Global Dynamic Operations: Allocation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft among Combatant Commands.

摘要

The Global Dynamic Operations (GDO) concept offers national decision makers a mechanism to dynamically translate changing strategic priorities into globally postured remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) forces for combatant commanders. In essence, this concept gives them employment options (which the current Global Force Management (GFM) construct fails to provide) when formulating strategy, as they seek to reconcile ends, ways, and means. Traditional GFM organization, policy, and procedures are not designed to satisfy this requirement at a tempo generated by the dynamic allocation of RPA aircrews. The GDO concept proposes bold changes to traditional force allocation to bridge this gap. As noted by the Quadrennial Defense Review Report (2006), 'The principles of transparency, constructive competition to encourage innovation, agility and adaptability, collaboration, and partnership should guide the formulation of new strategic processes and organizational structures.' The GDO concept is guided by this spirit of innovation. Even though this concept seeks bold change, it remains pragmatic -- grounded in the shared tenets of air and space power. The allocation of RPA aircrews is centrally controlled and decentrally executed, using flexible and versatile methods. Centralized, global mission management helps to ensure the concentration of purpose, priority, and balance necessary to maximize LD/HD RPA resources. A mix of allocation art and science produces synergistic effects to attain persistence in the forms of surveillance and global strike. Regardless of how the GDO concept contributes to the global mission management of RPAs, future efforts must continue to seek optimum solutions in areas of dynamic inter-COCOM allocation, adaptive command relationships, and net-centric global mission management. The challenges before us will require resourcefulness and an integrated approach that wisely balances risks and assets.