Theater Airlift Liaison Officer Command and Control
Abstract
This paper addresses the following questions: (1) Can substantive standards be created for Theater Airlift Liaison Officers (TALO)?; and (2) Can the command and control (C2) structure be improved so that TALO can better support Army units? These questions are explored through a review of classical organizational theory and Air Force organizational doctrine. This review highlights the importance of unity of command, technical efficiency, and span of control, including difference of function, time, and space, as critical factors in organizational development. Next, Air Force airlift units that liaise with the Army and work with the TALO, such as the Tactical Air Control Party (TACP), Tanker Airlift Control Element (TALCE), Tanker Airlift Control Center (TACC), Air Mobility Operations Control Center (AMOCC), Air Mobility Division (AMD), and Director of Mobility Forces (DIRMOBFOR), are analyzed in relation to their potential to provide TALO C2. This is done through a qualitative review of doctrine, regulations, and past TALO operations. After analysis, the findings show that the TACP provides an adequate C2 structure for the TALO, but the AMD Director, and possibly the DIRMOBFOR, would provide a better structure. AMD operational control of TALO would result in better support for the Army.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA430869
Entities
People
- Kyler A. Barnes
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology