Agile Combat Support Doctrine and Logistics Officer Training: Do We Need an Integrated Logistics School for the Expeditionary Air and Space Force?

Abstract

Abstract : The Air Force Global Engagement vision and Expeditionary Air Force (EAF) strategy focus on the Agile Combat Support (ACS) core competency as the foundation for the rapid projection of light, lean, and lethal aerospace power forces. This research examines the evolution of Air Force logistics doctrine, the linkage between doctrine, strategy, tactics, and training programs, and the corresponding application of logistics employment and sustainment functions in a deployed environment. To do so, this research analyzes the USAF's diverse logistics officer training programs to determine if there is a deficiency in interdisciplinary logistics employment and sustainment training. It ascertains if that training shortfall reveals a gap between Air Force logistics doctrine and EAF combat strategy. It also investigates the Air Force transition to the Aerospace Expeditionary Force (AEF) operational employment concept as the force projection mechanism for the EAF and the reliance on ACS has the primary enabler to identify specific areas where the absence of integrated logistics training impacts or potentially degrades mission success. After these factors have been adequately analyzed and interpreted, this research highlights the Army logistics officer-training philosophy as a benchmark to gauge the effectiveness of integrated logistics training on expeditionary strategy and logistics officer professional career development. The origins, course development, and utility of the USAF Weapons School are presented as an historical reference for creating congruency between doctrine, tactics, and training. The Red Flag training exercises are offered as a model for operational requirements driven training and as an example of the opportunity to integrate logistics employment training in existing combat exercises.