AI development and adoption and considers near-peers' adversarial approaches to AI. Understanding the applications of emerging technology will be essential as we continue to integrate AI into our operations.
I encourage all Airmen to engage with these resources, as they offer a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to help us maintain an operational edge in an increasingly multifaceted and competitive world. By exploring these themes of geopolitics, leadership, and evolving technology, we will be better equipped to outmaneuver emerging threats, anticipate future challenges, and dominate the battlespace of tomorrow. These titles can be accessed and tracked through the E-Learning CSAF Library Journey. Thank you for your dedication to our Air Force and to our nation.
Editor’s note: The CSAF Leadership Library is a fluid set of media selected by Gen. Allvin that evolves as novel ideas are published, recorded and debated. New entries will be added periodically throughout the year.
The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers: Economic Change and Military Conflict from 1500 to 2000
The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers: Economic Change and Military Conflict from 1500 to 2000 by Paul Kennedy, first published in 1987, examines the political and economic trajectories of the Great Powers from 1500 to 1980, analyzing the factors behind their ascendancy and eventual decline. The book also offers projections on the future roles of China, Japan, the European Economic Community (EEC), the Soviet Union, and the United States leading up to the end of the 20th century.
The Foundation of Exceptional Leadership
The Foundation of Exceptional Leadership lies in leading the person in the mirror because it emphasizes the critical role of self-awareness and personal integrity as the starting point for effective leadership; essentially, before you can lead others, you must first lead yourself by managing your character, values, and behaviors to ensure authenticity and consistency in your actions.
Understanding the Military AI Ecosystem of Ukraine
Understanding the Military AI Ecosystem of Ukraine, the first in a series on military artificial intelligence (AI) development and its role in the war, examines two key aspects of AI adoption in Ukraine’s military. It explores the factors shaping military AI development since the conflict with Russia began in 2014 and highlights the government institutions and initiatives driving AI integration, offering an overview of their major efforts to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities.