A new version of the Study Guide for Testing to Staff Sergeant was posted on the official website on 1 February 2024. The new study guide is based on the 1 Nov 2021 version of the Air Force Handbook so the content of the study guide hasn't changed. However, the ADTC for the new 2024 study guide changed five sections (4B, 8B, 13C, 14D, and 14F) from testable to not testable. And one section (18A), which was not testable before, is now testable.
Each of the three testable sections in chapter four of the 23E5 study guide and the 24E5 study guide was converted to text and compared. There are no changes except that Section 4B is now not testable. The chapter four summary test for promotion to E-5 and the overall practice test for promotion to E-5 have been updated.
Notes on the Study Guide for Testing to Technical Sergeant, dated 1 November 2023
A new version of the Study Guide for promotion to E-6 was posted on the official website on 2 October 2023. The new study guide is based on the 1 Nov 2021 version of the Air Force Handbook so the content of the study guide hasn't changed. However, the ADTC for the new study guide changed four sections (4E, 13B, 14A, 14D) from being required for study to not being testable (for E-6). And one section (19A), previously marked as not testable is now testable.
To be sure that the content hadn't changed, each section in chapter four of the 23E6 study guide and the 24E6 study guide was converted to text and compared. There are zero changes except that Section 4E is now not testable. The Practice Test section was modified to match this new requirement.
Notes on the Study Guide for Testing to Technical Sergeant, dated 1 Nov 22
On 22 November 2022, the Air Force published a new version of the study guide for promotion to E-6, dated 1 Nov 2022, on their website. It replaces the study guide for promotion to E-6 dated 1 November 2021 for promotion test cycle 23E6 (15 Feb - 15 Apr 2023). This is an unusual action in that normally, the study guide issued in 2021 would be the source for study for test cycles 2021 - 2023. A cursory review of the new study guide revealed no major changes and appears to only correct the minor differences between the 2021 E-5 and E-6 study guides as noted below.
Note: In the new 2022 E-6 Study Guide, in the ADTC, Section 4B, Military Departments, was removed as a required section for study. However, the study guide includes Section 4B, Military Departments, and, in the REQUIRED LEVEL OF COMPREHENSION FOR DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION table at the top of Section 4B, it is identified as "B", indicating that it is required for study. Based on the fact that Section 4B is included in the study guide, we are assuming that the change to the ADTC in the new study guide was an error.
Differences between 2021 and 2022 E-6 Study Guides
Section 4A - United States Armed Forces
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4.1. Command Authority Since the birth of our Nation, policies and directives have been made by civilians assigned to the military and to the executive and legislative branches of the government. Command authority is the established levels of responsibility for command, control, and communication throughout a chain of command. Responsibility and authority for the U.S. Armed Forces extends from the U.S. President, through the Secretary of Defense, through two distinct branches of command, and through each commander at every level in the branches of service. The various levels within the chain of command have different responsibilities and authority; however, each level in the chain is responsible for all lower levels and accountable to all higher levels. |
4.1. Command Authority Since the birth of our Nation, policies and directives have been made by civilians assigned to the military and to the executive and legislative branches of the government. Command authority is the established levels of responsibility for command, control, and communication throughout a chain of command. Responsibility and authority for the U.S. Armed Forces extends from the U.S. President, through the Secretary of Defense, through two distinct branches of command, and through each commander at every level in the branches of service. The various levels within the chain of command have different responsibilities and authority; however, each level in the chain is responsible for all lower levels and accountable to all higher levels. |
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Commander in Chief. The U.S. Constitution establishes the basic principle of civilian control of the U.S. Armed Forces. As Commander in Chief, the U.S. President has final command authority; however, as head of the executive branch, the President is subject to the checks and balances system of the legislative and judicial branches. |
Commander in Chief. The U.S. Constitution establishes the basic principle of civilian control of the U.S. Armed Forces. As Commander in Chief, the U.S. President has final command authority; however, as head of the executive branch, the President is subject to the checks and balances system of the legislative and judicial branches. |
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Chain of Command. By statute, the chain of command runs from the U.S. President, through the Secretary of Defense, to the Combatant Commanders. For all forces not assigned to the Combatant Commanders, the chain of command runs from the U.S. President, through the Secretary of Defense, to the Secretaries of the military departments. When forces are assigned to the Combatant Commanders, administrative control over those forces still typically flows through their respective service branch. Note: A provision of the Goldwater-Nichols Department of Defense Reorganization Act of 1986 permits the U.S. President to authorize communications through the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, placing the Chairman in the communications chain of command. |
Chain of Command. By statute, the chain of command runs from the U.S. President, through the Secretary of Defense, to the Combatant Commanders. For all forces not assigned to the Combatant Commanders, the chain of command runs from the U.S. President, through the Secretary of Defense, to the Secretaries of the military departments. When forces are assigned to the Combatant Commanders, administrative control over those forces still typically flows through their respective service branch. Note: A provision of the Public Law 99-433, Goldwater-Nichols Department of Defense Reorganization Act of 1986, 1 October 1986, permits the U.S. President to authorize communications through the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, placing the Chairman in the communications chain of command. |
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4.2. Department of Defense With over 1.3 million members in the Regular Forces, another 826,000 in the National Guard and Reserve Forces, and 742,000 civilian personnel, the Department of Defense is America’s largest government agency. The mission of the Department of Defense is to provide military forces to deter war and protect the security of our country. Headquartered at the Pentagon, the Department of Defense includes the Office of the Secretary of Defense; the Joint Chiefs of Staff; the Joint Staff; and the Departments of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps), and Air Force. Furthermore, the Department of Defense includes the unified combatant commands and forces dedicated to combined commands, defense agencies, and field activities. As the civilian head of the Department of Defense, the Secretary of Defense reports directly to the U.S. President. |
4.2. Department of Defense With over 1.3 million members in the Regular Forces, another 826,000 in the National Guard and Reserve Forces, and 742,000 civilian personnel, the Department of Defense is America’s largest government agency. The mission of the Department of Defense is to provide military forces to deter war and protect the security of our country. Headquartered at the Pentagon, the Department of Defense includes the Office of the Secretary of Defense; the Joint Chiefs of Staff; the Joint Staff; and the Departments of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps), and Air Force (including the Space Force). Furthermore, the Department of Defense includes the unified combatant commands and forces dedicated to combined commands, defense agencies, and field activities. As the civilian head of the Department of Defense, the Secretary of Defense reports directly to the U.S. President. |
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Secretary of Defense. The Secretary of Defense (SecDef), is appointed by the U.S. President, with advice and consent of the Senate. The SecDef serves as principal defense policy advisor to the U.S. President and is responsible for the formulation of general defense policy, policy related to all matters of direct and primary concern to the Department of Defense, and for the execution of approved policy. In addition to exercising the operational chain of command between the U.S. President and the Combatant Commanders, a specific responsibility of the SecDef is to provide written policy guidance for Department of Defense national security objectives and policies, military mission priorities, and projected levels for available resources. The SecDef also provides the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff with written policy guidance regarding contingency plans. The Secretaries of the military departments and the Combatant Commanders are provided written guidelines to direct the effective detection and monitoring of all potential aerial and maritime threats to the national security of the United States. |
Secretary of Defense. The Secretary of Defense (SecDef), is appointed by the U.S. President, with advice and consent of the Senate. The SecDef serves as principal defense policy advisor to the U.S. President and is responsible for the formulation of general defense policy, policy related to all matters of direct and primary concern to the Department of Defense, and for the execution of approved policy. In addition to exercising the operational chain of command between the U.S. President and the Combatant Commanders, a specific responsibility of the SecDef is to provide written policy guidance for Department of Defense national security objectives and policies, military mission priorities, and projected levels for available resources. The SecDef also provides the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff with written policy guidance regarding contingency plans. The Secretaries of the military departments and the Combatant Commanders are provided written guidelines to direct the effective detection and monitoring of all potential aerial and maritime threats to the national security of the United States. |
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The Armed Forces Policy Council. The Armed Forces Policy Council assists in matters requiring a long-range view, formulates broad defense policy, and advises the Secretary of Defense on policies, as requested. The Armed Forces Policy Council consists of the Secretary of Defense serving as the Chairman of the Council; the Deputy Secretary of Defense; Secretaries of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Under Secretaries of Defense for Policy and for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics; the Deputy under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology; and the Service Chiefs. |
The Armed Forces Policy Council. The Armed Forces Policy Council assists in matters requiring a long-range view, formulates broad defense policy, and advises the Secretary of Defense on policies, as requested. The Armed Forces Policy Council consists of the Secretary of Defense serving as the Chairman of the Council; the Deputy Secretary of Defense; Secretaries of the Army, Navy, and USAF; the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy; the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology, the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment; and the Service Chiefs. |
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Under Secretaries of Defense. There are five Under Secretaries of Defense (Policy; Comptroller; Personnel and Readiness; Acquisition, Technology and Logistics; and Intelligence) who assist the Secretary of Defense. The Secretary of Defense receives staff assistance through a number of special agencies, such as the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Security Service, and Defense Logistics Agency, which provide special skills, expertise, and advice. |
Under Secretaries of Defense. There are six Under Secretaries of Defense (Policy; Comptroller; Personnel and Readiness; Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (A&S); Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering; and Intelligence) who assist the Secretary of Defense. The Secretary of Defense receives staff assistance through a number of special agencies, such as the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Security Service, and Defense Logistics Agency, which provide special skills, expertise, and advice. |
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4.3. Joint Staff. The Joint Staff assists members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in carrying out assigned responsibilities of strategic direction, unified operation of combatant commands, and integration of all branches of the military into an efficient force. By law, the direction of the Joint Staff rests exclusively with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Chairman normally manages the Joint Staff through the Director of the Joint Staff. The Director is selected by the Chairman after consultation with other members of the Joint Chiefs and with the approval of the Secretary of Defense. The Joint Staff consists of more than 1,500 military and civilian personnel, composed of approximately equal numbers of officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Marines make up about 20 percent of the number allocated to the Navy. |
4.3. Joint Staff. The Joint Staff assists members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in carrying out assigned responsibilities of strategic direction, unified operation of combatant commands, and integration of all branches of the military into an efficient force. By law, the direction of the Joint Staff rests exclusively with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Chairman normally manages the Joint Staff through the Director of the Joint Staff. The Director is selected by the Chairman after consultation with other members of the Joint Chiefs and with the approval of the Secretary of Defense. The Joint Staff consists of more than 1,500 military and civilian personnel, composed of approximately equal numbers of officers from the Army, Navy, USAF, and USSF. Marines make up about 20 percent of the number allocated to the Navy. |
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Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff. Appointed by the U.S. President, by and with advice and consent of the Senate, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) holds the grade of General or Admiral. The CJCS outranks all other officers of the U.S. Armed Forces, but may not exercise military command over the Joint Chiefs of Staff or the U.S. Armed Forces. The CJCS is the principal military advisor to the U.S. President, the National Security Council, and the Secretary of Defense. The Secretary of Defense may assign CJCS responsibility for overseeing the activities of the combatant commands. The CJCS presides over the Joint Chiefs of Staff and objectively furnishes recommendations and views of the Joint Chiefs to the U.S. President, National Security Council, or the Secretary of Defense. |
Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff. Appointed by the U.S. President, by and with advice and consent of the Senate, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) holds the grade of General or Admiral. The CJCS outranks all other officers of the U.S. Armed Forces, but may not exercise military command over the Joint Chiefs of Staff or the U.S. Armed Forces. The CJCS is the principal military advisor to the U.S. President, the National Security Council, and the Secretary of Defense. The Secretary of Defense may assign CJCS responsibility for overseeing the activities of the combatant commands. The CJCS presides over the Joint Chiefs of Staff and objectively furnishes recommendations and views of the Joint Chiefs to the U.S. President, National Security Council, or the Secretary of Defense. |
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Vice Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (VCJCS), appointed by the U.S. President, by and with advice and consent of the Senate, is a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The VCJCS performs duties prescribed by the Chairman, with the approval of the Secretary of Defense. The VCJCS cannot be from the same branch of service as the Chairman, serves a tour of two years, and may be reappointed for two additional terms. When required, the VCJCS assumes the role of Acting Chairman in the Chairman’s absence. |
Vice Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (VCJCS), appointed by the U.S. President, by and with advice and consent of the Senate, is a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The VCJCS performs duties prescribed by the Chairman, with the approval of the Secretary of Defense. The VCJCS cannot be from the same branch of service as the Chairman, serves a tour of two years, and may be reappointed for two additional terms. When required, the VCJCS assumes the role of Acting Chairman in the Chairman’s absence. |
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Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman. Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman (SEAC), is designated as the highest senior enlisted position in the U.S. Armed Forces. The SEAC is appointed to serve as an advisor to the Chairman and the Secretary of Defense on all matters involving Total Force integration, utilization, health of the force, and joint development for enlisted personnel. The SEAC also serves as a spokesperson to leaders and organizations on applicable issues affecting enlisted forces. |
Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman. Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman (SEAC), is designated as the highest senior enlisted position in the U.S. Armed Forces. The SEAC is appointed to serve as an advisor to the Chairman and the Secretary of Defense on all matters involving Total Force integration, utilization, health of the force, and joint development for enlisted personnel. The SEAC also serves as a spokesperson to leaders and organizations on applicable issues affecting enlisted forces. |
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Joint Chiefs of Staff. Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the U.S. President and the Secretary of Defense, members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff serve as advisors to the President, Secretary of Defense, and the National Security Council. The Joint Chiefs provide the strategic direction of the U.S. Armed Forces and review major materiel and personnel requirements according to strategic and logistic requirements, and establish joint doctrine. Members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are also responsible for the assignment of logistic responsibilities to the military services, formulation of policies for joint training, and coordination of military education. Members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are the Chairman; Vice Chairman; Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army; Chief of Naval Operations; Chief of Staff of the Air Force; Commandant of the Marine Corps; and Chief of the National Guard Bureau. For the Service Chiefs (Chief of Staff of the Army, Chief of Naval Operations, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Commandant of the Marine Corps), their Joint Chiefs of Staff duties take precedence over all other duties. Consequently, as the military heads of their respective services, the Joint Chiefs delegate many duties to their Vice Chiefs while retaining overall responsibility. |
Joint Chiefs of Staff. Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the U.S. President and the Secretary of Defense, members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff serve as advisors to the President, Secretary of Defense, and the National Security Council. The Joint Chiefs provide the strategic direction of the U.S. Armed Forces and review major materiel and personnel requirements according to strategic and logistic requirements, and establish joint doctrine. Members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are also responsible for the assignment of logistic responsibilities to the military services, formulation of policies for joint training, and coordination of military education. Members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are the Chairman; Vice Chairman; Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army; Chief of Naval Operations; Chief of Staff of the USAF; Chief of Space Operations; Commandant of the Marine Corps; and Chief of the National Guard Bureau. For the Service Chiefs (Chief of Staff of the Army, Chief of Naval Operations, Chief of Staff of the USAF, Commandant of the Marine Corps), their Joint Chiefs of Staff duties take precedence over all other duties. Consequently, as the military heads of their respective services, the Joint Chiefs delegate many duties to their Vice Chiefs while retaining overall responsibility. |
Section 4B - Military Departments
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4.4. Defending the Nation Since the Nation's birth, our military has had the constitutional duty to ensure national survival, defend lives and property, and promote vital interests at home and abroad. Jointly, senior military leaders underwrite the strategy of defending the homeland and assuring allies, while dissuading, deterring, and defeating enemies. The military departments consist of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps and, in wartime, the Coast Guard), and the Air Force (including the Space Force), as shown in Figure 4.1. |
4.4. Defending the Nation Since the nation's birth, our military has had the constitutional duty to ensure national survival, defend lives and property, and promote vital interests at home and abroad. Jointly, senior military leaders underwrite the strategy of defending the homeland and assuring allies, while dissuading, deterring, and defeating enemies. The military departments consist of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps and, in wartime, the Coast Guard), and the USAF (including the Space Force), as shown in Figure 4.1. |
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4.5. General Military Functions The Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff established the general and specific functions (roles and missions) of each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces in the Key West Agreement of 1948. The latest revision of the Key West Agreement in 1958 states three general functions of the U.S. Armed Forces: (1) support and defend the U.S. Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic; (2) ensure, by timely and effective military action, the security of the United States, its possessions, and areas vital to its interests; (3) and uphold and advance the national policies and interests of the United States. Each service shall observe the general principles and fulfill the specific functions as established in the Key West Agreement, and make use of the personnel, equipment, and facilities of the other services in all cases where economy and effectiveness will be increased. |
4.5. General Military Functions The Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff established the general and specific functions (roles and missions) of each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces in the Key West Agreement of 1948. The latest revision of the Key West Agreement in 1958 states three general functions of the U.S. Armed Forces: (1) support and defend the U.S. Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic; (2) ensure, by timely and effective military action, the security of the United States, its possessions, and areas vital to its interests; (3) and uphold and advance the national policies and interests of the United States. Each service shall observe the general principles and fulfill the specific functions as established in the Key West Agreement, and make use of the personnel, equipment, and facilities of the other services in all cases where economy and effectiveness will be increased. |
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Functions of the United States Army. The U.S. Army serves as the land-based branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. The mission of the Army is, “To fight and win our Nation's wars by providing prompt, sustained land dominance across the full range of military operations and the spectrum of conflict in support of combatant commanders.” The Army is responsible for the preparation of land forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war, and for the expansion of peacetime components of the Army to meet the needs of war. The Army is also responsible for developing weapons, tactics, technique, organization, and equipment of Army combat and service elements and coordinating with the Navy and the Air Force in all aspects of joint concern, including those which pertain to amphibious and airborne operations. The specific functions of the Army are to organize, train, and equip land forces for: (1) operations on land, including joint operations; (2) the seizure or defense of land areas, including airborne and joint amphibious operations; and (3) the occupation of land areas. |
Functions of the United States Army. The U.S. Army serves as the land-based branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. The mission of the Army is, “To fight and win our Nation's wars by providing prompt, sustained land dominance across the full range of military operations and the spectrum of conflict in support of combatant commanders.” The Army is responsible for the preparation of land forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war, and for the expansion of peacetime components of the Army to meet the needs of war. The Army is also responsible for developing weapons, tactics, technique, organization, and equipment of Army combat and service elements and coordinating with the Navy and the USAF in all aspects of joint concern, including those which pertain to amphibious and airborne operations. The specific functions of the Army are to organize, train, and equip land forces for: (1) operations on land, including joint operations; (2) the seizure or defense of land areas, including airborne and joint amphibious operations; and (3) the occupation of land areas. |
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Functions of the United States Navy. The mission of the U.S. Navy is to maintain, train, and equip combat-ready naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression, and maintaining freedom of the seas. The Navy includes naval combat and service forces, naval aviation, and the Marine Corps. It is organized, trained, and equipped primarily for prompt and sustained combat at sea. The Navy is responsible for the preparation of naval forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war, and for the expansion of the peacetime components of the Navy to meet the needs of war. U.S. Navy is the largest, most capable navy in the world, with the highest combined battle fleet tonnage and the world's largest aircraft carrier fleet. The Navy will develop weapons, tactics, technique, organization, and equipment of naval combat and service elements, coordinating with the Army and the Air Force in all aspects of joint concern, including those which pertain to amphibious operations. The specific functions of the Navy are to organize, train and, equip naval forces for; (1) operations at sea, including joint operations; (2) the control of vital sea areas, the protection of vital sea lanes, and the suppression of enemy sea commerce; (3) the support of occupation forces as required; (4) the seizure of minor enemy shore positions capable of reduction by such landing forces as may be comprised within the fleet organization; (5) naval reconnaissance, antisubmarine warfare, and protection of shipping. |
Functions of the United States Navy. The mission of the U.S. Navy is to maintain, train, and equip combat-ready naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression, and maintaining freedom of the seas. The Navy includes naval combat and service forces, naval aviation, and the Marine Corps. It is organized, trained, and equipped primarily for prompt and sustained combat at sea. The Navy is responsible for the preparation of naval forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war, and for the expansion of the peacetime components of the Navy to meet the needs of war. U.S. Navy is the largest, most capable navy in the world, with the highest combined battle fleet tonnage and the world's largest aircraft carrier fleet. The Navy will develop weapons, tactics, technique, organization, and equipment of naval combat and service elements, coordinating with the Army and the USAF in all aspects of joint concern, including those which pertain to amphibious operations. The specific functions of the Navy are to organize, train and, equip naval forces for; (1) operations at sea, including joint operations; (2) the control of vital sea areas, the protection of vital sea lanes, and the suppression of enemy sea commerce; (3) the support of occupation forces as required; (4) the seizure of minor enemy shore positions capable of reduction by such landing forces as may be comprised within the fleet organization; (5) naval reconnaissance, antisubmarine warfare, and protection of shipping. |
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Functions of the United States Marine Corps. The Marine Corps specific functions are: (1) to provide marine forces with supporting components for service in the seizure or defense of advanced naval bases and for the conduct of limited land operations in connection therewith; (2) to develop, in coordination with the Army and the Air Force, those phases of amphibious operations which pertain to the tactics, technique, and equipment employed by landing forces; (3) to provide detachments and organizations for service on armed vessels of the Navy; (4) to provide security detachments for protection of naval property at naval stations and bases; and (5) to provide, as directed by proper authority, such missions and detachments for service in foreign countries as may be required to support the national policies and interests of the United States. The Marine Corps will provide, as directed by proper authority, such missions and detachments for service in foreign countries as may be required to support the national policies and interests of the United States and will assist the Army and the Air Force in the accomplishment of their missions. |
Functions of the United States Marine Corps. The Marine Corps specific functions are: (1) to provide marine forces with supporting components for service in the seizure or defense of advanced naval bases and for the conduct of limited land operations in connection therewith; (2) to develop, in coordination with the Army and the USAF, those phases of amphibious operations which pertain to the tactics, technique, and equipment employed by landing forces; (3) to provide detachments and organizations for service on armed vessels of the Navy; (4) to provide security detachments for protection of naval property at naval stations and bases; and (5) to provide, as directed by proper authority, such missions and detachments for service in foreign countries as may be required to support the national policies and interests of the United States. The Marine Corps will provide, as directed by proper authority, such missions and detachments for service in foreign countries as may be required to support the national policies and interests of the United States and will assist the Army and the USAF in the accomplishment of their missions. |
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Functions of the United States Coast Guard. The U.S. Coast Guard is a military service and a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces at all times. It is a service in the Department of Homeland Security except when operating as part of the Navy on declaration of war or when the U.S. President directs. Major functions of the Coast Guard are to: (1) enforce or assist in the enforcement of all applicable Federal laws on, under, and over the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; (2) engage in maritime air surveillance or interdiction to enforce or assist in the enforcement of the laws of the United States; (3) administer laws and promulgate and enforce regulations for the promotion of safety of life and property on and under the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, covering all matters not specifically delegated by law to some other executive department; (4) develop, establish, maintain, and operate, with due regard to the requirements of national defense, aids to maritime navigation, icebreaking facilities, and rescue facilities for the promotion of safety on, under, and over the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; (5) pursuant to international agreements, develop, establish, maintain, and operate icebreaking facilities on, under, and over waters other than the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; (6) engage in oceanographic research of the high seas and in waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; and (7) maintain a state of readiness to function as a specialized service in the Navy in time of war, including the fulfillment of Maritime Defense Zone command responsibilities. |
Functions of the United States Coast Guard. The U.S. Coast Guard is a military service and a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces at all times. It is a service in the Department of Homeland Security except when operating as part of the Navy on declaration of war or when the U.S. President directs. Major functions of the Coast Guard are to: (1) enforce or assist in the enforcement of all applicable federal laws on, under, and over the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; (2) engage in maritime air surveillance or interdiction to enforce or assist in the enforcement of the laws of the United States; (3) administer laws and promulgate and enforce regulations for the promotion of safety of life and property on and under the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, covering all matters not specifically delegated by law to some other executive department; (4) develop, establish, maintain, and operate, with due regard to the requirements of national defense, aids to maritime navigation, icebreaking facilities, and rescue facilities for the promotion of safety on, under, and over the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; (5) pursuant to international agreements, develop, establish, maintain, and operate icebreaking facilities on, under, and over waters other than the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; (6) engage in oceanographic research of the high seas and in waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; and (7) maintain a state of readiness to function as a specialized service in the Navy in time of war, including the fulfillment of Maritime Defense Zone command responsibilities. |
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Functions of the United States Air Force. The U.S. Air Force includes all military aviation forces, both combat and service, not otherwise specifically assigned, and is organized, trained, and equipped primarily for prompt and sustained air offensive and defensive operations. The Air Force is responsible for the preparation necessary for the effective prosecution of war except as otherwise assigned, and for the expansion of the peacetime components of the Air Force to meet the needs of war. The Air Force will provide the means for coordination of air defense among all services and will assist the Army and Navy in accomplishment of their missions, including the provision of common services and supplies as determined by proper authority. The specific functions of the Air Force are to organize, train, and equip air forces for: (1) air operations including joint operations; (2) gaining and maintaining general air supremacy; (3) establishing local air superiority where and as required; (4) the strategic force of the United States and strategic air reconnaissance; (5) airlift and support for airborne operations; (6) air support to land forces and naval forces, including support of occupation forces; (7) air transport for the U.S. Armed Forces, except as provided by the Navy; and (8) to develop weapons, tactics, technique, organization and equipment of Air Force combat and service elements, coordinating with the Army and Navy on all aspects of joint concern, including those which pertain to amphibious and airborne operations. |
