What's Happening?
The U.S. Air Force is enhancing its Agile Combat Employment (ACE) strategy to address potential challenges posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region. This strategy involves a decentralized approach to force projection and basing, moving away from reliance
on traditional main operating centers. Undersecretary Matthew Lohmeier emphasized the importance of diversifying operational bases and maintaining deterrence through strong regional alliances. The ACE framework was first implemented on a large scale during the summer exercise Resolute Pacific, which provided valuable insights for future operations. Lohmeier's recent tour of key Indo-Pacific locations, including U.S. Air Forces Pacific headquarters and air bases in Japan and Korea, focused on strengthening alliances and integrating capabilities with regional partners.
Why It's Important?
The refinement of the ACE strategy is crucial for maintaining U.S. military readiness and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, a region of significant geopolitical tension. By diversifying its basing strategy, the Air Force aims to enhance its operational flexibility and resilience against potential threats from China. This approach not only strengthens U.S. military posture but also reinforces alliances with key regional partners, which is vital for collective security. The strategy's emphasis on pre-positioning resources and ensuring robust air mobility capabilities addresses logistical challenges in sustaining operations across the vast Indo-Pacific theater. This proactive stance is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the region.
What's Next?
The Air Force will continue to refine its ACE strategy based on lessons learned from recent exercises and operations. Future steps include further integration of capabilities with regional allies and ongoing adjustments to operational planning. The focus will remain on enhancing air mobility and logistics to ensure rapid deployment and sustained operations in crisis situations. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, the Air Force will likely increase collaboration with regional partners to leverage their unique advantages and maintain a strategic edge in the Indo-Pacific.
