Roche discusses Air Force future during visit Published Nov. 26, 2003 By Airman 1st Class Amaani Lyle 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany (AFPN) -- Citing the ability to adapt as the greatest change for the Air Force, the secretary of the Air Force thanked airmen for their involvement in operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom during a visit here Nov. 24.Secretary of the Air Force Dr. James G. Roche met with hundreds of wing airmen to answer questions about the Air Force's future, from air and space expeditionary force rotations to the new uniforms. He also discussed specific technological strides the Air Force is taking."We've taken our technology and adapted it to the conflict we face," Roche said. "We're taking the brains of our airmen and putting them together with technology to create a new doctrine."Roche explained the new doctrine helps ensure that no opponent can ever have a technical edge on the U.S. Air Force."We've had extraordinary weapon precision," Roche said. "The Joint Air-Surface Munition is the most accurate weapon we've ever developed in our history with a better than .9 probability of (hitting its target)." In regard to AEF rotations, Roche said he hoped to work back to a normal schedule by March 2004. "Our mobility force is the infrastructure of Iraq," Roche said. "When the Air Force leaves an (area) we always leave some people behind because they're so valuable." He also said the rotation was originally intended for stability.When asked about the new blue Air Force utility uniform Roche said, "I can assure you if you're in a blue forest you will not be seen." Roche, who retired as a captain after 23 years of Navy service, said the uniforms are still in development and are being designed to be more practical, especially for those working on the flightline.The secretary gave his assessment of the Air Force's performance during the Iraqi conflict. "You've been tested in combat and done exceptionally well," he said. "Keep up the good work and happy holidays."