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The AU Research Topics List is comprised of questions given to Air University by organizations with the USAF and other DoD organizations. Any organization is welcome to submit topics at any time. Please direct any questions about Air University Research to AUResearch@au.af.edu.

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AU RESEARCH TOPICS LIST (RTL)

  • Agile Talent Management

    What are the key components for the agile talent management framework to support career-long development across a diverse force? (HAF A2/6)

  • Challenges of Global Climate Change

    Changes in global climate is transforming the context in which the Department operates. What challenges does this present? How can the DoD adapt to the challenges it presents? (2022 National Defense Strategy)

  • Command Relationships in JADO

    What are the command relationship implications of JADO?

  • Creation of Space Force

    How does the Air Force transfer people, mission sets, R&D, and equipment to the Space Force?

  • Diversity and Inclusion

    Diversity and inclusion should be prevalent throughout the DoD. What tangible changes can the DoD make to support the retention of women? How can we retain a diverse 21st century DAF?

  • Establishing Flexible Logistics

    The CSAF is looking for “initiatives focused on more agile, resilient, and survivable energy logistics—from bulk strategic supplies to deliveries at the tactical edge.” 

  • Ethical implications of increased use of artificial intelligence and machine learning

    As advances in computing are implemented in JADO, what are the ethical implications of increased use of artificial intelligence and machine learning?

  • Historical C2 lessons for JADC2

    What historical C2 lessons are relevant for the JADC2 construct?

  • Impact of Technological Advancements on Air Warfare

    How will current and future trends in military technology advancements impact air warfare? How will this evolution of air warfare impact the US's superiority in the air domain? (HAF A5SM)

  • Innovative ways to develop Airmen

    What are some innovative ways that the USAF can develop Airmen? Analyze the pros and cons of these methods.

  • JADC2 - Coalition & Interagency Partners

    What does JADC2 mean for coalition and interagency partners? How can the Joint Force address the classification challenges of operations across domains with interagency partners and coalition partners?

  • JADC2 Headquarters

    Should it be a centralized or decentralized headquarters? Should the CAOC be forward-deployed or CONUS-based? Should component headquarters be co-located? How can we disperse the functions and personnel but keep the high-end C2 available to execute Airpower doctrinally (centralized controlled and decentralized execution)? (PACAF/CC)

  • JADC2 Training/Education

    Should JADC2 become a career field in its own right, with specialized training and qualifications?

  • JADO - Centralization vs Decentralization

    What impact will JADO have for decentralized execution/tactical initiative? How does the USAF move from centralized command and decentralized execution? How can we go about pushing down authority and responsibility to the lowest level? (PACAF/CC)

  • JADO - Essential Information Requirements

    What are the essential information requirements for JADO? How does JADC2 overcome the problem of multiple incompatible networks that are used in contemporary C2?

  • JADO - Space Force

    How do we integrate the Space Force into JADO?

  • JADO Mission Orders

    What do mission-type orders look like in JADO?

  • Leadership in JADO

    For successful to JADO, how and when should a joint culture be inculcated into military leaders?

  • Manage, training and equipping for JADO

    How does the USAF manage, train and equip for JADO?

  • Roles & Functions of USAF

    What are the future strategic opportunities and vulnerabilities that could impact the role and function of the USAF? How can they be addressed? What are new or expanded roles for the USAF? (HAF A5SM)

  • SecAF's Operational Imperatives and CSAF's Future Operating Concept

    What is the impact of the new capabilities introduced in the OI's and new way of fighting in the Future Operating Concept? How will the USAF organizational structure adapt to support them? (HAF A5SM)

  • Space Force & the "Warfighting" mindset

    How does the Space Force develop a "warfighting" mindset? Does the Space Force need a "warfighting" mindset?

  • Strategic Blind Spots in Modern Conflict

    Are there useful methods of blind spot analysis that could be utilized to uncover obsolete, incomplete, or incorrect assumptions? What role do historical case studies play in overcoming blind spots? How can the study of lessons learned from recent operations provide valuable insights to help the DoD avoid these pitfalls? (JSOU)

  • USAF Organizational Changes

    How should the USAF changes its organization to effectively adapt to the changing character of war? (HAF A5SM)

     

     

  • Warfighting domains in JADO

    What are the critical inter-dependencies that must be defended and exploited between the domains?

  • Arctic, the Antarctic, and the Indo-Pacific

    What is the importance of the Arctic and Antarctic to the Indo-Pacific theater? (PACAF)

  • Challenges of Global Climate Change

    Changes in global climate is transforming the context in which the Department operates. What challenges does this present? How can the DoD adapt to the challenges it presents? (2022 National Defense Strategy)

  • Global impacts of militarization and economic development of the Arctic [Closed]

    The arctic is increasingly contest and congested. Although many countries are developing strategies and capabilities for use in the Arctic they often fail to assess the global impacts of militarization of the Arctic. (AFRL)

  • Russia & the Arctic

    What is Russia's long-term Arctic strategy? How do they plan to project power into the Arctic? (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Sino-Russian Security Cooperation & Competition

    What are the opportunities and challenges surrounding Sino-Russian cooperation? How are Russia & China competing? How does this affect their military alignment, particularly in the Arctic and with Central Asian states? (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Cyber Force Structure

    How can the USAF optimize current Cyber Force Structure? (HAF A2/6)

  • "Cyber threat-based mission assurance” as a service

    End-to-end cyber surety from penetration testing, fixing discovered vulnerabilities, and optimizing defensive cyber operations as one integrated entity and unit of action. What authorities, responsibilities, and resources would need to be realigned and where would that realignment best be suited? (ACC/A6O)

  • Analytic Certification

    Does Analytic Certification provide a path toward Enhanced IC Analytic Effectiveness? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Artificial Intelligence analyzing forensic data and patterns of life

    Can AI be harnessed to analyze forensic data and patterns of life to assist the ISRD in building ISR packages? Can it analyze real-time data to assist re-tasking of existing assets in theater? (319 RW)

  • Benchmarking Fuel Usage

    Develop better simulations of fuel usage that can inform mission planning tools or provide benchmarks for anomaly detection in real-time or post-mission analysis. (SAF/IEN)

  • China's critical cyber vulnerabilities

    What are the critical cyber vulnerabilities and weaknesses of the CCP/PLA? What are critical weaknesses and vulnerabilities in Chinese military networks? (US Cyber Command)

  • China's TTPs for cyber incidents

    What are CCP/PLA tactics, techniques, procedures, and standard operating procedures for military and civilian government responses to cyber incidents? How do CCP/PLA cyber teams cooperate with each other? (US Cyber Command) 

  • Chinese Aerospace Force Modernization - EW and Network Operations

    How has changes within the PLA aerospace forces' DOTMLPFP contributed to their effectiveness in this mission/activity? (CASI)

  • Chinese commercial support of cyber operations

    How does China leverage commercial entities to support its cyberspace operations? (US Cyber Command)

  • Chinese leadership tasking cyber-actors

    How does CCP/PLA senior leadership task the various cyber-actors: government and proxies? (US Cyber Command)

  • Civil Resistance in the Future Operating Environment

    How can the U.S. Government influence dissident population groups engaged in civil resistance in foreign countries? (JSOU)

  • Civilian Cyber Auxiliary - Civil Cyber Patrol?

    In light of the national shortage of cyber talent, how might the Air Force develop and utilize a Civil Cyber Patrol and/or a Civil Information Warfare Patrol to best protect U.S. national interests? What legal, operational, and technical challenges must ACC address to make a civilian cyber auxiliary a reality? (ACC/A3/2/6K)

  • Contemporary Artificial Intelligence Capability

    What off-the-shelf Artificial Intelligence capability could be quickly incorporated into the AOC? (PACAF/CC)

  • Converging Allies and Partner Data into the DAF Data Fabric

    How can data/information from our Allies and Partners be woven into the Department of the Air Force's data fabric? (16 AF)

  • Cyber & Foreign Terrorist Organizations

    What are foreign terrorist organization (FTO) cyber tactics, techniques, and procedures? What are the trends in FTO cyber operations? How do FTOs use commercial entities to enable cyber operations? What are the trends in FTO use of technology and social media platforms? (US Cyber Command)

  • Cyber Innovation Centers & Acquisitions

     How can cyber innovation centers blend into traditional requirement development and agile/traditional acquisition processes to produce short-term sustainable capability?  (ACC/A5K)

  • Cyber Personnel Retention

    What the USAF could do better to entice, develop, and maintain long-term careers in cyber to better ensure hard-earned experience and talent is passed onto future generations of cyberwarfare Airmen?  (ACC/A3/2/6KO)

  • Cyber Survivability of Air Force Weapon Systems

    How can we prioritize and streamline cyber survivability efforts for the Air Force and ultimately mitigate these threats as mandated by Congress through the Joint Staff and executed by Program Management Offices? (70 ISRW)

  • Cyber Threats Against Air Mobility Operations and Forces

    What are the cyber threats (and countermeasures) that are specific to AMC operations? (423 MTS)

  • Cyber-awareness Training Model

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for AFNET users that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness and positively impact the overall effectiveness of the current annual cyber-awareness training model.  (ACC/A6O)

  • Cyber-Awareness Training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs)

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs) that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness. (ACC/A22C)

  • Cybercrime

    What is the relationship between cybercriminal groups and state actors? Is there a command and control or tasking relationship? When do cybercrime and/or ransomware operations reach a threshold that constitutes a national security risk, not just a law enforcement matter? (US Cyber Command)

  • Cyber-Physical System (CPS) concepts

    How can the AF gain strategic, operational, and tactical advantages over peer and near-peer competitors in future conflicts leveraging Cyber-Physical System (CPS) concepts to effectively identify, characterize, defend against, and respond to cyber-threats and attacks across all AFIN enclaves, coupled with advances in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing? (ACC/A6O)

  • Cyber's Impact on Risk Mitigation and Integrated Deterrence

    How might offensive and defensive cyber capabilities be implemented into existing or new risk mitigation frameworks (e.g. arms control treaties and agreements) in order to manage strategic stability? (AF/A10)

  • Cyberspace Awareness/Operations Sensors

    Can we improve cyberspace awareness by improving the management of “operations” sensors and their ability to enhance the staff analytics supporting decision-making and execution? (CO-IPE (STRAT))

  • Data Convergence/Information Warfare

    Can Army notions of data convergence in the tactical realm be extrapolated and applied in the information warfare environment to achieve automation of data sharing across functions and domains? (16 AF)

  • Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) cyber capabilities

    What is DPRK's process for developing cyber tools?  (US Cyber Command)

  • Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) cyber policy

    What is the DPRK policy and doctrine for cyberspace operations? What are DPRK's cyber red lines? What cyber actions by other nation-states might cause the DPRK to escalate to the use of military force? (US Cyber Command) 

  • Developing Cyberspace Infrastructure Terrain Subject Matter Expertise

    As the AF looks to defend static, adaptive, and expeditionary bases, does the USAF need in terms of developing cyberspace infrastructure terrain (POL, power, etc) subject matter expertise?  (ACC/A2)

  • Educating the Cyber Enterprise

    How do we leverage resources to educate Cyber Enterprise (e.g. the College of Information of Cyberspace)? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Efficient Fine Tuning of Large Language Models

    What are the most robust ways to incorporate new data sets into a large language model that do not truncate the breadth of data available while simultaneously allowing for complex answers and minimizing hallucinations? (16 AF/A5)

  • EiTaaS Tier 1 Maintenance Support

    How will 16 AF and the 688 CW conduct Cyber Security Service Provider (CSSP) Services for the Air Force Network-Unclassified (AFNET-U) when Tier 1 maintenance and operations for AFNET-U is contracted out to the private sector during the Enterprise to Infrastructure as a Service (EiTaaS)? (688 CW)

