Preserving The UK-US Special Relationship: A Tactically Capable And Interoperable Royal Air Force In 2036

This paper considers the future operating environment out to 2036 and identifies key challenges for the Royal Air Force in the context of the United States pivot to Asia, pursuit of the Third Offset, and the potential for future warfare in an Anti-Access/Area-Denial (A2/AD) environment. Given the continued dominance of the United States in the international system, shared values, and a common commitment to upholding the contemporary rules-based international order, the United Kingdom is likely to remain committed to maintaining a close strategic partnership with the United States. Consequently, the author argues that the Royal Air Force will need to remain capable, agile, and interoperable with United States forces.