Hanscom to Standup Air, Missile Defense Operations Center

The Battle Management Directorate at Hanscom AFB, Mass., will create an Air and Missile Defense Operations Center tasked with assisting Qatar with the creation of an integrated air and missile defense system as part of a $7.3 billion foreign military sale, according to a Nov. 25 base release. Specifically, the center will integrate both US and foreign ground-based air and missile defense systems, states the release. “Our mission is to specify and acquire the most capable and robust ADOC system,” said Gerry Cavallo, program manager. “We will also ensure that all associated weapons and sensors can operate as an integrated air and missile defense system for the QEAF (Qatar Emiri Air Force).” Since Qatar is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council, it often shares information with the five other Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Oman, that make up the council. Cavallo said ADOC personnel will work with closely with US Central Command to “ensure appropriate security and disclosure protocols are in place.” The ADOC must reach initial operational capability before first Patriot fire unit is delivered states the release. “We have to develop the ADOC quickly to keep pace with Patriot production from an existing assembly line,” said Cavallo.