  • Emerging Cyber Powers

    What states are investing in military cyber capabilities and may emerge in the next 5-10 years as new advanced threats to the U.S. and our allies? (US Cyber Command)

  • EMS/EW Awareness

    How does the Air Force re-instill a culture of EMS/EW awareness throughout the force? (ACC/A3/2/6K)

  • Foreign Adversary Threats to Election Security

    What are the strategic and operational goals and desired end states that key foreign adversaries seek to realize through election influence and/or interference?   (US Cyber Command)

  • Generative Adversarial Networks

    What are some potential defensive measures for mitigating the threat of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)? (AF-A8)

  • Hacktivists

    How might the emergence of hacktivists impact state dynamics in cyberspace during a conflict?  (US Cyber Command) 

  • Implementing AI & ML for cyber-enabled information operations

    What AI-enabled suite of tools could enable the Information Warfare NAF to increase the pace and quality of Information Operations? What are the critical policy and technical limitations to harnessing AI and ML tools for the modernization of U.S. cyber-enabled information operations and what are the key requirements for solutions to overcome these limitations? (16 AF/A39)

  • Information Warfare capabilities

    How should the AF and DoD organize themselves to optimize the development of Information Warfare capabilities? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Iran's cyber capabilities

    What are Iranian cyber tactics, techniques, and procedures? What are the trends in Iranian cyber operations? (US Cyber Command)

  • Iran's Cyber Policy

    What are Iran's policy, strategy and mission objectives for conducting cyberspace operations? What does Iran perceive as U.S. or partner red lines regarding cyberspace operations? What geopolitical events and/or actions would drive an Iranian retaliatory cyberspace attack against the U.S. or our allies and partners? (US Cyber Command)

  • JADO - Essential Information Requirements

    What are the essential information requirements for JADO? How does JADC2 overcome the problem of multiple incompatible networks that are used in contemporary C2?

  • Joint Cyber Command and Control (JCC2) integration into Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2)

    What is the best strategy for Joint Cyber Command and Control (JCC2) integration into Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2)? Explore and expound upon risk to mission/ forces, redundancy vs resiliency, and tools required. Determine resourcing requirements as a function of scale. (ACC/A5K)

  • Language Analysts in Cyber and Space Intelligence

    Can we develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for language analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for language analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Mission Risk Reduction for Security Mitigation Efforts

    What is a model that clearly depicts mission risk reduction in relation to resources expended (cost, time, man-hours) for security mitigation efforts (STIG/patches/configurations/etc) allowing the mission owner and Authorizing Officials the ability to defend decisions to monitor but not mitigate risks that may have no demonstrated activities or clearly do not provide impact to the overall mission security if implemented? (ACC/A6O)

  • Nationality of an autonomous system

    What defines the nationality of an autonomous system? How does this affect their operational employment? (AF Futures)

  • Organic Software Development

    Can the USAF develop an organic capability to code within a squadron and then enable the infrastructure and processes that would allow that code to be deployed in a controlled environment with minimal overhead requirements to the squadron? (16 AF)

  • Russian commercial support of cyber operations

    How does Russia use commercial entities to enable cyber operations? (US Cyber Command)

  • Russian Cyber & Influence Activities

    What cyber and influence activities have the Russians undertaken? What was their impact? (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Russian reliance on foreign cyber technologies

    How reliant is Russia on foreign technologies for development and procurement of cyberspace capabilities? (US Cyber Command)

  • Russian views on cyber operations

    What are Russia's policy, strategy, and mission objectives for conducting cyberspace operations? (US Cyber Command) 

  • Russia's Cyber TTPs

    What are Russia's security services cyber tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs)? What are the trends in Russian cyber actor TTPs? (US Cyber Command)

  • Safeguarding AFCYBER's Critical Infrastructure

    Analyze NIST-evaluated PQC algorithms in an AFCYBER operational context, with an emphasis on critical digital infrastructure. (688 CW)

  • Signals Intelligence for Cyber and Space

    How can we better develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for signals analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for signals analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Strategic Empathy in Intel analysis

    How should we develop strategic empathy, the ability to identify with a competitor or adversary, to optimize analysis capability? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Talent management for Cyber

    What does a framework for effective Talent Management look like for the Cyber Enterprise? (HAF/A2/6)

  • The Limits of AI and Big Data Technology

    What assumptions currently pervade military culture about AI and Big Data that, from a social science perspective, are inaccurate and counterproductive? (JSOU)

  • Trust in non-US autonomous systems

    How do we ensure sufficient trust in non-US autonomous systems to support multinational human-machine teaming? (AF Futures)

  • Utilizing Internet-Of-Things (IOT) sensors or similar physical sensing systems

    How can the AF leverage in-situ or fortuitously placed Internet-Of-Things (IOT) sensors or similar physical sensing systems coupled with cyber-surveillance to collect data and information to overcome barriers to physical proximity and access and coupled with cyber-reconnaissance to collect data and information associated with adversary personnel and systems in order to meet collection and observation needs, to capture essential elements of information, and to determine the state of key adversary indicators required to mitigate information and intelligence gaps? (ACC/A22C)

  • Weapon system vulnerabilities introduced by cloud environment

    Does the dependence on cloud environments (commercial or organic) introduce risk to cyber security? If so, what unique risks does this pose to the military and its weapon systems? (16 AF/A4)

  • Agile Talent Management

    What are the key components for the agile talent management framework to support career-long development across a diverse force? (HAF A2/6)

  • Diversity and Inclusion

    Diversity and inclusion should be prevalent throughout the DoD. What tangible changes can the DoD make to support the retention of women? How can we retain a diverse 21st century DAF?

  • Gender Equality in support of the Pacific Strategy

    How do the US, as well as closest allies and partners, use our strategic and cultural advantage in pursuing gender equality to our benefit? (PACAF/A8XR)

  • Analytic Certification

    Does Analytic Certification provide a path toward Enhanced IC Analytic Effectiveness? (HAF/A2/6)

  • COVID Impacts on Training

    What are the implications of delayed continuing Training / Maintaining Readiness due to COVID? How can the USAF continue classified training in the COVID environment? (423 MTS)

  • Cyber-awareness Training Model

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for AFNET users that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness and positively impact the overall effectiveness of the current annual cyber-awareness training model.  (ACC/A6O)

  • Cyber-Awareness Training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs)

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs) that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness. (ACC/A22C)

  • Educating the Cyber Enterprise

    How do we leverage resources to educate Cyber Enterprise (e.g. the College of Information of Cyberspace)? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Education of Space Professionals

    Analyze various methods and systems for educating space professionals. (319 CTS & HQ USSF S36RL & 50 OSS) 

  • EMS/EW Awareness

    How does the Air Force re-instill a culture of EMS/EW awareness throughout the force? (ACC/A3/2/6K)

  • Human Resources Data standards

    Can full-time Distance Learning (DL) be an effective foreign language acquisition training medium for Cryptologic Language Analysts (CLA) who have already demonstrated a strong record of proficiency in at least one DoD-trained foreign language? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Innovative ways to develop Airmen

    What are some innovative ways that the USAF can develop Airmen? Analyze the pros and cons of these methods.

  • JADC2 Training/Education

    Should JADC2 become a career field in its own right, with specialized training and qualifications?

  • Language Analysts in Cyber and Space Intelligence

    Can we develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for language analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for language analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Language proficiency for Cryptologic Language Analysts

    Can full-time Distance Learning (DL) be an effective foreign language acquisition training medium for Cryptologic Language Analysts (CLA) who have already demonstrated a strong record of proficiency in at least one DoD-trained foreign language? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Learning Technology to Aid Information Warfare Training

    How can we leverage learning technologies such as game-based learning, AI tutors, hypermedia, etc. to train IW forces most effectively on the roles, assets, and capabilities needed to achieve full spectrum IW effects? (616 OC) 

  • Next-Generation Missile Operators

    Given the potential changes in the future strategic environment, what impact would this have on the development of missileers? Should current developmental programs remain the same for Sentinel operators? (20 AF)

  • Planning for the unexpected

    How might we more effectively plan for unexpected, or “black swan” events, that might negatively affect critical military operations? (480 ISRW)

  • Recruitment, training, development, and retention of AF intelligence personnel

    How should recruiting, training, development, and retention of AF intelligence personnel change, with the dramatic increase in the importance of data science and space-based capabilities to the intelligence field? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Resilience

    How can the AF (and other services) develop resilience and support 21st Century Airmen and their dependents? (HAF/A1Z)

     

  • Role of Military Education in Adapting to Change

    How does Professional Military Education (PME) handle changes in the character of warfare? What are the current USAF educational strategies? How can these programs evolve to prepare for future emerging challenges?  (HAF A5SM)

  • Signals Intelligence for Cyber and Space

    How can we better develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for signals analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for signals analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Strategic Blind Spots in Modern Conflict

    Are there useful methods of blind spot analysis that could be utilized to uncover obsolete, incomplete, or incorrect assumptions? What role do historical case studies play in overcoming blind spots? How can the study of lessons learned from recent operations provide valuable insights to help the DoD avoid these pitfalls? (JSOU)

  • Strategic Empathy in Intel analysis

    How should we develop strategic empathy, the ability to identify with a competitor or adversary, to optimize analysis capability? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Training of Space Professionals

    Development of space professionals from the Space Race to current times. (50 OSS)

  • Wargaming

    How should the AF conceptualize wargaming going forward? (PACAF)

  • Chinese Economic Ties to India, South Korea, Japan & Australia

    How is China imposing costs on India, South Korea, Japan & Australia? How could their economic ties to China limit their economic choices? (HAF A5SM)

  • Civil and Military collaboration in Space

    How can the US military best take advantage of the domestic space industry to enhance its capabilities (both technologically and in terms of infrastructure/economics)? (2 ROPS)

  • Crowdsourcing

    How can the Air Force more effectively crowdsource solutions to capability and capacity gaps across the industrial-military complex while balancing security concerns? (PACAF/A8X)

  • Industrial Base of India, South Korea, Japan & Australia

    Why are the capacity and projectability of the industrial bases of India, South Korea, Japan & Australia, including trends in their economic and industrial growth? How these might influence the US-China strategic competition? (HAF A5SM) 

  • Industrial Preparedness for Competition

    How might the United States seek to transform a relatively consolidated defense industry to meet new military challenges that are emerging under conditions very different from the Cold War and the Global War on Terror?(HAF/A5SM Strategic Assessments)

  • Metrics of Industrial Base Capacity

    What are the key economic, political, technological, and demographic indicators that define the capacity of an industrial base? How do these metrics interact with each other and impact the overall industrial capacity of a country? (HAF A5SM) 

  • PRC aerospace industry

    What is the ability of the PRC's aerospace industry to emulate, innovate, develop, prototype, refine, and finalize aerospace systems? (CASI)

  • PRC industry actors

    How are they connected to the state and military? To what extent can they support military requirements? (CASI)

  • Prioritizing US Investments in Asia-Pacific Region

    What capabilities and potential investments should the US consider to offset the effects of the US-China strategic competition in the region? In particular, what opportunities are there in the development of defense, technology, and infrastructure? (HAF A5SM) 

  • Russian Defense Industry

    What are the domestic and export capacities of Russia's defense industry? What effects have sanctions had on it? What is the evolving role of the wartime economy on the Russian defense industry? (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Russian Use of Private Military Companies

    Analyze Russia's use of private military companies. (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • US Approach to Strategic Partnerships

    What are strategies that can be used to enhance the Department's approach to strategic security, economic, and technology partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region? (HAF A5SM)

  • What Russian defense industry initiatives leads to competitive advantage?

