Power Projection: A Comparison of the Aerospace Expeditionary Force and the Carrier Battle Group

"The end of the Cold War and the changing world strategic environment has brought about a dramatic shift in the emphasis of forces throughout the military. In the past decade, the U.S. has continually been sending ad hoc deployments of forces in reaction to Iraqi actions. Several times the Air Force has deployed forces to augment a Carrier Battle Group (CVBG) already in theater or to fill a gap left behind when a CVBG could not remain on station. This study compares the Aerospace Expeditionary Force (AEF), which will be implemented in January 2000, and the CVBG. In particular, it looks at the ability of each to project power throughout the world. The National Security Strategy guides and directs military doctrine. This study shows how joint doctrine, as well as Air Force and Navy doctrine, has developed to provide viable power projection forces. The AEF is a very capable, mobile force which brings flexible firepower to the fight. It is able to respond rapidly and provide combat operations within 72 hours of execution, anywhere in the world. The AEF is limited by logistics, host nation support and overfly rights. The CVBG is also a capable force, providing flexible firepower. It is expeditionary in nature, but is limited by sortie generation, logistics and speed of deployment. The situation will dictate what forces will be necessary to meet our objectives. Commanders of tomorrow will have to analyze the situation and determine the appropriate force required and decide whether to ask "Where is the Carrier?" or say, "Send an AEF!". -- Abstract.