Functions of the USAF. The USAF includes all military aviation forces, both combat and service, not otherwise specifically assigned, and is organized, trained, and equipped primarily for prompt and sustained air offensive and defensive operations. The USAF is responsible for the preparation necessary for the effective prosecution of war except as otherwise assigned, and for the expansion of the peacetime components of the USAF to meet the needs of war. The USAF will provide the means for coordination of air defense among all services and will assist the Army and Navy in accomplishment of their missions, including the provision of common services and supplies as determined by proper authority. The specific functions of the USAF are to organize, train, and equip air forces for: (1) air operations including joint operations; (2) gaining and maintaining general air supremacy; (3) establishing local air superiority where and as required; (4) the strategic force of the United States and strategic air reconnaissance; (5) airlift and support for airborne operations; (6) air support to land forces and naval forces, including support of occupation forces; (7) air transport for the U.S. Armed Forces, except as provided by the Navy; and (8) to develop weapons, tactics, technique, organization and equipment of USAF combat and service elements, coordinating with the Army and Navy on all aspects of joint concern, including those which pertain to amphibious and airborne operations. |
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Functions of the United States Space Force. The Department of the Air Force is composed of air, space, and cyberspace forces, both combat and support, not otherwise assigned. The Air Force and Space Force are the Nation's principal air and space forces, and are responsible for the preparation of forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war. The Department of the Air Force shall organize, train, equip, and provide air, space, and cyberspace forces for the conduct of prompt and sustained combat operations, military engagement, and security cooperation in defense of the Nation, and to support the other Military Services and joint forces. The Air Force and Space Force will provide the Nation with global vigilance, global reach, and global power in the form of in-place, forward-based, and expeditionary forces possessing the capacity to deter aggression and violence by state, non-state, and individual actors to prevent conflict, and, should deterrence fail, prosecute the full range of military operations in support of U.S. national interests. The Space Force, within the Department of the Air Force, shall develop concepts, doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures and organize, train, equip, and provide forces to perform the following specific functions: (1) Provide freedom of operation for the United States in, from, and to space. (2) Provide prompt and sustained space operations. (3) Protect the interests of the United States in space. (4) Deter aggression in, from, and to space. (5) Conduct space operations. |
Functions of the United States Space Force. The Department of the Air Force is composed of air, space, and cyberspace forces, both combat and support, not otherwise assigned. The USAF and Space Force are the nation's principal air and space forces, and are responsible for the preparation of forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war. The Department of the Air Force shall organize, train, equip, and provide air, space, and cyberspace forces for the conduct of prompt and sustained combat operations, military engagement, and security cooperation in defense of the nation, and to support the other Military Services and joint forces. The USAF and Space Force will provide the nation with global vigilance, global reach, and global power in the form of in-place, forward-based, and expeditionary forces possessing the capacity to deter aggression and violence by state, non-state, and individual actors to prevent conflict, and, should deterrence fail, prosecute the full range of military operations in support of U.S. national interests. The Space Force, within the Department of the Air Force, shall develop concepts, doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures and organize, train, equip, and provide forces to perform the following specific functions: (1) provide freedom of operation for the United States in, from, and to space. (2) provide prompt and sustained space operations. (3) protect the interests of the United States in space. (4) deter aggression in, from, and to space. (5) conduct space operations. |
Section 4C - Military Command Structure
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4.6. Combined Commands Combined commands consist of forces from more than one allied nation. Since combined commands are binational or multinational, their missions and responsibilities (including command responsibilities) must establish, assign, and conform to binational and multinational agreements. Normally, a combined command operates under the terms of a treaty, alliance, or bilateral agreement between or among the nations concerned. Examples of multinational commands are: North American Aerospace Defense Command, Combined Forces Command Korea, and Allied Command Operations. |
4.6. Combined Commands Combined commands consist of forces from more than one allied nation. Since combined commands are binational or multinational, their missions and responsibilities (including command responsibilities) must establish, assign, and conform to binational and multinational agreements. Normally, a combined command operates under the terms of a treaty, alliance, or bilateral agreement between or among the nations concerned. Examples of multinational commands are: North American Aerospace Defense Command, Combined Forces Command Korea, and Allied Command Operations. |
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4.7. Unified Combatant Commands The U.S. President, assisted by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff through the Secretary of Defense, establishes unified combatant commands for the performance of military missions. Unified combatant commands have a broad, continuing mission composed of forces from two or more military departments. All units assigned to a unified combatant command remain under the combatant command authority of the unified combatant command commander and the administrative control authority of the respective service component commander. The combatant commander deploys, directs, controls, and coordinates the action of the command’s forces; conducts joint training exercises; and controls certain support functions. Once assigned to a unified combatant command, a force cannot be transferred except by authority of the Secretary of Defense or under special procedures with approval of the U.S. President. |
4.7. Unified Combatant Commands The U.S. President, assisted by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff through the Secretary of Defense, establishes unified combatant commands for the performance of military missions. Unified combatant commands have a broad, continuing mission composed of forces from two or more military departments. All units assigned to a unified combatant command remain under the combatant command authority of the unified combatant command commander and the administrative control authority of the respective service component commander. The combatant commander deploys, directs, controls, and coordinates the action of the command’s forces; conducts joint training exercises; and controls certain support functions. Once assigned to a unified combatant command, a force cannot be transferred except by authority of the Secretary of Defense or under special procedures with approval of the U.S. President. |
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Unified Command Plan. The Unified Command Plan is an unclassified, for official use only, executive branch document prepared by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that assigns missions; planning, training, and operational responsibilities; and geographic areas of responsibilities to combatant commands. The Unified Command Plan has a significant impact on how combatant commands are organized, trained, and resourced -areas over which Congress has constitutional authority. The plan is reviewed and updated every two years. |
Unified Command Plan. The Unified Command Plan is an unclassified executive branch document prepared by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that assigns missions; planning, training, and operational responsibilities; and geographic areas of responsibilities to combatant commands. The Unified Command Plan has a significant impact on how combatant commands are organized, trained, and resourced -areas over which Congress has constitutional authority. The plan is reviewed and updated every two years. |
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4.8. Combatant Command Organization There are currently 10 combatant commands, as shown in Figure 4.2. They are organized geographically or functionally. Geographic combatant commands operate in clearly delineated areas of responsibility and have a distinctive regional military focus. Geographic unified combatant commands include: U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Central Command, U.S. European Command, U.S. Northern Command, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and U.S. Southern Command. Functional combatant commands operate world-wide across geographic boundaries and provide unique capabilities to geographic combatant commands and the services. Functional unified combatant commands include: U.S. Special Operations Command, U.S. Strategic Command, U.S. Cyber Command, and U.S. Transportation Command. |
4.8. Combatant Command Organization There are currently 11 combatant commands, as shown in Figure 4.2. They are organized geographically or functionally. Geographic combatant commands operate in clearly delineated areas of responsibility and have a distinctive regional military focus. Geographic unified combatant commands include: U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Central Command, U.S. European Command, U.S. Northern Command, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and U.S. Southern Command. Functional combatant commands operate world-wide across geographic boundaries and provide unique capabilities to geographic combatant commands and the services. Functional unified combatant commands include: U.S. Special Operations Command, U.S. Strategic Command, U.S. Cyber Command, U.S. Transportation Command, and U.S. Space Command. |
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United States Africa Command. United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM) headquarters is located at Kelley Barracks, Stuttgart, Germany. USAFRICOM is responsible for military relations with African nations, the African Union, and African regional security organizations. It protects and defends the interests of the United States by strengthening the defense capabilities of African nations and, in cooperation with African governments, conducts military missions that increase security while deterring and defeating a variety of transnational threats. |
United States Africa Command. United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM) headquarters is located at Kelley Barracks, Stuttgart, Germany. USAFRICOM is responsible for military relations with African nations, the African Union, and African regional security organizations. It protects and defends the interests of the United States by strengthening the defense capabilities of African nations and, in cooperation with African governments, conducts military missions that increase security while deterring and defeating a variety of transnational threats. |
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United States Central Command. United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) headquarters is located at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. USCENTCOM is responsible for operations in 20 countries that fall in the "central" area of the globe, to include countries in the Middle East, parts of Northern Africa, and Central Asia. USCENTCOM utilizes national and international partnerships to build cooperation among nations, respond to crisis, deter and defeat threats, and support development that ultimately increases stability in the region. |
United States Central Command. United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) headquarters is located at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. USCENTCOM is responsible for operations in 20 countries that fall in the "central" area of the globe, to include countries in the Middle East, parts of Northern Africa, and Central Asia. USCENTCOM utilizes national and international partnerships to build cooperation among nations, respond to crises, deter and defeat threats, and support development that ultimately increases stability in the region. |
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United States European Command. United States European Command (USEUCOM) headquarters is located at Patch Barracks, Stuttgart, Germany. USEUCOM works closely with countries in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and other partner nations to address the security and defense needs of nations in Europe, parts of the Middle East, and Eurasia. USEUCOM coordinates with these nations to find cooperative solutions in peace and wartime alike, to plan training missions, provide humanitarian assistance, and develop strategies for promoting peace and stability in the region. |
United States European Command. United States European Command (USEUCOM) headquarters is located at Patch Barracks, Stuttgart, Germany. USEUCOM works closely with countries in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and other partner nations to address the security and defense needs of nations in Europe, parts of the Middle East, and Eurasia. USEUCOM coordinates with these nations to find cooperative solutions in peace and wartime alike, to plan training missions, provide humanitarian assistance, and develop strategies for promoting peace and stability in the region. |
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United States Northern Command. United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) headquarters is located at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. USNORTHCOM operates in the area of responsibility encompassing the Continental United States, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, portions of the Caribbean, and surrounding waters. USNORTHCOM is primarily responsible for civil support and homeland security. The Commander of USNORTHCOM is designated as the Commander of U.S. Element, North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) Command and Commander of NORAD Command when a United States officer fulfills that role. |
United States Northern Command. United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) headquarters is located at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. USNORTHCOM operates in the area of responsibility encompassing the Continental United States, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, portions of the Caribbean, and surrounding waters. USNORTHCOM is primarily responsible for civil support and homeland security. The Commander of USNORTHCOM is designated as the Commander of U.S. Element, North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) Command and Commander of NORAD Command when a United States officer fulfills that role. |
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United States Pacific Command. United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) headquarters is located at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii. USINDOPACOM oversees an area of responsibility stretching from the western shores of the United States to the western border of India, and from Antarctica to the Aleutian Islands, encompassing 36 diverse nations. USINDOPACOM and its partners work to promote the development of the region while cooperating to enhance security, deter aggression, respond with force when necessary, provide humanitarian assistance associated with illicit trafficking, and conduct multinational military exercises designed to strengthen partnerships while developing collective capabilities. |
Indo-Pacific Command (vice Pacific Command). United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) headquarters is located at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii. USINDOPACOM oversees an area of responsibility stretching from the western shores of the United States to the western border of India, and from Antarctica to the Aleutian Islands, encompassing 36 diverse nations. USINDOPACOM and its partners work to promote the development of the region while cooperating to enhance security, deter aggression, respond with force, when necessary, provide humanitarian assistance associated with illicit trafficking, and conduct multinational military exercises designed to strengthen partnerships while developing collective capabilities. |
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United States Southern Command. United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) headquarters is located at Miami, Florida. USSOUTHCOM oversees an area of responsibility encompassing 31 nations in Latin America south of Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean Sea. USSOUTHCOM works to increase the security of the United States by engaging its partners to enhance the peacekeeping abilities of the region, promote human rights, deter illegal activities associated with illicit trafficking, and conduct multinational military exercises designed to strengthen partnerships while developing collective capabilities. |
