Military Support to Civil Authorities Guide
Air Mobility in Support of Contingency Operations
Originally Published April 2007 – Revised March 2008
Developed by ContingencyOperations.Com
Forward and Disclaimer
This guide on Military Support to Civil Authorities (MCSA): Air Mobility in Support of
Contingency Operations is intended for CONCEPTUAL USE ONLY and has been
published without endorsement of the United States government, Department of Homeland
Security, Department of Justice, or Department of Defense (TRANSCOM/Air Mobility
Command). The content is nothing more than an unofficial interpretation in reference to: The
National Response Plan, DoD Directives, and Joint Publications (cited on next page).
Additionally, the preparation of this guide involved very liberal standards of referencing/editing
the referenced material in order to convey information to the reader in the most simplistic,
clear and concise manner possible. No claim is made by the developer of this guide
(ContingencyOperations.com / Clif Cunningham) as intellectual property and it may be freely
reproduced and distributed as required.
Periodically the information in this guide is reviewed and revised. To insure to always have the
most up to date version of this guide, please download it from the source file:
http://www.contingencyoperations.com/downloads/MSCA%20Air%20Mobility.ppt
For Additional Questions and Support Contact:
Clif Cunningham – Founder of www.ContingencyOperations.com
Primary E-Mail: ClifCunningham@Hotmail.com
References
There were several important references used in the compilation of this guide. The subject matter involving
civil the Department of Defense supporting civil authorities is organizationally complex as well as nuanced
from agency to agency. This guide represents a very simplified overview of the fundamental processes
involved with Military Support to Civil Authorities (MSCA) or Defense Support to Civil Authorities (DSCA) so,
for the final word please refer to the following:
The National Response Plan
http://www.dhs.gov/nrp
DoDD 3025.1 M: Manual for Civil Emergencies
http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/302501m.pdf
Joint Publication 3-08: Interagency, Intergovernmental Organization, and Nongovernmental Organization
During Joint Operations (Vol I and II)
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_08v1.pdf
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_08v2.pdf
Joint Publication 3-17: Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Air Mobility Operations
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Joint Publication 3-26: Homeland Security
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_26.pdf
Joint Publication 3-35: Joint Deployment and Redeployment Operations
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_35.pdf
Joint Publication 4-01: Joint Doctrine for the Defense Transportation System
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp4_01print.pdf
Joint Publication 4-01.1: Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Airlift Support to Joint Operations
(Obsolete – but still useful as a general reference source)
http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/docs/jp4_01_1.pdf
Revision Log
**Remember to keep your copy of our MSCA Air Mobility Guide current and download it
from: http://www.contingencyoperations.com/downloads/MSCA%20Air%20Mobility.ppt
11 April 2007 – Since initial release of the ContingencyOperations.com MSCA Air Mobility
Guide, the response has been overwhelming with regards to the value of the information
presented. In order to provide greater visibility to the MSCA Air Mobility process this first
revision is focused on highlighting the sources of information presented on each slide in the
guide. Additionally, hyperlinks have been provided to provide an easy means of information
reference.
05 April 2008 – Not much has changed as far as new information so the guide is for the most
part as up to date as it was when it was originally published. Modified the term TALCE (Tanker
Airlift Control Element) to ALCE (Airlift Control Element) because the term “ALCE” is more
correct historically/operationally speaking as well as makes more sense with the term “ALCF”
(Airlift Control Flight). It should be noted active duty Air Force refers to their ALCE units as
“CRE” (Contingency Response Elements).
The National Response Plan
The National Response Plan establishes a comprehensive all-hazards approach to enhance
the ability of the United States to manage domestic incidents. The plan incorporates best
practices and procedures from incident management disciplines—homeland security,
emergency management, law enforcement, firefighting, public works, public health, responder
and recovery worker health and safety, emergency medical services, and the private sector—
and integrates them into a unified structure. It forms the basis of how the federal government
coordinates with state, local, and tribal governments and the private sector during incidents. It
establishes protocols to help:
- Save lives and protect the health and safety of the public, responders, and recovery workers;
- Ensure security of the homeland;
- Prevent an imminent incident, including acts of terrorism, from occurring;
- Protect and restore critical infrastructure and key resources;
- Conduct law enforcement investigations to resolve the incident, apprehend the perpetrators, and collect
and preserve evidence for prosecution and/or attribution;
- Protect property and mitigate damages and impacts to individuals, communities, and the environment; and
-Facilitate recovery of individuals, families, businesses, governments, and the environment.
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
Federal Emergency Response Process
Primacy for responding to disasters and emergencies rests with State and local
authorities. When a disaster threatens or occurs, local authorities take immediate
steps to warn and evacuate citizens, alleviate suffering, and protect life and
property. If additional help is needed, the Governor may direct execution of the
State's emergency plan, use State Police or National Guardsmen, or commit other
State resources as the situation demands.
When the response and/or recovery requirements are beyond the capabilities of
local and State forces and assistance programs, the Governor may request that the
President declare a "catastrophic disaster,“ "major disaster," or an "emergency." The
Stafford Act (reference (f)) provides the President authority to use Federal
resources to supplement State and local efforts. This authority is activated upon
declaration of a "catastrophic disaster," "major disaster,” or an "emergency," as are
some other Federal disaster relief programs. This assistance supplements the
efforts and resources of State and local governments and voluntary organizations,
and fills the needs that are unfulfilled by Federal disaster assistance
programs not requiring a Presidential declaration.
