United States Army Futures Command
Overview
The United States Army Futures Command (AFC) is a major command of the United States Army, established to modernize the Army's capabilities and ensure its readiness for future conflicts. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, AFC is tasked with developing and integrating innovative technologies, concepts, and organizational structures to maintain the Army's competitive edge. The command plays a pivotal role in transforming the Army's approach to warfare, focusing on modernization priorities such as long-range precision fires, next-generation combat vehicles, and future vertical lift.
History and Establishment
The Army Futures Command was officially established on August 24, 2018, as part of a broader effort to streamline the Army's modernization process. The creation of AFC marked a significant shift in the Army's organizational structure, consolidating various modernization initiatives under a single command. This reorganization aimed to address the challenges posed by emerging threats and rapidly advancing technologies in the 21st century.
Prior to the establishment of AFC, the Army's modernization efforts were dispersed across multiple commands, leading to inefficiencies and delays in the development and deployment of new capabilities. The decision to create a centralized command was driven by the need to accelerate the pace of innovation and ensure the Army's readiness for future conflicts.
Mission and Objectives
The primary mission of the Army Futures Command is to lead the Army's modernization efforts and develop capabilities that enable the force to deter and defeat adversaries in multi-domain operations. AFC's objectives are aligned with the Army's six modernization priorities: long-range precision fires, next-generation combat vehicles, future vertical lift, network, air and missile defense, and soldier lethality.
AFC is responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of modernization initiatives, from concept development and experimentation to prototyping and fielding. The command works closely with industry partners, academia, and other military organizations to leverage cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions.
Organizational Structure
The Army Futures Command is organized into several key components, each with distinct responsibilities and functions. These components include:
Cross-Functional Teams (CFTs)
CFTs are specialized teams within AFC that focus on specific modernization priorities. Each team is tasked with identifying capability gaps, developing solutions, and accelerating the delivery of new technologies to the field. The CFTs operate with a high degree of autonomy and are empowered to make rapid decisions to advance their respective initiatives.
Combat Capabilities Development Command (CCDC)
The CCDC is a subordinate command within AFC that provides scientific and technological expertise to support the Army's modernization efforts. The CCDC conducts research and development activities across a wide range of disciplines, including materials science, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The command collaborates with academic institutions and industry partners to drive innovation and deliver cutting-edge capabilities.
Futures and Concepts Center (FCC)
The FCC is responsible for developing the Army's future operational concepts and ensuring that modernization efforts align with the Army's strategic vision. The center conducts wargaming, experimentation, and analysis to inform the development of new concepts and capabilities. The FCC plays a critical role in shaping the Army's approach to multi-domain operations and ensuring that modernization initiatives are integrated into the broader force structure.
Modernization Priorities
The Army Futures Command focuses on six key modernization priorities, each of which addresses critical capability gaps and emerging threats:
Long-Range Precision Fires
Long-range precision fires are essential for the Army's ability to engage adversaries at extended distances and provide effective fire support to maneuver forces. AFC is working to develop advanced artillery systems, missiles, and other munitions that enhance the Army's long-range strike capabilities. These efforts include the development of hypersonic weapons and extended-range cannon artillery.
Next-Generation Combat Vehicles
The development of next-generation combat vehicles is a top priority for AFC, as the Army seeks to replace its aging fleet of armored vehicles with more advanced and survivable platforms. These vehicles are designed to operate in complex environments and provide enhanced mobility, protection, and lethality. Key initiatives include the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle and the Mobile Protected Firepower program.
Future Vertical Lift
Future vertical lift encompasses a range of initiatives aimed at developing advanced rotorcraft and unmanned aerial systems that provide superior speed, range, and payload capacity. AFC is working to deliver next-generation aviation platforms that enhance the Army's ability to conduct reconnaissance, transport, and attack missions in contested environments.
Network
The network modernization priority focuses on developing resilient and secure communication systems that enable seamless information sharing across the force. AFC is working to enhance the Army's tactical network infrastructure, improve cybersecurity, and integrate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to support decision-making processes.
Air and Missile Defense
Air and missile defense is critical for protecting the Army's forces and infrastructure from aerial and missile threats. AFC is focused on developing integrated air and missile defense systems that provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of threats, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial systems.
Soldier Lethality
Soldier lethality initiatives aim to enhance the individual capabilities of soldiers through advanced training, equipment, and technologies. AFC is working to develop next-generation weapons, protective gear, and situational awareness tools that improve the effectiveness and survivability of soldiers on the battlefield.
Collaboration and Partnerships
The Army Futures Command actively collaborates with a wide range of partners to drive innovation and accelerate the development of new capabilities. These partnerships include:
Industry
AFC works closely with defense contractors and technology companies to leverage commercial innovations and integrate them into military applications. The command engages with industry partners through initiatives such as the Army Applications Laboratory, which facilitates collaboration and rapid prototyping.
Academia
AFC partners with leading academic institutions to conduct research and development activities that support the Army's modernization priorities. These collaborations provide access to cutting-edge research and expertise in areas such as materials science, artificial intelligence, and robotics.
Other Military Organizations
AFC collaborates with other branches of the U.S. military and allied forces to ensure interoperability and integration of new capabilities. These partnerships enable the sharing of best practices and lessons learned, as well as the development of joint solutions to common challenges.
Challenges and Future Outlook
The Army Futures Command faces several challenges as it works to modernize the force and prepare for future conflicts. These challenges include:
Rapid Technological Advancements
The pace of technological change presents both opportunities and challenges for AFC. The command must continuously adapt to emerging technologies and ensure that the Army remains at the forefront of innovation. This requires a flexible and agile approach to modernization, as well as a willingness to experiment and take calculated risks.
Budget Constraints
Budgetary constraints pose a significant challenge to AFC's modernization efforts. The command must prioritize its initiatives and make difficult trade-offs to ensure that resources are allocated effectively. This requires careful planning and coordination with other Army and Department of Defense entities.
Integration and Interoperability
Ensuring that new capabilities are fully integrated into the Army's force structure and interoperable with other military systems is a complex and ongoing challenge. AFC must work closely with other commands and organizations to address these issues and ensure that modernization efforts are aligned with the Army's strategic objectives.