Commentary on the Air Force's Re-optimization for Great Power Competition review's 24 decisions announced at AFA Warfare Symposium; compares the Air Force's challenge to Kodak, Pan Am, and Blockbuster—organizations that failed to adapt.
Adapt or Die: Big Air Force Changes Demand Buy-In from Within
Fictional/speculative strategy article set in the future about rebuilding after strategic failure; published in the inaugural issue of Air University's Æther journal.
Original publication of his argument that counterinsurgency concepts apply to the Ebola crisis; the struggle is about legitimacy and the people.
Ebola and Counterinsurgency—A Struggle for Legitimacy
New technologies often require updating old ideas, old strategies, and old ways of preparing humans for war. The influx of new technologies into military institutions is continuous, occurring since the dawn of war, albeit with increased frequency since the First Industrial Revolution. Every now and then, however, a new technology forces a disruptive shift in how wars are started, fought and ended. Uncrewed systems—which are now undergoing a form of Cambrian Explosion in capability, quality and quantity—appear to be such a technology. These systems are disrupting how combatants are considering risk, cost and authority on the modern battlefield.
Uncrewed Systems and the Transformation of U.S. Warfighting Capacity
Comprehensive guide to no-fly zones, drawing on personal experience enforcing no-fly zones over Iraq and expertise from the USAF Weapons School. Also republished at The National Interest and from CFR's Defense in Depth blog.
Everything You Need To Know About No-Fly Zones
Op-ed arguing DoD's acquisition model is a relic of the past; discusses the SECDEF mandate for the Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP); proposes data-driven metrics for software development based on Atlantic Council Commission on Software-Defined Warfare recommendations.
Future warfare depends on agile, measurable software development
Analysis of the Islamic State's A Message to America execution video; discusses IS's strategic messaging, implications for U.S. military strategy, and the risk of mission creep.
Guest Post: The ISIS Video and Military Strategy in Iraq
Outlines five categories of an enemy's system that can determine the success or failure of the U.S.-led air campaign in Syria.
How To Determine the Success of Air Strikes in Syria
Analyzes the Sony hack and argues for establishing deterrence in cyberspace; proposes a framework combining cyber defense, offensive capability, and shifting competition to domains where the U.S. has advantages; draws on Thomas Schelling's deterrence theory.
Discusses reports that the coalition may have injured or killed al-Baghdadi; argues this will not end the movement—only repudiation by the local population can defeat ISIS.
If Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi Is Dead: Could This Be the End of ISIS?
Part of War on the Rocks' In Brief series. Hinote argues the NDIS makes important statements—consolidation went too far, sub-tier contractors need attention, barriers to entry must be lowered—but the implementation plan should be unclassified because industrial policy is public policy.
In Brief: The National Defense Industrial Strategy
Wide-ranging interview covering parity with China, obsolescence of the post–Cold War American way of warfare, Third Offset Strategy, JADC2, the Hellscape defense concept, multi-domain swarming, human-machine teaming, and uncrewed systems.
Cross-posted version of his comprehensive guide to no-fly zones.
Applies counterinsurgency concepts from Army FM 3-24 to the Ebola response effort, drawing parallels between fighting insurgencies and fighting infectious disease.
One Way To Combat The Ebola Virus: Use Counterinsurgency Tactics
Analyzes Putin's decision to sell the S-300 missile system to Iran after the UN hold was lifted; discusses implications for regional military balance.
Russia's S-300 Sale to Iran: 3 Things You Need to Know
Analyzes the strategic implications of Russia's S-300 sale to Iran; argues it represents a fundamental shift in Middle East military balance regarding air operations.
Russia's Sale of the S-300 to Iran Will Shift Military Balance
Argues the continued participation of Middle Eastern states in anti-ISIS operations is crucial for long-term success and U.S. leadership worldwide.
The Air War Against ISIS: The Deciding Factor
Argues that as Iraqi security forces regain their footing, ISIS's use of terror is not enough to relieve battlefield pressure; expansion has slowed and some territorial gains rolled back.
The Islamic State May Have Hit the Point of Diminishing Returns
Written after execution of journalist James Foley; discusses U.S. strategy against ISIS leadership, drawing parallels to the 2006 killing of Zarqawi; argues that targeting individual leaders requires intense intelligence and often doesn't end a movement.
The risk in targeting the head of the Islamic State
Analyzes Russia's decision to sell the S-300 missile defense system to Iran; explains three key reasons why this is significant: mobility and lethality, regional balance-of-power shifts, and arms-race risk.
The Russian Weapon That Could Tip The Balance in the Middle East
Analyzes the U.S. decision to install a THAAD missile interceptor system in South Korea and how it could force Seoul to choose between its Washington alliance and its Beijing relationship.
The US Missile System Driving a Wedge Between China, South Korea
Companion article to SCSP report; argues uncrewed systems alone are not transforming war—the combination of drones with democratized digitized C2 systems and meshed sensor networks (a transformative trinity) is what drives transformation. Draws lessons from Ukraine.
The Air Force's master tenet of centralized control, decentralized execution is in danger of becoming dogma. Airmen have difficulty communicating the meaning of this phrase in a joint setting. This is partially due to our limited understanding of its history and the imprecise meaning of the words involved.
Commercial paperback edition of the Air Force Research Institute research paper. Examines the Air Force's master tenet of centralized control, decentralized execution and argues it is in danger of becoming dogma.
Centralized Control and Decentralized Execution
This study examines a compelling phenomenon in modern conflict. Leaders are being attacked and their leadership is being disrupted at what appears to be an unprecedented rate. Because of this, military decision makers and planners need to know if attacking leadership is an effective strategy. The study differentiates between attacking leadership and the killing or capturing of enemy leaders, commonly called decapitation. Leadership attack is broader than decapitation, as it encompasses additional actions that disrupt the process of leadership within the adversary organization.
Applying and Assessing Leadership Attack in Military Conflict
Examines leadership attack in military conflict; differentiates between attacking leadership and decapitation (killing/capturing leaders). Uses qualitative systematic process analysis to test competing theories drawn from John Warden and J.F.C. Fuller. Argues paralysis through leadership attack is both achievable and desirable at operational and tactical levels.
Discussion of Air Force Warfighting Integration Capability (AFWIC), top priorities, and operational challenges posed by peer competitors.
Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies (virtual)
Future force design and wargaming results
Panel on future force design and wargaming results. Delivered famous quote: If we don't change we're going to lose.
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
AFA Air Space & Cyber Conference 2021 — Future Force Design Panel
Future planning and democratization of air power
Closing session panel on future planning, democratization of air power, and space superiority.
AFA Air Space & Cyber Conference 2022 — Closing Session
Presentation on drone wingmen, CCA pricing, autonomous aircraft, and future force affordability.
AFA Warfare Symposium / McAleese Defense Programs Conference 2022
Cybersecurity and military cyber operations
Military, defense industry, cyber professionals
Opening speech at major cyber symposium.
AFCEA Rocky Mountain Cyberspace Symposium — Opening Speaker
Emerging technology and innovation adoption
Interview on Air Force Futures role, emerging technology, innovation adoption, and defense ecosystem.
Air Force Futures w/ Lt. Gen. Clint Hinote
Airpower after Ukraine and future of air warfare
Fireside chat on airpower after Ukraine and the future of air warfare.
Atlantic Council — Airpower After Ukraine: The Future of Air Warfare
Software-defined warfare and DoD acquisition
Multi-year commission on software-defined warfare and DoD acquisition modernization.