United States Southern Command. United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) headquarters is located at Miami, Florida. USSOUTHCOM oversees an area of responsibility encompassing 31 nations in Latin America south of Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean Sea. USSOUTHCOM works to increase the security of the United States by engaging its partners to enhance the peacekeeping abilities of the region, promote human rights, deter illegal activities associated with illicit trafficking, and conduct multinational military exercises designed to strengthen partnerships while developing collective capabilities. |
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United States Special Operations Command. United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) headquarters is located at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. USSOCOM is responsible for planning and conducting special operations. It offers direct action in the form of short duration strikes and small-scale offensives, special reconnaissance, unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, civil affairs operations, counterterrorism, psychological operations, information operations, counter-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, security force assistance, counterinsurgency operations, and any specific activities directed by the U.S. President or the Secretary of Defense. |
United States Special Operations Command. United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) headquarters is located at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. USSOCOM is responsible for planning and conducting special operations. It offers direct action in the form of short duration strikes and small-scale offensives, special reconnaissance, unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, civil affairs operations, counterterrorism, psychological operations, information operations, counter-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, security force assistance, counterinsurgency operations, and any specific activities directed by the U.S. President or the Secretary of Defense. |
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United States Strategic Command. United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) headquarters is located at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. USSTRATCOM conducts global operations in partnership with other combatant commands, services, and U.S. Government agencies, to deter and detect strategic attacks against the United States. USSTRATCOM is responsible for command of nuclear capabilities, space operations, global strike, joint electromagnetic spectrum operations, and global missile defense. |
United States Strategic Command. United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) headquarters is located at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. USSTRATCOM conducts global operations in partnership with other combatant commands, services, and U.S. Government agencies, to deter and detect strategic attacks against the United States. USSTRATCOM is responsible for command of nuclear capabilities, space operations, global strike, joint electromagnetic spectrum operations, and global missile defense. |
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United States Cyber Command. United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) headquarters is located at Fort Meade, Maryland. USCYBERCOM is responsible for achieving and maintaining cyberspace superiority in alignment with the National Security Strategy and National Defense Strategy as a critical component of advancing national interests. |
United States Cyber Command. United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) headquarters is located at Fort Meade, Maryland. USCYBERCOM is responsible for achieving and maintaining cyberspace superiority in alignment with the National Security Strategy and National Defense Strategy as a critical component of advancing national interests. |
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United States Transportation Command. United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) headquarters is located at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. USTRANSCOM provides the Department of Defense with an aggregate of transportation capabilities and assets. Together with commercial partnerships, USTRANSCOM enables a diverse array of joint mobility. |
United States Transportation Command. United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) headquarters is located at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. USTRANSCOM provides the Department of Defense with an aggregate of transportation capabilities and assets. Together with commercial partnerships, USTRANSCOM enables a diverse array of joint mobility. |
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United States Space Command. United States Space Command conducts operations in, from and to space to deter conflict, and, if necessary, defeat aggression, deliver space combat power for the Joint/Combined Force and defend U.S. vital interests with allies and partners. Ultimately, space combat power is how United States Space Command ensures there is never a day without space. |
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4.9. Air Force Service Component to a Combatant Commander In compliance with Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, and the Unified Command Plan, the Secretary of the Air Force, in accordance with direction of the Secretary of Defense, selects and assigns Air Force Forces to Air Force Service Component Commands, commanded by a Commander, Air Force Forces (COMAFFOR). The COMAFFOR is under the operational branch authority (also called operational control or OPCON) of the combatant commander to whom he or she is assigned, and under the administrative branch authority (also called administrative control or ADCON) of the Secretary of the Air Force. Further details can be found in AFI 38-101, Air Force Organization. |
4.9. USAF Service Component to a Combatant Commander In compliance with Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, and the Unified Command Plan, the Secretary of the Air Force, in accordance with direction of the Secretary of Defense, selects and assigns Air Force Forces to Air Force Service Component Commands, commanded by a Commander, Air Force Forces (COMAFFOR). The COMAFFOR is under the operational branch authority (also called operational control or OPCON) of the combatant commander to whom he or she is assigned, and under the administrative branch authority (also called administrative control or ADCON) of the Secretary of the Air Force. Further details can be found in AFI 38-101, Manpower and Organization, 29 August 2019. |
Section 4E - Air Force Structure
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4.10. Department of the United States Air Force Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, provides specified duties, responsibilities, and legal obligations of the Department of the Air Force. The Air Force's mission is to fly, fight, and win...airpower anytime, anywhere. The Department of the Air Force is comprised of Headquarters Air Force and field units and Headquarters Space Force and field units. It is responsible for preparing the air, space and cyber forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war and military operations short of war for the expansion of the peacetime components of the Air Force and Space Force to meet the needs of war. Headquarters Air Force consists of three major entities: the Secretariat (including the Secretary of the Air Force and the Secretary's principal staff) and the Air Staff (headed by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force), and the Space Staff (headed by the Chief of Space Operations). Field units are the component organizations within the Air Force and Space Force. |
4.14. Department of the United States Air Force Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, provides specified duties, responsibilities, and legal obligations of the Department of the Air Force. The USAF's mission is to fly, fight, and win...airpower anytime, anywhere. The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is comprised of the secretariat (including the Secretary of the Air Force and the Secretary's principal staff), HAF and field units, and Headquarters Space Force and field units. It is responsible for preparing the air, space and cyber forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war and military operations short of war for the expansion of the peacetime components of the USAF and Space Force to meet the needs of war. DAF consists of three major entities: the Secretariat (including the Secretary of the Air Force and the Secretary's principal staff) and the Air Staff (headed by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force), and the Space Staff (headed by the Chief of Space Operations). Field units are the component organizations within the USAF and Space Force. |
There is a discrepancy between the current E-5 study guide (dated 1/26/2022) and this new edition of the E-6 study guide (dated 11/23/2022). The E-5 study guide (paragraph 4.14.) states: "The Department of the Air Force is comprised of HAF and field units and Headquarters Space Force and field units". This E-6 study guide states: "The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is comprised of the secretariat (including the Secretary of the Air Force and the Secretary's principal staff), HAF and field units, and Headquarters Space Force and field units". The latest Air Force Handbook (dated 10/7/2022) states: "The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is comprised of the secretariat (including the Secretary of the Air Force and the Secretary's principal staff), HAF and field units, and Headquarters Space Force and field units". Will go with the AFH and E-6 study guide reference but testers should be aware of this discrepancy.
The term highlighted in pink above should be "HAF" not "DAF".
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Air Force Distinctive Capabilities. To achieve strategic, operational, and tactical objectives unhindered by time, distance, and geography, the Air Force employs six distinctive capabilities: Air and Space Superiority, Global Attack, Rapid Global Mobility, Precision Engagement, Information Superiority, and Agile Combat Support. |
USAF Distinctive Capabilities. To achieve strategic, operational, and tactical objectives unhindered by time, distance, and geography, the USAF employs six distinctive capabilities: Air and Space Superiority, Global Attack, Rapid Global Mobility, Precision Engagement, Information Superiority, and Agile Combat Support. |
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Air Force Primary Functions. In addition to general and specific functions of the military branches outlined in the Key West Agreement, there are also primary functions of the branches. The primary functions of the Air Force include, but are not limited to organizing, training, equipping, and providing forces for prompt and sustained combat operations in the air and space; strategic air and missile warfare; joint amphibious, space, and airborne operations; close air support and air logistic support to the other branches of service; operating air and space lines of communication; support and conduct of psychological operations; and equipment, forces, procedures, and doctrine necessary for effective electronic warfare operations. |
USAF Primary Functions. In addition to general and specific functions of the military branches outlined in the Key West Agreement, there are also primary functions of the branches. The primary functions of the USAF include, but are not limited to organizing, training, equipping, and providing forces for prompt and sustained combat operations in the air and space; strategic air and missile warfare; joint amphibious, space, and airborne operations; close air support and air logistic support to the other branches of service; operating air and space lines of communication; support and conduct of psychological operations; and equipment, forces, procedures, and doctrine necessary for effective electronic warfare operations. |
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As stated in AFI 1-1, Air Force Standards, the Air Force will be a trusted and reliable joint partner with our sister services known for integrity in all activities, including supporting the joint mission first and foremost. We will provide compelling air, space, and cyber capabilities for use by the combatant commanders. We will excel as stewards of all Air Force resources in service to the American people, while providing precise and reliable Global Vigilance, Global Reach, and Global Power for the Nation. |
As stated in AFI 1-1, the USAF will be a trusted and reliable joint partner with our sister services known for integrity in all activities, including supporting the joint mission first and foremost. We will provide compelling air, space, and cyber capabilities for use by the combatant commanders. We will excel as stewards of all USAF resources in service to the American people, while providing precise and reliable Global Vigilance, Global Reach, and Global Power for the nation. |
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Secretary of the Air Force. The Secretary of the Air Force (SecAF) is a civilian appointed by the U.S. President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The SecAF is the head of the Department of the Air Force and is subject to the authority, control, and direction of the Secretary of Defense. Responsibilities of the SecAF include recruiting, organizing, supplying, equipping (including research and development), training, servicing, mobilizing, demobilizing, and administering personnel (morale and welfare programs); maintaining, constructing, outfitting, and repairing military equipment; constructing, maintaining, and repairing buildings, structures, and utilities; and acquiring real property and interests in real property. |
Secretary of the Air Force. The Secretary of the Air Force (SecAF) is a civilian appointed by the U.S. President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The SecAF is the head of the Department of the Air Force and is subject to the authority, control, and direction of the Secretary of Defense. Responsibilities of the SecAF include recruiting, organizing, supplying, equipping (including research and development), training, servicing, mobilizing, demobilizing, and administering personnel (morale and welfare programs); maintaining, constructing, outfitting, and repairing military equipment; constructing, maintaining, and repairing buildings, structures, and utilities; and acquiring real property and interests in real property. |
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4.11. Levels of Command and Responsibility Chief of Staff, United States Air Force. The Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) is an Air Force General Officer appointed for four years by the U.S. President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The CSAF is subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary of the Air Force, and presides over the Air Staff. The CSAF acts as an agent in carrying out recommendations or plans by the Secretary, and exercises supervision consistent with the authority assigned to commanders of unified or specified combatant commands and organizations of the Air Force. As a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the CSAF informs the Secretary of the Air Force regarding military advice rendered by the Joint Chiefs of Staff on matters affecting the Department of the Air Force to the extent that such action does not impair the independence or performance of required duties as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. |
4.15. Levels of Command and Responsibility Chief of Staff of the Air Force. The Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) is a USAF General Officer appointed for four years by the U.S. President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The CSAF is subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary of the Air Force, and presides over the Air Staff. The CSAF acts as an agent in carrying out recommendations or plans by the Secretary, and exercises supervision consistent with the authority assigned to commanders of unified or specified combatant commands and organizations of the USAF. As a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the CSAF informs the Secretary of the Air Force regarding military advice rendered by the Joint Chiefs of Staff on matters affecting the Department of the Air Force to the extent that such action does not impair the independence or performance of required duties as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. |
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Air Staff. The function of the Air Staff is to assist the Secretary of the Air Force in carrying out his or her responsibilities. The Air Staff is composed of the Chief of Staff, Vice Chief of Staff, Deputy Chiefs of Staff, Assistant Chiefs of Staff, Surgeon General of the Air Force, The Judge Advocate General of the Air Force, Chief of the Air Force Reserve, and other Air Force and civilian employees in the Department of the Air Force assigned or detailed to the Air Staff. Responsibilities are organized based on function and identified with office symbol codes. The Air Force office symbol codes are provided here. A1 - Manpower, Personnel, and Services |
Air Staff. The function of the Air Staff is to assist the Secretary of the Air Force in carrying out his or her responsibilities. The Air Staff is composed of the Chief of Staff, Vice Chief of Staff, Deputy Chiefs of Staff, Assistant Chiefs of Staff, Surgeon General of the Air Force, The Judge Advocate General of the Air Force, Chief of the Air Force Reserve, and other USAF and civilian employees in the Department of the Air Force assigned or detailed to the Air Staff. Responsibilities are organized based on function and identified with office symbol codes. The USAF office symbol codes are provided here. A1 - Manpower, Personnel, and Services |
There is a discrepancy between the current E-5 study guide (dated 1/26/2022) and this new edition of the E-6 study guide (dated 11/23/2022). The E-5 study guide (paragraph 4.15.) lists office symbol codes as A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A8, A9, and A10. This edition of the E-6 study guide lists the office symbol codes as A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A8, and A10. The latest and current version of AFH-1 matches this E-6 study guide so will go with the E-6 study guide reference but testers should be aware of this discrepancy.
