Career intelligence officer leads 480th ISRW into the future

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Darnell T. Cannady
  • 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing
JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. --  U.S. Air Force Col. Kayle Stevens takes command of the 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing, during the virtual change of command ceremony here on June 9, 2020.

Stevens will direct the wing's comprehensive set of ISR capabilities that include lead wing designation for the Air Force Distributed Common Ground System, as well as national cryptologic, information technology, and tactical analysis. The wing spans the full spectrum of ISR operations, from humanitarian assistance to major theater conflict.

“The individuals in this wing are without a doubt, one of the reasons why ours remains the finest and most capable Air Force in the world,” said Stevens. “Our Airmen’s analysis and exploitation abilities enable us to gain and maintain advantage across the full spectrum of conflict and every day you earn the trust of combatant commanders and theater partners.”

Stevens feels honored to command again and looks forward to leading the 480th ISRW into the future.

“America needs you now more than ever as we face new threats in a dynamic environment that requires your cognitive abilities,” added Stevens. “Together we will out-think, out-maneuver and out-execute our enemies to provide coherent options to decision makers in order to confront competitors.”

The 480th ISR Wing has a remarkable history dating back to 1943 when it was activated as the 480th Anti-Submarine Group. Currently, the wing which is the largest ISR wing in the Air Force, has 23 active-duty squadrons comprised of more than 6,000 active duty Airmen and over 2,200 Air National Guard and Reserve personnel.