Army Aviation's Role in USAFRICOM and United States Army Africa
Abstract
Arguably until 9/11, Africa was deemed insignificant by the United States in terms of strategic value. The events on 9/11, together with drought, famine, energy security, global trade, and violent extremist organizations, have changed the United States' strategic view of Africa. The missions and organization of two new entities, United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM) and the United States Army Africa (USARAF), are designed to integrate with the civil and military operations taking place on the African continent. So far, there has been little discussion as to what Army aviation assets should be used to support USAFRICOM and USARAF. The intent of this paper is to explore the ways in which U.S. Army Aviation can support USAFRICOM and USARAF and provide solutions to the unique challenges they face on the African continent. The paper illustrates the specific aircraft types that can be used to accomplish the wide array of missions required on the vast African continent. In addition, it emphasizes the necessity of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence (USAACE) to work with the Department of the Army in developing an aviation force structure that will meet the needs of USAFRICOM and USARAF.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 16, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA518149
Entities
People
- Scott Kubica
Organizations
- United States Army War College