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Field Operating Agencies. Field Operating Agencies (FOA) are Air Force subdivisions directly subordinate to a Headquarters Air Force functional manager. A FOA performs field activities beyond the scope of major commands. The activities are specialized or associated with an Air Force-wide mission and do not include functions performed in management headquarters (such as Headquarters Air Mobility Command), unless specifically directed by a Department of Defense authority. Two examples of FOAs are the Air Force Personnel Center and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. |
Field Operating Agencies. Field Operating Agencies (FOA) are USAF subdivisions directly subordinate to a HAF functional manager. A FOA performs field activities beyond the scope of major commands. The activities are specialized or associated with a USAF-wide mission and do not include functions performed in management headquarters (such as Headquarters Air Mobility Command), unless specifically directed by a Department of Defense authority. Two examples of FOAs are the Air Force Personnel Center and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. |
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Direct Reporting Units. Direct Reporting Units (DRU) are Air Force subdivisions directly subordinate to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force. A DRU performs a mission that does not fit into any of the major commands, but has many of the same administrative and organizational responsibilities. Two examples of DRUs are the Air Force District of Washington and the U.S. Air Force Academy. |
Direct Reporting Units. Direct Reporting Units (DRU) are USAF subdivisions directly subordinate to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force. A DRU performs a mission that does not fit into any of the major commands, but has many of the same administrative and organizational responsibilities. Two examples of DRUs are the Air Force District of Washington and the USAF Academy. |
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Note: The Air Force District of Washington (AFDW), headquartered at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, is a DRU to Headquarters Air Force, reporting to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force. AFDW was reactivated in 2005 to address three broad objectives: align the Air Force command structure in the National Capital Region (NCR) and abroad; improve Air Force support to the Joint Force Headquarters-NCR (JFHQ-NCR); and designate a single voice for Air Force cross-service issues in the NCR. |
Note: The Air Force District of Washington (AFDW), headquartered at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, is a DRU to HAF, reporting to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force. AFDW was reactivated in 2005 to address three broad objectives: align the USAF command structure in the National Capital Region (NCR) and abroad; improve USAF support to the Joint Force Headquarters-NCR (JFHQ-NCR); and designate a single voice for USAF cross-service issues in the NCR. |
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AFDW serves as the Air Force Service Component for coordination purposes to JFHQ-NCR and the supporting command to the Defense Health Agency National Capital Region Medical Directorate. When the JFHQ-NCR transitions to the Joint Task Force NCR (JTF-NCR), the 320th Air Expeditionary Wing (320 AEW) activates and becomes the Air Force Service Component of JTF-NCR. When activated, the Commander of AFDW is dual-hatted as the Commander, 320 AEW. Air Force Mission Directive 13 delineates missions and clarifies assigned duties applicable to AFDW in both its worldwide Air Force role and its JTF-NCR Air Force Service Component role. |
AFDW serves as the USAF Service Component for coordination purposes to JFHQ-NCR and the supporting command to the Defense Health Agency National Capital Region Medical Directorate. When the JFHQ-NCR transitions to the Joint Task Force NCR (JTF-NCR), the 320th Air Expeditionary Wing (320 AEW) activates and becomes the USAF Service Component of JTF-NCR. When activated, the Commander of AFDW is dual-hatted as the Commander, 320 AEW. Air Force Mission Directive 13 delineates missions and clarifies assigned duties applicable to AFDW in both its worldwide USAF role and its JTF-NCR USAF Service Component role. |
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Major Commands. Major commands (MAJCOM) are organized functionally in the United States and geographically overseas. A MAJCOM, as shown in Figure 4.3., represents a major Air Force subdivision having a specific portion of the Air Force mission. Each MAJCOM is directly subordinate to Headquarters Air Force. MAJCOMs are interrelated and complementary, providing offensive, defensive, and support elements. An operational command consists (in whole or in part) of strategic, tactical, space, or defense forces, or of flying forces that directly support such forces. A support command may provide supplies, weapon systems, support systems, operational support equipment, combat material, maintenance, surface transportation, education and training, special services, and other supported organizations. Within the Air Force MAJCOM structure, there are two specialized types of MAJCOMs: Lead MAJCOMs and Component MAJCOMs. |
Major Commands. Major commands (MAJCOM) are organized functionally in the United States and geographically overseas. A MAJCOM, as shown in Figure 4.3., represents a major USAF subdivision having a specific portion of the USAF mission. Each MAJCOM is directly subordinate to HAF. MAJCOMs are interrelated and complementary, providing offensive, defensive, and support elements. An operational command consists (in whole or in part) of strategic, tactical, space, or defense forces, or of flying forces that directly support such forces. A support command may provide supplies, weapon systems, support systems, operational support equipment, combat material, maintenance, surface transportation, education and training, special services, and other supported organizations. Within the USAF MAJCOM structure, there are two specialized types of MAJCOMs: Lead MAJCOMs and Component MAJCOMs. |
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Lead MAJCOM. A Lead MAJCOM is the type of MAJCOM that consolidates responsibilities for a particular function in a single MAJCOM, supporting the entire Air Force, as applicable. For example, Air Education and Training Command is the Lead MAJCOM for education and training for the Air Force. |
Lead MAJCOM. A Lead MAJCOM is the type of MAJCOM that consolidates responsibilities for a particular function in a single MAJCOM, supporting the entire USAF, as applicable. For example, Air Education and Training Command is the Lead MAJCOM for education and training for the USAF. |
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Component MAJCOM. A Component MAJCOM (C-MAJCOM) is the type of MAJCOM that is the U.S. Air Force Component to a unified combatant command. A C-MAJCOM is commanded by the Commander of Air Force Forces and includes supporting staff, one or more Component Numbered Air Forces (through which it presents its forces to the combatant commander), and all assigned and attached forces. The C-MAJCOM integrates, at the strategic level, component activities across all phases of conflict. An example of a C-MAJCOM is Pacific Air Forces, the U.S. Air Force Component to United States Pacific Command. For additional information on component relationships and roles, refer to AF Doctrine Volume 1, Command, AF Doctrine Annex 3-30, Command and Control, and AFI 38-101, Air Force Organization. Note: A MAJCOM can be both a Lead MAJCOM and a C-MAJCOM. |
Component MAJCOM. A Component MAJCOM (C-MAJCOM) is the type of MAJCOM that is the USAF Component to a unified combatant command. A C-MAJCOM is commanded by the Commander of Air Force Forces and includes supporting staff, one or more Component Numbered Air Forces (through which it presents its forces to the combatant commander), and all assigned and attached forces. The C-MAJCOM integrates, at the strategic level, component activities across all phases of conflict. An example of a C-MAJCOM is Pacific Air Forces, the USAF Component to United States Indo-Pacific Command. For additional information on component relationships and roles, refer to AF Doctrine Volume 1, Command, AF Doctrine Annex 3-30, Command and Control, and AFI 38-101 . Note: A MAJCOM can be both a Lead MAJCOM and a C-MAJCOM. |
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Air Combat Command. Air Combat Command (ACC), was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 June 1992, and is headquartered at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. ACC is the primary provider of air combat forces to America's warfighting commanders. ACC's mission is to support global implementation of the national security strategy by operating fighter, bomber, reconnaissance, battle-management, and electronic-combat aircraft. It also provides command, control, communications, and intelligence systems, and conducts global information operations. ACC organizes, trains, equips, and maintains combat-ready forces for rapid deployment and employment while ensuring strategic air defense forces are ready to meet the challenges of peacetime air sovereignty and wartime air defense. Additionally, ACC develops strategy, doctrine, concepts, tactics, and procedures for airpower employment. The command provides conventional and information warfare forces to all unified commands to ensure air, space, and information superiority for warfighters and national decision-makers. The command can be called upon to assist national agencies with intelligence, surveillance, and crisis response capabilities. ACC also has responsibility for inland search and rescue operations in the 48 contiguous states. Overall, ACC operates more than 1,300 aircraft, 34 wings, 19 bases, and has more than 70 worldwide operating locations with 94,000 Total Force members. |
Air Combat Command. Air Combat Command (ACC), was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 June 1992, and is headquartered at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. ACC is the primary provider of air combat forces to America's warfighting commanders. ACC's mission is to support global implementation of the national security strategy by operating fighter, bomber, reconnaissance, battle-management, and electronic-combat aircraft. It also provides command, control, communications, and intelligence systems, and conducts global information operations. ACC organizes, trains, equips, and maintains combat-ready forces for rapid deployment and employment while ensuring strategic air defense forces are ready to meet the challenges of peacetime air sovereignty and wartime air defense. Additionally, ACC develops strategy, doctrine, concepts, tactics, and procedures for airpower employment. The command provides conventional and information warfare forces to all unified commands to ensure air, space, and information superiority for warfighters and national decision-makers. The command can be called upon to assist national agencies with intelligence, surveillance, and crisis response capabilities. ACC also has responsibility for inland search and rescue operations in the 48 contiguous states. Overall, ACC operates more than 1,300 aircraft, 34 wings, 19 bases, and has more than 70 worldwide operating locations with 94,000 Total Force members. |
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Air Mobility Command. Air Mobility Command (AMC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 June 1992, is headquartered at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, and is the Air Force Component to U.S. Transportation Command. AMC's mission is to provide global air mobility, the right effects, right place, right time. The command plays a crucial role in providing humanitarian support at home and around the world, and provides airlift and aerial refueling for all U.S. Armed Forces. Many special duty and operational support aircraft and stateside aeromedical evacuation missions are assigned to AMC. This rapid, flexible, and responsive force promotes stability in regions by keeping America's capability and character highly visible. Overall, AMC has one Numbered Air Force, 17 wings, two airlift groups, and one air base group. AMC has nearly 133,700 Total Force members who make the command's rapid global mobility operations possible. |
Air Mobility Command. Air Mobility Command (AMC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 June 1992, is headquartered at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, and is the USAF Component to U.S. Transportation Command. AMC’s mission is to provide global air mobility, the right effects, right place, right time. The command plays a crucial role in providing humanitarian support at home and around the world, and provides airlift and aerial refueling for all U.S. Armed Forces. Many special duty and operational support aircraft and stateside aeromedical evacuation missions are assigned to AMC. This rapid, flexible, and responsive force promotes stability in regions by keeping America’s capability and character highly visible. Overall, AMC has one Numbered Air Force, 17 wings, two airlift groups, and one air base group. AMC has nearly 133,700 Total Force members who make the command’s rapid global mobility operations possible. |
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Air Force Space Command. Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 September 1982, is headquartered at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, and is one of two Air Force Components of U.S. Strategic Command. AFSPC's mission is to provide resilient and cost-effective space and cyberspace capabilities for the Joint Force and the Nation. AFSPC organizes, equips, trains, and maintains mission-ready space and cyberspace forces and capabilities for North American Aerospace Defense Command, U.S. Strategic Command, and other combatant commands around the world. AFSPC spacelift operations provide services, facilities, and range safety control for the conduct of Department of Defense, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and commercial launches. Through the command and control of all Department of Defense satellites, satellite operators provide force-multiplying effects through continuous global coverage, low vulnerability, and autonomous operations. Satellites provide essential in-theater secure communications, weather and navigational data for ground, air and fleet operations, and threat warning. Maintaining space superiority is an emerging capability required to protect space assets. New transformational space programs are continuously being researched and developed to enable AFSPC to stay on the leading-edge of technology. Collectively, AFSPC units are the warfighting organizations that establish, operate, maintain, and defend Air Force networks and conduct full-spectrum operations. Made up of cyberspace professionals, a diverse blend of career fields ensure the Air Force and Joint Force ability to conduct operations via cyberspace. Overall, more than 35,000 space and cyberspace professionals are assigned to AFSPC at 134 locations worldwide. More than 4,600 men and women conduct or support 24-hour cyberspace operations for 24th Air Force units. In addition, more than 10,000 Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve personnel directly support the AFSPC cyberspace mission. Following the establishment of the U.S. Space Force as a new Armed Service within the Department of the Air Force, the SECAF designated AFSPC as Headquarters USSF, and re-designated 14th Air Force as the Space Operations Command (SpOC) – one of three Field Commands in the USSF. Effective October 21, 2020, SECAF re-designated the former AFSPC staff organization at Peterson Space Force Base as HQ SpOC. This re-designation aligned the Field Command responsibility for organizing, training and equipping and presenting USSF forces to the staff and commander responsible for executing this mission. |
