Just Another Headquarters or the Missing Link to the Theater Air Defense

Abstract

Abstract : As the United States attempts to adapt to meet the changing conditions of the twenty-first century, organizational structure is an issue of heated debate. The central issue of the debate is whether the Army's current hierarchical structure will be effective in a twenty-first century environment. Many argue that efficiencies through technological improvement have eliminated the need for many headquarters. However, in October 1998 the United States Army activated a new theater level air defense headquarters, the 32nd Air and Missile Defense Command (AAMDC). This monograph examines whether the AAMDC is necessary for theater Army air and missile defense in a Force 21 environment. The monograph begins by examining the future environment in which theater air defense operations will occur. The Army's Force 21 operational concepts establish the foundation for future air defense operations. The future air threat and counterair doctrine are also discussed. Two alternative organizations are then explained. The alternative organizations are the new AAMDC organization and its immediate predecessor, the echelon above corps Air Defense Artillery brigade. Next, evaluation criteria are established. The criteria are command and control, planning, coordination, and acceptability. The analysis is the preponderance of the work. Finally, the monograph concludes that the AAMDC is for effective theater Army air and missile defense operations.