Air University Launches Fall 2025 Inspiring Doctrinal Innovation Essay Contest
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. (May 14, 2025) — Air University’s LeMay Center for Doctrine Development and Education is proud to announce the Fall 2025 iteration of the Inspiring Doctrinal Innovation Essay Contest. Open to all Department of the Air Force personnel as well as current students of Air Force PME programs (US DoD personnel and international military personnel). Both uniformed and civilian personnel of the USAF and USSF are encouraged to participate. This contest invites forward-thinking essays that propose bold ideas to reshape the future of military doctrine.
This year’s prompt: In today’s complex security environment, air defense capabilities must evolve to counter emerging threats that include small, unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), loitering munitions, and ballistic missiles. Effective point defense (PD) is critical for maintaining operational readiness and mission success in the future.
Participants' essays should address the following: Considering the responsibilities, limitations, historical context, and emerging technologies regarding point defense, should the USAF rely solely on organic Air and Missile Defense (AMD) capabilities, or focus on an integrated joint force approach? Furthermore, how do point defense authorities and capabilities integrate and affect the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) scheme of maneuver? Finally, are these issues adequately addressed or considered in joint and service doctrine?
Essay submissions should explore innovative approaches that push doctrinal boundaries and challenge conventional paradigms. Winning entries will be published and may influence the development of future doctrine across the Air Force and Department of Defense.
Submission Deadline: July 29, 2025
Top Prize: $1,000, Publication in Wild Blue Yonder Online Journal, LeMay/CC Coin, and professional development opportunities
This is a unique opportunity to have your voice shape how we fight, think, and operate in tomorrow’s battlespace.
Full details and submission guidelines:
👉 https://auix.org/inspiring-doctrinal-innovation-essay-contest/
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