Air Force, Space Force Hit 2025 Recruiting Goals Months Early

The U.S. Air Force and Space Force have both exceeded their fiscal year 2025 recruiting goals three months ahead of schedule, with the Air Force successfully recruiting nearly 30,000 active-duty airmen and the Space Force meeting its target for the sixth consecutive year. Despite earlier budget constraints that forced the Air Force to lower its recruiting target by 3,000 due to a continuing resolution, the service achieved its goals thanks to expanded recruiting personnel, relaxed medical and tattoo policies, and increased bonuses. The Air Force also reported having the largest Delayed Entry Program in a decade and a record number of Special Warfare candidates awaiting training. Space Force Chief of Space Operations General Chance Saltzman highlighted the high caliber of recruits and growing enthusiasm among Americans for the Space Force mission. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the military-wide recruitment boom, which follows earlier shortfalls in 2023, and has led to new efforts to bolster recruitment across all branches. Both services credit innovative recruiting tactics and career development opportunities for attracting patriotic Americans eager to serve.