Excerpt From DoDD 3025.1-M http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/302501m.pdf
The Stafford Act – Circle of Federal Response
Based on NRP, Figure 11 http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
Incident
Occurs
Local First
Responders
Mayor / County
Executive
- Arrive
- Advise
- Activates local EOC
- Requests Aid
Federal
Assistance
- Delivered
Joint Field Office
-Coordinates Federal
Response
MSCA Focus
Area
Governor
- Activates State EOC
- Assess Damage
- Request Presidential
Declaration
DHS Operations
Center
- Evaluates situation
- Informs DHS Secretary
Department of Defense
DHS Secretary
- Supports lead federal agencies
- Activated by POTUS/NRP
- Coordinates with JFO
-Reviews Situation
- Informs POTUS
- Activates NRP
Emergency Response
Teams
National Response
Plan
President of the
United States
- Deploy
*Note: ERT = ESF
- Activates Federal
Emergency Response
-Declares Emergency
- Approves NRP
MSCA Air Mobility Process
Domestic Response
Joint Field
Office
Defense
Coordinating
Element
NORTHCOM
Airlift
Request
Emergency
Support
Functions
Department
Of
Defense
TRANSCOM
Airlift
Tasking
Deployment
Supporting
Agency
ALCE
Airlift
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
Tanker Airlift
Control Center
Air Mobility Command
Air Force Reserve
Air National Guard
Chapter 01
The Joint Field Office - JFO
Joint Field
Office
Defense
Coordinating
Element
Emergency
Support
Functions
This chapter, The Joint Field Office will outline the functions of the Joint Field Office
(JFO) as well as its subcomponents: Principal Federal Official (PFO), Federal
Coordinating Officer (FCO), Defense Coordinating Element (DCE), Defense
Coordinating Officer (DCO), Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officers (EPLO),
Emergency Support Functions (ESF), and a general framework of the JFO Section
organization.
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
Joint Field Office - JFO
The JFO is a multiagency coordination center established locally. It provides a central location
for coordination of Federal, State, local, tribal, nongovernmental, and private-sector
organizations with primary responsibility for threat response and incident
support. The JFO enables the effective and efficient coordination of Federal incident-related
prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery actions.
The JFO fully replaces the DHS/EPR/FEMA Disaster Field Office (DFO), and accommodates all
entities (or their designated representatives) essential to incident management, informationsharing, and the delivery of disaster assistance and other support.
Threat situations or incidents that impact multiple States or localities may require separate
JFOs. In these situations, one of the JFOs may be identified (typically in the most heavily
impacted area) to provide strategic leadership and coordination for the overall incident
management effort.
Organizationally, the JFO is comprised of three distinct areas:
■ JFO
Coordination Group (PFO, FCO)
■ JFO Coordination Staff (DCE, DCO, EPLO)
■ JFO Sections (ESFs -> Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Admin)
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
JFO – Organizational Diagram
JFO
Coordination
Group
Principal Federal Official
Federal
Coordinating
Officer
State
Coordinating
Officer
JFO
Coordination
Staff
Senior
Federal
Officials
Chief of Staff
External Affairs
Safety Coordinator
Liaison Officers
Infrastructure Liaison
(Others as Needed)
Office of the
Inspector General
JFO
Sections
Operations
Planning
Defense Coordinating Element
- Defense Coordinating Officer
- Emergency Preparedness
Liaison Officers
Logistics
Finance / Admin
Section
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com based on information from the National Response Plan
Principal Federal Official - PFO
The PFO is personally designated by the Secretary of Homeland Security to facilitate Federal support to the
established ICS Unified Command structure and to coordinate overall Federal incident management and
assistance activities across the spectrum of prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. The PFO
ensures that incident management efforts are maximized through effective and efficient coordination. The PFO
provides a primary point of contact and situational awareness locally for the Secretary of Homeland Security.
The Secretary is not restricted to DHS officials when selecting a PFO. The specific roles and responsibilities of
the PFO include the following:
■ Representing the Secretary of Homeland Security as the lead Federal official;
■ Ensuring overall coordination of Federal domestic incident management and resource allocation activities;
■ Ensuring the seamless integration of Federal activities in support of and in coordination with State, local,
and tribal requirements;
■ Providing strategic guidance to Federal entities;
■ Facilitating interagency conflict resolution as necessary;
■ Serving as a primary, although not exclusive, point of contact for Federal interface with State, local, and
tribal senior elected/appointed officials, the media, and the private sector;
■ Providing real-time incident information to the Secretary of Homeland Security through the HSOC and the
IIMG, as required;
■ Coordinating response resource needs between multiple incidents as necessary, or as directed by the
Secretary of Homeland Security;
■ Coordinating the overall Federal strategy locally to ensure consistency of Federal interagency
communications to the public;
■ Ensuring that adequate connectivity is maintained between the JFO and the HSOC; local, county, State,
and regional EOCs; nongovernmental EOCs; and relevant elements of the private sector; and
■ Participating in ongoing steady-state preparedness efforts (as appropriate for PFOs designated in a
“pre-incident” mode, when a threat can be ascribed to a particular geographic area).
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
Federal Coordinating Officer - FCO
The FCO manages and coordinates Federal resource support activities related to Stafford Act
disasters and emergencies. The FCO assists the Unified Command and/or the Area Command.
