Clarence, Im not crazy about the USAF landing on carriers and stuff. Marine Corps and Naval Aviation have proved themselves quite capable and I think this really isn't an area with potentially large savings potential. I also think there could be detrimental effect on espirit de corps and communication.
The big area of savings from my view is always procurement. I think there have been improvements in multi service programs (eg. UH60) but cutting un-necessary pet programs and really de-politicizing the bidding process will save money. We also have to cut our commitments and bases overseas.
It can be argued all day which pilot is better, but take a random Air Force pilot, put them in an F-18 and tell them to land on a moving carrier. Needless to say, you have reason not to be crazy about the idea.
