AGILE COMBAT EMPLOYMENT (ACE) READINESS: NECESSARY TRAINING TRANSITIONS FOR AIRFIELD OPERATIONS OFFICERS
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Authors
Ticas, Felicia L.
Subjects
Airfield Operations Officers
13M
13MX
Agile Combat Employment
ACE
United States Air Force
USAF
readiness
preparedness
military capabilities
global challenges
training
career development
operational capabilities
dynamic threats
training guidelines
USAF entities
education
military readiness
global landscape
13M
13MX
Agile Combat Employment
ACE
United States Air Force
USAF
readiness
preparedness
military capabilities
global challenges
training
career development
operational capabilities
dynamic threats
training guidelines
USAF entities
education
military readiness
global landscape
Advisors
Tullius, John D.
Schmidt, Eric, USAF
Date of Issue
2023-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This research assesses the readiness of Airfield Operations Officers (13Ms) within the United States Air Force (USAF) for Agile Combat Employment (ACE) challenges. ACE is a strategy that emphasizes agility in the face of dynamic threats through distributed operating locations. In response to evolving global challenges, particularly the increasing military capabilities of near-peer nations, such as the People's Republic of China, the USAF has recognized the need for a fundamental shift in mindset and operational capabilities. ACE demands a shift from traditional basing strategies to a network of smaller, dispersed, potentially contested, degraded, and operationally limited locations, presenting unique challenges. In response to the central research question, how the USAF can better prepare its airfield operations personnel to successfully adapt to the dynamic demands of ACE to defend the nation against adversaries, this study utilized a structured survey and interview approach to evaluate 13Ms' familiarity with ACE, including knowledge, skills, and abilities. It identifies training gaps and shortfalls while providing valuable insights and recommendations to contribute to informed decision-making regarding education, training, and career development within the USAF. Ultimately, this research seeks to ensure that 13Ms are well-prepared to support and execute ACE operations.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Defense Analysis (DA)
Organization
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NPS Report Number
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Funding
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Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.