Atlantic Council Commission on Software-Defined Warfare
Empowering the Edge and uncrewed systems
Discussion of Empowering the Edge SCSP paper and uncrewed systems transformation.
Clint Hinote and Mick Ryan on Uncrewed Systems — SCSP Podcast Episode 41
The war against Iran has underscored both the continuing centrality of airborne battle management (ABM) for U.S. air operations as well as the limitations of an aging and undersized fleet. The destruction of an E-3 on the ground has also highlighted vulnerability concerns, which have led the Department of Defense to seek alternative approaches such as space-based systems and distributed battle management constructs. These challenges raise questions about the capabilities needed to fulfill the critical ABM mission in the near-term and in the future. The Center for a New American Security held a panel discussion on Wednesday, April 22, from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. ET, on these topics and more, examining the future challenges and roles of U.S. airborne battle management. The event marked the release of a new report, Eyes in the Sky: Airborne Sensing and Battle Management in Indo-Pacific and Homeland Defense, by Philip Sheers. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Stacie Pettyjohn, senior fellow and director of the CNAS Defense Program and featured Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote (Ret.), former deputy chief of staff for strategy, integration, and requirements, U.S. Air Force; Kari Bingen, director of the Aerospace Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies; and Philip Sheers, associate fellow with the CNAS Defense Program.
Commanding the Air: the Future of Airborne Battle Management
Television appearance during CFR Military Fellowship discussing national security and military strategy.
How VC accelerates emerging tech in government
Defense tech, government, venture capital
Panel on how VC accelerates success of emerging tech in government.
Dcode Panel — VC and Emerging Tech in Government
Disrupting AF doctrine and lessons from Ukraine
Discussion on disrupting AF doctrine, maneuver vs. fires, offense vs. defense, and lessons from Ukraine.
Deciphering Doctrine — Ep 16: Lt Gen Hinote disrupts AF doctrine
Briefing on innovation adoption challenges in DoD, barriers to technology adoption, and incentives for faster development.
Speaker at Defense News Conference on defense policy and strategy.
Fireside chat discussing Global Integrated Wargame results and trans-domain operations.
Defense One Talk — Air Force Future Structure
Defense policy, military, industry, academic
Inaugural installment of CNAS Mission Brief speaker series. One-on-one discussion on future warfighting challenges, JADC2, future force design, and NDS threats.
Center for a New American Security (virtual)
Designing the Air Force America Needs with Lt. Gen. Hinote
Leadership principles and growth mindset
Interview on leadership principles and practice, growth mindset vs. fixed mindset.
Leaders and Legends — Retired Air Force General on Leadership Principles
Collaborative Combat Aircraft and autonomous systems
Panel discussion on Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), manned-unmanned teaming, autonomous systems, and human-machine teaming.
Manned-Unmanned Teaming: Myth and Reality Panel
Roundtable discussion on Air Force future force design as Brigadier General Deputy Director AFWIC.
NDIA Air Force Future Force Design Roundtable
Featured speaker discussing Air Force strategy, integration and requirements, and future force.
NDIA IPW Captains of Industry Roundtable
Disruptive strategy and defense innovation
Speaker on disruptive strategy and defense innovation.
Ongoing YouTube show contributor discussing tech, geopolitics, and national security.
SCSP President's Tech Brief — YouTube Contributor
Congressional testimony on Air Force modernization and FY2023 defense authorization.
Senate Armed Services Committee Testimony — FY2023 Air Force Modernization
Final testimony before Congress before retiring. Warned Air Force is not currently a force that wins; urged investment in future capabilities; noted transformation could fall off the rails.
Senate Armed Services Committee Testimony — FY2024 Air Force Modernization
Discussion on how startups and DoD work together, PPBE process, building relationships with government, and risk-taking.
Startups + DoD — The Hermeus Podcast Episode 19
Panel on future of air and space forces, Global Integrated Wargame results, and trans-domain warfare.
Lt. Gen. (Ret) S. Clinton Hinote, PhD ('Clint' or 'Q'), is a strategist and futurist who helps high-stakes leaders forge the judgment to act in the crucible of complexity.
Lt. Gen. (Ret) S. Clinton Hinote, PhD (“Clint” or “Q”), is a strategist and futurist who helps high-stakes leaders forge the judgment to act in the crucible of complexity.
S Clinton Hinote Forging Method Coaching And Speaking
Wolf 53 Col. S. Clinton Hinote in F-16 cockpit, 8th Fighter Wing, Korea
Colonel S. Clinton Hinote in the cockpit of an F-16 Fighting Falcon at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, during his command of the 8th Fighter Wing (May 2013 - May 2014). Hinote is a command pilot with more than 2,000 flight hours and 240+ combat hours in Operations Northern Watch and Southern Watch. Graduate of USAF Weapons School.
Col. Hinote F-16 Fighter Pilot in Cockpit
Colonel Clinton Hinote in F-16 Fighting Falcon cockpit at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, as 8th Fighter Wing Commander
S Clinton Hinote Professor Expert Advisor Crucible Of Complexity
S Clinton Hinote Forged So Others Can Lead Headshot
Speculative strategy article in the inaugural issue of Air University's Æther journal; set in the future, exploring how to rebuild after strategic failure.
This study examines a compelling phenomenon in modern conflict. Leaders are being attacked and their leadership is being disrupted at what appears to be an unprecedented rate. Because of this, military decision makers and planners need to know if attacking leadership is an effective strategy. There are numerous and divergent opinions on this subject. This study's purpose is to answer the research question: when, if ever, is it advisable to attack adversary leadership in times of military conflict? The study differentiates between attacking leadership and the killing or capturing of enemy leaders, commonly called decapitation. Leadership attack is broader than decapitation, as it encompasses additional actions that disrupt the process of leadership within the adversary organization. These include destroying command centers and communication nodes or undermining the adversary leader through psychological attack.
Cutting Off the Head of the Snake: Applying and Assessing Leadership Attack in Military Conflict
Full-length policy report arguing transformational change comes from the interaction of three elements: uncrewed systems, democratized digitized C2, and meshed sensor networks. Recommends DoD reforms for uncrewed air, land, and maritime systems. Draws lessons from Ukraine conflict.
Empowering the Edge: Uncrewed Systems and the Transformation of U.S. Warfighting Capacity
Argues deterrence has not worked for cyberattacks; draws on Thomas Schelling's deterrence theory to propose the U.S. must communicate credible threats of punishment to deter state-sponsored cyberattacks. Written in response to Sony hack by North Korea.
Part 1: Factors Driving Change in the Security Environment; Part 2: The Evolving Character of War; Part 3: Implications for the Joint Force. Examines technological, geopolitical, and operational factors shaping warfare through 2030.
How is the Air Force designing a force capable of meeting the future threats outlined in the National Defense Strategy? What are the critical changes in air warfare, and what can the United States do now to meet those challenges? On Tuesday, November 16, from 3:00-4:00PM EDT, the Center for a New American Security will host a one-on-one discussion with Air Force Lieutenant General Clint Hinote, Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Integration and Requirements, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, on how to prepare for future warfighting challenges and refine near-term requirements to build the Air Force America needs. This conversation is the first installment of the new CNAS Mission Brief speaker series, which will feature deep-dive discussions with the military and civilian leaders driving strategy and future force planning. Conversations will cover a wide array of topics, including future defense strategy and force design, new operational concepts, and balancing readiness with ongoing operations.
