Operational Control of Global Airpower
Abstract
This thesis examines operational control of bombers stationed in the United States but employed halfway around the world. When a contingency arises, operational control should be clear-cut from the beginning. Air Force doctrine concerning command and control is easily understood for assets that deploy into a theater. The mere issue of proximity to the commander makes control seem somewhat less confusing. However, when bombers generate under one combatant commander and execute their mission under the operational control of another combatant commander, the timing of when one commander relinquishes control and the other commander gains control is questionable. This study focuses on historic examples of bomber operational control and legislative influences on operational control. Determining when to change operational control comes down to identifying which combatant command has the mission that requires operational control and when CONUS bombers are ready for sustained operations under that command. Following an introductory chapter, Chapter 2 examines issues relating to the use of bombers from World War II to the present day. This examination traces how operational control of bombers until recently was guided by strategic nuclear imperatives. Chapter 3 provides a historical overview of the applicable legislation from the National Security Act of 1947 through the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986. This chapter demonstrates how operational control is tied to the mission given by the President, through the Secretary of Defense. The chapter also highlights the numerous command authorities resulting from this legislation, which would lead to confusion concerning operational control. Chapter 4 addresses the current unified command structure and issues that stem from the authority provided to combatant commanders by the Goldwater-Nichols legislation. Chapter 5 provides recommendations for when control of bombers should transfer between combatant commanders. (8 refs.)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA420539
Entities
People
- Steven L. Basham
Organizations
- Air University