Airman, executive mobility take flight

19 Feb 2013 |

The Air Force Space Command commander announced implementation steps in the Air Force's efforts to heighten the Air Force's mobile operational potential of its Airmen and the real-time functionality of its executives. The first stage of distribution of mobile devices is focused on delivering approximately 10,000 devices.

"We are providing tools to enhance operational capabilities for our Airmen," Gen. William L. Shelton said, the Air Force Space Command commander. "Harnessing the right technology from both the public and private sectors plays an important role in these efforts."

As a part of its plans to improve mobile communications, all Air Force major commands were notified last month of an initial operational capability rollout that includes mobile solutions for smart phone and tablet users. The program represents an element of an integrated and collaborative effort across the Air Force and the Department of Defense.

"Our approach allows personnel to use the Apple operating system and Android tools to access email, calendar, contacts, documents and certain applications in accordance with DOD guidelines for mobile device security," Brig. Gen. Kevin B. Wooton said, the AFSPC Communications and Information director.

Official data is encrypted and kept within a secure container at all times, while the device can be used for Air Force approved personal applications outside of the container (e.g. Facebook and Twitter, in accordance with the DOD's social media policies). This approach maintains the separation of an Airman's personal and official data.

"The objectives are centered on added productivity and capability, all within a properly balanced security approach," Wooton said . "The mobile device and application solutions allow us to tap into the fast-moving stream of technology development in the commercial market, but with the security and functionality needed for Air Force users."

By implementing a security management platform, the Air Force can safeguard against lost, stolen or damaged phones and tablets. The Air Force can also track devices or wipe data remotely from the device at the application level, quickly and comprehensively.

"Balancing the challenges of connectivity, security and device management are a key part of ensuring our Airmen are equipped for today's Air Force operations,"  Maj. Gen. Suzanne Vautrinot said, the 24th Air Force commander. "From e-tools to special operations to the electronic flight bag, our objective is to equip our executives and Airmen with the tools they need to succeed. We're aiming for increasing productivity and effectiveness through a secure information technology infrastructure. Working with our partners across government and within industry and academia will help us move up the technological power curve; our mobile approach enables us to do that in a smart, efficient, secure manner."

The rollout of these tools is a coordinated effort leveraging existing pilot programs throughout the federal government including those being conducted by the DOD, Defense Information Systems Agency and the National Security Agency.

(Courtesy of Air Force Space Command Public Affairs)