The war against Iran has underscored both the continuing centrality of airborne battle management (ABM) for U.S. air operations as well as the limitations of an aging and undersized fleet. The destruction of an E-3 on the ground has also highlighted vulnerability concerns, which have led the Department of Defense to seek alternative approaches such as space-based systems and distributed battle management constructs. These challenges raise questions about the capabilities needed to fulfill the critical ABM mission in the near-term and in the future. Join the Center for a New American Security on Wednesday, April 22, from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. ET, for a far-ranging panel discussion on these topics and more, examining the future challenges and roles of U.S. airborne battle management. The event marks the release of a new report, Eyes in the Sky: Airborne Sensing and Battle Management in Indo-Pacific and Homeland Defense, by Philip Sheers. The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Stacie Pettyjohn, senior fellow and director of the CNAS Defense Program and will feature Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote (Ret.), former deputy chief of staff for strategy, integration, and requirements, U.S. Air Force; Kari Bingen, director of the Aerospace Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies; and Philip Sheers, associate fellow with the CNAS Defense Program. Live viewers will have the opportunity to ask questions during the event.
The U.S. Department of Defense knows what it faces in modern adversaries like China and Russia. Yet, the joint forces are more focused on building PowerPoints instead of power projection. As the deputy chief of staff for strategy, integration and requirements, retired Lt. Gen. Clint Hinote was one of the Air Force’s top strategic thinkers. And on this episode of CTRL + ALT + DEFENSE, he doesn't hold back on what the next fight will look like and why he believes the U.S. isn't ready for the conflicts ahead.
Lt. Gen. Clint Hinote: Why the Pentagon can't move fast enough
Lieutenant General Clint Hinote's 35-year career in the Air Force has taken him from inside the cockpit of an F-117 to inside the Pentagon. He has most recently been focused on how to best leverage innovative technology to fortify national security. Freshly retired, we were honored to have him join us for a chat about how startups and the Department of Defense can better work together.
Startups + DoD (Special Guest Lt. Gen. Clint Hinote) – The Hermeus Podcast 19
Mark’s featured guests this evening include attorney and GOP strategist Mehek Cooke, former Air Force General Clint Hinote and former Democratic Congressman Joe Cunningham.
Ret. General: 'We Can Mitigate Risk 99%' in Hormuz, 'But That Last 1% Is So Difficult To Deal With'
Clint Hinote and Mick Ryan join host Jeanne Meserve for a conversation on their recent paper, 'Empowering the Edge: Uncrewed Systems and the Transformation of U.S. Warfighting Capacity.'
Episode 41: Hinote and Ryan on Uncrewed Systems and the Transformation of U.S. Warfighting Capacity
S. Clinton Hinote is a world-renowned keynote speaker and strategic advisor who helps leaders overcome stagnation and drive organizational reinvention.
Thank you Lt. Gen @usairforce @ClintHinote for your focus on what #USAF needs to get after - operational imperatives & how they fit together. #space #AirDominance #ReadyAF #DPC22
Watch Lt Gen S. Clinton Hinote, Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Integration, and Requirements; Lt Gen William J. Liquori Jr., Deputy Chief of Space Operations, Strategy, Plans, Programs, Requirements, and Analysis, USSF; Moderator: Lt Gen David A. Deptula, USAF (Ret), Dean, Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies; take part in the 'Emerging Technology and the High-End Fight: Insights from the Latest War Games' session from AFA’s 2021 virtual Aerospace Warfare Symposium.
vAWS 2021 - Emerging Technology and the High-End Fight: Insights from the Latest War Games
Retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Clint Hinote says it is a revolution born of necessity: 'The Air Force was so good for so long that it didn't need to change. Now it needs to change, and it's trying to figure out how.' Change because the Chinese air force, which recently showcased its newest jet fighters and its own AI drone, could be more than a match for the U.S. Air Force. According to Hinote, 'If we have to fight China, we're likely doing it in their front yard, and that means they can bring many, many more things to bear than we can, because it's so far away. You're having to achieve kill ratios of 10 to 1, 15 to 1, and 20 to 1 to even stay in the game.'
AI in the military: Testing a new kind of air force
Trump’s 'Decapitation Strike' Led Iran to 'A Zombie Strategy.. It’s the Equivalent of WW3 for Them'
With tankers on fire and ships dead in the water, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tried to project the U.S. was in control of the Strait of Hormuz. As Matt Gutman reports, hundreds of oil tankers remain stuck, terrorized by Iranian attacks.
Hegseth says Iran showing 'sheer desperation' in Strait of Hormuz as oil tankers remain stuck
Brig. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote is the Deputy Director, Air Force Warfighting Integration Capability, Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Requirements, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C. In this position, he supports the AFWIC Director in developing Total Force, multi-domain operating concepts to implement the National Defense Strategy, and drive integration through centralized enterprise design and capability planning. AFWIC identifies prioritized ways and means to guide resourcing priorities improving Air Force lethality and enhancing the joint and coalition fight. General Hinote was commissioned in 1992 upon graduation from the U.S. Air Force Academy. After completing a master's degree in public policy from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government, he accomplished pilot training at Columbus Air Force Base, Miss., and F-16 training at Luke AFB, Ariz. His operational assignments include instructor duty at the USAF Weapons School, leader of the Air Forces Central Strategy Division, Squadron Commander, Wing Vice Commander and Wing Commander. General Hinote is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Weapons School, Air Command and Staff College, and the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies. Prior to assuming his present duties he served as the Deputy Chief, Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq, Baghdad.
Iran announced that it had reopened the Strait of Hormuz and later shut it down again, blaming the US for 'breaches of trust' during the ongoing ceasefire. The move may threaten momentum toward a peace deal between the two countries. President Donald Trump said negotiations were still progressing. Meanwhile, Trump announced a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Here's a roundup of retired US military analyzing the seventh week of the Iran war. 0:00 Vice Adm. Kevin Donegan (Ret.) on Iran closing the Strait again and Iran's uranium 5:04 Lt. Gen. Karen Gibson (Ret.) on what she's watching for in the Strait of Hormuz and how the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire is working 7:37 Gen. David Petraeus (Ret.) on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and prospects of an eventual deal 11:34 Gen. Wesley Clark (Ret.) on reopening the Strait of Hormuz 14:23 Gen. Stanley McChrystal (Ret.) on who holds the advantage and how talks may affect US allies in the Gulf 19:04 Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré (Ret.) on Iran's nuclear holdings, the strait blockade, and the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire 23:48 Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack (Ret.) on Sec. Hegseth's warning to Iran's military 25:33 Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt (Ret.) on Iran's military capabilities in the Gulf 27:00 Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote (Ret.) on the effects of the Strait of Hormuz blockade
Retired generals break down Iran war strategy after week 7
Major General S. Clinton Hinote, Acting Director of Air Force Warfighting Integration Capability (AFWIC), joins us to discuss the role of AFWIC, its top priorities moving forward, and the operational challenges presented by peer competitors, among other topics.
Aerospace Nation: Maj Gen S. Clinton Hinote, Acting Director, AFWIC
Gen. S. Clinton Hinote says Alaska is an incredibly effective place to base air operations out of.
Gen. S. Clinton Hinote on the military importance of Alaska
A country divided for 75 years, Korea has been called the 'last outpost of the Cold War.' Its President, Park Geun-hye, has made reunification a priority before she leaves office in 2018. Air Force Colonel Clint Hinote, Commander of the 8th Fighter Wing at Kunsan Air Base, tells Jim Zirin that if reunification is to be accomplished, it must happen soon.
Jim Zirin-Will Korea Be Unified Anytime Soon?-Colonel Clint Hinote
Lt. Gen. (Ret) S. Clinton Hinote, PhD ('Clint' or 'Q') is a keynote speaker, organizational strategist, and advisor to high-stakes leaders.