The FCO works closely with the PFO, SFLEO, and other SFOs. In Stafford Act situations where
a PFO has not been assigned, the FCO provides overall coordination for the Federal
components of the JFO and works in partnership with the SCO to determine and satisfy State
and local assistance requirements. Roles and responsibilities of the FCO include the following:
■ Conducting an initial appraisal of the types of assistance most urgently needed;
■ Coordinating the timely delivery of Federal assistance to affected State, local, and tribal
governments and disaster victims;
■ Supporting the PFO, when one is designated;
■ When delegated from the DHS/EPR/FEMA Regional Director, serving as Disaster Recovery
Manager (DRM) to administer the financial aspects of assistance authorized under the Stafford
Act;
■ Working in partnership with the SCO (appointed by the Governor to oversee operations for the
State) and
the Governor’s Authorized Representative (GAR) (empowered by the Governor to execute all
necessary documents for Federal assistance on behalf of the State); and
■ Taking other such action consistent with the authority delegated to him/her as deemed
necessary to assist local citizens and public officials in promptly obtaining assistance to which
they are entitled.
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
Defense Coordinating Officer - DCO
Initial requests for assistance are made to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Executive Secretariat. If
approved by the Secretary of Defense, DOD designates a supported combatant commander for the response.
The supported combatant commander determines the appropriate level of command and control for each
response and usually directs a senior military officer to deploy to the incident site. Under most circumstances,
the senior military officer at the incident site is the DCO. Requests for Defense Support to Civil Authorities
(DSCA) originating at the JFO will be coordinated and processed through the DCO with the exception of
requests for USACE support, National Guard forces operating in State Active Duty or Title 32 status (i.e., not
in Federal service), or, in some circumstances, DOD forces in support of the FBI. In general, the DCO will:
■ Collocate with the PFO/FCO/FRC/SFLEO in the JFO;
■ Coordinate and process applicable requests for assistance from the PFO/FCO/FRC/SFLEO or designated
representative to the Joint Task Force (JTF) or supported combatant commander;
■ Orchestrate the accomplishment of approved mission assignments utilizing available resources;
■ Assign and supervise military liaison officers as appropriate to ESF agencies at the JFO to provide technical
assistance or facilitate timely coordination; and
■ Refer problematic or contentious issues through the appropriate military chain of command to the Office of
the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense.
■ Validates MSCA requirements requested by the FCO, State Coordinating Officer (SCO), and/or the
Emergency Support Function (ESF) representatives.
■ Coordinates and assigns MSCA requirements to the appropriate military organizations.
■ Coordinates and tasks the use of ALL DoD resources provided in response to a specific natural disaster or
civil emergency.
■ Serves as the Department of Defense's single point of contact for DoD resources.
■ Receives requests for assets and passes them to the supported CINC or Component for action if they
cannot be filled at the DCO level.
Compiled and Edited for Clarity from National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer EPLO
DoD Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officers (EPLOs). EPLOs are assigned by
the Military Services and selected DoD Agencies to coordinate the use of DoD
resources in support of civil authorities during Presidentially declared disasters
and emergencies. EPLOs serve with major civil and military headquarters that have
primary responsibility for planning, coordinating, and executing support to civil
authority in disasters. These include FORSCOM, CONUSAs, State Adjutants
General and STARCs, and FEMA National and Regional headquarters (CINCs may
also be included). EPLOs represent unique Service or Agency expertise and
knowledge that contributes to a coordinated and effective DoD response to disasters
and emergencies. When providing assistance in response to a Presidentially
declared disaster or emergency, EPLOs represent the DoD Executive Agent and the
supported CINC having area responsibility. DoD EPLOs are responsible for
coordinating civil requests for the use of DoD resources under the auspices of DoD
Directive 3025.1
Excerpt From DoDD 3025.1-M http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/302501m.pdf
Emergency Support Function - ESF
The ESFs provide the structure for coordinating Federal interagency support for
Incidents of National Significance and are foundation of the JFO Sections. The ESF
structure provides mechanisms for interagency coordination during all phases of
incident management. Some departments and agencies provide resources for
response, support, and program implementation during the early stage of an event,
while others are more prominent in the recovery phase.
The ESF coordinator has ongoing responsibilities throughout the prevention,
preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation phases of incident management.
The role of the ESF coordinator is carried out through a “unified command”
approach as agreed upon collectively by the designated primary agencies.
Responsibilities of the ESF coordinator include:
- Pre-incident planning and coordination;
- Maintaining ongoing contact with ESF primary and support agencies;
- Conducting periodic ESF meetings and conference calls;
- Coordinating efforts with corresponding private-sector organizations; and
- Coordinating ESF activities relating to catastrophic incident planning and critical
infrastructure preparedness as appropriate.
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
ESF Responsibilities – Primary Agencies
A Federal agency designated as an ESF primary agency serves as a Federal
executive agent under the Federal Coordinating Officer (or Federal Resource
Coordinator for non-Stafford Act incidents) to accomplish the ESF mission. When an
ESF is activated in response to an Incident of National Significance, the primary
agency is responsible for:
- Orchestrating Federal support within their functional area for an affected State;
- Providing staff for the operations functions at fixed and field facilities;
- Notifying and requesting assistance from support agencies;
- Managing mission assignments and coordinating with support agencies, as well
as appropriate State agencies;
- Working with appropriate private-sector organizations to maximize use of all
available resources;
- Supporting and keeping other ESFs and organizational elements informed of
ESF operational priorities and activities;
- Executing contracts and procuring goods and services as needed;
-Ensuring financial and property accountability for ESF activities;
- Planning for short-term and long-term incident management and recovery
operations; and
- Maintaining trained personnel to support interagency emergency response and support
teams.
