Title: Operationalizing and Integrating Space: Bridging the Cultural Barriers
Subject: This paper examines the evolution of space support and how space support has contributed to the operationalization and integration of space systems into warfighting roles and how cultural mindsets have affected this integration.
Author(s): Randy B. Tymofichuk; Edward J. Bergemann (Faculty Advisor)
DTIC Keywords: AIR TO SPACE, CULTURE
Abstract:
This paper examines the evolution of space support and how space
support has contributed to the operationalization and integration of
space systems into warfighting roles, specifically at the tactical level of
operations. The paper also demonstrates that the cultural mindset of the
Air Force is shaped by our association with weapon systems (self-serving
elitism) and not with the mission. These cultural mindsets or barriers
influence the Air Force's capability to integrate new missions to support
the Air Force vision.
The thesis of this paper contends that failure on the part of the Air Force
to recognize and exploit the critical capabilities space provides to
warfighting is driven by cultural barriers. These cultural barriers inhibit
the Air Force's efforts to fully operationalize and integrate space into
theater-level operations.
To defend this argument, this paper will define and analyze space
contributions to theater-level operations by examining the AFSST
concept of operations and successes and failures experienced during its
evolution since Operation Desert Storm. The thesis will deal with two
fundamental arguments.
First, the most successful attempts at integrating and operationalizing
space are making them organic within the theater-levels (i.e. permanent
space personnel expertise and equipment located in theater with the
NAFs and MAJCOMs). This will be illustrated by examining one of the
most fundamental operational aspects of space; the AFSST.
Secondly, this paper will demonstrate that failure to fully integrate space
support was the result of many failed methodologies the Air Force
implemented to help bridge some of the cultural barriers. While some of
the methodologies were necessary in doctrinally defining and developing
an applicable policy on use of space, the overarching strategy falls short
of focusing on control and exploitation of space, which is part of the
mission of the Air Force.
This debate will shape the future of the Air Force and develop the
framework on how we will fight future wars and where weapon system
acquisition and modernization efforts should be focused. While the
future of how engagements will be fought is still largely undetermined,
one truth remains clear; space will play a key role as either a direct force
applier or continue in the role as a force enabler or multiplier.
The recommendations of this paper offer the Air Force several courses of
action to consider in making space culturally acceptable and promoting
the capabilities space has to offer the warfighting component of the Air
Force. These efforts must include; more emphasis on integrated
operations; cooperative partnering in planning, programming and
budgeting; concerted educational efforts at all levels within the Air
Force; and a more equitable mix of senior leadership (especially at the
4-Star level) reflecting all interest areas within the Air Force. The key to
surviving in the modern era demands we adopt a different approach to
creating our "vision" by ensuring leadership is representative of all
interests in the Air Force and the focus is on "the control and
exploitation of air and space", not the weapon systems.