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Pacific Air Forces. Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) was activated as a MAJCOM on 3 August 1944, is headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, and is the Air Force Component of U.S. Pacific Command. PACAF's mission is to deliver rapid and precise air, space, and cyberspace capabilities to protect and defend the United States, its territories, allies, and partners; provide integrated air and missile warning and defense; promote interoperability throughout the area of responsibility; maintain strategic access and freedom of movement across all domains; and respond across the full spectrum of military contingencies to restore regional security. PACAF's area of responsibility is home to 60 percent of the world's population in 36 nations across 52 percent of the Earth's surface and 16 time zones, with more than 1,000 languages spoken. The unique location of the strategic triangle (Hawaii-Guam-Alaska) gives our Nation persistent presence and options to project airpower from sovereign territory. PACAF's Airmen are postured to deploy at any given time in support of overseas contingency operations, many participating in non-traditional missions, such as convoy and detainee operations. Overall, PACAF has approximately 46,000 military and civilian personnel serving in nine strategic locations and numerous smaller facilities, primarily in Hawaii, Alaska, Japan, Guam, and the Republic of Korea. Approximately 320 fighter and attack aircraft are assigned to the command with approximately 100 additional deployed aircraft rotating on Guam. |
Pacific Air Forces. Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) was activated as a MAJCOM on 3 August 1944, is headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, and is the USAF Component of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. PACAF’s mission is to deliver rapid and precise air, space, and cyberspace capabilities to protect and defend the United States, its territories, allies, and partners; provide integrated air and missile warning and defense; promote interoperability throughout the area of responsibility; maintain strategic access and freedom of movement across all domains; and respond across the full spectrum of military contingencies to restore regional security. PACAF's area of responsibility is home to 60 percent of the world's population in 36 nations across 52 percent of the Earth’s surface and 16 time zones, with more than 1,000 languages spoken. The unique location of the strategic triangle (Hawaii-Guam-Alaska) gives our Nation persistent presence and options to project airpower from sovereign territory. PACAF's Airmen are postured to deploy at any given time in support of overseas contingency operations, many participating in non-traditional missions, such as convoy and detainee operations. Overall, PACAF has approximately 46,000 military and civilian personnel serving in nine strategic locations and numerous smaller facilities, primarily in Hawaii, Alaska, Japan, Guam, and the Republic of Korea. Approximately 320 fighter, tanker, cargo, air battle management, surveillance, rescue, and attack aircraft are assigned to the command with approximately 100 additional deployed aircraft rotating on Guam. |
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United States Air Forces in Europe & Air Forces Africa. United States Air Forces in Europe & Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA) was activated as a MAJCOM on 20 April 2012 and is headquartered at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. USAFE-AFAFRICA is a combined organization that provides two separate combatant commands. USAFE is the Air Force Service Component to U.S. European Command, and AFAFRICA is the Air Force Service Component to U.S. Africa Command. Both USAFE and AFAFRICA, which function together as a blended USAFE-AFAFRICA staff, are commanded by the same General Officer in two different billets. USAFE-AFAFRICA plans, conducts, controls, coordinates, and supports air and space operations in Europe, parts of Asia, and all of Africa with the exception of Egypt, to achieve United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organization objectives. As part of its mission, USAFE-AFAFRICA commands U.S. Air Force units maintaining combat-ready wings based from Great Britain to Turkey. USAFE-AFAFRICA directs air operations in a theater spanning three continents, covering more than 19 million square miles, containing 104 independent states, possessing more than a quarter of the world's population, and producing more than a quarter of the world's gross domestic product. Its role in Europe and Africa has expanded from war-fighting to humanitarian and peacekeeping operations, as well as other non-traditional contingencies throughout its area of responsibility. Overall, USAFE-AFAFRICA consists of one Numbered Air Force, seven main operating bases, and 114 geographically separated locations. More than 35,000 Total Force members are assigned to USAFE-AFAFRICA. Equipment assets include about 217 aircraft and a full complement of conventional weapons. |
United States Air Forces in Europe & Air Forces Africa. United States Air Forces in Europe & Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA) was activated as a MAJCOM on 20 April 2012 and is headquartered at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. USAFE-AFAFRICA is a combined organization that provides two separate combatant commands. USAFE is the USAF Service Component to U.S. European Command, and AFAFRICA is the USAF Service Component to U.S. Africa Command. Both USAFE and AFAFRICA, which function together as a blended USAFE-AFAFRICA staff, are commanded by the same General Officer in two different billets. USAFE-AFAFRICA plans, conducts, controls, coordinates, and supports air and space operations in Europe, parts of Asia, and all of Africa with the exception of Egypt, to achieve United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organization objectives. As part of its mission, USAFE-AFAFRICA commands USAF units maintaining combat-ready wings based from Great Britain to Turkey. USAFE-AFAFRICA directs air operations in a theater spanning three continents, covering more than 19 million square miles, containing 104 independent states, possessing more than a quarter of the world's population, and producing more than a quarter of the world's gross domestic product. Its role in Europe and Africa has expanded from war-fighting to humanitarian and peacekeeping operations, as well as other non-traditional contingencies throughout its area of responsibility. Overall, USAFE-AFAFRICA consists of one Numbered Air Force, seven main operating bases, and 114 geographically separated locations. More than 35,000 Total Force members are assigned to USAFE-AFAFRICA. Equipment assets include about 217 aircraft and a full complement of conventional weapons. |
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Air Education and Training Command. Air Education and Training Command (AETC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 July 1993 and is headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. AETC's mission is to recruit, train, and educate Airmen to deliver airpower for America. AETC develops America's young men and women who have volunteered to serve their country, into Airmen, motivating them to embrace the Air Force culture by teaching (by our example) the core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do. AETC's training mission makes it the first command to touch the lives of nearly every Air Force member. Over the years, more than 25 million students have graduated from AETC. Overall, AETC includes Air Force Recruiting Service, two Numbered Air Forces and the Air University. AETC operates 12 major installations and supports tenant units on numerous bases across the globe. |
Air Education and Training Command. Air Education and Training Command (AETC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 July 1993 and is headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. AETC's mission is to recruit, train, and educate Airmen to deliver airpower for America. AETC develops America's young men and women who have volunteered to serve their country, into Airmen, motivating them to embrace the USAF culture by teaching (by our example) the USAF and USSF core values. AETC's training mission makes it the first command to touch the lives of nearly every USAF member. Over the years, more than 25 million students have graduated from AETC. Overall, AETC includes USAF Recruiting Service, two Numbered Air Forces and the Air University. AETC operates 12 major installations and supports tenant units on numerous bases across the globe. |
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Air Force Materiel Command. Air Force Material Command (AFMC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 July 1992 and is headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. AFMC's mission is to equip the Air Force for world-dominant airpower. AFMC delivers war-winning expeditionary capabilities to the warfighter through development and transition of technology, professional acquisition management, exacting test and evaluation, and world-class sustainment of all Air Force weapon systems. AFMC fulfills its mission of equipping the Air Force with the best weapon systems through the Air Force Research Laboratory and several unique centers which are responsible for the "cradle-to-grave" oversight for aircraft, electronic systems, missiles, and munitions. AFMC employs a highly professional and skilled command work force of some 80,000 Total Force members. |
Air Force Materiel Command. Air Force Material Command (AFMC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 July 1992 and is headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. AFMC's mission is to equip the USAF for world-dominant airpower. AFMC delivers war-winning expeditionary capabilities to the warfighter through development and transition of technology, professional acquisition management, exacting test and evaluation, and world-class sustainment of all USAF weapon systems. AFMC fulfills its mission of equipping the USAF with the best weapon systems through the Air Force Research Laboratory and several unique centers which are responsible for the "cradle-to-grave" oversight for aircraft, electronic systems, missiles, and munitions. AFMC employs a highly professional and skilled command work force of some 80,000 Total Force members. |
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Air Force Special Operations Command. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 22 May 1990, is headquartered at Hurlburt Field, Florida, and is the Air Force Component of U.S. Special Operations Command. AFSOC's mission is to provide our Nation's specialized airpower, capable across the spectrum of conflict...any place, anytime, anywhere. AFSOC provides highly trained, rapidly deployable Airmen for global special operations missions ranging from precision application of firepower to infiltration, exfiltration, resupply, and refueling of operational elements for worldwide deployment and assignment to regional unified commands. The command's core missions include battlefield air operations; agile combat support; aviation foreign internal defense; information operations/military information support operations; precision strike; specialized air mobility; command and control; and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. AFSOC's priorities are to ensure readiness to execute global special operations today, transform our force and fleet to maintain relevance tomorrow, and invest in the resiliency of our force, family, and relationships always. The Air Force Special Operations Air Warfare Center, headquartered at Hurlburt Field, Florida, organizes, trains, educates, and equips forces to conduct special operations missions; leads MAJCOM irregular warfare activities; executes special operations test and evaluation and lessons learned programs; and develops doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures for Air Force special operations missions. AFSOC's special tactics squadrons combine combat controllers, special operations weathermen, pararescuemen, and tactical air control party specialists with other services to form versatile joint special operations teams. AFSOC has more than 19,500 Total Force members assigned, and operates multiple fixed-wing and rotary-wing assets. |
Air Force Special Operations Command. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 22 May 1990, is headquartered at Hurlburt Field, Florida, and is the USAF Component of U.S. Special Operations Command. AFSOC's mission is to provide our Nation's specialized airpower, capable across the spectrum of conflict...any place, anytime, anywhere. AFSOC provides highly trained, rapidly deployable Airmen for global special operations missions ranging from precision application of firepower to infiltration, exfiltration, resupply, and refueling of operational elements for worldwide deployment and assignment to regional unified commands. The command's core missions include battlefield air operations; agile combat support; aviation foreign internal defense; information operations/military information support operations; precision strike; specialized air mobility; command and control; and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. AFSOC's priorities are to ensure readiness to execute global special operations today, transform our force and fleet to maintain relevance tomorrow, and invest in the resiliency of our force, family, and relationships always. The Air Force Special Operations Air Warfare Center, headquartered at Hurlburt Field, Florida, organizes, trains, educates, and equips forces to conduct special operations missions; leads MAJCOM irregular warfare activities; executes special operations test and evaluation and lessons learned programs; and develops doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures for Air Force special operations missions. AFSOC's special tactics squadrons combine combat controllers, special operations weathermen, pararescue men, and tactical air control party specialists with other services to form versatile joint special operations teams. AFSOC has more than 19,500 Total Force members assigned, and operates multiple fixed-wing and rotary-wing assets. |
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Air Force Global Strike Command. Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 7 August 2009, is headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, and is one of two Air Force Service Components of U.S. Strategic Command. AFGSC's mission is to provide strategic deterrence, global strike, and combat support...anytime, anywhere. AFGSC is responsible for the Nation's three intercontinental ballistic missile wings, the Air Force's entire bomber force, the Long Range Strike Bomber Program, and operational and maintenance support to organizations within the nuclear enterprise. AFGSC is the guardian of the most powerful weapons on the planet, and is the force provider for two legs of the nuclear triad. AFGSC's intercontinental ballistic missile force is postured around the clock to answer the U.S. President's call, just as it has been for over 50 years. AFGSC's bomber fleet remains prepared and equipped for nuclear deterrence and conventional global strike. Approximately 31,000 professionals are assigned to two Numbered Air Forces, nine wings, two geographically-separated squadrons, one detachment in the Continental United States, and deployed around the globe. |