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
ESF Responsibilities – Support Agencies
When an ESF is activated in response to an Incident of National Significance, support
agencies are responsible for:
- Conducting operations, when requested by DHS or the designated ESF primary agency, using their
own authorities, subject-matter experts, capabilities, or resources;
- Participating in planning for short-term and long-term incident management and recovery operations and
the development of supporting operational plans, SOPs, checklists, or other job aids, in concert
with existing first-responder standards;
- Assisting in the conduct of situational assessments;
- Furnishing available personnel, equipment, or other resource support as requested by DHS or the
ESF primary agency;
- Providing input to periodic readiness assessments;
- Participating in training and exercises aimed at continuous improvement of prevention, response, and
recovery capabilities;
- Identifying new equipment or capabilities required to prevent or respond to new or emerging
threats and hazards, or to improve the ability to address existing threats;
- Nominating new technologies to DHS for review and evaluation that have the potential to improve
performance within or across functional areas; and
- Providing information or intelligence regarding their agency’s area of expertise.
When requested, and upon approval of the Secretary of Defense, the Department of Defense
(DOD) provides Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) during domestic incidents.
Accordingly, DOD is considered a support agency to all ESFs. For additional information on
DSCA, refer to the NRP Base Plan.
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
Emergency Support Functions
ESF #1 - Transportation - U.S. Department of Transportation
ESF #2 - Communications - U.S. Department of Homeland Security / National Communications
System
ESF #3 - Public Works and Engineering - U.S. Department of Defense / U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers
ESF #4 - Firefighting - U.S. Department of Agriculture
ESF #5 - Emergency Management - U.S. Department of Homeland Security / Federal Emergency
Management Agency
ESF #6 - Mass Care, Housing, and Human Services - U.S. Department of Homeland Security /
Federal Emergency Management Agency
ESF #7 - Resource Support - U.S. General Services Administration
ESF #8 - Public Health and Medical Services - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
ESF #9 - Urban Search and Rescue - U.S. Department of Homeland Security / Federal Emergency
Management Agency
ESF #10 - Oil and Hazardous Materials Response - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
ESF #11 - Agriculture and Natural Resources - U.S. Department of Agriculture
ESF #12 - Energy - U.S. Department of Energy
ESF #13 - Public Safety and Security - U.S. Department of Justice
ESF #14 - Long-Term Community Recovery - U.S. Department of Homeland Security / Federal
Emergency Management Agency
ESF #15 - External Affairs - U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
JFO Operations Section
The Operations Section coordinates operational support to on-scene incident
management efforts. Branches may be added or deleted as required, depending on
the nature of the incident. The Operations Section also is responsible for
coordination with other Federal command posts that may be established to support
incident management activities.
Law Enforcement Investigative Operations Branch/Joint Operations Center: The JOC Branch is
established by the Senior Federal Law Enforcement Official (SFLEO) (e.g., the FBI SAC during terrorist
incidents) to coordinate and direct law enforcement and criminal investigation activities related to the incident.
The JOC Branch ensures management and coordination of Federal, State, local, and tribal investigative/law
enforcement activities. The emphasis of the JOC is on prevention as well as intelligence collection,
investigation, and prosecution of a criminal act. This emphasis includes managing unique tactical issues
inherent to a crisis situation
(e.g., a hostage situation or terrorist threat).
Response and Recovery Operations Branch: The Response and Recovery Operations Branch coordinates
the request and delivery of Federal assistance and support from various special teams. This branch is
comprised of four groups: Emergency Services, Human Services, Infrastructure Support, and Community
Recovery and Mitigation.
Security Operations Branch: The Security Operations Branch coordinates protection and site security
efforts, and incorporates the functions of the DHS/U.S. Secret Service Multiagency Command Center (MACC)
during National Special Security Events (NSSEs).
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
JFO Planning Section
The Planning Section’s function includes the collection, evaluation, dissemination,
and use of information regarding the threat or incident and the status of Federal
resources. The Planning Section is responsible for preparing and documenting
Federal support actions, and developing strategic, contingency, long-term, and other
plans related to the threat or incident, as needed. The Planning Section provides
current information to the JFO Coordination Group to ensure situational awareness,
determine cascading effects, identify national implications, and determine specific
areas of interest requiring long-term attention. The Planning Section also provides
technical and scientific expertise. The Planning Section is comprised of the following
units:
Situation Unit – ESF #5, 15
Resource Unit – ESF #5, 7,
Documentation – ESF #5
Technical Scientific Unit – ESF #2, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14
Demobilization – ESF #5, 7
Intelligence Unit (if not assigned elsewhere) – ESF #5, 13
Homeland Security Operations Center (HSOC) representative - aids in the
development of reports for the HSOC and Interagency Incident Management Group
(IIMG).
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
JFO - Logistics Section
This section coordinates logistics support that includes control and accountability for
Federal supplies and equipment; resource ordering; delivery of equipment, supplies,
and services to the JFO and other field locations; facility location, setup, space
management, building services, and general facility operations; transportation
coordination and fleet management services; information and technology systems
services; administrative services such as mail management and reproduction; and
customer assistance. The Logistics Section may include:
Service Branch
Medical Unit – ESF #5, 8
Communications Unit – ESF #2, 3, 5
Support Branch
Supply Unit – ESF #5, 7
Facilities Unit – ESF #4, 5, 7
Ground Support Unit – ESF #1, 4, 5, 7
Air Support Unit – ESF #1, 4, 5, 7
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
Finance/Administration Section
(Comptroller)
The Finance/Administration Section is responsible for the financial management,
monitoring, and tracking of all Federal costs relating to the incident and the
functioning of the JFO while adhering to all Federal laws, acts, and regulations. The
position of the Financial/Administration Chief will be exclusively held by a Comptroller
who serves as the Senior Financial Advisor to the team leader (e.g., FCO) and
represents the coordinating agency’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) as prescribed by
the CFO Act of 1990. The Financial Management Support Annex provides guidance
to ensure that funds are provided expeditiously and that financial operations are
conducted in accordance with established law, regulations, and standards.