A US Air Force war game shows what the service needs to hold off or win against China in 2030
Key exclusive detailing the Air Force's 2020 classified wargame simulating a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. Hinote extensively quoted; contains his famous F-35 statement: Every fighter that rolls off the line today is a fighter that we wouldn't even bother putting into these scenarios.
A US Air Force war game shows what the service needs to hold off — or win against — China in 2030
Air Force Weaponizing Cargo Planes For All-Domain Ops Bomb Bay In A Box
Then-Maj. Gen. Hinote discusses the Air Force's Rapid Dragon palletized munitions concept. Key quote: It's all about capacity and you've got to create enough capacity so that long-range punch is really a punch.
Air Force Weaponizing Cargo Planes For All-Domain Ops: Bomb Bay In A Box
Airpower After Ukraine The Future of Air Warfare
DoD promoted Hinote's Atlantic Council fireside chat on airpower after Ukraine.
Airpower After Ukraine: The Future of Air Warfare (Today in DoD listing)
Can four big commands prepare the Air Force to win wars
Hinote quoted as expert commentator on the Air Force's reorganization into four major commands, having worked on the reorganization before retiring.
Can four big commands prepare the Air Force to win wars?
Profile as Council on Foreign Relations Military Fellow; notes PhD in military strategy and recent return from commanding a U.S. air base in Korea.
Col. Clint Hinote — Author/Contributor Page
Days from Retirement Hinote Warns That Air Force Modernization Could Come Off the Rails
Coverage of Hinote's final SASC testimony before retirement; warned transformation could come off the rails. Sen. Tom Cotton asked what he wanted to get off his chest.
Hinote Urges Defense Innovation Board to Find Incentives for Faster Technology Development
Hinote's briefing to the Defense Innovation Board on barriers to technology adoption; urges incentives for faster development.
How AI is changing warfare: An AI-assisted general staff may be more important than killer robots
If we dont change were going to lose Air Force strategy chief Hinote
Coverage of Hinote's AFA conference remarks where he warned we're going to lose fast in wargame scenarios against China. One of the most widely cited defense quotes of 2021.
If we don't change we're going to lose — Air Force strategy chief Hinote
How can Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz be broken? Retired General S. Clinton Hinote has addressed precisely that question as the former Air Force chief strategist. His conclusion? Difficult.
Iran Must Only Succeed Once to Trigger a Catastrophe
Joint Chiefs Seek A New Warfighting Paradigm After Devastating Losses In Classified Wargames
Broader piece quoting Hinote: we should never play this war game scenario again because we know what is going to happen...we're going to lose fast. Connects his statements to Gen. Hyten's Expanded Maneuver concept.
Lt. Gen. Clinton Hinote Outlines Ways to Facilitate Defense Innovation
Coverage of Hinote's call to the Defense Innovation Board to facilitate adoption of innovative technologies. Quote: If we're not incentivized to fight better so that we can save lives and defend the country better then I don't know what we have to do.
Lt Gen Ret Clinton Hinote Joins Pallas Advisors
Announced Hinote joining as Principal. Sally Donnelly: Clint's experience pushing for disruptive changes in the Air Force and wider Department writ large is exactly the type of leader we are looking for.
Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Clinton Hinote Joins Pallas Advisors
NFTF Insights from Brig Gen S Clinton Hinote
End-of-tour interview from his time as Deputy Chief for the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq; includes white paper Iraq What Now? Consolidating Coalition Gains with Smart Limited Investments.
NFTF: Insights from Brig. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote USAF Deputy Chief Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq
Not messing around Chinas rapid military advances stoke fear catch Pentagon by surprise
Hinote quoted on China's military acceleration: China has done a good job of taking their economic power...and applying that to acceleration of military capability.
Not messing around: China's rapid military advances stoke fear catch Pentagon by surprise
Replicator An inside look at the Pentagons ambitious drone program
Post-retirement, Hinote quoted about meeting with Deputy SecDef Kathleen Hicks discussing the valley of death in defense innovation. Quote: If you're going to disrupt from top down as a leader it's going to cost you something.
Replicator: An inside look at the Pentagon's ambitious drone program
Official Air Force biography listing role as Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Integration and Requirements. Details career from USAFA commissioning in 1992, Harvard MPP, F-16 pilot, Weapons School graduate, squadron/wing commander, and key Pentagon assignments.
The U.S. Is Not Yet Ready for the Era of Great Power Conflict
Extensive WSJ feature profiling Hinote's discovery of wargaming failures against China. Describes how he returned from Baghdad in 2018 to learn a classified wargame simulated a Chinese push for control, with U.S. forces devastated. Contains iconic quote and details about yellow sticky notes in his Pentagon office. Arguably the single most important profile of Hinote, reaching the widest audience.
The U.S. Is Not Yet Ready for the Era of 'Great Power' Conflict
Todays F-35As Not Worth Including In High-End War Games According To Air Force General
Follow-up analysis to Defense News wargame story; focuses on Hinote's provocative statement that current F-35As aren't worth including in high-end wargames. Generated significant discussion in defense circles.
Today's F-35As Not Worth Including In High-End War Games According To Air Force General
US Air Force to start new experiments with Boeings MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone
Hinote as Air Force Futures leader announces service getting ready to take delivery of an MQ-28 Ghost Bat prototype. Candid quote: The first one sucks. Just always keep that in mind.
US Air Force to start new experiments with Boeing's MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone
Wargame Ends Better With Trans-Domain Moves Hinote Says
Coverage of Hinote's explanation of how wargame outcomes improve with trans-domain operations at AFA conference.
'The Strait of Hormuz is a difficult, almost impossible, problem to solve through military means alone,' said retired Air Force Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote, who served as a senior air strategist in the Middle East in the 2000s. At the time, General Hinote was asked to study military approaches to Iranian aggression, including a scenario in which Iran attacked shipping in the strait. His team concluded that while the United States could use advanced sensors and precision strikes to mitigate Iranian attacks, they could not stop them completely. The shipping lanes are too narrow, and the vessels are too vulnerable to a mix of rockets, missiles and swarms of small craft. The only way militarily to guarantee the waterway is open — to move from mitigation to control — would be to take and hold the Iranian territory bordering the strait, he said. 'It would require large numbers of ground forces to seize the coast,' General Hinote said. 'Short of that, the only lasting solution to the strait is a diplomatic one.'
Weakened by War, Iran Hits Back by Strangling a Vital Waterway
B.S. in Space Physics (Bachelor of Science)
Certificate in Undergraduate Pilot Training
Graduate in Fighter Weapons and Tactics (Professional Military Education)
Graduate in Military Strategy and Doctrine (Professional Military Education)
M.P.P. in Public Policy (Master of Public Policy)
A operational concept for dispersed, flexible basing that allows forces to operate from multiple locations to complicate adversary targeting. Hinote identified this as critical capability alongside CCA for future conflicts.
The U.S. Air Force organization responsible for strategy development, multi-domain operating concepts, and validating future conflict capabilities. First led by Lt. Gen. Hinote as Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Integration, and Requirements.
The integration of military platforms through advanced communications and sensors to achieve synergistic effects. Hinote extensively used this term to describe both U.S. advantages during the Cold War and Chinese A2/AD capabilities that achieved parity.
A 2009 book by Hinote challenging the rigid Air Force doctrine phrase, based on lessons from leading air strategy during the Iraq surge. Advocates discerning when to centralize versus decentralize control instead of following dogma. Widely used by war colleges to educate military officers.
