TOPIC SPONSORS: SPOC/2SWS/DOC, USSPACECOM, and 22 SOPS
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)
- Gunther, Maj. Brianne E., "Training Cannot Wait Ten Years--The Critical Experience Gap in USSF Officers Planning and Executing Space C2," AFGC thesis, 2024, 69 pgs.
- Is the Air Operations Center the proper command and control structure for space superiority? 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? Gunther explores this question by analyzing the operations of the Combined Space Operations Center (CSpOC), noting that it organizes and executes its C2 mission using processes adapted directly from the Air Operations Center (AOC) model, such as the Master Space Plan and Combined Space Tasking Order. However, she argues that this structure is currently hindered by persistent C2 "seams" between theater AOCs and space planners, a problem exacerbated by ongoing organizational uncertainty, lack of approved mission directives, and inadequate space doctrine that fails to detail operational C2 mechanisms. To ensure this organizational architecture can effectively command and control space forces, Gunther concludes that the USSF must formally track planning experts via Special Experience Identifiers (SEIs) and implement standardized tactician certification programs across its Space Deltas to effectively advise mission planning cells.
- Patterson, Maj. Travis, "Bridging the Gap: How an Airborne Mobile-Mesh Network Can Overcome Space Vulnerabilities in Tomorrow's Fight," ACSC paper, 2018.
- Thien, Lt. Col. John G., "Maximizing Space through Presentation of Forces," AWC Professional Studies Paper, 2019, 2019, 22 pgs.
- Voke, Maj. Matthew R., "Artificial Intelligence for Command and Control of Air Power," ACSC paper, 2018.