Time Unit – ESF #5
Procurement Unit – ESF #5, 7
Claims and Compensation Unit – ESF #5, 7, 10
Cost Unit – ESF #5, 7
Compiled From National Response Plan http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/NRP_FullText.pdf
Additional Information
Imminently serious conditions resulting from any civil emergency may require immediate action
to save lives, prevent human suffering, or mitigate property damage. When such conditions
exist and time does not permit approval from higher headquarters, local military
commanders and responsible officials from DOD components and agencies are
authorized by DOD directive and pre-approval by the Secretary of Defense, subject to any
supplemental direction that may be provided by their DOD component, to take necessary
action to respond to requests of civil authorities consistent with the Posse Comitatus Act
(18 U.S.C. § 1385). All such necessary action is referred to as “Immediate Response.”
DoD 3025.1-M
In addition to direct support for incident response, DOD possesses specialized capabilities
employed in support of Federal, State, local, and tribal government agencies, to include their
first responder communities. Included among these specialized capabilities are test and
evaluation facilities and capabilities; education and exercise expertise; explosive detection;
technical escort; medical services; the transfer of applicable technologies, including those
developed through DOD science and technology programs; and the expertise of DOD
personnel. The DOD Homeland Defense Coordination Office established at DHS
Headquarters facilitates interdepartmental cooperation and transfer of these capabilities
to the emergency responder community.
DoD 3025.1-M
Excerpt From DoDD 3025.1-M http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/302501m.pdf
MSCA Air Mobility Process
Domestic Response
Joint Field
Office
Defense
Coordinating
Element
NORTHCOM
Airlift
Request
Emergency
Support
Functions
Department
Of
Defense
TRANSCOM
Airlift
Tasking
Deployment
Supporting
Agency
ALCE
Airlift
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
Tanker Airlift
Control Center
Air Mobility Command
Air Force Reserve
Air National Guard
Chapter 02
The Department of Defense (DoD)
Defense
Coordinating
Element
NORTHCOM
Airlift
Request
Department
Of
Defense
TRANSCOM
Airlift
Tasking
This chapter, The Joint Field Office will outline the functions of the Department of
Defense (DoD – www.Defenselink.mil ) as well as its subcomponents: NORTHCOM
(the geographic supported combat commander of North America –
www.NORTHCOM.mil ) and TRANSCOM (Military Transportation Command –
www.TRANSCOM.mil ) as well as the Airlift Request and Airlift Tasking Processes
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
Airlift Request Factors
A request for airlift support is initiated/validated by the Defense Coordinating Element (DCE)
in support of the Joint Field Office (JFO) should be fulfilled based on:
- Operational necessity
- Availability and suitability of alternate surface transportation modes
- The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff priority system
- The combatant commander’s apportionment.
There are three categories of requests:
Planned - Requests generated to meet airlift requirements, which can be forecast or where
requirements can be anticipated and published in the air tasking order.
Immediate - Requests generated that, due to their time-critical nature, cannot be filled by a
planned mission.
Emergency - Airlift in direct support of operational forces engaged in combat,
Contingency, or peacekeeping operations directed by the national command
authorities or for emergency lifesaving purposes.
Validation is the assessment of the feasibility and value of an airlift
requirement.
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on the principles of operation from:
JP 3-08v1: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_08v1.pdf ,
JP 3-26: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_26.pdf
JP 4-01 (Obsolete): http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp4_01print.pdf
Airlift Validation:
The Process of turning an Airlift Request into an Airlift Tasking
**This is a critical concept to understand**
There is essentially a three step process in transforming an airlift request into an airlift
tasking
1. The DCE initiates/validates the airlift request in support of the FCO mission.
2. The geographic combatant command (NORTHCOM) then validates/prioritizes the
airlift request based on operational requirements in their theatre of responsibility.
- In some cases tactical airlift (C-130) can be directly dispatched in support
of the FCO mission by the geographic combatant command
3. TRANSCOM then validates/prioritizes the airlift request based on its global
operational requirements. TRANSCOM then tasks Air Mobility Command to
support the FCO with airlift based on the requirements set forth in the airlift
request.
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on the principles of operation from:
JP 3-08v1: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_08v1.pdf ,
JP 3-26: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_26.pdf
JP 4-01 (Obsolete): http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp4_01print.pdf
Department of Defence – Civil Agency Support
- Mission Statement The military role in disasters is one of support to a lead
Federal Agency. The Department of Defense's primary function
is to provide relief to the victims of a disaster when tasked by
the lead Federal Agency. Our support to the disaster area is
maximized when the needs of the local community are
identified prioritized in the response plan. This requires
installation, base, and post commanders at all levels to identify
the key local officials who represent the community. Local
officials may include State, county, city, district, and
neighborhood representatives.
DoD 3025.1-M
Excerpt From DoDD 3025.1-M http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/302501m.pdf
USNORTHCOM
http://www.northcom.mil/
USNORTHCOM’s specific mission:
• Conduct operations to deter, prevent, and defeat threats and aggression aimed at the United
States, its territories and interests within the assigned area of responsibility (AOR); and
• As directed by the president or secretary of defense, provide defense support of civil
authorities including consequence management operations.
