Command Relationships of Cyberspace Forces

Cyberspace is a growth industry for the U.S. Air Force. This study should be used to provoke thoughtful discussions about the future of cyberspace integration into military operations. The paper attempts to explain the complexities associated with defining command relationships in the realm of cyberspace. It explores the difficulties a joint force commander (JFC) or combatant commander (CCDR) confronts when employing cyber capabilities and forces. Command relationships for cyberspace forces need to be developed and documented as part of doctrine immediately to aid in showcasing how the JFC or CCDR can utilize all cyberspace capabilities. This will also aid in promoting the new Air Force Major Command (MAJCOM) organization called Air Force Cyber Command (AFCYBER) to a wider military audience. Parallels are drawn to other command relationships structures, but it is important to note that integration of cyberspace forces will be unique. This paper is limited to a qualitative study of command relationships and doctrine. The proposed command relationship chart is adequate to begin discussions, but omits an important interface piece with national agencies. Also, integration issues within the Air Operations Center are currently not completely addressed. The goal of the author is to add some clarity to the study of cyberspace by proposing a command relationship structure the Air Force should consider for use in its cyberspace doctrine. By incorporating these relationships into doctrine, the cyberspace community will gain legitimacy and a foothold from which to advocate for resources in this growth industry that will affect the way the United States goes to war.