    Analyze Russian defense industry initiatives. (Russia Strategic Initiative (EUCOM))

  • Adversary Approaches to Political Warfare and Information Warfare

    How do the approaches by Russia and China to modern political warfare, in particular the exploitation of the information environment to manipulate, coerce, and control, potentially provide a model for the U.S. to understand the nature of modern political warfare by our adversaries and counter it? (JSOU)

  • Chinese Propaganda

    What is the Communist Party / Peoples' Liberation Army (CCP/PLA's) propaganda apparatus structure, strategy, and capabilities? (US Cyber Command)

  • Civil Resistance in the Future Operating Environment

    How can the U.S. Government influence dissident population groups engaged in civil resistance in foreign countries? (JSOU)

  • Continuity in Warfare

    What are the valuable insights from the timeless principles of warfare? How do they continue to inform contemporary practices? (HAF A5SM)

  • Converging Allies and Partner Data into the DAF Data Fabric

    How can data/information from our Allies and Partners be woven into the Department of the Air Force's data fabric? (16 AF)

  • Data Convergence/Information Warfare

    Can Army notions of data convergence in the tactical realm be extrapolated and applied in the information warfare environment to achieve automation of data sharing across functions and domains? (16 AF)

  • DLOs on converging capabilities

    In what ways from both a conceptual and modeling/simulation standpoint can we start to include DLOs that exercise converging capabilities to effectively compete with our adversaries in the information environment? (16 AF)

  • Effectively Assessing OAI Impacts to PRC behavior

    PACAF requires analysis to help develop methodologies to accurately, succinctly, and effectively capture the cumulative impacts of Operations, Activities, and Investments (OAI) over time on PRC perceptions and behaviors and PACAF desired objectives. (PACAF/A303)

     

  • Foreign Adversary Threats to Election Security

    What are the strategic and operational goals and desired end states that key foreign adversaries seek to realize through election influence and/or interference?   (US Cyber Command)

  • Historical Uses of Information in War

    What are the long-term trends in the role and value of information in warfare? How has it shaped conflicts historically? (HAF A5SM)

  • How does Russia conduct information warfare?

    Analyze Russia information warfare. (Russia Strategic Initiative (EUCOM))

  • Hypersonic Messaging

    As the U.S. develops and fields hypersonic weapons, how should the U.S. message adversaries and allies about this new capability? (AF/A3K Checkmate)

  • Impact of Lawfare on Warfare

    How are legal strategies reshaping the traditional paradigms of warfare? (HAF A5SM)

  • Information - A Joint Function

    What are the Air Force implications for Information being designed as a joint function by the Chairman? Is the emerging service concept of information warfare distinct from information operations as defined by Joint Publication 1-2? If so, how? (ACC/A2)

  • Information Warfare capabilities

    How should the AF and DoD organize themselves to optimize the development of Information Warfare capabilities? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Learning Technology to Aid Information Warfare Training

    How can we leverage learning technologies such as game-based learning, AI tutors, hypermedia, etc. to train IW forces most effectively on the roles, assets, and capabilities needed to achieve full spectrum IW effects? (616 OC) 

  • Reflections in the Information Environment

    How do we accurately and meaningfully measure Effectiveness and Performance (MOEs and MOPs) in the Information Environment? How can we best measure the 'influence' of Information Warfare on an adversary actor? (616 OC) 

  • Shaping the Information Environment

    What are proven effective ways to shape the information environment during Phase 0/Phase I operations, specifically regarding, near-peer competitors? Do TTPs exist that PACAF/PA should be aware of to dial up and down the amount of deterrence/pressure messaging for effective deterrence and to avoid escalation? (PACAF/PA)

     

  • The Limits of AI and Big Data Technology

    What assumptions currently pervade military culture about AI and Big Data that, from a social science perspective, are inaccurate and counterproductive? (JSOU)

  • The Strategic Impacts of Misinformation and Disinformation

    How can DoD leaders prevent the negative effects of misinformation and disinformation? (JSOU)

  • Analytic Certification

    Does Analytic Certification provide a path toward Enhanced IC Analytic Effectiveness? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Artificial Intelligence analyzing forensic data and patterns of life

    Can AI be harnessed to analyze forensic data and patterns of life to assist the ISRD in building ISR packages? Can it analyze real-time data to assist re-tasking of existing assets in theater? (319 RW)

  • Challenges associated with integrating manned and un-manned aircraft in the National Airspace System

    Describe, analyze, and provide recommendations to overcome challenges associated with integrating manned and unmanned aircraft in the National Airspace System. (319th Operations Group)

  • Crowdsourcing

    How can the Air Force more effectively crowdsource solutions to capability and capacity gaps across the industrial-military complex while balancing security concerns? (PACAF/A8X)

  • Cyber-Awareness Training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs)

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs) that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness. (ACC/A22C)

  • Cyberspace Awareness/Operations Sensors

    Can we improve cyberspace awareness by improving the management of “operations” sensors and their ability to enhance the staff analytics supporting decision-making and execution? (CO-IPE (STRAT))

  • Data Convergence/Analytics

    How can data tools drive analytical collaboration at the tactical level, and create white space for decision makers to maintain a decision advantage across the conflict continuum? (480 ISRW)

  • Data Convergence/Information Warfare

    Can Army notions of data convergence in the tactical realm be extrapolated and applied in the information warfare environment to achieve automation of data sharing across functions and domains? (16 AF)

  • Disposition of Forces (DOF) Consolidation

    How do we optimize the dissemination, visualization, storage, and cataloging of battlespace characterization data and Disposition of Forces (DOF) production? (480 ISRG)

  • DLOs on converging capabilities

    In what ways from both a conceptual and modeling/simulation standpoint can we start to include DLOs that exercise converging capabilities to effectively compete with our adversaries in the information environment? (16 AF)

  • Emerging threats & TTPs of UAV/UAS against military installations

    What are examples of emerging threats of UAVs/UASs and TTPs of those groups that employ them? (423 MTS)

  • EMS/EW Awareness

    How does the Air Force re-instill a culture of EMS/EW awareness throughout the force? (ACC/A3/2/6K)

  • Future Battle Networks

    Analyze potential developments in battle networks as integrated systems of sensors, analytics, and strike.  (HAF A5SM)

  • Government-Wide Data Sharing

    What are the current effective methods of data sharing across the various government agencies and how can these methods be improved? (AFTAC)

  • Historical Battle Networks

    Analyze battle networks as integrated systems of sensors, analytics, and strike, including their evolution, effectiveness in previous conflicts. (HAF A5SM)

  • Human Resources Data standards

    Can full-time Distance Learning (DL) be an effective foreign language acquisition training medium for Cryptologic Language Analysts (CLA) who have already demonstrated a strong record of proficiency in at least one DoD-trained foreign language? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Information - A Joint Function

    What are the Air Force implications for Information being designed as a joint function by the Chairman? Is the emerging service concept of information warfare distinct from information operations as defined by Joint Publication 1-2? If so, how? (ACC/A2)

  • Intel Fusion

    Can we develop a repeatable process for developing cross-functional Analysis and Exploitation Teams that are capable of producing high-quality reports that meet Theater Joint Force Air Component Commander requirements within three months of initial team establishment? (480 ISRW)

  • Intelligence Production in Agile Combat Employment

    What LLM solutions can be used to develop methods, processes, applications, capabilities, etc. enabling rapid production at scale to meet future demands associated with the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept? (363 ISRW)

  • Language Analysts in Cyber and Space Intelligence

    Can we develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for language analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for language analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Language proficiency for Cryptologic Language Analysts

    Can full-time Distance Learning (DL) be an effective foreign language acquisition training medium for Cryptologic Language Analysts (CLA) who have already demonstrated a strong record of proficiency in at least one DoD-trained foreign language? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Operational Assessment in the Information Environment

    Given the complexities of human behavior and decision-making, how should the joint force approach operational assessment in the information environment? How can the Air Force enable that approach through the application of new tradecraft, data science, behavioral analysis, and sensors? (16 AF)

  • P3 Airmen

    How do we determine the optimal organizational construct to be most effective for a squadron leadership team? Is a squadron construct even the best organizational construct for P3 Airmen? (480 ISRW & 693ISRG) 

  • Planning for the unexpected

    How might we more effectively plan for unexpected, or “black swan” events, that might negatively affect critical military operations? (480 ISRW)

  • Recruitment, training, development, and retention of AF intelligence personnel

    How should recruiting, training, development, and retention of AF intelligence personnel change, with the dramatic increase in the importance of data science and space-based capabilities to the intelligence field? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Role of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) in JADO

    How can RPAs support JADO in the future? (319 Reconnaissance Wing)

     

  • Signals Intelligence for Cyber and Space

    How can we better develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for signals analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for signals analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • The Limits of AI and Big Data Technology

    What assumptions currently pervade military culture about AI and Big Data that, from a social science perspective, are inaccurate and counterproductive? (JSOU)

  • Utilizing Internet-Of-Things (IOT) sensors or similar physical sensing systems

    How can the AF leverage in-situ or fortuitously placed Internet-Of-Things (IOT) sensors or similar physical sensing systems coupled with cyber-surveillance to collect data and information to overcome barriers to physical proximity and access and coupled with cyber-reconnaissance to collect data and information associated with adversary personnel and systems in order to meet collection and observation needs, to capture essential elements of information, and to determine the state of key adversary indicators required to mitigate information and intelligence gaps? (ACC/A22C)

  • Command Relationships in JADO

    What are the command relationship implications of JADO?

  • Cyber Personnel Retention

    What the USAF could do better to entice, develop, and maintain long-term careers in cyber to better ensure hard-earned experience and talent is passed onto future generations of cyberwarfare Airmen?  (ACC/A3/2/6KO)

  • Dependence of United States Air Force on its allies and partners

    In what ways is the United States Air Force dependent on its allies and partners for operational effectiveness? (AF Futures)

  • Information - A Joint Function

    What are the Air Force implications for Information being designed as a joint function by the Chairman? Is the emerging service concept of information warfare distinct from information operations as defined by Joint Publication 1-2? If so, how? (ACC/A2)

  • Interoperability, Interdependence, and Integration in Combined Operations with Allies and Partners

    What is the relationship between interoperability, interdependence, and integration in combined operations with allies and partners? Analyze the relationship between interoperability, interdependence, and integration in combined operations with allies and partners. (AF Futures)

  • Leadership in JADO

    For successful to JADO, how and when should a joint culture be inculcated into military leaders?