Centralized Control and Decentralized Execution: A Catchphrase in Crisis
Specialized in assessing and countering Chinese military capabilities, particularly A2/AD (anti-access/area denial) systems and integrated air defense networks. Developed strategies to restore U.S. competitive advantage as China achieved parity in precision-guided munitions and theater-level battle networks. Recognized that China's offset strategy in their near abroad fundamentally changed the strategic balance. Worked on concepts to counter Chinese capabilities including multi-domain swarming defense (Hellscape) for Taiwan scenarios.
Autonomous or semi-autonomous aircraft that operate in teams with manned fighters, previously called 'loyal wingman.' Hinote championed this as essential for great power competition, emphasizing human-machine teaming and scalability in wars of attrition.
Founded Hinote Strategy LLC (2023) to match emerging technology and concepts to U.S. defense needs. Principal at Pallas Advisors, strategic advisory firm specializing in defense innovation. Advocates for disruptive innovation to maintain U.S. competitive advantage. Works with defense technology companies and startups to accelerate adoption of breakthrough capabilities. Emphasizes need for 'disruptive strategy' to transform national security ecosystem and leverage America's innovation advantage against adversaries.
Defense Innovation and Emerging Technology Integration
The concept that air power capabilities, once the exclusive domain of advanced militaries, have become accessible to a wider range of nations and actors through proliferation of UAVs, drones, and autonomous systems. Hinote emphasized this phenomenon in relation to the Ukraine conflict and its implications for future warfare.
Command pilot with over 2,000 flight hours including 240 combat hours in Operations Northern Watch and Southern Watch. Flew F-16 Fighting Falcon, F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighter (Bandit 567), A/T-38, and T-37 aircraft. Served as USAF Weapons School instructor, demonstrating mastery of tactical employment. Commanded at squadron, wing vice commander, and wing commander levels including 8th Fighter Wing at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea. One of only 558 pilots ever selected to fly the F-117 stealth fighter in the highly classified program.
A forward-looking approach that empowers leaders to anticipate opportunities and threats by exploring multiple plausible futures. It includes: Identifying a broad range of possibilities Building scenarios around major trends and disruptions 'Living' within those scenarios to test reactions Asking what actions could prepare the organization now Spotting activities beneficial across many futures
Futures Methodology or 'Futures Thinking'
Extensive diplomatic experience serving as commander in NATO (Germany) and U.S. Forces Korea. Deputy Chief of Mission at U.S. Embassy Baghdad. Led Air Forces Central Strategy Division. Deputy Executive Director of Security Cooperation at Department of State. Managed complex alliance relationships and coordinated multi-national military operations. Experienced in connecting military capabilities with diplomatic objectives across diverse cultural and political contexts.
International Military Cooperation and Diplomacy
Key architect and champion of JADC2 concept - the integration of sensors, command and control, and weapons systems across all military domains (air, land, sea, space, cyber). Advocated for democratization of military data and decentralized command structures to enable mission command. Led implementation of concepts designed to prevent adversaries from disrupting U.S. command and control by distributing decision-making authority. Emphasized that JADC2 would make it 'almost impossible to cut the head off the snake' by enabling command from any platform.
Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2)
A change agent within an organization who possesses a powerful blend of: Deep knowledge of the mission A mindset of continuous improvement Courage to experiment and learn from failure Tenacity to overcome obstacles Outsized influence beyond formal authority
Coaches C-suite leaders in navigating uncertain futures and leading disruptive change. Assists organizations with structural management for adapting to China challenge. Teaches graduate-level courses on national security at RAND's Pardee School of Public Policy. Speaks on leadership principles and practice through media appearances and conferences. Focuses on growing leaders who can navigate disruption and execute transformational strategies in both government and private sector.
Leadership Coaching and Executive Development
The operational pairing of human pilots with autonomous aircraft (CCAs) where humans make lethal force decisions while autonomous systems provide sensing, maneuver, and other capabilities. Hinote emphasized this as fundamental to future air warfare.
Served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Integration, and Requirements (Air Force Futures) at USAF Headquarters. Responsible for developing Air Force strategy and multi-domain operating concepts, integrating through centralized design, and validating operational capabilities-based requirements. Led 400-person organization focused on planning and integration for the future Air Force. Conducted strategic assessments of the operating environment through wargames and workshops to manifest integrated future force design.
Led Air Force Warfighting Integration Capability (AFWIC) as Deputy Director, developing advanced efforts for design, integration and capability development across Total Force for multi-domain concepts. Pioneered thinking that moved beyond domain-specific warfare (air war, ground war, maritime war) to integrated all-domain operations. Developed concepts connecting air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains into unified operational frameworks. Emphasized that multi-domain operations are essential for future conflict success.
Military operations conducted across land, air, sea, space, and cyberspace simultaneously to achieve strategic objectives. Requires integration of capabilities and battle networks across the domains.
Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) or All-Domain Operations
A strategic concept where neither side can achieve complete air superiority, but both can deny the other's use of airspace. Hinote argued this state may actually benefit defenders and deter aggression, particularly relevant to Taiwan and Ukraine scenarios. He was called 'heretical' for this position.
Led transformative change in military organizations, converting traditional Air Staff directorate into forward-looking 'Air Force Futures' organization. Commanded fighter wings in NATO (Germany) and Korea, managed complex international military relationships. Served as Deputy Chief of Mission at U.S. Embassy Baghdad when tapped by Ambassador. Deputy Executive Director of Security Cooperation at Department of State, ensuring partnership between U.S. Military and Iraq's Security Forces. Demonstrated ability to disrupt dated doctrine and reinvent organizations for future conflicts.
Organizational Leadership and Transformation
The deliberate, proactive transformation of an organization to seize emerging opportunities and adapt to changing environments—before crisis or decline forces change. It emphasizes inclusive leadership that honors past successes, confronts present realities, and focuses on future growth.
A classified briefing produced by the Office of Net Assessment (via RAND) that showed how China and Russia had achieved parity with U.S. battle networks in their near abroad through A2/AD systems. Hinote called it a 'wake-up call' that fundamentally changed strategic thinking.
Master of Public Policy from Harvard Kennedy School. Ph.D. in Military Strategy from Air University. Graduated first in class at both U.S. Air Force Academy (B.S. in Space Physics) and Air Command and Staff College. Graduate of USAF Weapons School and School of Advanced Air and Space Studies. Currently Professor of Policy Analysis at RAND School of Public Policy. Senior Advisor to Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP). Extensive experience connecting military power to political objectives and national security strategy.
A comprehensive Air Force transformation initiative to shift from counterterrorism-focused forces to capabilities designed for peer conflict with China and Russia. Hinote advocated for this as retired advisor following his tenure as Air Force Futures chief.
Re-optimization for Great Power Competition
A deliberate process to expose hidden assumptions, identify blind spots, and significantly improve the odds of success. See Red Team: How to Succeed by Thinking Like the Enemy by Micah Zenko.
The deliberate choice to preserve an individual’s, team’s, or organization’s core strengths while integrating innovative approaches to create transformational new outcomes.
A proprietary process that helps leaders build a core coalition of senior executives and innovator-leaders ‘in the middle’ who generate options, build momentum, and drive lasting reinvention. This alliance grows to expand influence, foster collaboration, and sustain lasting transformation.
Build bold leaders in the crucible of complexity—so your organization thrives where others freeze. This method grounds your approach to leadership development—helping you intentionally forge bold leaders who can act boldly and wisely when the map runs out.
It’s a leadership tool that aligns teams and drives focused action by clearly explaining how transformation will enable the organization to achieve its mission and win the future.
