Integrating Space Into an Air Expeditionary Force

This research paper will answer the following two questions regarding the integration of space into an Air Expeditionary Force (AEF): 1. What types of space support does an AEF require? 2. Is the AEF the proper organization to be the Joint Task Force's (JTF's) single focal point for space? The first two chapters provide background information on AEFs and space power. These chapters lay the foundation for the analyses contained in the Space Support for AEFs chapter as well as the Command and Control of Space Forces chapter. The analyses show that space-based systems are key enablers for AEFs. Space systems perform critical force enhancement missions of weather, communications, intelligence/surveillance/reconnaissance (ISR), navigation and missile warning. These space-based capabilities, when combined with terrestrial capabilities, provide the AEF with information superiority that translates into battlespace awareness.