The Air Force Strike Command, also known as Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), is a major command of the United States Air Force. It was established on August 7, 2009, with the mission of providing combat-ready forces to conduct strategic nuclear deterrence and global strike operations in support of the national security strategy. The command is headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana and is led by a four-star general.
History and Organization
The Air Force Strike Command has its roots in the early days of the Cold War, when the Strategic Air Command (SAC) was established in 1946. SAC was responsible for the nation’s strategic nuclear deterrent and played a key role in the development of the Air Force’s nuclear capabilities. Over the years, the command underwent several reorganizations, with the most recent being the establishment of AFGSC in 2009. The command is organized into several wings and squadrons, each with its own unique mission and responsibilities.
Wings and Squadrons
AFGSC is composed of several wings and squadrons, including the 2nd Bomb Wing, the 5th Bomb Wing, and the 7th Bomb Wing. These wings are equipped with a variety of aircraft, including the B-2 Spirit, the B-52 Stratofortress, and the B-1B Lancer. The command also has several squadrons dedicated to missile operations, including the 90th Missile Wing and the 341st Missile Wing. These squadrons operate the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) system, which provides a critical component of the nation’s nuclear deterrent.
| Wing | Location | Aircraft/ Missile |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd Bomb Wing | Barksdale AFB, LA | B-52 Stratofortress |
| 5th Bomb Wing | Minot AFB, ND | B-52 Stratofortress |
| 7th Bomb Wing | Dyess AFB, TX | B-1B Lancer |
| 90th Missile Wing | F.E. Warren AFB, WY | Minuteman III ICBM |
| 341st Missile Wing | Malmstrom AFB, MT | Minuteman III ICBM |
Mission and Responsibilities
The Air Force Strike Command has several key responsibilities, including providing combat-ready forces to conduct strategic nuclear deterrence and global strike operations. The command is also responsible for developing and implementing doctrine, tactics, and procedures for the employment of Air Force nuclear and conventional forces. Additionally, AFGSC provides support to other military commands and agencies, including the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and the U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM).
Nuclear Deterrence
The Air Force Strike Command plays a critical role in maintaining the nation’s nuclear deterrent, with a fleet of bomber aircraft and ICBMs that provide a powerful deterrent against potential adversaries. The command’s nuclear forces are designed to deter aggression and protect the nation’s interests, and are capable of delivering a wide range of nuclear payloads. The command’s nuclear deterrent is based on the principles of strategic deterrence, which involves the use of nuclear weapons to deter an adversary from taking a particular course of action.
The Air Force Strike Command's nuclear forces are also subject to a number of safeguards and controls, designed to prevent unauthorized or accidental use of nuclear weapons. These safeguards include a range of technical and procedural measures, such as permissive action links and two-man rule procedures, which are designed to ensure that nuclear weapons are only used in accordance with the nation's strategic objectives.
What is the mission of the Air Force Strike Command?
+The mission of the Air Force Strike Command is to provide combat-ready forces to conduct strategic nuclear deterrence and global strike operations in support of the national security strategy.
What types of aircraft does the Air Force Strike Command operate?
+The Air Force Strike Command operates a variety of aircraft, including the B-2 Spirit, the B-52 Stratofortress, and the B-1B Lancer.
What is the role of the Air Force Strike Command in maintaining the nation's nuclear deterrent?
+The Air Force Strike Command plays a critical role in maintaining the nation's nuclear deterrent, with a fleet of bomber aircraft and ICBMs that provide a powerful deterrent against potential adversaries.
Future Developments and Challenges
The Air Force Strike Command is facing a number of challenges and developments in the future, including the need to modernize its nuclear forces and to adapt to emerging threats. The command is currently undergoing a major modernization effort, with the introduction of new aircraft and systems such as the B-21 Raider and the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) system. These new systems will provide the command with a range of new capabilities, including stealth and precision strike capabilities.
Modernization Efforts
The Air Force Strike Command’s modernization efforts are focused on developing and fielding new systems and capabilities that will enable the command to maintain its strategic deterrence mission in the face of emerging threats. The command is currently working on a range of modernization programs, including the B-21 Raider program and the GBSD program. These programs are designed to provide the command with a range of new capabilities, including advanced sensors and communication systems.
The Air Force Strike Command's modernization efforts are also focused on developing and fielding new cyber and electronic warfare capabilities, which will enable the command to operate in a range of contested environments. The command is currently working on a range of programs in this area, including the development of new cyber tools and electronic warfare systems.
