Stretching the Umbilical Cord: The Theory, Practice and Future of the Split Air Operations Center

摘要

This study addresses the question of whether or not the Air Force should continue to develop a Split Air Operations Center (AOC) capability whose components are geographically separated, electronically connected, and codependent for task accomplishment. The author analyzes the dilemma created by the Joint Forces Air Component Commander's (JFACC s) desire to collocate with both his AOC and the Joint Forces Commander (JFC) at a forward location, counterbalanced by the need to reduce deployed footprint for various reasons . the most significant of which is to enhance his deployed force protection posture. The study examines the Split AOC as a potential solution to this dilemma. The paper begins by describing a contemporary, collocated AOC structure, as used by the Combat Air Forces worldwide-deployable Numbered Air Forces. It then contrasts this contemporary AOC with the Split AOC paradigm. Next, the author surveys available historical experience with various forms of the Split AOC paradigm. This evidence includes exercises such as the GOLDEN SABER series, NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS 93-05, the UNIFIED ENDEAVOR series, JOINT TASK FORCE EXERCISE 97-1, and BLUE FLAG 98-1. As part of the spiral development process supporting the Vision of Aerospace Command and Control For the 21st Century, the author subsequently appraises potential future applications of the Split AOC paradigm. This includes the AOC Baseline effort, the Distributed Air Operations Center (DAOC) technologies, Joint Warrior Interoperability Demonstrations, and the EXPEDITIONARY FORCES EXERCISE 98. The final section of the study focuses on issues that shape the Split AOC debate and notes that several doctrinal gaps currently exist regarding AOC operations.