Air & Space Operations Center (AOC)

The Air & Space Operations Center (AOC) program is a vital part of the Air Force's Theater Air Control System. It provides the Combined/Joint Force Air Component Commander with essential tools for planning, executing, and assessing theater-wide air and space operations. The primary goal is to enhance the AOC Weapon System (WS) by transitioning from legacy systems to modernized capabilities. This involves developing and integrating software solutions to improve operational efficiency and ensure interoperability with next-generation weapon systems.

A key objective is to leverage agile methodologies in software development, delivering capabilities that align with evolving Department of Defense directives and technological advancements. This includes utilizing a cloud-based Infrastructure and Platform as a Service (IaaS/PaaS) hosting platform to support mission applications globally. The program aims to improve the speed and automation of the air tasking cycle by integrating operational-level and unit-level sortie generation capabilities, enhancing decision-making processes in dynamic environments.

The AOC WS Modifications focus on maintaining continuous Authority to Operate (ATO) while optimizing operational energy use, particularly aviation fuel, to increase combat capability. The program emphasizes scaling the Kessel Run All-Domain Operations Suite (KRADOS) across the AOC enterprise, ensuring support for major theater war scenarios and integration with joint community planning efforts. These enhancements are designed to provide rapid reaction capabilities and maintain positive control over friendly forces in both peacetime and combat operations.

The acquisition strategy for the AOC program involves modular contracting approaches that incorporate commercial best practices for software development. This strategy supports dynamic resource allocation based on current warfighter needs and involves collaboration with various government agencies, DoD laboratories, academia, and industry partners. Program management is directed by PEO Digital at Hanscom AFB, MA, ensuring comprehensive support in contracting, legal, engineering, testing, and logistics for successful implementation of these objectives.