Air – Ground Mobility: Discovering Qualities of Vertical Maneuver Necessary to Project the Future Force

This report outlines findings and significant insights gained through the conduct of the Air-Ground Mobility Concept Exploration Program (CEP) conducted in the Aviation Warfighting Analysis Laboratory, at Fort Rucker AL. In constructive simulation using conceptual heavy lift platforms, a Future Combat System (FCS) equipped task force consisting of a Unit of Action (UA) Combined Arms Battalion, artillery, and air defense, moved 450 kilometers over neutral and hostile terrain (including alpine mountains and high desert) to a position of advantage in as little as thirteen hours. Surprise and simultaneity of execution presented multiple, increasingly complex battlespace dilemmas to the Opposing Force (OPFOR) commander’s defense plan and decision cycle. The Unit of Action was able to complete the fight and meet its objectives in just over half of the time when compared to a base case of traditional ground movement with the same force. The operational maneuver represented in the scenario – moving over high, complex terrain at significant distances, to positions of advantage which were not airfield dependent – could not be accomplished by existing aerial platforms. The discoveries reported herein describe the necessary qualities that must reside in an air transport system in order to vertically maneuver the Army Future Combat Systems to operational depth.