Author: Douglas “Opie” Foulk
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Falling into Place: Improving C2ABM Performance with Lessons from the Tetris Community
A readily accessible, well-curated mission recording library would enable C2ABM professionals to improve their skills by observing successes of others and soliciting feedback on their own performance. Read more
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Division of Labor: C2ABM in Protracted Conflict
Emerging C2ABM platforms offer clear benefits at the onset of hostilities, but will be limited by availability in the near-term – the mass afforded by legacy systems will be crucial for sustained operations. A blended approach using modern and legacy platforms may assure resilient and comprehensive C2ABM in protracted conflict. Read more
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Love the One You’re With: In Defense of Legacy C2ABM Platforms
Is the U.S. Air Force’s legacy C2ABM architecture really so decrepit that it must be wholly replaced to be of value in future conflict? Much has been written describing a bleak future for currently-fielded platforms, but perhaps there is more to the story. Read more
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Honoring History, Shaping the Future: Nurturing C2ABM Culture
C2ABM squadrons that foster a strong cohesive culture improve performance, readiness, and morale. Deliberately nurturing this culture is crucial, and every member of the organization has a role to play. Read more
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AEW&C – Airborne Early Warning & Congress
Recent developments in Congress demonstrate continued support for the E-7, despite clear opposition from the executive branch. For now, congressional backing assures the E-7’s path forward, but the future is far from certain. Read more
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Training – An Infinite Game
C2ABM training should be approached as an infinite game, emphasizing ongoing growth and mastery. Crewmembers should improve muscle memory through regular skill practice and should layer this mastery into integrated training with real partners in tailored and combat-representative scenarios. Read more
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C2 of ACE: Egress and Recovery
During high-end conflict, efficient C2ABM of aircraft egress and recovery will be required to enable Agile Combat Employment (ACE) and sustain airpower for the duration of the campaign. This demands robust training for C2ABM crews and adaptive operational processes to ensure readiness for this critical role. Read more
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Decentralized Command and Control: Organizing an Agile Force
A distributed basing construct for command and control aircraft would increase the efficiency of daily training, improve team cohesion, and extend aircraft lifespan. The Air Force should not be satisfied with placing new capabilities within the legacy organizational construct, as doing so limits the potential of new platforms. Read more
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Beyond Replacement: A Modern Approach to Airborne Command and Control
The divestment of legacy E-3s and the recent proposed cancelation of the E-7 as a replacement offers a rare opportunity to rebuild the U.S. Air Force’s airborne command and control capability to be well adapted for modern conflict. The procurement of a large fleet of small, relatively inexpensive C2 aircraft could offer numerous benefits over… Read more
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The (Political) Future of the E-7 Wedgetail
The President’s Budget Request for FY2026 eliminates the E-7 program. This article explores the implications of this request, and describes potential paths ahead for the E-7 program. Read more