Who is primarily responsible for planning and controlling joint air operations?

The Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC) holds primary responsibility for planning and controlling joint air operations. The JFACC is a key military leader who is designated to oversee and coordinate all air operations within a joint force mission. This role involves integrating airpower with land and maritime operations to ensure that air strategy and tactics effectively support the overall objectives of the military campaign.

The JFACC is tasked with developing air operation plans, allocating air resources, and ensuring that air operations are conducted in a synchronized manner with the efforts of other components of the joint force. This position is crucial for effective command and control during joint operations, as it facilitates the integration of air power in support of larger strategic goals.

While other leaders like the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, the Secretary of Defense, and the President provide higher-level guidance and policy, the actual operational planning and execution in joint air operations directly fall under the purview of the JFACC. This distinction underscores the operational command structure within military operations, where specific roles and responsibilities are assigned to ensure mission success.