Gen. Hawk Carlisle, Pacific Air Forces commander, released an update to his PACAF Command Strategy for promoting stability, security and engagement in the Asia-Pacific region.

"I recently directed my staff to reassess our Command Strategy based on the rapidly changing security challenges within the region.  We must also take careful consideration of fiscal budgetary limitations," Carlisle said.

"My intent however has not changed.  We will defend U.S. and Allied territory, protect U.S. interests, promote regional stability and free access, deter aggression, and maintain our readiness posture to use Airpower to respond to the full spectrum of military contingencies," Carlisle said. "We will expand engagement, increase combat capability and improve our warfighter integration to achieve our goals."

The updated strategy adjusts operational approaches to execute PACAF Lines of Operation within the dynamic regional climate.

To do this, PACAF will rely on Airmen's abilities to create innovative solutions and develop game-changing technologies within the lines of operation as well as look at new ways to utilize existing weapons systems and cultivate new tactics, techniques and procedures.

"The outlook for the next several fiscal years will demand the most out of every Airman," Carlisle said in a message to PACAF Airmen. "We must stay focused on the mission and move forward with integrity, character and bold innovative leadership. Maintaining stability and security throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region is our responsibility -- one we will continue to carry out with excellence."

The updated strategy also calls for the enhancement of PACAF'S presence in the region ensuring access and adopting a "places not bases" approach. 

"Engagement is something we are doing every day across the Asia-Pacific region," said Carlisle. "I cannot overstate the importance of working with our allies, partners and the international community to deter aggression and to maintain peace and stability in the region. I foresee an increased presence of rotational forces, focusing across the spectrum of operations from combat capability to humanitarian assistance."