  • P3 Airmen

    How do we determine the optimal organizational construct to be most effective for a squadron leadership team? Is a squadron construct even the best organizational construct for P3 Airmen? (480 ISRW & 693ISRG) 

  • Planning for the unexpected

    How might we more effectively plan for unexpected, or “black swan” events, that might negatively affect critical military operations? (480 ISRW)

  • Resilience

    How can the AF (and other services) develop resilience and support 21st Century Airmen and their dependents? (HAF/A1Z)

     

  • Strategic Leadership

    What role do strategic leaders play in effectively managing changes in the character of war? How do leadership practices need to adapt to the changing character of war? (HAF A5SM)

  • AFCENT MICAP Velocity

    As transportation priority and supply priority are not always the same for MICAPs, is there a possibility to connect the two into one overall priority? (87 LRS)

  • Air Mobility in a kinetic/contested environment with China

    What will be the impact of a kinetic/contested environment with China on Air Mobility? How can Air Mobility plan to operate in this environment?  (AMC/CC)

  • Alternative Fuels

    Explore emerging trends on alternate fuels (non-traditional, non-petroleum, more generally than CO2), and analyze the logistical impact from other countries as they move towards increased use of sustainable aviation fuels and how this may impact the ability for the Air Force to support operations, particularly in the Pacific and European theater. (SAF/IEN)

  • Challenges of Global Climate Change

    Changes in global climate is transforming the context in which the Department operates. What challenges does this present? How can the DoD adapt to the challenges it presents? (2022 National Defense Strategy)

  • Civil and Military collaboration in Space

    How can the US military best take advantage of the domestic space industry to enhance its capabilities (both technologically and in terms of infrastructure/economics)? (2 ROPS)

  • Continuity in Warfare

    What are the valuable insights from the timeless principles of warfare? How do they continue to inform contemporary practices? (HAF A5SM)

  • Coronet Improvements

    Quantify fuel burn and flight time savings for fighters by increasing max range airspeed faster than the standard refueling speed. (SAF/IEN)

  • COVID Impacts on Training

    What are the implications of delayed continuing Training / Maintaining Readiness due to COVID? How can the USAF continue classified training in the COVID environment? (423 MTS)

  • Cyber Threats Against Air Mobility Operations and Forces

    What are the cyber threats (and countermeasures) that are specific to AMC operations? (423 MTS)

  • Developing Cyberspace Infrastructure Terrain Subject Matter Expertise

    As the AF looks to defend static, adaptive, and expeditionary bases, does the USAF need in terms of developing cyberspace infrastructure terrain (POL, power, etc) subject matter expertise?  (ACC/A2)

  • Disruptive Strategic Influence of Global Health Engagements (GHE) with Allied Partners

    The DoD through GHE builds partnerships with other nations to strengthen security cooperation and partner capacity through health-related activities and exchanges. (AMC/87 HCOS)

  • Effect-based Metrics Posture

    Use modeling and simulation to provide heuristics or other shortcuts that can connect improvements in fuel efficiency to capabilities valued by operators. (SAF/IEN)

  • Efficiency of Cargo Operations

    What methods are there for positioning aircraft to increase overall cargo capacity utilization, specifically to reduce dead legs and shorten the timeline associated with cargo management? (SAF/IEN)

  • Emerging threats & TTPs of UAV/UAS against military installations

    What are examples of emerging threats of UAVs/UASs and TTPs of those groups that employ them? (423 MTS)

  • Establishing Flexible Logistics

    The CSAF is looking for “initiatives focused on more agile, resilient, and survivable energy logistics—from bulk strategic supplies to deliveries at the tactical edge.” 

  • Future of Air Mobility

    The future of Air Mobility with respect to Bypass Theory and the evolution of the Critical Path for Air Mobility. (AMC/CC)

  • Historical lessons for operations in the Pacific

    For example, how does General George Kenney’s approach in the South Pacific compare to what will be required in a future conflict with China? (AMC/CC)

  • In-Space Logistics

    Analysis of in-space logistics. (HQ USSF S36RL)

  • Integration with Allied and Partners' Industrial Base

    How does the United States integrate the allied and partners' industrial base to generate and sustain mass in a future conflict? (AF Futures)

  • Joint Cyber Command and Control (JCC2) integration into Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2)

    What is the best strategy for Joint Cyber Command and Control (JCC2) integration into Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2)? Explore and expound upon risk to mission/ forces, redundancy vs resiliency, and tools required. Determine resourcing requirements as a function of scale. (ACC/A5K)

  • Logistic and Resupply Operations in a Chemical or Radiological Environment

    Is the Air Force prepared to continue critical logistics and re-supply operations despite the presence of a chemical or radiological hazard? What logistics strategies and guidance will enable the U.S. to achieve success in even the most austere environments available? (AF/A10S)

  • Military utility and cost of cargo launched combat air vehicles

    How can large numbers of small, potentially long-range air vehicles from cargo aircraft be used across a wide range of roles to prevail in combat against both near-peer and regional competitors? (AFRL)

  • Operationalizing the Drone Effect

    What are the effects, namely on fuel consumption, of substituting manned aircraft with RPAs? Which missions (e.g. ISR/Strike/EW/counter-UAS) in permissive/semi-contested environments can be accomplished with more fuel-efficient aircraft/RPAs? What are the additional benefits to various aircraft substitutions (e.g. increased fuel savings, enhanced mission capabilities, aircraft sustainment, etc.) (SAF/IEN)

  • Prioritization of Requirements for Conventional-Nuclear Integration (CNI)

    With limited resources, what Air Force actions should be prioritized to ensure compliance with Nuclear Posture Review (NPR) while maintaining operational proficiency? (AF/A10P)

  • Russian Expeditionary Operations

    How and why does Russia execute expeditionary operations? Analyze Russian expeditionary operations. (Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Russian Supply Chain Operations against the US/NATO

    How does Russia conduct supply chain operations against the US/NATO? Analyze Russia conduct supply chain operations against the US/NATO. (Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Space Acquisitions

    Examine various aspects of Space-related acquisitions. (USSF/S8ZX, 5 SLS-MSA, 7SWS/DO, SPOC/2SWS/DOC)

  • Space Force Career Fields

    Does the Space Force need to develop a “Space Maintenance” career field to maintain its weapon systems instead of relying so much on Contract Logistics Support and a handful of 3Ds? (DS4) Should Space Program Managers, Contracting Officers, and Financial Analysts career fields transition to Space Force? (30 SW/PMD)

  • Strategic Basing

    Develop a relatively high-fidelity simulation of an average year of training for a unit (ideally F-16 or F-35) to develop comparative metrics that can inform the basing process. (SAF/IEN)

  • Sustainment for Dispersed Forces in the Pacific

    Sustainment solutions for fuel and munitions in the Pacific theater. (PACAF/A4DX) 

     

  • US Approach to Strategic Partnerships

    What are strategies that can be used to enhance the Department's approach to strategic security, economic, and technology partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region? (HAF A5SM)

  • US support to Peacekeeping Operations

    Should the US contribute logistical enablers like air mobility (fixed wing and rotary wing), engineering, line and short-haul motor transportation, medical, and signals communication to support United Nations Peacekeeping Operations? (SOUTHCOM)

  • Artificial Intelligence in Warplans

    What is the impact of artificial intelligence or intelligent automation in the development of real-time generated war plans? (HQ USSF/S59/ACT)

  • C2 in Space

    Is the Air Operations Center the proper command and control structure for space superiority? (SPOC/2SWS/DOC) What is the proper structure and organizational architecture to command and control space forces to provide the NCA, USSPACECOM, and the other COCOMs the space capabilities and effects they desire to achieve their objectives and end states? (USSPACECOM) Is it possible to unify military and civilian C2 networks to gain resiliency and efficiency and be ready to engage in a space conflict? If so, how? (22 SOPS)

  • Chinese Aerospace Force Modernization - Space Operations

    How have changes within the PLA aerospace forces' DOTMLPFP contributed to their effectiveness in this mission/activity? (CASI)

  • Civil and Military collaboration in Space

    How can the US military best take advantage of the domestic space industry to enhance its capabilities (both technologically and in terms of infrastructure/economics)? (2 ROPS)

  • Coalition Partners in Space

    How can partner nations contribute to and participate in US-led developmental and operational efforts in the space domain? (SPOC/DOO & USSF/S36TG & HQ USSF/SEK) 

  • Deterrence in Space

    What potential uses of the latest space technologies can serve as deterrence? (50 OSS)

  • Education of Space Professionals

    Analyze various methods and systems for educating space professionals. (319 CTS & HQ USSF S36RL & 50 OSS) 

  • Formation of the Space Force

    Analyze various elements of the formation of the Space Force. (HQ USSF/SEF & Museum Staff & 50 OSS)

  • Historical Studies for Space

    Analyze historical examples of space operations for potential use to contemporary operations.  (45 SW/MU & SPOC/2SWS/DOC)

  • In-Space Logistics

    Analysis of in-space logistics. (HQ USSF S36RL)

  • International Space Law/Responsible Behavior in Space

    Analyze various elements of international space law. (HQ USSF/SEK & USSF/S5I & SPOC, 3 SES/MAF)

  • JADO - Space Force

    How do we integrate the Space Force into JADO?

  • Language Analysts in Cyber and Space Intelligence

    Can we develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for language analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for language analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Missions for the USSF

    What roles or responsibilities should the USSF have in asteroid detection and defense? (SPOC, 3 SES/MAF)

  • Operational Energy in Space

    How can we design and operate spacecraft that have fewer constraints and can sustain operations in space over longer time periods and with more effectiveness? (SAF/IEN)

  • Operations in Space

    Analyze various elements concerning the conduct of space operations. (SPOC/2SWS/DOC & 1 SOPS & USSF/45MSG) 

  • Organizational Structure of Space Force

    What are the optimum organizational structures for the US Space Force and US Space Command? (USSF) How can Space Organizational Constructs evolve to facilitate enterprise responsiveness and standardization? (HQ USSF S36RL)

  • Personnel in USSF

     (51 OSS & 50 OSS) 

     

  • Signals Intelligence for Cyber and Space

    How can we better develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for signals analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for signals analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Space Acquisitions

    Examine various aspects of Space-related acquisitions. (USSF/S8ZX, 5 SLS-MSA, 7SWS/DO, SPOC/2SWS/DOC)

  • Space Debris

    Analyze various problems and potential solutions regarding the issue of space debris. (USSF/S8ZX & 50 SCS/CDCC)

  • Space Force & the "Warfighting" mindset

    How does the Space Force develop a "warfighting" mindset? Does the Space Force need a "warfighting" mindset?

  • Space Force Basing

    Analyze various aspects of the future of Space Force basing. (50 OSS)

  • Space Force Career Fields

    Does the Space Force need to develop a “Space Maintenance” career field to maintain its weapon systems instead of relying so much on Contract Logistics Support and a handful of 3Ds? (DS4) Should Space Program Managers, Contracting Officers, and Financial Analysts career fields transition to Space Force? (30 SW/PMD)

  • Space Force culture

    With the separation from the Air Force, the Space Force needs to establish its own identity and culture as a separate service branch. (ROPS, Museum Staff, 50 OSS & HQ USSF/SED) 

  • Space Professional/Safe or Responsible Behaviors

    What Space Professional/Safe or Responsible Behaviors are acceptable to FVEY+2? In what/which existing or “new” forum(s) these “norms” should be drafted and agreed upon? What form the behaviors will be codified by the participating nations (MOU, Treaty)? (USSF/S5I)

  • Space Situational Awareness

    Analyze the future of space situational awareness, especially in the light of new technological advances. (SPOC/DOO & SPCO/2SWS/DOC)

  • Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Space

    What existing/potential tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) validation methodologies are there in the intelligence community/commercial industry for Space? (50 SW Wing Weapons & Tactics)

  • Training of Space Professionals

    Development of space professionals from the Space Race to current times. (50 OSS)

  • US Space Policy

    Analyze various elements of US Space Policy (HQ USSF/SEK & HQ USSF/SEF & SPOC/2SWS/DOC)

  • US Statutory Constructs in Space/Space Guard

    How should the USSF leverage the total force construct in manning and executing its Title 10 mission? (USSF/NGB & JAO)

  • What is the Russian concept of use for space and counter-space operations?

    Analyze the Russian concept of use for space and counter-space operations. (Russia Strategic Initiative (EUCOM))

CSAF Priorities

  • Agile Talent Management

    What are the key components for the agile talent management framework to support career-long development across a diverse force? (HAF A2/6)

  • Challenges of Global Climate Change

    Changes in global climate is transforming the context in which the Department operates. What challenges does this present? How can the DoD adapt to the challenges it presents? (2022 National Defense Strategy)

  • Command Relationships in JADO

    What are the command relationship implications of JADO?

