Alert Force Posture

How U.S. Air Force Alert posture has changed since Sept 11th

Thomas E. Pavelchak

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Abstract

The manner in which we protect our nation’s borders from the sky is a very complex task. Some of our lifestyle choices, democratic views and individual freedoms have become the target of extremists and terrorists who do not share our perspective. As the world leader in air superiority and military might, we have a vested interest in protecting our borders, people and assets. Therefore, Air Alert facilities strategically placed on our nation’s borders to deter or prevent an attack from the air are imperative to our safety and security. Unfortunately, as we saw in 2001, these methods were and are not always 100% effective.

I intend to examine the current business practices now versus Pre-Sept 11, 2001. How have we adapted to better protect ourselves and our allies? Were the changes we made due to advances in aviation technology or are they a response to a threat to our nation or a weakness in the system? Also, what changes or improvements were made before that fateful day and why were they ineffective? Additionally, I will research other ways our Alert missions support our well-being, such as search and rescue and navigational escort duties.

I am currently a member of the US Air Force and I have been since March 2001 and I am currently exposed on a daily basis to high demand assets that we use to protect ourselves from harm. All research and references cited will be free of sensitive information with strict regard to Operational and Communicative Security.

The beginning

Since the beginning of time, man has been attempting to protect ourselves, our families and our property from anyone or anything that might bring us harm. From the ancient epic of Gilgamesh who protected his Holy city of Uruk with 20 foot tall reinforced walls, to the current debate of whether or not to construct a wall between the United States and...