The Air and Space Expeditionary Force System: A Conventional Construct Applied to an Irregular War

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The U.S. Air Force (USAF) uses the Air and Space Expeditionary Force (AEF) construct to forecast deployment schedules and, more importantly, deliver a tailored force package to meet a combatant commander’s requirements for air and space assets. However, with no end in sight to the ongoing Global War on Terror (GWOT), the once reliable construct is coming under more and more strain and stress. This paper analyzed the following question: ‘Is the current AEF construct sufficient to counter a global insurgency or should the USAF radically revamp the vehicle to best meet current and future demands?’ A simple problem/solution methodology was used to focus research effort. In order to find a solution to the stated problem, the paper first addresses AEF creation from a historical perspective. After this, Army and Navy force generation tools are examined. Finally, past, current, and future evolutions are analyzed. The findings of the research support the position that the AEF construct does not need a complete overhaul. The research uncovers that the AEF system is constantly changing to best address USAF manning issues and combatant commander requirements. Yes, the Global War on Terror (GWOT) has strained the USAF, but the AEF construct remains viable and beneficial the foreseeable future.