  • Creation of Space Force

    How does the Air Force transfer people, mission sets, R&D, and equipment to the Space Force?

  • Diversity and Inclusion

    Diversity and inclusion should be prevalent throughout the DoD. What tangible changes can the DoD make to support the retention of women? How can we retain a diverse 21st century DAF?

  • Establishing Flexible Logistics

    The CSAF is looking for “initiatives focused on more agile, resilient, and survivable energy logistics—from bulk strategic supplies to deliveries at the tactical edge.” 

  • Ethical implications of increased use of artificial intelligence and machine learning

    As advances in computing are implemented in JADO, what are the ethical implications of increased use of artificial intelligence and machine learning?

  • Historical C2 lessons for JADC2

    What historical C2 lessons are relevant for the JADC2 construct?

  • Impact of Technological Advancements on Air Warfare

    How will current and future trends in military technology advancements impact air warfare? How will this evolution of air warfare impact the US's superiority in the air domain? (HAF A5SM)

  • Innovative ways to develop Airmen

    What are some innovative ways that the USAF can develop Airmen? Analyze the pros and cons of these methods.

  • JADC2 - Coalition & Interagency Partners

    What does JADC2 mean for coalition and interagency partners? How can the Joint Force address the classification challenges of operations across domains with interagency partners and coalition partners?

  • JADC2 Headquarters

    Should it be a centralized or decentralized headquarters? Should the CAOC be forward-deployed or CONUS-based? Should component headquarters be co-located? How can we disperse the functions and personnel but keep the high-end C2 available to execute Airpower doctrinally (centralized controlled and decentralized execution)? (PACAF/CC)

  • JADC2 Training/Education

    Should JADC2 become a career field in its own right, with specialized training and qualifications?

  • JADO - Centralization vs Decentralization

    What impact will JADO have for decentralized execution/tactical initiative? How does the USAF move from centralized command and decentralized execution? How can we go about pushing down authority and responsibility to the lowest level? (PACAF/CC)

  • JADO - Essential Information Requirements

    What are the essential information requirements for JADO? How does JADC2 overcome the problem of multiple incompatible networks that are used in contemporary C2?

  • JADO - Space Force

    How do we integrate the Space Force into JADO?

  • JADO Mission Orders

    What do mission-type orders look like in JADO?

  • Leadership in JADO

    For successful to JADO, how and when should a joint culture be inculcated into military leaders?

  • Manage, training and equipping for JADO

    How does the USAF manage, train and equip for JADO?

  • Roles & Functions of USAF

    What are the future strategic opportunities and vulnerabilities that could impact the role and function of the USAF? How can they be addressed? What are new or expanded roles for the USAF? (HAF A5SM)

  • SecAF's Operational Imperatives and CSAF's Future Operating Concept

    What is the impact of the new capabilities introduced in the OI's and new way of fighting in the Future Operating Concept? How will the USAF organizational structure adapt to support them? (HAF A5SM)

  • Space Force & the "Warfighting" mindset

    How does the Space Force develop a "warfighting" mindset? Does the Space Force need a "warfighting" mindset?

  • Strategic Blind Spots in Modern Conflict

    Are there useful methods of blind spot analysis that could be utilized to uncover obsolete, incomplete, or incorrect assumptions? What role do historical case studies play in overcoming blind spots? How can the study of lessons learned from recent operations provide valuable insights to help the DoD avoid these pitfalls? (JSOU)

  • USAF Organizational Changes

    How should the USAF changes its organization to effectively adapt to the changing character of war? (HAF A5SM)

     

     

  • Warfighting domains in JADO

    What are the critical inter-dependencies that must be defended and exploited between the domains?

Arctic

  • Arctic, the Antarctic, and the Indo-Pacific

    What is the importance of the Arctic and Antarctic to the Indo-Pacific theater? (PACAF)

  • Challenges of Global Climate Change

    Changes in global climate is transforming the context in which the Department operates. What challenges does this present? How can the DoD adapt to the challenges it presents? (2022 National Defense Strategy)

  • Global impacts of militarization and economic development of the Arctic [Closed]

    The arctic is increasingly contest and congested. Although many countries are developing strategies and capabilities for use in the Arctic they often fail to assess the global impacts of militarization of the Arctic. (AFRL)

  • Russia & the Arctic

    What is Russia's long-term Arctic strategy? How do they plan to project power into the Arctic? (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Sino-Russian Security Cooperation & Competition

    What are the opportunities and challenges surrounding Sino-Russian cooperation? How are Russia & China competing? How does this affect their military alignment, particularly in the Arctic and with Central Asian states? (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

Cyber

  • Cyber Force Structure

    How can the USAF optimize current Cyber Force Structure? (HAF A2/6)

  • "Cyber threat-based mission assurance” as a service

    End-to-end cyber surety from penetration testing, fixing discovered vulnerabilities, and optimizing defensive cyber operations as one integrated entity and unit of action. What authorities, responsibilities, and resources would need to be realigned and where would that realignment best be suited? (ACC/A6O)

  • Analytic Certification

    Does Analytic Certification provide a path toward Enhanced IC Analytic Effectiveness? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Artificial Intelligence analyzing forensic data and patterns of life

    Can AI be harnessed to analyze forensic data and patterns of life to assist the ISRD in building ISR packages? Can it analyze real-time data to assist re-tasking of existing assets in theater? (319 RW)

  • Benchmarking Fuel Usage

    Develop better simulations of fuel usage that can inform mission planning tools or provide benchmarks for anomaly detection in real-time or post-mission analysis. (SAF/IEN)

  • China's critical cyber vulnerabilities

    What are the critical cyber vulnerabilities and weaknesses of the CCP/PLA? What are critical weaknesses and vulnerabilities in Chinese military networks? (US Cyber Command)

  • China's TTPs for cyber incidents

    What are CCP/PLA tactics, techniques, procedures, and standard operating procedures for military and civilian government responses to cyber incidents? How do CCP/PLA cyber teams cooperate with each other? (US Cyber Command) 

  • Chinese Aerospace Force Modernization - EW and Network Operations

    How has changes within the PLA aerospace forces' DOTMLPFP contributed to their effectiveness in this mission/activity? (CASI)

  • Chinese commercial support of cyber operations

    How does China leverage commercial entities to support its cyberspace operations? (US Cyber Command)

  • Chinese leadership tasking cyber-actors

    How does CCP/PLA senior leadership task the various cyber-actors: government and proxies? (US Cyber Command)

  • Civil Resistance in the Future Operating Environment

    How can the U.S. Government influence dissident population groups engaged in civil resistance in foreign countries? (JSOU)

  • Civilian Cyber Auxiliary - Civil Cyber Patrol?

    In light of the national shortage of cyber talent, how might the Air Force develop and utilize a Civil Cyber Patrol and/or a Civil Information Warfare Patrol to best protect U.S. national interests? What legal, operational, and technical challenges must ACC address to make a civilian cyber auxiliary a reality? (ACC/A3/2/6K)

  • Contemporary Artificial Intelligence Capability

    What off-the-shelf Artificial Intelligence capability could be quickly incorporated into the AOC? (PACAF/CC)

  • Converging Allies and Partner Data into the DAF Data Fabric

    How can data/information from our Allies and Partners be woven into the Department of the Air Force's data fabric? (16 AF)

  • Cyber & Foreign Terrorist Organizations

    What are foreign terrorist organization (FTO) cyber tactics, techniques, and procedures? What are the trends in FTO cyber operations? How do FTOs use commercial entities to enable cyber operations? What are the trends in FTO use of technology and social media platforms? (US Cyber Command)

  • Cyber Innovation Centers & Acquisitions

     How can cyber innovation centers blend into traditional requirement development and agile/traditional acquisition processes to produce short-term sustainable capability?  (ACC/A5K)

  • Cyber Personnel Retention

    What the USAF could do better to entice, develop, and maintain long-term careers in cyber to better ensure hard-earned experience and talent is passed onto future generations of cyberwarfare Airmen?  (ACC/A3/2/6KO)

  • Cyber Survivability of Air Force Weapon Systems

    How can we prioritize and streamline cyber survivability efforts for the Air Force and ultimately mitigate these threats as mandated by Congress through the Joint Staff and executed by Program Management Offices? (70 ISRW)

  • Cyber Threats Against Air Mobility Operations and Forces

    What are the cyber threats (and countermeasures) that are specific to AMC operations? (423 MTS)

  • Cyber-awareness Training Model

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for AFNET users that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness and positively impact the overall effectiveness of the current annual cyber-awareness training model.  (ACC/A6O)

  • Cyber-Awareness Training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs)

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs) that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness. (ACC/A22C)

  • Cybercrime

    What is the relationship between cybercriminal groups and state actors? Is there a command and control or tasking relationship? When do cybercrime and/or ransomware operations reach a threshold that constitutes a national security risk, not just a law enforcement matter? (US Cyber Command)

  • Cyber-Physical System (CPS) concepts

    How can the AF gain strategic, operational, and tactical advantages over peer and near-peer competitors in future conflicts leveraging Cyber-Physical System (CPS) concepts to effectively identify, characterize, defend against, and respond to cyber-threats and attacks across all AFIN enclaves, coupled with advances in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing? (ACC/A6O)

  • Cyber's Impact on Risk Mitigation and Integrated Deterrence

    How might offensive and defensive cyber capabilities be implemented into existing or new risk mitigation frameworks (e.g. arms control treaties and agreements) in order to manage strategic stability? (AF/A10)

  • Cyberspace Awareness/Operations Sensors

    Can we improve cyberspace awareness by improving the management of “operations” sensors and their ability to enhance the staff analytics supporting decision-making and execution? (CO-IPE (STRAT))

  • Data Convergence/Information Warfare

    Can Army notions of data convergence in the tactical realm be extrapolated and applied in the information warfare environment to achieve automation of data sharing across functions and domains? (16 AF)

  • Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) cyber capabilities

    What is DPRK's process for developing cyber tools?  (US Cyber Command)

  • Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) cyber policy

    What is the DPRK policy and doctrine for cyberspace operations? What are DPRK's cyber red lines? What cyber actions by other nation-states might cause the DPRK to escalate to the use of military force? (US Cyber Command) 

  • Developing Cyberspace Infrastructure Terrain Subject Matter Expertise

    As the AF looks to defend static, adaptive, and expeditionary bases, does the USAF need in terms of developing cyberspace infrastructure terrain (POL, power, etc) subject matter expertise?  (ACC/A2)

  • Educating the Cyber Enterprise

    How do we leverage resources to educate Cyber Enterprise (e.g. the College of Information of Cyberspace)? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Efficient Fine Tuning of Large Language Models

    What are the most robust ways to incorporate new data sets into a large language model that do not truncate the breadth of data available while simultaneously allowing for complex answers and minimizing hallucinations? (16 AF/A5)

  • EiTaaS Tier 1 Maintenance Support

    How will 16 AF and the 688 CW conduct Cyber Security Service Provider (CSSP) Services for the Air Force Network-Unclassified (AFNET-U) when Tier 1 maintenance and operations for AFNET-U is contracted out to the private sector during the Enterprise to Infrastructure as a Service (EiTaaS)? (688 CW)

  • Emerging Cyber Powers

    What states are investing in military cyber capabilities and may emerge in the next 5-10 years as new advanced threats to the U.S. and our allies? (US Cyber Command)

  • EMS/EW Awareness

    How does the Air Force re-instill a culture of EMS/EW awareness throughout the force? (ACC/A3/2/6K)

  • Foreign Adversary Threats to Election Security

    What are the strategic and operational goals and desired end states that key foreign adversaries seek to realize through election influence and/or interference?   (US Cyber Command)

  • Generative Adversarial Networks

    What are some potential defensive measures for mitigating the threat of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)? (AF-A8)

  • Hacktivists

    How might the emergence of hacktivists impact state dynamics in cyberspace during a conflict?  (US Cyber Command) 

  • Implementing AI & ML for cyber-enabled information operations

    What AI-enabled suite of tools could enable the Information Warfare NAF to increase the pace and quality of Information Operations? What are the critical policy and technical limitations to harnessing AI and ML tools for the modernization of U.S. cyber-enabled information operations and what are the key requirements for solutions to overcome these limitations? (16 AF/A39)

  • Information Warfare capabilities

    How should the AF and DoD organize themselves to optimize the development of Information Warfare capabilities? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Iran's cyber capabilities

    What are Iranian cyber tactics, techniques, and procedures? What are the trends in Iranian cyber operations? (US Cyber Command)

  • Iran's Cyber Policy

    What are Iran's policy, strategy and mission objectives for conducting cyberspace operations? What does Iran perceive as U.S. or partner red lines regarding cyberspace operations? What geopolitical events and/or actions would drive an Iranian retaliatory cyberspace attack against the U.S. or our allies and partners? (US Cyber Command)

  • JADO - Essential Information Requirements

    What are the essential information requirements for JADO? How does JADC2 overcome the problem of multiple incompatible networks that are used in contemporary C2?

