Force Packaging

Overview What is Force Packaging? Application of the Principles of War Steps to Developing Packages Example of Developing a Force Package In-Class Activity

What is Force Packaging? The integration of different air and space systems, each performing diverse functions of air and space power, to achieve the desired effects of a mission. Air, space, and cyberspace power, producing synergistic effects. A well-coordinated force, exceeding the effects of forces employed individually. Each member of the team, carrying out a specific mission role based on unique system capabilities.

Application of the Principles of War Unity of Command Systems used in a force package should ultimately fall under the direction of one commander. Objective Strategic, operational, and tactical aims should drive what targets, weapons and detached support we employ in a package Offensive Systems employed should be selected with the offensive in mind. Mass Consider the need for more than one package against a single target - or - can we impact multiple targets simultaneously with one package.

Application of the Principles of War Maneuver Consider timing and strategy – when and how the package is employed. Economy of Force Take into account that overwhelming force could lead to lives lost, resources misspent, or loss of public support. Security Consider vulnerability of each element of package. Determine what assets might best achieve element of surprise. Surprise Simplicity Understand that force packages do not necessarily have to be complex to be effective.

Steps to Developing Packages Given target, determine desired effect Choose weapon for effect and compatible platforms to deliver weapons Identify threats and plan to counter them Coordinate detached support Route and Sequence Package(s) Lets look at each of these a little closer:

Steps to Developing Packages Determine Desired Effect Given chosen target and possible aim points, match compatible weapons for target aim point characteristics Hard Targets (Bunker) – Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) Soft Targets (Trucks) – General Purpose (GP) Bombs Area Targets (Infantry) – Cluster Bomb Unit (CBU) Point Targets (Bridge) – LGB

Steps to Developing Packages Choose Weapon Which weapon is needed to cause desired effect? Analysis of target characteristics and effect What aircraft can deliver that munition? What are that aircraft system’s limitations (range, sensors, airspeed) What quantity of weapons will achieve desired effect? Number and type of compatible primary aircraft with compatible standard conventional load (SCL)

Key Terms Standard Conventional Load (SCL) Pre-coordinated weapons load for a specific aircraft platform Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) Assessment of effects achieved based on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance Rendezvous Point Point at which all aircraft in a package meet prior to mission execution.

Key Terms Route a strike package will use to enter enemy territory. Ingress Point Route a strike package will use to enter enemy territory. Egress Point Route a strike package will use to exit enemy territory. Split Point or Scatter Point at which packaged aircraft will separate after they’ve completed a mission

Steps to Developing Packages Identify Threats What are the threats? What counter air systems can make up for primary aircraft limitations? Is the threat a target that another package can attack? How will strike planning (time of day, altitude, etc.) neutralize threat capability?

Steps to Developing Packages Coordinate Detached Support Aerial Refueling Navigation and Positioning Communications Command and Control (C3) Weather Intelligence, Surveillance, & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR)

Steps to Developing Packages Coordinate Detached Support Rendezvous, Split, Ingress, Egress Points Sequencing SEAD—>Counter Air—>Strike—>BDA Air Refueling: Pre-Strike and/or Post-Strike High Demand/Low Density (HD/LD) Can support multiple force packages (if properly planned and coordinated)

Ingress Point Split Point Egress Point Rendezvous Point

Developing Effective Packages: Recap Decide the desired effect for the chosen target Choose weapon that can best achieve the desired effect Determine what system can deliver that weapon Identify system limitations Integrate systems to compensate for those limitations Define the enemy threat Identify systems that can counter that threat Threat may be a target that another package can attack Add necessary support elements Refueling, ISR, etc. Position and sequence all necessary parts Routing: Rendezvous Point, Split Point, Ingress and Egress Routes

In-Class Activity Mission: Rescue a downed pilot Three Groups: Counterair Counterland Combat Search and Rescue Brainstorm and brief on force packages (address desired effect, weapon, threat, and detached support)

Summary What is Force Packaging? Application of the Principles of War Steps to Developing Packages Example of Developing a Force Package In-Class Activity