Centralized Control/Decentralized Execution: A Valid Tenet of Airpower
Abstract
Centralized control and decentralized execution are fundamental tenets of air power that have evolved over decades of aerial employment and centuries of command and control during war. Air power has unique characteristics that require a different command and control construct than surface-centric combat units. The tenets of centralized control and decentralized execution have recently come under fire due to emerging transformational concepts such as Network-Centric Warfare (NCW) and Effects-Based Operations (EBO). This paper examines the history of the concept of centralized control/decentralized execution from the advent of modern warfare through Operation Enduring Freedom. Current doctrinal definitions are discussed with an emphasis on the differences between Air Force doctrine and joint doctrine. The study highlights the result of poorly articulated doctrinal definitions, and demonstrates that service and joint doctrine as currently written make the concept of centralized control and decentralized execution logically impossible. Service and joint doctrine should change. Even in the face of emerging joint operations concepts, centralized control and decentralized execution remains a valid tenet for the organization and employment of air power.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 18, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA434411
Entities
People
- Henry J. Santicola
Organizations
- United States Army War College