Air Force & Space Force

New SkillBridge Policies Update

New SkillBridge policies, AFI 36-2671 and SPFI 36-2672, were published on 31 March 2026 with major revisions that introduce rank-based program categories, clarify commander approval authorities, and formally codify that manpower backfills are prohibited for Airmen and Guardians. These revisions better balance mission requirements with support for transitioning service members and refine program management and execution standards. The new policies introduce several key changes to standardize the program and provide commanders with clear guidance for execution:

  • Tiered Program Lengths: Each service established separate program duration limits based on rank to balance transition opportunities with operational readiness. By prioritizing transition support for its junior members and ensuring experienced leaders remain focused on the mission, the Air Force continues to build a stronger, more resilient force, ready for today’s challenges and prepared for tomorrow’s opportunities.
    • USAF:
      • 120-day maximum for ranks E-1 to E-5 and O-1 to O-3.
      • 90-day maximum for ranks E-6 to E-7, WO to CWO-3, and O-4.
      • 60-day maximum for ranks E-8 to E-9, CWO-4 to CWO-5, and O-5. 
      • Officers in the grade of O-6 are not eligible to participate in SkillBridge without an approved Exception to Policy (ETP) for rare circumstances. 
    • USSF:
      • 120-day maximum for ranks E-1 to E-8 and O-1 to O-4.
      • 90-day maximum for ranks E-9 and O-5 & above.
  • Clarified Approval Authorities: The policy clearly defines the application approval level for each rank, ensuring appropriate oversight for both active-duty Airmen and Air Reserve Command (ARC).
    • See policies for approval authority requirements at each rank/category.
  • No Backfills Authorized: Reinforces units will not receive manpower backfills for members participating in SkillBridge. Commanders must weigh the impact of temporary manpower deficits when approving applications.
  • Formalized Exception Process: A formal Exception to Policy (ETP) process is now established for unique cases, such as members undergoing a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB), or SecWar and SecAF priorities.