Framework for Evolving Agile Combat Support Concepts to Meet NATO reaction Air Force Operational Requirements.

摘要

This paper presents a framework that could be used in evolving the Agile Combat Support (ACS) and mobility systems of participating partners to meet the operational needs of the NATO Reaction Air Force (RAF). Based on our experience in evaluating ACS/mobility options to meet the United States Air Force Expeditionary Aerospace Force (EAF) operational goals, we suggest that the NATO RAF concept may require a rethinking of the entire combat support system, as was the case for the USAF EAF, and that subsequently the strategic planning framework for combat support should also be re- examined and enhanced. To a large degree future force projection and resultant combat capability will be dependent upon strategic choices concerning combat support system design that will be made in the near future. This paper explores a planning framework that is based on an integrated set of models and a process for making such strategic decisions. Some USAF EAF results of analyses based on using this framework are presented as they may be relevant for the NATO RAF. The paper also discusses some impediments in using this framework and evolving an effective coalition ACS system.