US Air Force Chief: Active-duty airmen must submit waist-to-height ratio within 18 days

Published Jul 13, 07:55 PM UTC

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach issued a letter to the force on July 13, 2026, emphasizing the importance of fitness, dress, and appearance standards to strengthen readiness. He announced that active-duty airmen have until July 31, 2026, to submit their current waist-to-height ratio into the myBodyComp system, while reserve component members have until August 31. Wilsbach stated that fitness is essential for mission execution and that upholding high standards builds trust and discipline. The letter follows a broader push by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth for stricter grooming and fitness standards across the military, including his criticism of overweight troops in formations. Medically exempt airmen are not required to submit the ratio.