Air Mobility Command

Definition

Air Mobility Command (AMC) is a major command within the United States Air Force. It is responsible for providing global air mobility, including air transport, aerial refueling, and aeromedical evacuation. AMC’s mission is to ensure rapid, flexible, and efficient movement of military personnel and resources in support of national objectives.

Key Takeaways

1. Air Mobility Command (AMC) is a major command within the United States Air Force, playing a critical role in providing global air mobility through airlift and aerial refueling capabilities.
2. The primary mission of AMC is to enable rapid global mobility, moving personnel and materiel rapidly to support U.S. military and humanitarian operations worldwide, as well as assisting in disaster relief efforts.
3. AMC operates a fleet of various aircraft, including cargo planes like the C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, and the C-130 Hercules, as well as aerial refueling tankers like the KC-135 Stratotanker and the KC-10 Extender, ensuring its ability to execute a diverse range of mission requirements.

Importance

Air Mobility Command (AMC) is a crucial component of military operations as it is responsible for providing swift, global air mobility solutions in both peacetime and wartime situations.

This includes the transportation of troops, cargo, and essential equipment, as well as conducting aerial refueling and medical evacuation missions.

As the key enabler of rapid deployment and sustainment of forces, AMC plays a vital role not only in ensuring national and international security but also in carrying out humanitarian aid delivery and disaster relief operations.

By maintaining a responsive and efficient air mobility force, AMC bolsters the military’s capability to project power globally and effectively respond to evolving threats and crises.

Explanation

The Air Mobility Command (AMC) serves as a vital component within military operations and is primarily responsible for providing crucial air transportation and air refueling services. The main purpose of this specialized command is to ensure rapid and efficient delivery of personnel, equipment, and supplies to various locations and situations.

This strategic capability is significant in expediting humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, or the deployment of military forces, supporting the United States Department of Defense in sustainment and projection of national security commitments around the globe. To accomplish these missions in an effective and safe manner, the Air Mobility Command relies on a diverse fleet of airlift and tanker aircraft enabling them to respond to a wide range of logistical and emergency situations.

The AMC also plays a pivotal role in medical evacuation, ensuring that injured servicemen and women receive optimal medical treatment. Its aerial refueling capabilities are essential to extend the range and on-station time of U.S.

and coalition fighter, bomber, and cargo aircraft, further amplifying its usefulness during military and non-military operations. In essence, the Air Mobility Command helps to maintain the United States’ global reach, allowing the nation to rapidly project power and execute missions in a flexible and strategic manner.

Examples of Air Mobility Command

Operation Desert Storm (1991): Air Mobility Command (AMC) played a significant role during this military operation to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait. AMC was responsible for the strategic airlift and aerial refueling operations, enabling the rapid deployment of a massive U.S. and coalition military force. C-5 Galaxy, C-141 Starlifter, and C-130 Hercules aircraft transported troops, equipment, and essential supplies on an unprecedented scale, while the KC-135 Stratotanker and KC-10 Extender aircraft ensured the fighter jets and bombers were always fueled and ready.

Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2014): During this operation against the Taliban and Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan, Air Mobility Command was integral to the success of the campaign. AMC aircraft assisted in the rapid deployment and transportation of troops and supplies from different locations around the world directly to Afghanistan. Aerial refueling kept bomber and fighter aircraft missions functioning, while aeromedical evacuation capabilities facilitated the swift transport of wounded service members to higher levels of medical care.

Operation Unified Response (2010): In response to the catastrophic earthquake that struck Haiti in January 2010, AMC played a vital role in facilitating humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. As part of Operation Unified Response, AMC aircraft delivered thousands of tons of cargo and aid to the country, including food, water, shelter materials, and medical supplies. AMC personnel also assisted with evacuating American citizens and military personnel from Haiti.

Air Mobility Command FAQ

What is Air Mobility Command (AMC)?

Air Mobility Command (AMC) is a major command of the United States Air Force that provides global air mobility. AMC’s main mission is to deliver military personnel, cargo, and equipment around the world through various airlift and air refueling services.

When was Air Mobility Command established?

Air Mobility Command was established on June 1, 1992, following the inactivation of Military Airlift Command (MAC) and Strategic Air Command (SAC). The primary goal was to focus on the mobility aspect of those commands in a single organization.

What aircraft are used by the Air Mobility Command?

What is the role of Air Mobility Command during humanitarian aid missions?

During humanitarian aid missions, Air Mobility Command plays a crucial role by delivering supplies, vehicles, and personnel to affected areas. AMC participates in disaster relief operations, medical evacuations, and supports international organizations’ missions to help those in need.

What are some notable Air Mobility Command operations?

Some notable Air Mobility Command operations include Operation Restore Hope in Somalia, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and various humanitarian relief efforts such as during Hurricane Katrina and the earthquake in Haiti.

Related Military Operation Terms

• Air Mobility Operations
• Airlift and Air Refueling
• Expeditionary Mobility Task Force
• Contingency Response Wing
• Air Force Enroute Support

Sources for More Information

• Air Mobility Command Official Website
• United States Air Force Official Website
• GlobalSecurity.org
• U.S. Department of Defense Official Website