RAAF - The Royal Australian Air Force
Department of Defence Media Mail List
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CPA 012/08 Thursday, 24 January 2008
FIRST AIR COMBAT OFFICER COURSE BEGINS
Air Force has taken another step toward preparing for the air battlespace of the future.
Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd, today reviewed a parade at RAAF Base East Sale which recognised the beginning of the first Air Combat Officer (ACO) course and the transition from the School of Air Navigation to the School of Air Warfare.
“These changes are part of Air Force’s efforts to prepare for the challenges of the future,” Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd said.
“In the next decade, almost every Air Force platform will be replaced. Air Force is moving to a fully networked force.
“As a result, Air Force is re-designing its workforce and training programs, so personnel can maximise the benefits of the new capabilities and technologies,” he said.
The School of Air Warfare (SAW) is commencing the delivery of a brand new curriculum designed to graduate Air Combat Officers (ACOs), rather than Navigators.
SAW staff have put in considerable effort to ensure the new curriculum is ready for the first ACO course, which will run for 26 weeks of common training, followed by 14 weeks of specialist training at RAAF Base East Sale.
The new Air Combat Officers will play a critical role in the future air battle space.
ACOs will direct the air mission. They will command airborne missions and are responsible for directing weapons and other weapon systems onto targets.
They will be tactical experts and will be groomed throughout their career to lead entire air battles and become experts in air campaign planning.
To achieve this they must be specialists in:
* war fighting tactics,
* weapon delivery,
* coalition force communications, and
* force multiplier opportunities.
Imagery will be available at the following link: www.defence.gov.au/media/download/
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