A U.S. defense innovation initiative leveraging emerging technologies—especially autonomous systems and human-machine teaming—to maintain military advantage. Hinote served as Military Assistant to Deputy Secretary of Defense Bob Work, the initiative’s intellectual leader, and later advanced these concepts across the U.S. military.
Served as Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense during the Third Offset Strategy (3OS) initiative. Contributed to development of strategies leveraging emerging technologies to restore U.S. military advantage over near-peer competitors. Focused on multi-domain operational concepts, anti-access/area denial countermeasures, and human-machine teaming. Recognized the Third Offset as intellectual foundation for current multi-domain defense concepts including the Hellscape defense strategy for Taiwan.
Military operations that move seamlessly across traditional warfare domains (air, land, sea, space, cyber) without artificial boundaries. Hinote described this as moving from 'domain-centric' joint force to operations where warfighters are 'agnostic about domains' - not caring where sensing, data, or effects originate.
Simulation-based analysis of scenarios to test strategies, develop a 'theory of victory,' identify vulnerabilities, validate operational concepts, and determine resources required. Used extensively by Hinote to reveal critical defense gaps and inform strategic decision-making in Taiwan invasion scenarios.
Designed and led classified wargaming efforts that revealed critical U.S. military vulnerabilities against peer adversaries, particularly China. His wargaming in 2018 demonstrated that U.S. forces were losing 18 straight competitions with peer adversaries, with outcomes worsening in each iteration. These findings led to fundamental reconsideration of Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) and multi-domain operations concepts. Developed operational concepts through iterative wargaming to test future force designs.
Graduate, Military Strategy and Doctrine (Professional Military Education)
Certificate, Undergraduate Pilot Training
M.P.P., Public Policy (Master of Public Policy)
B.S., Space Physics (Bachelor of Science)
Graduate, Fighter Weapons and Tactics (Professional Military Education)
S Clinton Hinote Speaker Advisor Strategist Photo
Student at Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB
Student at Air Force Institute of Technology
The Atlantic Council Commission on Software-Defined Warfare presents a software-defined warfare approach, offering recommendations for the DoD to adopt modern software practices and seamlessly integrate them into existing platforms to enhance and strengthen defense strategies.
Commissioner at Atlantic Council Commission on Software-Defined Warfare
S. Clinton Hinote is an operating advisor for Bessemer Venture Partners specializing in organizational reinvention and strategic leadership in defense tech.
Operating Advisor at Bessemer Venture Partners
Chief, Strategy Division at Combined Air Operations Center, U.S. Air Forces Central, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar
Offers military expertise in support of the Council's David Rockefeller Studies Program—CFR's think tank—which is home to more than seventy full-time, adjunct, and visiting scholars and practitioners (called fellows). Their expertise covers the major regions and significant issues shaping today's global agenda. CFR fellows contribute to the foreign policy debate by writing books, reports, articles, op-eds, and blogs as well as by holding discussions on the most important challenges facing the United States and the world.
Military Fellow at Council on Foreign Relations
Field expert advising companies and leaders.
Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote is the Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Integration and Requirements, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, the Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia. In this position, Lt. Gen. Hinote is responsible for developing the Air Force strategy and multi-domain operating concepts, integrating through centralized design, and validating (and prioritizing) operational capabilities-based requirements to achieve national defense objectives and deliver timely and effective capability to the warfighter.
Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Requirements & Integration (Senior Vice President for Strategy)
Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Requirements & Integration (Senior Vice President for Strategy) at Headquarters U.S. Air Force, The Pentagon
Deputy Executive Director, Air Force Warfighting Integration Capability, Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Requirements
Deputy Executive Director, Air Force Warfighting Integration Capability, Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Requirements at Headquarters U.S. Air Force, The Pentagon
Independent consulting focused on matching emerging technology to defense needs, organizational transformation, and executive coaching
Student at John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University
S. Clinton Hinote serves as Executive Chair of Federal and Defense Initiatives for LSI Technologies Inc. and assists in the development and implementation of a strategic planning framework that aligns the company's initiatives with military, defense, and government policies, ensuring consistency with federal priorities and national security goals.
Executive Chair of Federal and Defense Initiatives
Executive Chair of Federal and Defense Initiatives at LIS Technologies Inc.
Assists the Department of Defense's #2 official and chief operating officer in his leadership duties, including overseeing the department’s annual budget and its over three million civilian and military personnel; interfacing with the Congress, other government agencies, and the media; and developing long term strategies and supporting plans for the department.
Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense
Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense at Office of the Secretary of Defense
Pallas Advisors is pleased to announce that Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Clinton Hinote will be joining the firm as a Principal following his distinguished career spanning over 30 years in the United States Air Force. Sally Donnelly, a founding partner of Pallas, said Clint’s experience pushing for disruptive changes in the Air Force and wider Department writ large is exactly the type of leader we are looking for to join our Team. Hinote notes that disruption is key to the U.S. staying ahead of our adversaries; investing in future capabilities is more important than ever before. He looks forward to joining Pallas, a team that pushes emerging technology solutions into the right hands within the national security ecosystem.
Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote is a professor of policy analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy. He served as the deputy chief of staff, Strategy, Integration, and Requirements, Headquarters, United States Air Force, at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. In this role, he served as the HAF A5/7, or senior Air Force leader responsible for representing the voice of tomorrow’s Airmen. HAF A5/7, known as Air Force Futures, focuses on developing Air Force strategy and concepts, conducting strategic assessments of the operating environment through wargames and workshops, manifesting an integrated future force design, and achieving timely and effective operational capabilities required for tomorrow’s Airmen to fight and win.
Professor of Policy Analysis at RAND School of Public Policy
Student at School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, Maxwell AFB
Member of SCSP Defense Panel advising on strategic competition with China, defense policy, and emerging technology; co-authored major reports on uncrewed systems and future warfare.
Expert Advisor at Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP)
Special Assistant to the Commander at The Curtis E. Lemay Center, Maxwell AFB
Deputy Director, Directorate of Requirements (A8) for Air Combat Command, Langley AFB
Deputy Director, Directorate of Requirements (A8)
Deputy Director, Directorate of Requirements (A8) at United States Air Force, Air Combat Command, Langley AFB
Student, Undergraduate Pilot Training at United States Air Force, Columbus AFB
F-117A Instructor Pilot, Flight Commander, Wing Chief of Weapons, 49th Fighter Wing
F-117A Instructor Pilot, Flight Commander, Wing Chief of Weapons, 49th Fighter Wing at United States Air Force, Holloman AFB
Led the 8th Fighter Wing at Kunsan Air Base, Korea, and also acted as the U.S. Forces Korea Area VI Commander. Responsible for the protection, wellbeing, and mission accomplishment of more than 3100 U.S. and Korean personnel.
Commander, 8th Fighter Wing (Vice President, Overseas Region)
Commander, 8th Fighter Wing (Vice President, Overseas Region) at United States Air Force, Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea
Student, F-16 Fighter Training Unit at United States Air Force, Luke AFB
Aide-de-Camp to the Commander, Air Education and Training Command
Aide-de-Camp to the Commander, Air Education and Training Command at United States Air Force, Randolf AFB
F-16 Flight Lead, Electronic Combat Pilot, Weapons and Tactics Officer, 20th Fighter Wing
F-16 Flight Lead, Electronic Combat Pilot, Weapons and Tactics Officer, 20th Fighter Wing at United States Air Force, Shaw AFB
Vice Commander, 52nd Fighter Wing (Assistant Vice President, Overseas Region) for Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany
Vice Commander, 52nd Fighter Wing (Assistant Vice President, Overseas Region)
Vice Commander, 52nd Fighter Wing (Assistant Vice President, Overseas Region) at United States Air Force, Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany
Commander, 3rd Fighter Training Squadron
Commander, 3rd Fighter Training Squadron at United States Air Force, Vance AFB
Initial Cadre Member, Instructor Pilot, F-117 Division
Initial Cadre Member, Instructor Pilot, F-117 Division at United States Air Force Weapons School, Nellis AFB
As part of the U.S. Mission and U.S. Central Command, the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq conducts Security Cooperation and Security Assistance to ensure the enduring strategic partnership between the U.S. Military and the Government of Iraq's Security Forces.
