Mark A. Schuler

Building a True Air and Space Operations Center: Are We There Yet? Mark A. Schuler

"The role of space in American military operations has evolved significantly since the end of the Cold War with the theater Air and Space Operations Center (AOC) playing a major role in integrating space effects into theater warfare. Moving far beyond traditional support roles, space operations in the AOC now include the defense of friendly space capabilities from interference and attack; the offensive ability to disrupt or deny an adversary the use of space; and coordination of theater space operations. However, the organization of space operations in the AOC has not kept pace with these changes. The primary assertion in this study is that the AOC needs to reorganize space personnel in the AOC and build a robust space organization to meet the Joint Force Air Component Commander's (JFACC) expanding space responsibilities. This will help resolve ambiguities and shortfalls in the current organization of space personnel that hinder the execution of these responsibilities. Today, the Air Force is on the threshold of building a true Air and Space Operations Center that can deliver air and space effects in support of air, land, maritime, and special operations forces. While there is no perfect organizational structure, the adoption of a Space Specialty Team or Space Division construct in the AOC can improve the JFACC's ability to execute his air and space war fighting responsibilities in support of the Joint Force Commander's objectives."--Abstract from web site.