Stick to the Basics: Do Not Establish Air Combat Command as a Specified Command
Abstract
The paper examines the controversy surrounding the recent Air Force proposal to establish Air Combat Command as a Specified Command. Using the effects on national warfighting capability as a measure of merit, the analysis concludes that such a designation is not prudent. Three factors support the conclusion. Proponents' arguments are misplaced; they support the ACC concept, but not combatant command status. In citing a precedent in FORSCOM, they point to a valid benefit of independent application of power during crisis response. Second, there is no valid broad continuing mission. Finally, establishment of ACC as a combatant command could decrease our warfighting skills by undermining unity of effort. A solution to the problem is posed in the analysis. Establishment of ACC as a USAF MAJCOM in supporting status, with forces assigned not only to Unified CINCs, but to FORSCOM as well, would preserve the crisis response capability, without undermining the intent of the Goldwater-Nichols DoD Reorganization Act of 1986.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 19, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA249832
Entities
People
- Kevin E. Curry
Organizations
- Naval War College