The Composite Wing: Improved Combat Operations?
Abstract
Air Force Chief of Staff, General Merrill A. McPeak is proposing to change the organizational structure of combat air wings. His proposed composite structure world include differing aircraft with differing missions organized as an integrated combat unit. This is a significant break from the current monolithic paradigm. This paper examines the strengths and weaknesses of the general's proposal. Discussion is limited to the impact on combat operations, specifically planning, command and control and employment. The analysis concludes that the composite wing proposal provides the potential to improve the efficiency of combat air forces by streamlining the planning process, improving command control, and enhancing coordination during the employment phase. The proposal is feasible and the cost is not prohibitive. The proposal is best suited to forward based forces and fighters. Those combat support aircraft that are either limited in number (AWACS) or on which there is a tremendous demand (Tankers) should remain centrally organized and controlled. A modified proposal that would address the above issues is developed in the final chapter. Also discussed is an interim training program to bridge the transition period during the restructuring process.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA240585
Entities
People
- George C. Mazzeo
Organizations
- Naval War College