As the U.S. military transitions to the ACE (Agile Combat Employment) concept, first introduced in 2018 by the U.S. Air Force, it aims to enhance operational flexibility, speed, and survivability in contested environments by decentralizing command and control and enabling rapid, flexible force deployment. ACE relies on streamlined communications to ensure coordination across dispersed and rapidly shifting units. However, the 122d Fighter Wing--and other ANG units--currently lack the capability to securely transmit voice and data from field operations to senior leaders, creating a significant communications gap. This limitation directly impacts mission success and readiness, as effective command and control are essential in the fast-paced, decentralized ACE framework.

Recommendation: Funding Executive Communications Kits will directly support ACE objectives by enabling secure, mobile command and control in dynamic environments.