The United States Army is in the middle of a transformation, as Futures Command develops and fields systems that will change everything from artillery fire to unmanned aircraft.

In addition to the technology challenges, the Army also faces obstacles with its people, as it works to recruit and retain soldiers with the skillsets necessary for modern warfare. Readiness remains a top of mind concern as well, especially with events such as the invasion of Ukraine and ongoing tensions surrounding Taiwan shaping how Army leadership views the state of the world.

In this one-on-one conversation with Defense News just before AUSA’s annual conference, Army Chief of Staff Gen. James C. McConville shares insights on his goals in his last year as chief of staff, the state of the Army’s modernization priorities and how the Army is balancing priorities during a recruiting crisis.