USNORTHCOM’s civil support mission includes domestic disaster relief operations that occur
during fires, hurricanes, floods and earthquakes. Support also includes counter-drug
operations and managing the consequences of a terrorist event employing a weapon of mass
destruction. The command provides assistance to a Lead Agency when tasked by DoD. Per
the Posse Comitatus Act, military forces can provide civil support, but cannot become directly
involved in law enforcement.
Excerpt From: http://www.northcom.mil/
USTRANSCOM
http://www.transcom.mil/
Mission Statement
Provide Air, Land, and Sea transportation for the Department of Defense, both in time of peace
and time of war.
Transportation Assets
TRANSCOM currently controls a fleet of military assets valued in excess of $52 billion,
including: 87 ships, 1269 aircraft, and 2150 railcars. Additionally, with commercial partners:
1001 aircraft through the CRAF (Civil Reserve Air Fleet) program and 360 vessels through the
VISA (Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement)
Transportation Component Commands
Air Mobility Command (AMC)
Military Sealift Command (MSC)
Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC)
Excerpt From: http://www.transcom.mil/
MSCA Air Mobility Process
Domestic Response
Joint Field
Office
Defense
Coordinating
Element
NORTHCOM
Airlift
Request
Emergency
Support
Functions
Department
Of
Defense
TRANSCOM
Airlift
Tasking
Deployment
Supporting
Agency
ALCE
Airlift
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
Tanker Airlift
Control Center
Air Mobility Command
Air Force Reserve
Air National Guard
Chapter 03
Air Mobility Command (AMC)
ALCE
Airlift
Tanker Airlift
Control Center
Air Mobility Command
Air Force Reserve
Air National Guard
Air Mobility Command (AMC). AMC is a major command of the US Air Force. As
a transportation component of USTRANSCOM, AMC provides common-user air
mobility and aeromedical evacuation transportation services to deploy, employ,
sustain, and redeploy US forces on a global basis. Additionally, AMC is the single port
manager (SPM) of common-user aerial ports of embarkation (APOEs) and/or aerial
ports of debarkation (APODs).
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
The Roles of AMC in Strategic Airlift
Contingency Operations
- Sustain deployed forces
- Deploy forces from the continental U.S. to a theatre or between theatres
(including strategic airdrop)
- Redeploy forces
- Aeromedical Evacuation
- Augment theatre or special operations airlift capability
- Conduct noncombatant evacuation
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on organizational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
JP 4-01.1 (Obsolete): http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/docs/jp4_01_1.pdf
Air Mobility Command’s
Tanker/Airlift Control Center (TACC)
TACC schedules, manages, coordinates, controls, and executes airlift missions
with these forces through a global command and control system.
The TACC is the tasking and execution agency for all activities involving AMCassigned forces.
It is a critical link between the common-user strategic airlift customer and the
operational unit providing that service.
From a central point, the TACC controls all strategic airlift forces worldwide
through decentralized elements of AMC.
The TACC receives operational and mission requirements for strategic airlift
support, then tasks assigned AMC subordinate.
The TACC publishes airlift schedules that vary according to mission type.
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on organizational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
JP 4-01.1 (Obsolete): http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/docs/jp4_01_1.pdf
Airlift Response Factors
Airlift response time is the total time required to fulfill a tasked
transportation requirement. Airlift response time is dependent on numerous
interrelated factors.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Mission priority.
Availability of cargo for loading.
Availability and suitability of airfields, LZ or DZ.
Availability and suitability of personnel to operate the airfields, LZ or DZ.
The nature of the expected threat throughout the mission.
Airspace limitations.
Availability of aircraft, aircrews, loading crews, and MHE.
Weather conditions.
Availability of mission support teams.
Time to coordinate diplomatic clearances and radio frequency
authorizations.
• Access to timely, accurate, and relevant information to coordinate airlift
operations.
Excerpted From: JP 4-01.1 (Obsolete): http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/docs/jp4_01_1.pdf
Airlift Response Factors
Actions that may decrease response time include the following.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Conducting advanced mission planning.
Reserving airspace.
Preparing and coordinating force packages.
Surveying airfields, LZ or DZ for possible use.
Briefing aircrews on mission details and pertinent intelligence information.
Coordinating and receiving space based information.
Augmenting the supported commander’s battle staff with USTRANSCOM
liaisons to expedite planning and coordination.
• Coordinating the mission with the appropriate ground support elements.
• Placing crews, aircraft, and other elements on alert status.
• Rigging loads and positioning them at an onload site.
• Dedicating airlift resources to support a specific operation.
• Air Refueling.
Excerpted From: JP 4-01.1 (Obsolete): http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/docs/jp4_01_1.pdf
Air Mobility Command Expeditionary Forces
TALCEs and MSTs
Support for AMC inter-theater assets operating in forward locations is provided by deployable MSF, including
Airlift Control Elements (TALCE) or Contingency Response Elements (CRE) and Mission Support Teams
(MST). These forces may provide command and control, aerial port, weather, communications,
maintenance, security, transportation, intelligence, and airspace management. Whenever there is a need to
provide en route support to airlift forces and in-place facilities are not available or sufficient, a TALCE or MST
(which, in simple terms, is a scaled down ALCE) is deployed. The ALCE and MST are the primary entry
points for information required by USTRANSCOM to track the location and status of in-transit forces and
cargo.
