The week-long working group aimed to develop mission data file (MDF) production and electronic warfare (EW) support for AFGSC platforms for the coming year. Discussions centred on current MDF production techniques, tactics, procedures, and the need to prioritise EW requirements based on predictable events within the Electromagnetic Operating Environment.
The shift towards a more agile and proactive approach highlights AFGSC’s commitment to maintaining a strategic advantage in future high-end operational environments. “Because of how fast technology advances, things become obsolete really fast,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Chad Nishizuka, 16 EWS commander. “By focusing on near-term events, we can counter this and deliver the most up-to-date capabilities to our customers.”
The working group’s outcomes will guide the 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing’s future resource allocation, research and development priorities, and training programmes. “We can’t afford to be reactive in the realm of electronic warfare,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Larry Fenner, 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing commander. “This working group allows us to anticipate challenges and proactively develop solutions, ensuring our bomber fleet remains the most capable in the world.”
Emphasising education, the group highlighted the need to inform Airmen and participants about the evolving threat landscape and the importance of EW in addressing those threats. “We need to be ultra-focused on what we plan for and how we prepare, and it’s the education piece; getting people to understand what we do,” said Nishizuka. “Our goal is to observe the now, what’s most important, and address that.”
In an era of rapid technological advancement, the AFGSC Mission Data Working Group ensures that efforts in Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations stay ahead of emerging threats. “The work done here directly translates into lives saved and missions accomplished,” said Fenner. “By providing our aircrews with the most advanced EW capabilities, we ensure they can execute their missions safely and effectively, even in the most contested environments.”