Deputy Executive Director, Security Cooperation
Deputy Executive Director, Security Cooperation at U.S. Department of State, U.S. Embassy Baghdad
Commentary on Air Force modernization and defense policy
Served on editorial board of Air Force's flagship professional journal
Blue-ribbon commission examining DoD software acquisition modernization and software-defined warfare alongside former SecDef Mark Esper, Christine Fox, Ellen Lord, Jim Taiclet, Jack Shanahan, Gen James Cartwright and other senior defense leaders
Expert commentary on defense technology and acquisition
Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) Blogs
Defense in Depth blog contributor during Military Fellowship
Competitive one-year fellowship for mid-career military officers; focused on research, writing, and policy engagement on national security issues
Columnist during Council on Foreign Relations Military Fellowship
Published during CFR Military Fellowship
Published during CFR fellowship on Middle East security topics
Regular contributor on defense strategy, future warfare, and Air Force transformation
School of Advanced Air and Space Studies Dissertation (Air University)
Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP) Defense Paper Series
Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP) Policy Report
Enlightenment polymath - scientific method, practical innovation, diplomatic coalition-building. Franklin's combination of intellectual curiosity and pragmatic application exemplifies the renaissance generalist model. Relevant to Hinote's Ph.D.-holding fighter pilot profile and integration of academic rigor with operational experience.
Indirect approach and strategy of the indirect attack - achieving objectives through maneuver rather than frontal assault. Liddell Hart's critique of attrition warfare and emphasis on dislocation influenced post-WWII Western military thought. Relevant to Air Force concepts of standoff strike and avoiding adversary strengths.
Foundational military theory from On War - friction, fog of war, center of gravity, defense as stronger form of warfare, war as continuation of policy. Clausewitz's emphasis on uncertainty and adaptation under pressure underpins modern professional military education and strategic thinking including wargaming as policy tool.
Information theory and mathematical foundations of communication - signal/noise ratio, bandwidth, encoding. Shannon's work underpins modern C4ISR systems and network-centric warfare. Relevant to Hinote's emphasis on digitized command and control, meshed sensor networks, and information advantage as key to future warfare.
Strategic leadership principles - balancing guns and butter (force projection vs economic strength), coalition management across allied forces, mission-focused leadership over ego, organizational effectiveness through delegation. Eisenhower's 'Great Equation' of sustaining military readiness without economic collapse parallels Hinote's focus on sustainable force modernization and budgetary realism in great-power competition.
Mobile armored warfare and exploitation of tempo advantages - Blitzkrieg tactics in North Africa. Rommel's emphasis on speed, initiative, and leading from the front influenced mechanized warfare doctrine. Relevant to Air Force thinking on rapid mobility and exploiting fleeting windows of advantage.
Philosophical concepts of will to power and perspectivism - multiple valid interpretations of reality, importance of mental frameworks in understanding conflict. Nietzsche's critique of dogmatism and emphasis on continuous intellectual reinvention aligns with Hinote's organizational transformation philosophy and rejection of dated doctrine.
OODA Loop decision-making framework and maneuver warfare theory. Boyd's energy-maneuverability theory and emphasis on tempo/agility over raw firepower influenced modern Air Force tactical thinking. Boyd's concept of getting inside adversary decision cycles informs Hinote's wargaming methodology and emphasis on decision advantage through human-machine teaming and networked battle management.
Documented peer relationship in the innovation ecosystem per existing database entry. Both operate in the nexus of defense technology commercialization, strategic advisory work, and organizational transformation consulting. Shared professional networks in the post-retirement defense tech sector.
Renaissance polymath ideal - combining artistic vision with engineering innovation. Da Vinci's designs for war machines and fortifications demonstrate integration of creativity and technical problem-solving. Symbolic of the intellectual versatility Hinote brings to defense transformation through cross-domain thinking.
Wargaming theory and strategic planning methodology. Zenko's work on wargaming best practices and critiques of defense planning processes informs modern approaches to scenario-based force development. Relevant to Hinote's role leading Air Force Futures wargaming programs that exposed U.S. vulnerabilities against China.
Operational art and maneuver warfare - concentrated force at decisive point, interior lines, tempo of operations. Napoleon's campaigns studied in military education as exemplar of strategic initiative and exploiting adversary vulnerabilities through speed and positioning. Relevant to Hinote's advocacy for operational agility and forward defense concepts.
Direct superior-subordinate relationship as Deputy Secretary of Defense (2014-2017) during Third Offset Strategy. Hinote served as Work's Military Assistant (May 2015-Feb 2017). Work championed human-machine teaming, wargaming to identify capability gaps, and technology-enabled operational concepts - themes Hinote later amplified as leader of Air Force Futures. Work's advocacy for using wargames to drive requirements directly shaped Hinote's methodology.
Foundational strategic thought from The Art of War - knowing enemy and self, strategic deception, winning without fighting, importance of intelligence and preparation. Sun Tzu's emphasis on winning through superior positioning before battle resonates with Hinote's wargaming-driven force design and deterrence-by-denial strategy against China.
Relentless operational pressure and resource attrition against peer adversary (Confederate States). Grant's Overland Campaign demonstrated sustained offensive operations despite setbacks. His understanding of total war and applying pressure across multiple theaters informs modern thinking on multi-domain operations and imposing costs on adversaries.
Air University (School of Advanced Air and Space Studies)
S. Clinton Hinote - Disruptive Strategist
Aerial Achievement Medal (United States Air Force)
Air Force Achievement Medal with oak leaf cluster (United States Air Force)
Air Force Commendation Medal (United States Air Force)
Air Medal (multiple awards) (United States Air Force)
Bronze Star Medal (United States Armed Forces)
Command Pilot Wings (United States Air Force)
Commander's Trophy (Air Education and Training Command)
Defense Superior Service Medal (United States Department of Defense)
Distinguished Service Medal with oak leaf cluster (United States Air Force)
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (United States Armed Forces)
Joint Service Commendation Medal (United States Air Force)
Legion of Merit (United States Armed Forces)
Meritorious Service Medal with silver oak leaf cluster (United States Air Force)
Outstanding Graduate and Top Academic Graduate (Air Command and Staff College)
Outstanding Graduate, United States Air Force Academy (United States Air Force Academy)
Palm Springs Air Museum 2024 Gala Honoree (Palm Springs Air Museum)
Southwest Asia Service Medal (United States Armed Forces)
Stephen R. Lorenz Fellowship (Air University)
Top Squadron Graduate (Squadron Officer School)
USAF Weapons School Graduate Patch (USAF Weapons School)
Lt. Gen. Hinote's final Senate testimony on Air Force modernization, April 2023
John A. Tirpak / Air & Space Forces Magazine
Lieutenant General S. Clinton Hinote delivering his final testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee in April 2023, days before retirement. Warned that Air Force transformation 'could come off the rails' and emphasized the urgency of modernization to compete with China. Featured in Air & Space Forces Magazine coverage.