  • Joint Cyber Command and Control (JCC2) integration into Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2)

    What is the best strategy for Joint Cyber Command and Control (JCC2) integration into Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2)? Explore and expound upon risk to mission/ forces, redundancy vs resiliency, and tools required. Determine resourcing requirements as a function of scale. (ACC/A5K)

  • Language Analysts in Cyber and Space Intelligence

    Can we develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for language analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for language analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Mission Risk Reduction for Security Mitigation Efforts

    What is a model that clearly depicts mission risk reduction in relation to resources expended (cost, time, man-hours) for security mitigation efforts (STIG/patches/configurations/etc) allowing the mission owner and Authorizing Officials the ability to defend decisions to monitor but not mitigate risks that may have no demonstrated activities or clearly do not provide impact to the overall mission security if implemented? (ACC/A6O)

  • Nationality of an autonomous system

    What defines the nationality of an autonomous system? How does this affect their operational employment? (AF Futures)

  • Organic Software Development

    Can the USAF develop an organic capability to code within a squadron and then enable the infrastructure and processes that would allow that code to be deployed in a controlled environment with minimal overhead requirements to the squadron? (16 AF)

  • Russian commercial support of cyber operations

    How does Russia use commercial entities to enable cyber operations? (US Cyber Command)

  • Russian Cyber & Influence Activities

    What cyber and influence activities have the Russians undertaken? What was their impact? (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Russian reliance on foreign cyber technologies

    How reliant is Russia on foreign technologies for development and procurement of cyberspace capabilities? (US Cyber Command)

  • Russian views on cyber operations

    What are Russia's policy, strategy, and mission objectives for conducting cyberspace operations? (US Cyber Command) 

  • Russia's Cyber TTPs

    What are Russia's security services cyber tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs)? What are the trends in Russian cyber actor TTPs? (US Cyber Command)

  • Safeguarding AFCYBER's Critical Infrastructure

    Analyze NIST-evaluated PQC algorithms in an AFCYBER operational context, with an emphasis on critical digital infrastructure. (688 CW)

  • Signals Intelligence for Cyber and Space

    How can we better develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for signals analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for signals analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Strategic Empathy in Intel analysis

    How should we develop strategic empathy, the ability to identify with a competitor or adversary, to optimize analysis capability? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Talent management for Cyber

    What does a framework for effective Talent Management look like for the Cyber Enterprise? (HAF/A2/6)

  • The Limits of AI and Big Data Technology

    What assumptions currently pervade military culture about AI and Big Data that, from a social science perspective, are inaccurate and counterproductive? (JSOU)

  • Trust in non-US autonomous systems

    How do we ensure sufficient trust in non-US autonomous systems to support multinational human-machine teaming? (AF Futures)

  • Utilizing Internet-Of-Things (IOT) sensors or similar physical sensing systems

    How can the AF leverage in-situ or fortuitously placed Internet-Of-Things (IOT) sensors or similar physical sensing systems coupled with cyber-surveillance to collect data and information to overcome barriers to physical proximity and access and coupled with cyber-reconnaissance to collect data and information associated with adversary personnel and systems in order to meet collection and observation needs, to capture essential elements of information, and to determine the state of key adversary indicators required to mitigate information and intelligence gaps? (ACC/A22C)

  • Weapon system vulnerabilities introduced by cloud environment

    Does the dependence on cloud environments (commercial or organic) introduce risk to cyber security? If so, what unique risks does this pose to the military and its weapon systems? (16 AF/A4)

China

Logistics

  • AFCENT MICAP Velocity

    As transportation priority and supply priority are not always the same for MICAPs, is there a possibility to connect the two into one overall priority? (87 LRS)

  • Air Mobility in a kinetic/contested environment with China

    What will be the impact of a kinetic/contested environment with China on Air Mobility? How can Air Mobility plan to operate in this environment?  (AMC/CC)

  • Alternative Fuels

    Explore emerging trends on alternate fuels (non-traditional, non-petroleum, more generally than CO2), and analyze the logistical impact from other countries as they move towards increased use of sustainable aviation fuels and how this may impact the ability for the Air Force to support operations, particularly in the Pacific and European theater. (SAF/IEN)

  • Challenges of Global Climate Change

    Changes in global climate is transforming the context in which the Department operates. What challenges does this present? How can the DoD adapt to the challenges it presents? (2022 National Defense Strategy)

  • Civil and Military collaboration in Space

    How can the US military best take advantage of the domestic space industry to enhance its capabilities (both technologically and in terms of infrastructure/economics)? (2 ROPS)

  • Continuity in Warfare

    What are the valuable insights from the timeless principles of warfare? How do they continue to inform contemporary practices? (HAF A5SM)

  • Coronet Improvements

    Quantify fuel burn and flight time savings for fighters by increasing max range airspeed faster than the standard refueling speed. (SAF/IEN)

  • COVID Impacts on Training

    What are the implications of delayed continuing Training / Maintaining Readiness due to COVID? How can the USAF continue classified training in the COVID environment? (423 MTS)

  • Cyber Threats Against Air Mobility Operations and Forces

    What are the cyber threats (and countermeasures) that are specific to AMC operations? (423 MTS)

  • Developing Cyberspace Infrastructure Terrain Subject Matter Expertise

    As the AF looks to defend static, adaptive, and expeditionary bases, does the USAF need in terms of developing cyberspace infrastructure terrain (POL, power, etc) subject matter expertise?  (ACC/A2)

  • Disruptive Strategic Influence of Global Health Engagements (GHE) with Allied Partners

    The DoD through GHE builds partnerships with other nations to strengthen security cooperation and partner capacity through health-related activities and exchanges. (AMC/87 HCOS)

  • Effect-based Metrics Posture

    Use modeling and simulation to provide heuristics or other shortcuts that can connect improvements in fuel efficiency to capabilities valued by operators. (SAF/IEN)

  • Efficiency of Cargo Operations

    What methods are there for positioning aircraft to increase overall cargo capacity utilization, specifically to reduce dead legs and shorten the timeline associated with cargo management? (SAF/IEN)

  • Emerging threats & TTPs of UAV/UAS against military installations

    What are examples of emerging threats of UAVs/UASs and TTPs of those groups that employ them? (423 MTS)

  • Establishing Flexible Logistics

    The CSAF is looking for “initiatives focused on more agile, resilient, and survivable energy logistics—from bulk strategic supplies to deliveries at the tactical edge.” 

  • Future of Air Mobility

    The future of Air Mobility with respect to Bypass Theory and the evolution of the Critical Path for Air Mobility. (AMC/CC)

  • Historical lessons for operations in the Pacific

    For example, how does General George Kenney’s approach in the South Pacific compare to what will be required in a future conflict with China? (AMC/CC)

  • In-Space Logistics

    Analysis of in-space logistics. (HQ USSF S36RL)

  • Integration with Allied and Partners' Industrial Base

    How does the United States integrate the allied and partners' industrial base to generate and sustain mass in a future conflict? (AF Futures)

  • Joint Cyber Command and Control (JCC2) integration into Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2)

    What is the best strategy for Joint Cyber Command and Control (JCC2) integration into Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2)? Explore and expound upon risk to mission/ forces, redundancy vs resiliency, and tools required. Determine resourcing requirements as a function of scale. (ACC/A5K)

  • Logistic and Resupply Operations in a Chemical or Radiological Environment

    Is the Air Force prepared to continue critical logistics and re-supply operations despite the presence of a chemical or radiological hazard? What logistics strategies and guidance will enable the U.S. to achieve success in even the most austere environments available? (AF/A10S)

  • Military utility and cost of cargo launched combat air vehicles

    How can large numbers of small, potentially long-range air vehicles from cargo aircraft be used across a wide range of roles to prevail in combat against both near-peer and regional competitors? (AFRL)

  • Operationalizing the Drone Effect

    What are the effects, namely on fuel consumption, of substituting manned aircraft with RPAs? Which missions (e.g. ISR/Strike/EW/counter-UAS) in permissive/semi-contested environments can be accomplished with more fuel-efficient aircraft/RPAs? What are the additional benefits to various aircraft substitutions (e.g. increased fuel savings, enhanced mission capabilities, aircraft sustainment, etc.) (SAF/IEN)

  • Prioritization of Requirements for Conventional-Nuclear Integration (CNI)

    With limited resources, what Air Force actions should be prioritized to ensure compliance with Nuclear Posture Review (NPR) while maintaining operational proficiency? (AF/A10P)

  • Russian Expeditionary Operations

    How and why does Russia execute expeditionary operations? Analyze Russian expeditionary operations. (Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Russian Supply Chain Operations against the US/NATO

    How does Russia conduct supply chain operations against the US/NATO? Analyze Russia conduct supply chain operations against the US/NATO. (Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Space Acquisitions

    Examine various aspects of Space-related acquisitions. (USSF/S8ZX, 5 SLS-MSA, 7SWS/DO, SPOC/2SWS/DOC)

  • Space Force Career Fields

    Does the Space Force need to develop a “Space Maintenance” career field to maintain its weapon systems instead of relying so much on Contract Logistics Support and a handful of 3Ds? (DS4) Should Space Program Managers, Contracting Officers, and Financial Analysts career fields transition to Space Force? (30 SW/PMD)

  • Strategic Basing

    Develop a relatively high-fidelity simulation of an average year of training for a unit (ideally F-16 or F-35) to develop comparative metrics that can inform the basing process. (SAF/IEN)

  • Sustainment for Dispersed Forces in the Pacific

    Sustainment solutions for fuel and munitions in the Pacific theater. (PACAF/A4DX) 

     

  • US Approach to Strategic Partnerships

    What are strategies that can be used to enhance the Department's approach to strategic security, economic, and technology partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region? (HAF A5SM)

  • US support to Peacekeeping Operations

    Should the US contribute logistical enablers like air mobility (fixed wing and rotary wing), engineering, line and short-haul motor transportation, medical, and signals communication to support United Nations Peacekeeping Operations? (SOUTHCOM)

Deterrence

Diversity and Inclusion

  • Agile Talent Management

    What are the key components for the agile talent management framework to support career-long development across a diverse force? (HAF A2/6)

  • Diversity and Inclusion

    Diversity and inclusion should be prevalent throughout the DoD. What tangible changes can the DoD make to support the retention of women? How can we retain a diverse 21st century DAF?