Ref AMCI 10-202v4: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/pubfiles/amc/10/amci10-202v4/amci10-202v4.pdf
AMLOs
Air Mobility Liaison Officers (AMLOs) are USAF liaison officers specially trained to implement the theater air
control system who provide expertise on the efficient use of air mobility assets as part of the Global Mobility
Task Force. They advise their aligned Army/Marine unit commander (in the case of MSCA the DCO) and
staff on the optimum, safe use of air mobility assets. AMLOs are highly qualified, air mobility officers, with
landing zone and airdrop experience. The AMLO will serve as the direct representative of Air Mobility
Command, the Tanker Airlift Control Center, Air Mobility Division Director and Director of Mobility Forces to
ground units in both peacetime and contingency operations.
Ref AFI 13-106: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/pubfiles/af/13/afi13-106/afi13-106.pdf
Ref AMCI 13-101 (Obsolete): http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/pubfiles/amc/13/amci13-101/amci13-101.pdf
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on the principles of operation from:
JP 3-08v1: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_08v1.pdf ,
JP 3-26: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_26.pdf
JP 4-01 (Obsolete): http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp4_01print.pdf
MSCA Air Mobility Process
Domestic Response
Joint Field
Office
Defense
Coordinating
Element
NORTHCOM
Airlift
Request
Emergency
Support
Functions
Department
Of
Defense
TRANSCOM
Airlift
Tasking
Deployment
Supporting
Agency
ALCE
Airlift
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
Tanker Airlift
Control Center
Air Mobility Command
Air Force Reserve
Air National Guard
Chapter 04
Deployment Planning and Execution
Deployment
Supporting
Agency
ALCE
This is the last chapter of the MSCA Guide and certainly the most important and
complex phase to the user because it will cover the deployment planning and
execution process. A good reference source for this chapter is:
www.ContingencyOperations.com/452ALCF.htm
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
ALCE / User Coordination:
The Key to Successful Air Mobility
If there is one key concept anyone with an air mobility requirement needs to be
aware of it is this:
Effective understanding and use of air mobility doesn’t just happen overnight. If your
organization requires time critical rapid global deployment then air mobility training
MUST be a mission critical priority. The key to your organizations air mobility training
as well as operational air mobility coordination is ALCE.
TALCE provides the user with:
- Formal Equipment Preparation / Load Planning (EP/LP) training
- Joint Airborne / Air Transportability Training (JA/ATT)
- Effective coordination and visibility at all levels of the Air Mobility Process
- DoD secure communication
- Real world air mobility guidance and support
- TRANSCOM / AMC Command and Control Systems
- Provides / Operates Material Handling Equipment (MHE)
- Provides Joint Inspection staff
- Performs airfield operations and flight clearance coordination
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
Embarkation/Debarkation Areas
AERIAL PORTS
An Aerial Port is an air terminal located on an airfield that has been designated for the sustained air movement of personnel and
materiel. An aerial port serves as an authorized aerial port of embarkation (APOE) or aerial port of debarkation (APOD) in the
country in which it is located. An airfield is an area prepared to accommodate the landing and takeoff of aircraft, (including any
buildings, installations, and equipment). Some air mobility aircraft are capable of operating on unimproved surfaces, but for large
operations it is more effective to establish APODs and APOEs on prepared airfields. Prepared airfields are usually pre-existing
facilities, with hard-surface runways, extensive ground operations areas (for taxiing, parking, cargo handling, and other
appropriate uses), and support infrastructure required for sustained operations. These attributes usually make prepared airfields
the best available locations for air mobility main bases and the best available terminal for deployment, redeployment, and largescale employment operations.
LANDING ZONES
A landing zone (LZ) is any specified zone used for the landing of aircraft. LZs are usually less sophisticated than airfields, with
facilities meeting only the minimum requirements of anticipated operations by specific aircraft. They may vary from isolated dirt
strips with no off-runway aircraft-handling areas to hard surface airfields with limited support infrastructure. The main advantage
of LZs is that in many cases it is possible to find or construct them near the operating area of supported forces. A close-by, but
less sophisticated LZ may offer fewer delays in providing airland resupply to forward-deployed troops or assistance to
humanitarian operations. Due to their isolation and possible proximity to threats, operating at these terminals requires significant
planning.
DROP ZONES
A drop zone (DZ) is a specific area upon which airborne troops, equipment, or supplies are airdropped. Although DZs are
normally on relatively open, flat terrain, they may be situated on almost any site (including water) suited in size and shape for the
intact delivery and recovery of the airdropped personnel and materiel. The main advantage of a DZ is the ability to deliver forces
or materiel when an LZ or airfield cannot be constructed either because of expense, time constraints, security risks, political
sensitivities, or terrain. Similar to LZs, their isolation and possible proximity to threats makes security more difficult. Operations at
DZs require significant planning because of limited on-ground support and likely threats to the aircraft and support
personnel.
Excerpted From:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
ALCE and User Airlift Planning
Considerations
Consider these principles when planning for airlift movements:
(1) Minimize movement congestion and vulnerability by reducing the time units and
materiel spend en masse at forward terminals.
(2) Maximize the productivity and survivability of the airlift fleet by minimizing
aircraft ground times at forward locations.
(3) Minimize sortie requirements by repackaging all materiel for air shipment; ensuring that
combat personnel travel with their maximum authorized individual loads of rations,
ammunition, or other personal protective equipment; and splitting units into air-essential and
surface movement echelons (whenever possible).
(4) Ensure that personnel are adequately fed, rested, and protected at en route stops.
(5) Deploy the personnel and communications equipment necessary to track and report on all
air movements.