Air Force Global Strike Command. Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 7 August 2009, is headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, and is one of two USAF Service Components of U.S. Strategic Command. AFGSC's mission is to provide strategic deterrence, global strike, and combat support...anytime, anywhere. AFGSC is responsible for the nation's three intercontinental ballistic missile wings, the USAF's entire bomber force, the Long Range Strike Bomber Program, and operational and maintenance support to organizations within the nuclear enterprise. AFGSC is the guardian of the most powerful weapons on the planet, and is the force provider for two legs of the nuclear triad. AFGSC's intercontinental ballistic missile force is postured around the clock to answer the U.S. President's call, just as it has been for over 50 years. AFGSC's bomber fleet remains prepared and equipped for nuclear deterrence and conventional global strike. Approximately 31,000 professionals are assigned to two Numbered Air Forces, nine wings, two geographically-separated squadrons, one detachment in the Continental United States, and deployed around the globe. |
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Air Force Reserve Command. Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 17 February 1997, and is headquartered at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. AFRC's mission is to provide combat-ready forces to fly, fight, and win. AFRC provides the U.S. Air Force approximately 20 percent of the Total Force for about 5 percent of the manpower budget. Capabilities include nuclear deterrence operations; air, space, and cyberspace superiority; command and control; global integrated intelligence surveillance reconnaissance; global precision attack; special operations; rapid global mobility; and personnel recovery. AFRC also perform space operations, aircraft flight testing, aerial port operations, civil engineering, security forces, military training, communications, mobility support, transportation, and services missions. The commander of AFRC is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping all Air Force Reserve units. Overall, AFRC is composed of three Numbered Air Forces, a Force Generation Center, the Air Reserve Personnel Center, 35 wings, 10 independent groups, various mission support units, and additional miscellaneous locations and ranges. AFRC has nearly 74,718 Total Force members assigned to accomplish the demands of its diverse mission. |
Air Force Reserve Command. Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 17 February 1997, and is headquartered at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. AFRC's mission is to provide combat-ready forces to fly, fight, and win. AFRC provides the USAF approximately 20 percent of the Total Force for about 5 percent of the manpower budget. Capabilities include nuclear deterrence operations; air, space, and cyberspace superiority; command and control; global integrated intelligence surveillance reconnaissance; global precision attack; special operations; rapid global mobility; and personnel recovery. AFRC also perform space operations, aircraft flight testing, aerial port operations, civil engineering, security forces, military training, communications, mobility support, transportation, and services missions. The commander of AFRC is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping all USAF Reserve units. Overall, AFRC is composed of three Numbered Air Forces, a Force Generation Center, the Air Reserve Personnel Center, 35 wings, 10 independent groups, various mission support units, and additional miscellaneous locations and ranges. AFRC has nearly 74,718 Total Force members assigned to accomplish the demands of its diverse mission. |
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4.12. Subordinate Levels of Command and Responsibility Below MAJCOMs are several structured subordinate levels of command, each with an established purpose and assigned responsibilities to be carried out respectively, as briefly described here. For additional details on Air Force levels of command, refer to AFI 38-101, Air Force Organization. |
4.16. Subordinate Levels of Command and Responsibility Below MAJCOMs are several structured subordinate levels of command, each with an established purpose and assigned responsibilities to be carried out respectively, as briefly described here. For additional details on USAF levels of command, refer to AFI 38-101 . |
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Numbered Air Force. The Numbered Air Force (NAF) is an administrative level of command directly under a MAJCOM. NAFs provide intermediate level operational leadership and supervision. They do not have complete functional staffs. In non-component NAFs, the number of personnel assigned varies but should not exceed 99 manpower authorizations without an approved waiver. A NAF is assigned subordinate units, such as wings, groups, and squadrons. |
Numbered Air Force. The Numbered Air Force (NAF) is an administrative level of command directly under a MAJCOM. NAFs provide intermediate level operational leadership and supervision. They do not have complete functional staffs. In non-component NAFs, the number of personnel assigned varies but should not exceed 99 manpower authorizations without an approved waiver. A NAF is assigned subordinate units, such as wings, groups, and squadrons. |
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Air Force Component Numbered/Named Air Forces. A Component NAF (C-NAF), nicknamed as warfighting headquarters, is structured to perform an operational and warfighting mission in support of a Joint Force Commander. The 10 Air Force C-NAFs are the primary operational-level warfighting component commands. The C-NAF headquarters normally consists of an Air Force Forces staff and an assigned air and space operations center or operations center. They are dedicated to supporting the unified combatant commander and subordinate Joint Force Commanders across the full range of military operations. The C-NAF commander, assigned as the Commander of Air Force Forces to a geographic combatant command, will normally also be designated as the theater Joint Force Air Component Commander. A C-NAF commander may also be designated by the component commander to command a joint task force, as required. |
USAF Component Numbered/Named Air Forces. A Component NAF (C-NAF), nicknamed as warfighting headquarters, is structured to perform an operational and warfighting mission in support of a Joint Force Commander. The 10 USAF C-NAFs are the primary operational-level warfighting component commands. The C-NAF headquarters normally consists of an Air Force Forces staff and an assigned air and space operations center or operations center. They are dedicated to supporting the unified combatant commander and subordinate Joint Force Commanders across the full range of military operations. The C-NAF commander, assigned as the Commander of Air Force Forces to a geographic combatant command, will normally also be designated as the theater Joint Force Air Component Commander. A C-NAF commander may also be designated by the component commander to command a joint task force, as required. |
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Wing. The wing is a level of command below the Numbered Air Force and has a distinct mission with significant scope. A wing is responsible for maintaining the installation and may have several squadrons in more than one dependent group. Wings will have a minimum adjusted population of at least 1,000 (750 for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command), to include manpower authorizations, students, and a percentage of contractor workforces. The different types of wings are operational, air base, or specialized mission. |
Wing. The wing is a level of command below the Numbered Air Force and has a distinct mission with significant scope. A wing is responsible for maintaining the installation and may have several squadrons in more than one dependent group. Wings will have a minimum adjusted population of at least 1,000 (750 for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command), to include manpower authorizations, students, and a percentage of contractor workforces. The different types of wings are operational, air base, or specialized mission. |
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Operational Wing. An operational wing is one that has an operations group and related operational mission activity assigned. When an operational wing performs the primary mission of the base, it usually maintains and operates the base. In addition, an operational wing is capable of self-support in functional areas, such as maintenance and munitions, as needed. When an operational wing is a tenant unit, the host command typically provides base and logistics support. |
Operational Wing. An operational wing is one that has an operations group and related operational mission activity assigned. When an operational wing performs the primary mission of the base, it usually maintains and operates the base. In addition, an operational wing is capable of self-support in functional areas, such as maintenance and munitions, as needed. When an operational wing is a tenant unit, the host command typically provides base and logistics support. |
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Air Base Wing. An air base wing performs a support function rather than an operational mission. This type of wing maintains and operates a base. An air base wing often provides functional support to a MAJCOM headquarters. |
Air Base Wing. An air base wing performs a support function rather than an operational mission. This type of wing maintains and operates a base. An air base wing often provides functional support to a MAJCOM headquarters. |
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Specialized Mission Wing. A specialized mission wing performs a specialized mission and usually does not have aircraft or missiles assigned. Examples include intelligence wings, training wings, and so on. This wing is either a host or a tenant wing, depending on if it maintains and operates the base. |
Specialized Mission Wing. A specialized mission wing performs a specialized mission and usually does not have aircraft or missiles assigned. Examples include intelligence wings, training wings, and so on. This wing is either a host or a tenant wing, depending on if it maintains and operates the base. |
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Group. A group is a level of command below the wing. Like the Numbered Air Force, a group is a tactical echelon with minimal staff support. A group usually has two or more subordinate units. A dependent group is a mission, logistics, support, medical, or large functional unit, such as a civil engineer group. Dependent groups may possess small supporting staff elements that are organized as sections, such as standardization and evaluation or quality control. An independent group has the same functions and responsibilities as a like-type wing, but its scope and size do not warrant wing-level designation. Groups will have a minimum adjusted population of at least 400 (200 for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command), to include manpower authorizations, students, and a percentage of contractor workforces. |
Group. A group is a level of command below the wing. Like the Numbered Air Force, a group is a tactical echelon with minimal staff support. A group usually has two or more subordinate units. A dependent group is a mission, logistics, support, medical, or large functional unit, such as a civil engineer group. Dependent groups may possess small supporting staff elements that are organized as sections, such as standardization and evaluation or quality control. An independent group has the same functions and responsibilities as a like-type wing, but its scope and size do not warrant wing-level designation. Groups will have a minimum adjusted population of at least 400 (200 for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command), to include manpower authorizations, students, and a percentage of contractor workforces. |
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Squadron. A squadron is the basic unit, the nuclei, and the basic building block of the Air Force. The different types of squadrons are either mission units, such as operational flying squadrons, or functional units, such as civil engineering, security forces, or logistics readiness squadrons. Squadrons vary in size according to responsibility, and should be organized and resourced to allow Airmen to focus on the Air Force mission. Squadrons will have a minimum adjusted population of at least 35 and can range up to several hundred personnel, which includes manpower authorizations, students, and a percentage of contractor workforces. |
Squadron. A squadron is the basic unit, the nuclei, and the basic building block of the USAF. The different types of squadrons are either mission units, such as operational flying squadrons, or functional units, such as civil engineering, security forces, or logistics readiness squadrons. Squadrons vary in size according to responsibility, and should be organized and resourced to allow Airmen to focus on the USAF mission. Squadrons will have a minimum adjusted population of at least 35 and can range up to several hundred personnel, which includes manpower authorizations, students, and a percentage of contractor workforces. |
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Flight. If internal subdivision within a squadron is required, numbered/named, alpha, or functional flights may be established. Flights typically consist of 12 to 100 people. A numbered or named flight primarily incorporates smaller elements into an organized unit. The administrative characteristics for a numbered or named flight include, strength reporting, like those of a squadron. Alpha flights are part of a squadron (usually a mission squadron) and are composed of several elements that perform identical missions. Functional flights are usually part of a squadron and are composed of elements that perform specific missions. |
Flight. If internal subdivision within a squadron is required, numbered/named, alpha, or functional flights may be established. Flights typically consist of 12 to 100 people. A numbered or named flight primarily incorporates smaller elements into an organized unit. The administrative characteristics for a numbered or named flight include, strength reporting, like those of a squadron. Alpha flights are part of a squadron (usually a mission squadron) and are composed of several elements that perform identical missions. Functional flights are usually part of a squadron and are composed of elements that perform specific missions. |
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Element. Elements are subdivisions of flights. Typically, flights are broken into three or four evenly distributed elements, when necessary. |
Element. Elements are subdivisions of flights. Typically, flights are broken into three or four evenly distributed elements, when necessary. |
Notes on Air Force Handbook 1, dated 1 Nov 21, Chapter 4, Military Organization and Command
7 Feb 2022. The 2021 Air Force Handbook is not available and may not exist. The E-5 and E-6 Study Guides were released and posted to the official Air Force website (https://www.studyguides.af.mil/) on 1 Feb 2022. This website was updated using the content from the E-6 Study Guide under the assumption that both study guides contained the same content. However, there are differences between the two study guides as noted below. Questions related to these differences have been removed or edited, as necessary, to avoid conflict between the two versions and ensure accuracy.
The phrase, "Air Force", was replaced globally by "USAF" in the E-5 Study Guide.
Paragraph numbering for Section E, Air Force Structure, is different: E-5 Study Guide has 4.14., 4.15, and 4.16. E-6 Study Guide has Section E as 4.10., 4.11., and 4.12.