  • Gender Equality in support of the Pacific Strategy

    How do the US, as well as closest allies and partners, use our strategic and cultural advantage in pursuing gender equality to our benefit? (PACAF/A8XR)

Industrial

  • Chinese Economic Ties to India, South Korea, Japan & Australia

    How is China imposing costs on India, South Korea, Japan & Australia? How could their economic ties to China limit their economic choices? (HAF A5SM)

  • Civil and Military collaboration in Space

    How can the US military best take advantage of the domestic space industry to enhance its capabilities (both technologically and in terms of infrastructure/economics)? (2 ROPS)

  • Crowdsourcing

    How can the Air Force more effectively crowdsource solutions to capability and capacity gaps across the industrial-military complex while balancing security concerns? (PACAF/A8X)

  • Industrial Base of India, South Korea, Japan & Australia

    Why are the capacity and projectability of the industrial bases of India, South Korea, Japan & Australia, including trends in their economic and industrial growth? How these might influence the US-China strategic competition? (HAF A5SM) 

  • Industrial Preparedness for Competition

    How might the United States seek to transform a relatively consolidated defense industry to meet new military challenges that are emerging under conditions very different from the Cold War and the Global War on Terror?(HAF/A5SM Strategic Assessments)

  • Metrics of Industrial Base Capacity

    What are the key economic, political, technological, and demographic indicators that define the capacity of an industrial base? How do these metrics interact with each other and impact the overall industrial capacity of a country? (HAF A5SM) 

  • PRC aerospace industry

    What is the ability of the PRC's aerospace industry to emulate, innovate, develop, prototype, refine, and finalize aerospace systems? (CASI)

  • PRC industry actors

    How are they connected to the state and military? To what extent can they support military requirements? (CASI)

  • Prioritizing US Investments in Asia-Pacific Region

    What capabilities and potential investments should the US consider to offset the effects of the US-China strategic competition in the region? In particular, what opportunities are there in the development of defense, technology, and infrastructure? (HAF A5SM) 

  • Russian Defense Industry

    What are the domestic and export capacities of Russia's defense industry? What effects have sanctions had on it? What is the evolving role of the wartime economy on the Russian defense industry? (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • Russian Use of Private Military Companies

    Analyze Russia's use of private military companies. (EUCOM - Russia Strategic Initiative)

  • US Approach to Strategic Partnerships

    What are strategies that can be used to enhance the Department's approach to strategic security, economic, and technology partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region? (HAF A5SM)

  • What Russian defense industry initiatives leads to competitive advantage?

    Analyze Russian defense industry initiatives. (Russia Strategic Initiative (EUCOM))

Diplomacy

Space

  • Artificial Intelligence in Warplans

    What is the impact of artificial intelligence or intelligent automation in the development of real-time generated war plans? (HQ USSF/S59/ACT)

  • C2 in Space

    Is the Air Operations Center the proper command and control structure for space superiority? (SPOC/2SWS/DOC) What is the proper structure and organizational architecture to command and control space forces to provide the NCA, USSPACECOM, and the other COCOMs the space capabilities and effects they desire to achieve their objectives and end states? (USSPACECOM) Is it possible to unify military and civilian C2 networks to gain resiliency and efficiency and be ready to engage in a space conflict? If so, how? (22 SOPS)

  • Chinese Aerospace Force Modernization - Space Operations

    How have changes within the PLA aerospace forces' DOTMLPFP contributed to their effectiveness in this mission/activity? (CASI)

  • Civil and Military collaboration in Space

    How can the US military best take advantage of the domestic space industry to enhance its capabilities (both technologically and in terms of infrastructure/economics)? (2 ROPS)

  • Coalition Partners in Space

    How can partner nations contribute to and participate in US-led developmental and operational efforts in the space domain? (SPOC/DOO & USSF/S36TG & HQ USSF/SEK) 

  • Deterrence in Space

    What potential uses of the latest space technologies can serve as deterrence? (50 OSS)

  • Education of Space Professionals

    Analyze various methods and systems for educating space professionals. (319 CTS & HQ USSF S36RL & 50 OSS) 

  • Formation of the Space Force

    Analyze various elements of the formation of the Space Force. (HQ USSF/SEF & Museum Staff & 50 OSS)

  • Historical Studies for Space

    Analyze historical examples of space operations for potential use to contemporary operations.  (45 SW/MU & SPOC/2SWS/DOC)

  • In-Space Logistics

    Analysis of in-space logistics. (HQ USSF S36RL)

  • International Space Law/Responsible Behavior in Space

    Analyze various elements of international space law. (HQ USSF/SEK & USSF/S5I & SPOC, 3 SES/MAF)

  • JADO - Space Force

    How do we integrate the Space Force into JADO?

  • Language Analysts in Cyber and Space Intelligence

    Can we develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for language analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for language analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Missions for the USSF

    What roles or responsibilities should the USSF have in asteroid detection and defense? (SPOC, 3 SES/MAF)

  • Operational Energy in Space

    How can we design and operate spacecraft that have fewer constraints and can sustain operations in space over longer time periods and with more effectiveness? (SAF/IEN)

  • Operations in Space

    Analyze various elements concerning the conduct of space operations. (SPOC/2SWS/DOC & 1 SOPS & USSF/45MSG) 

  • Organizational Structure of Space Force

    What are the optimum organizational structures for the US Space Force and US Space Command? (USSF) How can Space Organizational Constructs evolve to facilitate enterprise responsiveness and standardization? (HQ USSF S36RL)

  • Personnel in USSF

     (51 OSS & 50 OSS) 

     

  • Signals Intelligence for Cyber and Space

    How can we better develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for signals analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for signals analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Space Acquisitions

    Examine various aspects of Space-related acquisitions. (USSF/S8ZX, 5 SLS-MSA, 7SWS/DO, SPOC/2SWS/DOC)

  • Space Debris

    Analyze various problems and potential solutions regarding the issue of space debris. (USSF/S8ZX & 50 SCS/CDCC)

  • Space Force & the "Warfighting" mindset

    How does the Space Force develop a "warfighting" mindset? Does the Space Force need a "warfighting" mindset?

  • Space Force Basing

    Analyze various aspects of the future of Space Force basing. (50 OSS)

  • Space Force Career Fields

    Does the Space Force need to develop a “Space Maintenance” career field to maintain its weapon systems instead of relying so much on Contract Logistics Support and a handful of 3Ds? (DS4) Should Space Program Managers, Contracting Officers, and Financial Analysts career fields transition to Space Force? (30 SW/PMD)

  • Space Force culture

    With the separation from the Air Force, the Space Force needs to establish its own identity and culture as a separate service branch. (ROPS, Museum Staff, 50 OSS & HQ USSF/SED) 

  • Space Professional/Safe or Responsible Behaviors

    What Space Professional/Safe or Responsible Behaviors are acceptable to FVEY+2? In what/which existing or “new” forum(s) these “norms” should be drafted and agreed upon? What form the behaviors will be codified by the participating nations (MOU, Treaty)? (USSF/S5I)

  • Space Situational Awareness

    Analyze the future of space situational awareness, especially in the light of new technological advances. (SPOC/DOO & SPCO/2SWS/DOC)

  • Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Space

    What existing/potential tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) validation methodologies are there in the intelligence community/commercial industry for Space? (50 SW Wing Weapons & Tactics)

  • Training of Space Professionals

    Development of space professionals from the Space Race to current times. (50 OSS)

  • US Space Policy

    Analyze various elements of US Space Policy (HQ USSF/SEK & HQ USSF/SEF & SPOC/2SWS/DOC)

  • US Statutory Constructs in Space/Space Guard

    How should the USSF leverage the total force construct in manning and executing its Title 10 mission? (USSF/NGB & JAO)

  • What is the Russian concept of use for space and counter-space operations?

    Analyze the Russian concept of use for space and counter-space operations. (Russia Strategic Initiative (EUCOM))

ISR

  • Analytic Certification

    Does Analytic Certification provide a path toward Enhanced IC Analytic Effectiveness? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Artificial Intelligence analyzing forensic data and patterns of life

    Can AI be harnessed to analyze forensic data and patterns of life to assist the ISRD in building ISR packages? Can it analyze real-time data to assist re-tasking of existing assets in theater? (319 RW)

  • Challenges associated with integrating manned and un-manned aircraft in the National Airspace System

    Describe, analyze, and provide recommendations to overcome challenges associated with integrating manned and unmanned aircraft in the National Airspace System. (319th Operations Group)

  • Crowdsourcing

    How can the Air Force more effectively crowdsource solutions to capability and capacity gaps across the industrial-military complex while balancing security concerns? (PACAF/A8X)

  • Cyber-Awareness Training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs)

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs) that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness. (ACC/A22C)

  • Cyberspace Awareness/Operations Sensors

    Can we improve cyberspace awareness by improving the management of “operations” sensors and their ability to enhance the staff analytics supporting decision-making and execution? (CO-IPE (STRAT))

  • Data Convergence/Analytics

    How can data tools drive analytical collaboration at the tactical level, and create white space for decision makers to maintain a decision advantage across the conflict continuum? (480 ISRW)

  • Data Convergence/Information Warfare

    Can Army notions of data convergence in the tactical realm be extrapolated and applied in the information warfare environment to achieve automation of data sharing across functions and domains? (16 AF)

  • Disposition of Forces (DOF) Consolidation

    How do we optimize the dissemination, visualization, storage, and cataloging of battlespace characterization data and Disposition of Forces (DOF) production? (480 ISRG)

  • DLOs on converging capabilities

    In what ways from both a conceptual and modeling/simulation standpoint can we start to include DLOs that exercise converging capabilities to effectively compete with our adversaries in the information environment? (16 AF)

  • Emerging threats & TTPs of UAV/UAS against military installations

    What are examples of emerging threats of UAVs/UASs and TTPs of those groups that employ them? (423 MTS)

  • EMS/EW Awareness

    How does the Air Force re-instill a culture of EMS/EW awareness throughout the force? (ACC/A3/2/6K)

  • Future Battle Networks

    Analyze potential developments in battle networks as integrated systems of sensors, analytics, and strike.  (HAF A5SM)

  • Government-Wide Data Sharing

    What are the current effective methods of data sharing across the various government agencies and how can these methods be improved? (AFTAC)

  • Historical Battle Networks

    Analyze battle networks as integrated systems of sensors, analytics, and strike, including their evolution, effectiveness in previous conflicts. (HAF A5SM)

  • Human Resources Data standards

    Can full-time Distance Learning (DL) be an effective foreign language acquisition training medium for Cryptologic Language Analysts (CLA) who have already demonstrated a strong record of proficiency in at least one DoD-trained foreign language? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Information - A Joint Function

    What are the Air Force implications for Information being designed as a joint function by the Chairman? Is the emerging service concept of information warfare distinct from information operations as defined by Joint Publication 1-2? If so, how? (ACC/A2)

  • Intel Fusion

    Can we develop a repeatable process for developing cross-functional Analysis and Exploitation Teams that are capable of producing high-quality reports that meet Theater Joint Force Air Component Commander requirements within three months of initial team establishment? (480 ISRW)

  • Intelligence Production in Agile Combat Employment

    What LLM solutions can be used to develop methods, processes, applications, capabilities, etc. enabling rapid production at scale to meet future demands associated with the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept? (363 ISRW)

