Sea Based Air Operations Center
Abstract
The U.S. Navy should pursue a sea based AOC capability as an operationally significant concept that greatly enhances the Navy's position in joint operations. Achieving this capability would posture naval forces to more closely fulfill the requirement mandated by the National Military Strategy to conduct military operations that dominate the full spectrum of conflict. Though previously limited by technological constraints, undeniable trends across military transformation efforts point to its future relevance and application to the Joint Force Commander. The uncertainty of future conflicts and the growing abilities of our adversaries reinforce the need to harness the operational significance of an afloat AOC. In all manner of conflict, from MOOTW to major operations, this unique capability provides the JFC greater flexibility to respond to contingencies on short notice with an integrated, more lethal joint force. More importantly, should the proliferation of theatre ballistic missile technology worsen, an AOC capable naval strike group most likely possesses the closest solution to this dangerous threat. Finally, rather than redefine naval command and control of air operations as simply an enabler to the JFACC, the Navy should expand this definition to encompass a wider more relevant purpose, to provide flexible joint airpower from the sea in support of the Joint Force Commander.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 14, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA464536
Entities
People
- Leopoldo Albea
Organizations
- Naval War College