Lieutenant General S. Clinton Hinote speaking at final congressional testimony about Air Force modernization challenges
Lt. Gen. Hinote Warns Air Force Transformation Could Fall Off the Rails
Col. S. Clinton Hinote (Wolf 53) assumes command of 8th Fighter Wing, Kunsan Air Base, Korea, May 10, 2013
Change of command ceremony showing Colonel S. Clinton Hinote assuming command of the 8th Fighter Wing (Wolf Pack) at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea. Hinote served as the 53rd Wolf Pack commander from May 2013 to May 2014, commanding 3,100+ U.S. and Korean personnel and serving as U.S. Forces Korea Area VI Commander.
Col. S. Clinton Hinote Assumes Command of 8th Fighter Wing
Colonel S. Clinton Hinote assuming command of 8th Fighter Wing at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, during change of command ceremony
Lt. Gen. Hinote discusses trans-domain warfare concepts at AFA Air, Space & Cyber Conference
Lieutenant General Clinton Hinote speaking at the Air Force Association Air, Space & Cyber Conference, discussing trans-domain operations, multi-domain warfare, and the future of military conflict. Known for his famous 2021 statement: 'If we don't change, we're going to lose fast' regarding wargame results against China.
Gen. Hinote on Trans-Domain Operations and Future Warfare
General Clinton Hinote presenting on trans-domain warfare and multi-domain operations at Air Force Association conference
Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote addresses Air Force strategy and future force design
Lieutenant General S. Clinton Hinote speaking at a defense industry conference in his role as Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Integration and Requirements (AF/A5/7), also known as Air Force Futures. Hinote led the Air Force's strategic planning and wargaming efforts that revealed U.S. vulnerabilities against China.
Lieutenant General S. Clinton Hinote speaking at defense conference as Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy
Lt. Gen. Hinote Speaking on Air Force Strategy
Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Clinton Hinote - RAND Professor
Leaders report greater clarity, alignment, and momentum in their reinvention efforts. They also find that having a partner can decrease stress levels and increase confidence. They move from urgent reactions to proactive shaping of their futures—leading more agile, innovative, and resilient organizations ready to win amidst disruption.
A Theory of Victory is a clear strategic narrative explaining how your organization will transform and succeed in the future. It aligns leadership and teams around a shared vision and guides decision-making, resource allocation, and communication—creating a powerful rallying point that drives momentum and success.
The 'Hellscape' concept, also called the 'purple woodchipper,' is a multi-domain swarming defense strategy designed to deter Chinese aggression in the Taiwan Strait. It involves creating multiple layers of friction through cyber and kinetic attacks on logistics systems, ports, and platforms as forces attempt to cross the strait, followed by continuous air, sea, and subsurface attacks using swarms of autonomous systems, mines, and missile batteries. The concept leverages battle networks across all domains (air, land, sea, space, cyber) to create a defense that no modern force has successfully fought through. Hinote believes this forward defense, combined with conventional forces in the middle layer and homeland defense, creates effective 21st-century deterrence.
Lt. Gen. Hinote is a command pilot with more than 2,000 flight hours, including 240 combat hours in operations Northern and Southern Watch over Iraq. He flew F-16 Fighting Falcons and served as an instructor at the U.S. Air Force Weapons School. His operational assignments included leading the Air Forces Central Strategy Division, serving as Squadron Commander, Wing Vice Commander, and Wing Commander.
We start by assessing your current reality and aspirations. From there, we help you recruit your Reinvention Alliance—engaging key leaders who will champion change. Using futures methodologies, we co-create a shared vision and develop your Theory of Victory, building the foundation for aligned, confident leadership and sustainable transformation.
Lt. Gen. Samuel Clinton Hinote (Ret.) is a retired three-star Air Force general known as the Air Force’s 'futurist,' who led strategy and innovation efforts for over 30 years. Since retiring, he has focused on coaching and advising leaders to proactively reinvent their organizations. Drawing on deep operational expertise and strategic foresight, Clint equips leaders with proven frameworks to anticipate disruption, build powerful leadership alliances, and confidently guide their teams to win in uncertain futures.
Futures methodologies are strategic tools that help leaders explore multiple plausible futures, anticipate risks and opportunities, and stress-test strategies. Techniques like scenario planning, wargaming, and red teaming sharpen organizational agility and prepare leaders not just to react but to shape the future proactively.
While specific medal citations are not publicly detailed, Lt. Gen. Hinote graduated first in his class at both the U.S. Air Force Academy and Air Command and Staff College—a rare double achievement indicating exceptional academic and leadership performance. His book on centralized control became required reading at Air Command and Staff College. He was selected for increasingly senior leadership positions culminating in his three-star rank and role as the Air Force's first Deputy Chief of Staff for Air Force Futures.
Clear, authentic communication is critical to expanding your alliance and rallying support. I help leaders craft compelling messages grounded in their Theory of Victory and teach storytelling techniques that build trust, inspire teams, and create emotional connection throughout the transformation journey.
Beyond his role as Deputy Chief of Staff for Air Force Futures, Lt. Gen. Hinote served in numerous leadership positions including: Deputy Executive Director of the Air Force Warfighting Integration Capability (AFWIC); Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense; Commander in NATO (Germany); Commander in South Korea; member of the Country Team at U.S. Embassy Baghdad, where he served as Deputy Chief of Mission; Squadron Commander; Wing Vice Commander; and Wing Commander.
Lt. Gen. Hinote authored 'Centralized Control and Decentralized Execution: A Catchphrase in Crisis?' published in 2009 as an Air Force Research Institute paper and later as a book in 2012. The work examines the Air Force's master tenet of centralized control and decentralized execution, arguing it was in danger of becoming dogma. Drawing from combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, he advocated for a deeper understanding of when to centralize versus decentralize air operations. The book became required reading at Air Command and Staff College.
Military strategy teaches discipline, anticipation, collaboration, and decisive action under uncertainty—skills essential for any leader facing disruptive change. I translate these lessons into practical frameworks, empowering leaders across industries to navigate complexity, innovate, and execute bold transformation initiatives.
'Q' comes from the gadget master in the James Bond movies, reflecting my early role as the squadron pilot responsible for programming complex sensors and managing an array of technical gear. My office was located in a security vault, and it was filled with what looked like spy gadgets, so the callsign stuck. Sharing this story connects my technical roots with a lifelong passion for innovation and problem-solving—qualities I bring to helping leaders lead reinvention today.
Every organization is unique. I tailor my coaching and strategy to fit your culture, challenges, and goals—translating complex strategic concepts into practical behaviors and sustainable change that resonate with your people and context.
Lt. Gen. Hinote holds three graduate degrees: a Bachelor of Science in Space Physics from the U.S. Air Force Academy (1992), where he graduated first in his class; a Master of Public Policy from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government; and a Ph.D. in Military Strategy from Air University. He also graduated first in his class at Air Command and Staff College and is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Weapons School and the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies.
Lt. Gen. Hinote led groundbreaking wargaming exercises that revealed the U.S. military was 'losing fast' in simulated Taiwan invasion scenarios between 2018-2020. After the 2018 war game, advisors recommended never playing that scenario again because the outcome was so predictable. However, by late 2020, using advanced drones, next-generation fighters, and distributed operations, the U.S. successfully deterred a simulated Chinese invasion—marking the first time in years the U.S. won such a scenario. The breakthrough came when the red team commander (representing China) looked at the defensive posture and declined to invade, saying it wasn't rational given the forces arrayed against them.
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Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote Official Military Portrait
Frequently asked questions about S. Clinton Hinote