  • Language Analysts in Cyber and Space Intelligence

    Can we develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for language analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for language analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Language proficiency for Cryptologic Language Analysts

    Can full-time Distance Learning (DL) be an effective foreign language acquisition training medium for Cryptologic Language Analysts (CLA) who have already demonstrated a strong record of proficiency in at least one DoD-trained foreign language? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Operational Assessment in the Information Environment

    Given the complexities of human behavior and decision-making, how should the joint force approach operational assessment in the information environment? How can the Air Force enable that approach through the application of new tradecraft, data science, behavioral analysis, and sensors? (16 AF)

  • P3 Airmen

    How do we determine the optimal organizational construct to be most effective for a squadron leadership team? Is a squadron construct even the best organizational construct for P3 Airmen? (480 ISRW & 693ISRG) 

  • Planning for the unexpected

    How might we more effectively plan for unexpected, or “black swan” events, that might negatively affect critical military operations? (480 ISRW)

  • Recruitment, training, development, and retention of AF intelligence personnel

    How should recruiting, training, development, and retention of AF intelligence personnel change, with the dramatic increase in the importance of data science and space-based capabilities to the intelligence field? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Role of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) in JADO

    How can RPAs support JADO in the future? (319 Reconnaissance Wing)

     

  • Signals Intelligence for Cyber and Space

    How can we better develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for signals analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for signals analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • The Limits of AI and Big Data Technology

    What assumptions currently pervade military culture about AI and Big Data that, from a social science perspective, are inaccurate and counterproductive? (JSOU)

  • Utilizing Internet-Of-Things (IOT) sensors or similar physical sensing systems

    How can the AF leverage in-situ or fortuitously placed Internet-Of-Things (IOT) sensors or similar physical sensing systems coupled with cyber-surveillance to collect data and information to overcome barriers to physical proximity and access and coupled with cyber-reconnaissance to collect data and information associated with adversary personnel and systems in order to meet collection and observation needs, to capture essential elements of information, and to determine the state of key adversary indicators required to mitigate information and intelligence gaps? (ACC/A22C)

Education

  • Analytic Certification

    Does Analytic Certification provide a path toward Enhanced IC Analytic Effectiveness? (HAF/A2/6)

  • COVID Impacts on Training

    What are the implications of delayed continuing Training / Maintaining Readiness due to COVID? How can the USAF continue classified training in the COVID environment? (423 MTS)

  • Cyber-awareness Training Model

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for AFNET users that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness and positively impact the overall effectiveness of the current annual cyber-awareness training model.  (ACC/A6O)

  • Cyber-Awareness Training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs)

    Develop a cyber-awareness training model for ISR Collection Managers (CMs) that provides foundational training but builds upon existing knowledge in a meaningful way and can demonstrate greater cyber awareness. (ACC/A22C)

  • Educating the Cyber Enterprise

    How do we leverage resources to educate Cyber Enterprise (e.g. the College of Information of Cyberspace)? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Education of Space Professionals

    Analyze various methods and systems for educating space professionals. (319 CTS & HQ USSF S36RL & 50 OSS) 

  • EMS/EW Awareness

    How does the Air Force re-instill a culture of EMS/EW awareness throughout the force? (ACC/A3/2/6K)

  • Human Resources Data standards

    Can full-time Distance Learning (DL) be an effective foreign language acquisition training medium for Cryptologic Language Analysts (CLA) who have already demonstrated a strong record of proficiency in at least one DoD-trained foreign language? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Innovative ways to develop Airmen

    What are some innovative ways that the USAF can develop Airmen? Analyze the pros and cons of these methods.

  • JADC2 Training/Education

    Should JADC2 become a career field in its own right, with specialized training and qualifications?

  • Language Analysts in Cyber and Space Intelligence

    Can we develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for language analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for language analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Language proficiency for Cryptologic Language Analysts

    Can full-time Distance Learning (DL) be an effective foreign language acquisition training medium for Cryptologic Language Analysts (CLA) who have already demonstrated a strong record of proficiency in at least one DoD-trained foreign language? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Learning Technology to Aid Information Warfare Training

    How can we leverage learning technologies such as game-based learning, AI tutors, hypermedia, etc. to train IW forces most effectively on the roles, assets, and capabilities needed to achieve full spectrum IW effects? (616 OC) 

  • Next-Generation Missile Operators

    Given the potential changes in the future strategic environment, what impact would this have on the development of missileers? Should current developmental programs remain the same for Sentinel operators? (20 AF)

  • Planning for the unexpected

    How might we more effectively plan for unexpected, or “black swan” events, that might negatively affect critical military operations? (480 ISRW)

  • Recruitment, training, development, and retention of AF intelligence personnel

    How should recruiting, training, development, and retention of AF intelligence personnel change, with the dramatic increase in the importance of data science and space-based capabilities to the intelligence field? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Resilience

    How can the AF (and other services) develop resilience and support 21st Century Airmen and their dependents? (HAF/A1Z)

     

  • Role of Military Education in Adapting to Change

    How does Professional Military Education (PME) handle changes in the character of warfare? What are the current USAF educational strategies? How can these programs evolve to prepare for future emerging challenges?  (HAF A5SM)

  • Signals Intelligence for Cyber and Space

    How can we better develop analytic tradecraft and accesses for signals analysts supporting cyber and space intelligence units, and develop specialized formal training courses for signals analysis operating in the space and cyberspace domains? (480 ISRW)

  • Strategic Blind Spots in Modern Conflict

    Are there useful methods of blind spot analysis that could be utilized to uncover obsolete, incomplete, or incorrect assumptions? What role do historical case studies play in overcoming blind spots? How can the study of lessons learned from recent operations provide valuable insights to help the DoD avoid these pitfalls? (JSOU)

  • Strategic Empathy in Intel analysis

    How should we develop strategic empathy, the ability to identify with a competitor or adversary, to optimize analysis capability? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Training of Space Professionals

    Development of space professionals from the Space Race to current times. (50 OSS)

  • Wargaming

    How should the AF conceptualize wargaming going forward? (PACAF)

Russia

JADO

Leadership

  • Command Relationships in JADO

    What are the command relationship implications of JADO?

  • Cyber Personnel Retention

    What the USAF could do better to entice, develop, and maintain long-term careers in cyber to better ensure hard-earned experience and talent is passed onto future generations of cyberwarfare Airmen?  (ACC/A3/2/6KO)

  • Dependence of United States Air Force on its allies and partners

    In what ways is the United States Air Force dependent on its allies and partners for operational effectiveness? (AF Futures)

  • Information - A Joint Function

    What are the Air Force implications for Information being designed as a joint function by the Chairman? Is the emerging service concept of information warfare distinct from information operations as defined by Joint Publication 1-2? If so, how? (ACC/A2)

  • Interoperability, Interdependence, and Integration in Combined Operations with Allies and Partners

    What is the relationship between interoperability, interdependence, and integration in combined operations with allies and partners? Analyze the relationship between interoperability, interdependence, and integration in combined operations with allies and partners. (AF Futures)

  • Leadership in JADO

    For successful to JADO, how and when should a joint culture be inculcated into military leaders?

  • P3 Airmen

    How do we determine the optimal organizational construct to be most effective for a squadron leadership team? Is a squadron construct even the best organizational construct for P3 Airmen? (480 ISRW & 693ISRG) 

  • Planning for the unexpected

    How might we more effectively plan for unexpected, or “black swan” events, that might negatively affect critical military operations? (480 ISRW)

  • Resilience

    How can the AF (and other services) develop resilience and support 21st Century Airmen and their dependents? (HAF/A1Z)

     

  • Strategic Leadership

    What role do strategic leaders play in effectively managing changes in the character of war? How do leadership practices need to adapt to the changing character of war? (HAF A5SM)

Nuclear

Strategic Competition

Information Warfare

  • Adversary Approaches to Political Warfare and Information Warfare

    How do the approaches by Russia and China to modern political warfare, in particular the exploitation of the information environment to manipulate, coerce, and control, potentially provide a model for the U.S. to understand the nature of modern political warfare by our adversaries and counter it? (JSOU)

  • Chinese Propaganda

    What is the Communist Party / Peoples' Liberation Army (CCP/PLA's) propaganda apparatus structure, strategy, and capabilities? (US Cyber Command)

  • Civil Resistance in the Future Operating Environment

    How can the U.S. Government influence dissident population groups engaged in civil resistance in foreign countries? (JSOU)

  • Continuity in Warfare

    What are the valuable insights from the timeless principles of warfare? How do they continue to inform contemporary practices? (HAF A5SM)

  • Converging Allies and Partner Data into the DAF Data Fabric

    How can data/information from our Allies and Partners be woven into the Department of the Air Force's data fabric? (16 AF)

  • Data Convergence/Information Warfare

    Can Army notions of data convergence in the tactical realm be extrapolated and applied in the information warfare environment to achieve automation of data sharing across functions and domains? (16 AF)

  • DLOs on converging capabilities

    In what ways from both a conceptual and modeling/simulation standpoint can we start to include DLOs that exercise converging capabilities to effectively compete with our adversaries in the information environment? (16 AF)

  • Effectively Assessing OAI Impacts to PRC behavior

    PACAF requires analysis to help develop methodologies to accurately, succinctly, and effectively capture the cumulative impacts of Operations, Activities, and Investments (OAI) over time on PRC perceptions and behaviors and PACAF desired objectives. (PACAF/A303)

     

  • Foreign Adversary Threats to Election Security

    What are the strategic and operational goals and desired end states that key foreign adversaries seek to realize through election influence and/or interference?   (US Cyber Command)

  • Historical Uses of Information in War

    What are the long-term trends in the role and value of information in warfare? How has it shaped conflicts historically? (HAF A5SM)

  • How does Russia conduct information warfare?

    Analyze Russia information warfare. (Russia Strategic Initiative (EUCOM))

  • Hypersonic Messaging

    As the U.S. develops and fields hypersonic weapons, how should the U.S. message adversaries and allies about this new capability? (AF/A3K Checkmate)

  • Impact of Lawfare on Warfare

    How are legal strategies reshaping the traditional paradigms of warfare? (HAF A5SM)

  • Information - A Joint Function

    What are the Air Force implications for Information being designed as a joint function by the Chairman? Is the emerging service concept of information warfare distinct from information operations as defined by Joint Publication 1-2? If so, how? (ACC/A2)

  • Information Warfare capabilities

    How should the AF and DoD organize themselves to optimize the development of Information Warfare capabilities? (HAF/A2/6)

  • Learning Technology to Aid Information Warfare Training

    How can we leverage learning technologies such as game-based learning, AI tutors, hypermedia, etc. to train IW forces most effectively on the roles, assets, and capabilities needed to achieve full spectrum IW effects? (616 OC) 

  • Reflections in the Information Environment

    How do we accurately and meaningfully measure Effectiveness and Performance (MOEs and MOPs) in the Information Environment? How can we best measure the 'influence' of Information Warfare on an adversary actor? (616 OC) 

  • Shaping the Information Environment

    What are proven effective ways to shape the information environment during Phase 0/Phase I operations, specifically regarding, near-peer competitors? Do TTPs exist that PACAF/PA should be aware of to dial up and down the amount of deterrence/pressure messaging for effective deterrence and to avoid escalation? (PACAF/PA)

     

  • The Limits of AI and Big Data Technology

    What assumptions currently pervade military culture about AI and Big Data that, from a social science perspective, are inaccurate and counterproductive? (JSOU)

  • The Strategic Impacts of Misinformation and Disinformation

    How can DoD leaders prevent the negative effects of misinformation and disinformation? (JSOU)

Technological Development

VR/AR

Pacific