Excerpted From:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Airlift User Responsibilities
Planning air mobility operations is a complicated process involving a few
basic principles and numerous interdependent considerations. Service
components must facilitate their airlift movement process. This
responsibility includes performing and arranging to:
(1) bring units and materiel to departure terminals
(2) prepare those resources for air movement
(3) provide support services (meals, medical, billeting, and other
appropriate services) to transient and arriving units
(4) receive and transport units and materiel from arrival terminals
(5) prepare all manifests, movement documents, and reports related to the
actual movement
Compiled From:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Departure Airfield Operations
Marshalling Area
Alert
Holding
Area
Marshalling
Area
Frustrated
Cargo
Area
Call
Forward
Area
Ready
Line /
Loading
Ramp
Area
Airlift
The Marshalling Area is the deploying units area of responsibility. Preparation of cargo and
personnel is into “Chalk Loads” is accomplished here.
-Prepare documentation for cargo and personnel (manifests and forms)
-Perform initial inspection of each chalk
-Prioritize the chalk loads based on the operational requirements at the FCO
Example: if the FCO needs Communications then send communications support on the
first chalk
-Release the cargo to the Departure Air Control Group (DACG)
The DACG is a trained team of air mobility coordinators provided by the user to facilitate
the deployment process at the APOE
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on operational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Departure Airfield Operations
Alert Holding Area
Alert
Holding
Area
Marshalling
Area
Frustrated
Cargo
Area
Call
Forward
Area
Ready
Line /
Loading
Ramp
Area
Airlift
The Alert Holding Area is the DACG area of responsibility. The DACG verifies the users
organization, preparation, and paperwork prior to the Joint Inspection (JI) at this point.
-Accepts chalk loads from deploying unit
-Conducts “Pre-JI” Inspection
-Establishes traffic flow pattern
-Establishes communications with deploying units and FCO
-Coordinates with TALCE
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on operational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Departure Airfield Operations
Call Forward Area
Alert
Holding
Area
Marshalling
Area
Frustrated
Cargo
Area
Call
Forward
Area
Ready
Line /
Loading
Ramp
Area
Airlift
The Call Forward Area is the responsibility of both the DACG and TALCE. The JI is conducted
here and minor cargo discrepancies are corrected. If the JI is passed, cargo proceeds to the
Ready Line / Loading Ramp Area. If the JI is failed, cargo is removed to the Frustrated Cargo
Area.
-JI Performed
-Deployment briefings performed
-Paperwork corrected
-Statistical data recorded
-Minor discrepancies corrected
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on operational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Departure Airfield Operations
Frustrated Cargo Area
Alert
Holding
Area
Marshalling
Area
Frustrated
Cargo
Area
Call
Forward
Area
Ready
Line /
Loading
Ramp
Area
Airlift
The Frustrated Cargo Area is essentially a “Penalty Box” for cargo with significant
problems of preparation and/or documentation which may ultimately be resequenced to future chalk loads due to airlift time constraints.
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on operational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Departure Airfield Operations
Ready Line / Loading Ramp Area
Alert
Holding
Area
Marshalling
Area
Frustrated
Cargo
Area
Call
Forward
Area
Ready
Line /
Loading
Ramp
Area
Airlift
The Ready Line / Loading Ramp Area is the ALCE Area of responsibility. At this point the user
cargo and personnel are preparing to be or being loaded on the aircraft.
-Parking plan established
-Loading process performed
-Aircraft serviced
-Performs airfield operations and flight clearance coordination
-Provides / Operates MHE
-Performs the On-Load of user cargo
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on operational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Arrival Airfield Operations
Off-Load Ramp Area
Airlift
Off-Load
Ramp
Area
Holding
Area
Unit
Area
The Off-Load Ramp Area is the ALCE area of responsibility. Cargo is off-loaded
from the aircraft and released to the Arrival Air Control Group (AACG).
-Establishes aircraft parking plan
-Performs airfield operations and flight clearance coordination
-Establishes communications with AACG
-Provides / Operates MHE
-Performs the Off-Load of user cargo
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on operational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Arrival Airfield Operations
Holding Area
Airlift
Off-Load
Ramp
Area
Holding
Area
Unit
Area
The Holding Area is the AACG area of responsibility. Here the AACG will verify
what has been off-loaded and its condition.
-Acceptance inspections performed
-Cargo (Vehicles) serviced
-Establishes communications with receiving unit
-Establishes temporary storage
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on operational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
Arrival Airfield Operations
Unit Area
Airlift
Off-Load
Ramp
Area
Holding
Area
Unit
Area
The Unit Area represents the end of the deployment process and beginning of the
users operational process. Cargo is released to the receiving unit.
Slide Developed by ContingencyOperations.com and is based on operational principles from:
JP 3-17: http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_17ch1.pdf
MSCA Air Mobility Process
Domestic Response
Joint Field
Office
Defense
Coordinating
Element
NORTHCOM
Airlift
Request
Emergency
Support
Functions
Department
Of
Defense
TRANSCOM
Airlift
Tasking
Deployment
Supporting
Agency
ALCE
Airlift
Slide Developed by: ContingencyOperations.com
Tanker Airlift
Control Center
Air Mobility Command
Air Force Reserve
Air National Guard
Conclusion
Thanks for taking the time to review my MSCA Air Mobility Process guide, I hope you find it
insightful. I would sincerely appreciate any feedback you could send me in order to refine the
guide by keeping it up to date and pertinent for the reader. Also, if I can help your organization
out with any air mobility / contingency operations issues please contact me.
For Additional Questions and Support Contact:
Clif Cunningham – Founder of www.ContingencyOperations.com
Primary E-Mail: ClifCunningham@Hotmail.com