In the Crucible of Battle: An Analysis of the Split Air Operations Center and the Principles of War
Abstract
'Netcentric Warfare," "Information Superiority," "Battlespace Dominance," call it what you will, regardless of the color uniform you wear it's impossible not to recognize the impact technology is having on all aspects of war, but most visibly on the operational level. Within the Air Force, one of the most contrvrsial initiatives to enhance warfighting at the operational level is the "split Air Operations Center" (split AOC) concept being explored through Expeditionary Force Experiments (EFx) and Blue Flag exercises. But, EFX-98 and past Blue Flag exercises attempting to implement the split AOC have fallen far short of seamlessly integrating physically separated AOC elements. Furthermore, how does the split AOC concept hold up when compared against the enduring principles of war? Additionally, before the split AOC becomes a reality, its impact on human interaction, future bandwidth issues, and stated operational requirements should also be considered. At best, when analyzed against the principles of war and these other factors, the split AOC does not appear to be the most effective way to enhance air operations. Yet, there is a real requirement to improve the AOC's deployability and sustainability. However, a better solution is a three part approach to (1) redefine some of the functions of the Numbered Air Forces, (2) forward preposition additional AOC assets, and (3) modernize the AOC communications and computer equipment. Instituting these recommendations insures the AOCs are organized and equipped to meet the requirement for improved response time, reduced deployed footprint, and increased security.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 05, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA363116
Entities
People
- Linda R. Medler
Organizations
- Naval War College