Differences between the 2021 E-5 and E-6 Study Guides
Section 4A, United States Armed Forces
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2021 E5 Study Guide 4.1. |
2021 E6 Study Guide 4.1. |
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2021 E5 Study Guide 4.2. Department of Defense With over 1.3 million members in the Regular Forces, another 826,000 in the National Guard and Reserve Forces, and 742,000 civilian personnel, the Department of Defense is America's largest government agency. The mission of the Department of Defense is to provide military forces to deter war and protect the security of our country. Headquartered at the Pentagon, the Department of Defense includes the Office of the Secretary of Defense; the Joint Chiefs of Staff; the Joint Staff; and the Departments of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps), and Air Force (including the Space Force). |
2021 E6 Study Guide 4.2. Department of Defense With over 1.3 million members in the Regular Forces, another 826,000 in the National Guard and Reserve Forces, and 742,000 civilian personnel, the Department of Defense is America's largest government agency. The mission of the Department of Defense is to provide military forces to deter war and protect the security of our country. Headquartered at the Pentagon, the Department of Defense includes the Office of the Secretary of Defense; the Joint Chiefs of Staff; the Joint Staff; and the Departments of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps), and Air Force. |
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2021 E5 Study Guide The Armed Forces Policy Council. |
2021 E6 Study Guide The Armed Forces Policy Council. |
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2021 E5 Study Guide Under Secretaries of Defense. |
2021 E6 Study Guide Under Secretaries of Defense. |
Section 4C, Military Command Structure
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2021 E5 Study Guide 4.8. Combatant Command Organization |
2021 E6 Study Guide 4.8. Combatant Command Organization |
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2021 E5 Study Guide 4.9. USAF Service Component to a Combatant Commander In compliance with Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, and the Unified Command Plan, the Secretary of the Air Force, in accordance with direction of the Secretary of Defense, selects and assigns Air Force Forces to Air Force Service Component Commands, commanded by a Commander, Air Force Forces (COMAFFOR). The COMAFFOR is under the operational branch authority (also called operational control or OPCON) of the combatant commander to whom he or she is assigned, and under the administrative branch authority (also called administrative control or ADCON) of the Secretary of the Air Force. Further details can be found in AFI 38-101, Manpower and Organization, 29 August 2019. |
2021 E6 Study Guide 4.9. Air Force Service Component to a Combatant Commander In compliance with Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, and the Unified Command Plan, the Secretary of the Air Force, in accordance with direction of the Secretary of Defense, selects and assigns Air Force Forces to Air Force Service Component Commands, commanded by a Commander, Air Force Forces (COMAFFOR). The COMAFFOR is under the operational branch authority (also called operational control or OPCON) of the combatant commander to whom he or she is assigned, and under the administrative branch authority (also called administrative control or ADCON) of the Secretary of the Air Force. Further details can be found in AFI 38-101, Air Force Organization. |
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2021 E5 Study Guide 4.8. |
2021 E6 Study Guide 4.11. |
Changes since last (2019) edition of the Air Force Handbook:
Para 4.4. Space Force added.
Para 4.5. Functions of the United States Space Force was added.
Para 4.10./4.14. Air Force Mission wording changed (see below). Space Force was added. Department of the Air Force changed from being comprised of two to three major entities.
Para 4.11./4.15. Air Force Space Command. Two paragraphs were added to the description.
Para 4.11./4.15. Air Force Reserve Command. Changed from 14% of the total force to 20%.
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2021 E6 Study Guide Section 4B-Military Departments 4.4. Defending the Nation Since the Nation's birth, our military has had the constitutional duty to ensure national survival, defend lives and property, and promote vital interests at home and abroad. Jointly, senior military leaders underwrite the strategy of defending the homeland and assuring allies, while dissuading, deterring, and defeating enemies. The military departments consist of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps and, in wartime, the Coast Guard), and the Air Force (including the Space Force),as shown in Figure 4.1. |
2019 Air Force Handbook Section 4B-Military Departments 4.4. Defending the Nation Since the Nation's birth, our military has had the constitutional duty to ensure national survival, defend lives and property, and promote vital interests at home and abroad. Jointly, senior military leaders underwrite the strategy of defending the homeland and assuring allies, while dissuading, deterring, and defeating enemies. The military departments consist of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps and, in wartime, the Coast Guard), and the Air Force, as shown in Figure 4.1. |
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2021 E6 Study Guide 4.5. Functions of the United States Space Force. The Department of the Air Force is composed of air, space, and cyberspace forces, both combat and support, not otherwise assigned. The Air Force and Space Force are the Nation's principal air and space forces, and are responsible for thepreparation of forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war. The Department of the Air Force shall organize, train, equip, and provide air, space, and cyberspace forces for the conduct of prompt and sustained combat operations, military engagement, and security cooperation in defense of the Nation, and to support the other Military Services and joint forces. The Air Force and Space Force will provide the Nation with global vigilance, global reach, and global power inthe form of in-place, forward-based, and expeditionary forces possessing the capacity to deter aggression and violence by state, non-state, and individual actors to prevent conflict, and, shoulddeterrence fail, prosecute the full range of military operations in support of U.S. national interests. The Space Force, within the Department of the Air Force, shall develop concepts, doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures and organize, train, equip, and provide forces to perform the following specific functions: (1) Provide freedom of operation for the United States in, from, and to space. (2) Provide prompt and sustained space operations. (3) Protect the interests of the United States in space. (4) Deter aggression in, from, and to space. (5) Conduct space operations. |
2019 Air Force Handbook Does not Exist in 2019 AFH-1 |
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2021 E6 Study Guide 4.10. Department of the United States Air Force Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, provides specified duties, responsibilities, and legal obligations of the Department of the Air Force. The Air Force's mission is to fly, fight, and win...airpower anytime, anywhere. The Department of the Air Force is comprised of Headquarters Air Force and field units and Headquarters Space Force and field units. It is responsible for preparing the air, space and cyber forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war and military operations short of war for the expansion of the peacetime components of the Air Force and Space Force to meet the needs of war. Headquarters Air Force consists of three major entities: the Secretariat (including the Secretary of the Air Force and the Secretary's principal staff) and the Air Staff (headed by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force), and the Space Staff (headed by the Chief of Space Operations). Field units are the component organizations within the Air Force and Space Force. |
2019 Air Force Handbook 4.14. Department of the United States Air Force Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, provides specified duties, responsibilities, and legal obligations of the Department of the Air Force. The Air Force's mission is to fly, fight, and win...in air, space, and cyberspace. The Department of the Air Force is comprised of Headquarters Air Force and field units. It is responsible for preparing the air, space and cyber forces necessary for the effective prosecution of war and military operations short of war for the expansion of the peacetime components of the Air Force to meet the needs of war. Headquarters Air Force consists of two major entities: the Secretariat (including the Secretary of the Air Force and the Secretary's principal staff) and the Air Staff (headed by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force). Field units are the component organizations within the Air Force. |
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2021 E6 Study Guide 4.11. Air Force Space Command. Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 September 1982, is headquartered at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, and is one of two Air Force Components of U.S. Strategic Command. AFSPC's mission is to provide resilient and cost-effective space and cyberspace capabilities for the Joint Force and the Nation. AFSPC organizes, equips, trains, and maintains mission-ready space and cyberspace forces and capabilities for North American Aerospace Defense Command, U.S. Strategic Command, and other combatant commands around the world. AFSPC spacelift operations provide services, facilities, and range safety control for the conduct of Department of Defense, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and commercial launches. Through the command and control of all Department of Defense satellites, satellite operators provide force-multiplying effects through continuous global coverage, low vulnerability, and autonomous operations. Satellites provide essential in-theater secure communications, weather and navigational data for ground, air and fleet operations, and threat warning. Maintaining space superiority is an emerging capability required to protect space assets. New transformational space programs are continuously being researched and developed to enable AFSPC to stay on the leading-edge of technology. Collectively, AFSPC units are the warfighting organizations that establish, operate, maintain, and defend Air Force networks and conduct full-spectrum operations. Made up of cyberspace professionals, a diverse blend of career fields ensure the Air Force and Joint Force ability to conduct operations via cyberspace. Overall, more than 35,000 space and cyberspace professionals are assigned to AFSPC at 134 locations worldwide. More than 4,600 men and women conduct or support 24-hour cyberspace operations for 24th Air Force units. In addition, more than 10,000 Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve personnel directly support the AFSPC cyberspace mission. Following the establishment of the U.S. Space Force as a new Armed Service within the Department of the Air Force, the SECAF designated AFSPC as Headquarters USSF, and re-designated 14th Air Force as the Space Operations Command (SpOC) -one of three Field Commands in the USSF. Effective October 21, 2020, SECAF re-designated the former AFSPC staff organization at Peterson Space Force Base as HQ SpOC. This re-designation aligned the Field Command responsibility for organizing, training and equipping and presenting USSF forces to the staff and commander responsible for executing this mission. |
2019 Air Force Handbook 4.15. Air Force Space Command. Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 1 September 1982, is headquartered at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, and is one of two Air Force Components of U.S. Strategic Command. AFSPC's mission is to provide resilient and cost-effective space and cyberspace capabilities for the Joint Force and the Nation. AFSPC organizes, equips, trains, and maintains mission-ready space and cyberspace forces and capabilities for North American Aerospace Defense Command, U.S. Strategic Command, and other combatant commands around the world. AFSPC spacelift operations provide services, facilities, and range safety control for the conduct of Department of Defense, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and commercial launches. Through the command and control of all Department of Defense satellites, satellite operators provide force-multiplying effects through continuous global coverage, low vulnerability, and autonomous operations. Satellites provide essential in-theater secure communications, weather and navigational data for ground, air and fleet operations, and threat warning. Maintaining space superiority is an emerging capability required to protect space assets. New transformational space programs are continuously being researched and developed to enable AFSPC to stay on the leading-edge of technology. Collectively, AFSPC units are the warfighting organizations that establish, operate, maintain, and defend Air Force networks and conduct full-spectrum operations. Made up of cyberspace professionals, a diverse blend of career fields ensure the Air Force and Joint Force ability to conduct operations via cyberspace. Overall, more than 35,000 space and cyberspace professionals are assigned to AFSPC at 134 locations worldwide. More than 4,600 men and women conduct or support 24-hour cyberspace operations for 24th Air Force units. In addition, more than 10,000 Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve personnel directly support the AFSPC cyberspace mission. |
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2021 E6 Study Guide 4.11. Air Force Reserve Command. Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 17 February 1997, and is headquartered at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. AFRC's mission is to provide combat-ready forces to fly, fight, and win. AFRC provides the U.S. Air Force approximately 20 percent of the Total Force for about 5 percent of the manpower budget. Capabilities include nuclear deterrence operations; air, space, and cyberspace superiority; command and control; global integrated intelligence surveillance reconnaissance; global precision attack; special operations; rapid global mobility; and personnel recovery. AFRC also perform space operations, aircraft flight testing, aerial port operations, civil engineering, security forces, military training, communications, mobility support, transportation, and services missions. The commander of AFRC is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping all Air Force Reserve units. Overall, AFRC is composed of three Numbered Air Forces, a Force Generation Center, the Air Reserve Personnel Center, 35 wings, 10 independent groups, various mission support units, and additional miscellaneous locations and ranges. AFRC has nearly 74,718 Total Force members assigned to accomplish the demands of its diverse mission. |
2019 Air Force Handbook 4.15. Air Force Reserve Command. Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) was activated as a MAJCOM on 17 February 1997, and is headquartered at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. AFRC's mission is to provide combat-ready forces to fly, fight, and win. AFRC provides the U.S. Air Force approximately 14 percent of the Total Force for about 4 percent of the manpower budget. Capabilities include nuclear deterrence operations; air, space, and cyberspace superiority; command and control; global integrated intelligence surveillance reconnaissance; global precision attack; special operations; rapid global mobility; and personnel recovery. AFRC also perform space operations, aircraft flight testing, aerial port operations, civil engineering, security forces, military training, communications, mobility support, transportation, and services missions. The commander of AFRC is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping all Air Force Reserve units. Overall, AFRC is composed of three Numbered Air Forces, a Force Generation Center, the Air Reserve Personnel Center, 37 wings, 8 independent groups, various mission support units, and additional miscellaneous locations and ranges. AFRC has nearly 77,000 Total Force members assigned to accomplish the demands of its diverse mission. |