Record Low Promotions for New Staff Sergeants in 27 Years

The Air Force has selected only 9,000 senior airmen for promotion to staff sergeant this year, marking the lowest selection rate since 1997. This follows a trend of slow promotions in recent years, as the Air Force aims to achieve a healthier grade distribution by 2025. The low promotion rates are attributed to strong retention and a course correction to ensure senior noncommissioned officers have sufficient experience. Meanwhile, promotions to senior NCO grades have improved.