Volume 35 Issue 2, Summer 2021

Thinking about Thinking: Training Aircrew to Make Decisions in Complex Situations

This article examines concerns that the Air Force’s training model places too high an emphasis on solving clearly defined tactical problems. As a result, aircrew may have considerable difficulty making decisions in unclear situations. A more focused effort on teaching judgment rather than simple tactical problem-solving will make an aircrew more prepared to deal with the complex problems of current and future operating environments.

Game-Theoretic System Design in the Development of Space Power

Game-theoretic system design presents an opportunity for the development and enhancement of US space power. A new taxonomy of game-theoretic models affords decision-makers the ability to promote constructive policy and strategy. The effective development of space power increases America's security and prosperity.

Coming to a Theater near You: Evolving Air Combat to Counter Anti-Access and Area-Denial

Using airpower to confront and prevail against anti-access/area-denial systems requires advancements in doctrine and technology. Western militaries are faced with the prospect that operations may be conducted from a position of disadvantage and must capitalize on emerging technologies and shift to an operational command and control (C2) model that is more resilient and flexible, thereby fundamentally altering the risk calculus at all levels of conflict.

OverSTEMulated: The Science and Art of Space Power Leadership

Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) degree requirements for new accessions into the US Space Force space operations career field are not useful predictors of performance, as measured by ranking among peer groups and competitive selection for space operations command positions. An overemphasis on STEM poses two risks—lack of diversity and insufficient supply.

A Concept for Next-Generation Combat Search and Rescue

Col James R. Ayers, USAF, Retired
Alec Wahlman, PhD

Current US military combat search and rescue (CSAR) aircraft packages cannot follow advanced, stealthy aircraft deep into areas with advanced air defenses, presenting costs to air campaigns, aircrew morale, and even coalition operations. A combination of new equipment and a new concept for CSAR can give rescue packages the survivability and lethality needed to generate a reasonable chance of success, even against air defenses that could down a fifth-generation fighter.

Every Airman and Guardian a Technologist: Reinvigorating a Disruptive Technology Culture

The US Air Force and US Space Force face an environment of military technological competition against great-power adversaries that may be more intense than at any time within the past hundred years. After decades of relative stability, the services must pivot to a new era that prioritizes the rapid development and fielding of the disruptive technologies that can provide sustained technological advantage.

Harvesting the Rewards of Multinational Cooperation: The Royal Air Force’s Project “Seedcorn”

The retirement of the Nimrod MR2 and the cancellation of the Nimrod MRA4 in 2010 left the Royal Air Force without a specialist maritime patrol aircraft. Project Seedcorn demonstrated the significance of multinational cooperation and personnel exchanges in particular, with developing skills and enhancing interoperability.