Mission Planning Systems

The Mission Planning Systems program, part of the Air Force's Operational Systems Development, aims to enhance mission planning capabilities through modernization. It supports the Precision Aerial Delivery Systems (PADS) and Mission Planning Systems (MPS) Modernization projects. PADS is crucial for precision airdrop missions, offering high-altitude delivery solutions for resupply and other operations while ensuring accuracy and survivability. Objectives for FY25 include software development to improve accuracy, automate planning processes, and enhance command and control functionalities for aerial delivery systems.

The MPS Modernization project seeks to advance mission planning capabilities for both fixed and rotary wing aircraft by transitioning to a services-based open architecture. This involves developing the Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) Open Mission System (JOMS) to support pre-mission, in-flight, and post-mission operations. Modernization efforts focus on integrating new capabilities required for various aircraft platforms' Operational Flight Programs (OFPs), such as new weapons and avionics systems. Key initiatives include deploying JOMS capabilities to operational cloud environments, enhancing aircraft survivability, and updating mission planning environments for different Air Force commands.

Efforts related to Precision Aerial Delivery Systems in FY25 will concentrate on supporting high-altitude precision airdrop deliveries while mitigating threats. This includes developing single-pass airdrop capabilities, prototyping palletized effects, and enabling command and control of aerial delivery systems in contested areas. The program also emphasizes utilizing real-time mission planning data to improve aircraft survivability and lethality.

Mission Planning Systems Modernization will continue developing core mission planning capabilities across various platforms, including F-15, F-22, B-1 bombers, and mobility aircraft like C-17s and KC-135s. The project aims to enhance software applications for agile combat employment, optimize tactical kill chains, and support platform-specific OFP requirements. Collaborative efforts with the Navy's Mission Planning Program Office and the F-35 Joint Program Office are also part of the modernization strategy to deliver integrated mission planning solutions across services.