Breaking the Paradigm of Carrier Based Operations: Carrier Air Wing Expeditionary Detachments in Support of Phase IV Stabilization and Phase V Enabling Civil Authority

摘要

The recent stability phases in Afghanistan and Iraq have highlighted some inefficiencies in carrier based operations due to the extensive movement and sustainment required to traverse great distances to reach areas of operations. Pending available facilities within established forward operating bases in distant areas of operations, detaching an element of the air wing may provide the Joint Force Commander with greater combat effectiveness while reducing supporting requirements. This paper cites the historical precedent of carrier air wing expeditionary detachments and interprets recent guidance advocating innovation in a resource constrained environment that may justify formally integrating this capability. It proposes potential increases in combat effectiveness and operational efficiencies gained by an expeditionary detachment in the context of time, space, and force which may validate the need for such an operating concept. Additionally, it offers mitigating solutions to identified constraints and counter-arguments. Lastly, it recommends a concept of operations to formalize standard operating procedures for future detachment efforts during Phase IV Stabilization and Phase V Enabling Civil Authority.