CENTRALIZED CONTROL OR DISTRIBUTED CONTROL – DO WE NEED A PARADIGM SHIFT?

Abstract

The centralized control and decentralized execution is one of the basic tenets of air power command and control, a tenet that has proven its importance and usefulness throughout history. The development of electronic and cyber warfare capabilities, space, surface-to-air missile systems and A2/AD (anti-access/area interdiction) strategies create contested operational environments that limit traditional concepts of command and control (C2) in the effective employment of air forces. The new US Air Force Doctrine, “Air Force Doctrine Publication 1 – The Air Force”, formally establishes mission command as the philosophy for command and control (C2) airpower and centralized command, distributed control, and decentralized execution the way to be implemented. Conducting air operations in a contested operational environment requires an approach to command-and-control principles that responds to threats to communications and attacks on air operations centres. Distributed control exploits the flexibility and versatility of air power to ensure that it remains responsive, survivable, and sustainable, especially in a contested environment. The benefits associated with distributed control (as well as decentralized execution) are maximized when the commander's intent is clearly communicated and guides subordinate actions, in order to allow continuity of operations. Commanders will continue to face the challenge of harmonising centralization, distribution and decentralization, a struggle that will be situation dependent and that requires an approach within the guidance of the higher echelon.