The United States Air Force (USAF) is a highly structured organization, with a clear chain of command and a system of major commands that oversee various aspects of its operations. These major commands are responsible for different areas of expertise, and understanding their roles is essential for anyone interested in the USAF. Here are 10 US Air Force Major Commands you should know:
Air Combat Command (ACC)
The Air Combat Command is one of the most prominent major commands in the USAF. It is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping combat air forces. ACC is headquartered at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia and is responsible for a wide range of aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, and reconnaissance planes.
Air Education and Training Command (AETC)
The Air Education and Training Command is responsible for training and educating airmen to prepare them for their careers in the USAF. AETC is headquartered at Randolph Air Force Base in Texas and oversees a range of training programs, including basic military training, technical training, and flying training.
Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC)
The Air Force Global Strike Command is responsible for the USAF’s nuclear deterrence and global strike capabilities. AFGSC is headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana and oversees the country’s fleet of bomber aircraft, including the B-2 Spirit and the B-52 Stratofortress.
Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC)
The Air Force Materiel Command is responsible for the development, acquisition, and sustainment of the USAF’s aircraft, missiles, and other equipment. AFMC is headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio and oversees a range of activities, including research and development, testing, and logistics.
Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC)
The Air Force Reserve Command is responsible for the USAF’s reserve forces. AFRC is headquartered at Robins Air Force Base in Georgia and oversees a range of activities, including training, operations, and maintenance.
Air Force Space Command (AFSPC)
The Air Force Space Command is responsible for the USAF’s space operations. AFSPC is headquartered at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado and oversees a range of activities, including satellite operations, space launch, and space situational awareness.
Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC)
The Air Force Special Operations Command is responsible for the USAF’s special operations forces. AFSOC is headquartered at Hurlburt Field in Florida and oversees a range of activities, including airborne operations, airlift, and close air support.
Air Mobility Command (AMC)
The Air Mobility Command is responsible for the USAF’s airlift and aerial refueling operations. AMC is headquartered at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois and oversees a range of activities, including airlift, air refueling, and aeromedical evacuation.
Air National Guard (ANG)
The Air National Guard is a reserve component of the USAF that provides trained units and personnel to support state and federal authorities. ANG is headquartered at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland and oversees a range of activities, including training, operations, and maintenance.
United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE)
The United States Air Forces in Europe is a major command that oversees USAF operations in Europe, Africa, and parts of the Middle East. USAFE is headquartered at Ramstein Air Base in Germany and is responsible for a range of activities, including training, operations, and logistics.
💡 Note: These major commands are subject to change, and new commands may be established or existing ones reorganized. It's essential to stay up-to-date with the latest information on USAF major commands.
In summary, these 10 major commands play critical roles in the USAF, overseeing various aspects of its operations, from combat and training to space and special operations. Understanding their roles is essential for anyone interested in the USAF and its activities.
What is the main responsibility of the Air Combat Command?
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The main responsibility of the Air Combat Command is to organize, train, and equip combat air forces.
What is the role of the Air Force Materiel Command?
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The Air Force Materiel Command is responsible for the development, acquisition, and sustainment of the USAF’s aircraft, missiles, and other equipment.
What is the main responsibility of the Air Force Space Command?
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The main responsibility of the Air Force Space Command is to oversee the USAF’s space operations, including satellite operations, space launch, and space situational awareness.
Related Terms:
- MAJCOM list
- Air Force MAJCOMs map
- List of MAJCOMs Air Force
- Numbered Air Force
- MAJCOM vs COCOM
