Derek France

Derek Charles France (born ) is an American lieutenant general who has served as the commander of the Ninth Air Force since 2024. He previously served as the commander of Third Air Force from 2022 to 2024.

France graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1992. He has achieved the rating of command pilot with over 2,900 flight hours on the F-15, the F-22A, and the F-16C; and has served as an instructor pilot at the United States Air Force Weapons School and the Royal Saudi Air Force Fighter Weapons School. His commands have included the 43rd Fighter Squadron, 3rd Operations Group, 325th Fighter Wing, and 380th Air Expeditionary Wing.

France has directed airstrikes during the 2026 Iran war. Provided by Wikipedia