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{{Era|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Era|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Military infobox
{{Military infobox
|image=[[File:Boarder.png|250px]]<sup>An Air Force pilot in 2552<ref group="note" name="lnos"/></sup>
|name=UNSC Air Force
|formed= Likely around 2160s
|image=
|formed-title=Formed
|formed-title=Founded
|affiliation=[[Unified Earth Government]]
|formed=[[2163|December 2163]]<ref name="unsc">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/factions/unsc '''Halo Waypoint''': ''UNSC'']</ref>
|branch=[[UNSC Armed Forces]]
|affiliation=[[Unified Earth Government]]<ref name="unsc"/>
|type=
|branch=[[UNSC Armed Forces]]<ref name="unsc"/>
|role=Aerial support and defensive force
|type=Air force<ref name="osfm136">''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]'', p. 136-138</ref>
|role=Aerial and orbital defense<ref name="osfm136"/>
|size=
|size=
|nicknames=  
|nicknames=
|battles=*[[Human-Covenant War]]
|battles=*[[Insurrection]]<ref name="dmr">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/dmr '''Halo Waypoint''': ''DMR'']</ref>
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]<ref name="osfm136"/>
|commanders= [[General]] [[R. Dellert]]
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]<ref name="osfm136"/>
|commanders=[[General]] [[R. Dellert]]<ref name="HE8">''[[Halo: Escalation]]'', [[Halo: Escalation Issue 8|Issue #8]]</ref>
}}
}}


The '''UNSC Air Force''' is a branch of the [[UNSC Armed Forces]] along with the [[UNSC Army]], [[UNSC Navy|Navy]], [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine Corps]], and [[Spartan Operations|Spartans]]. A component of the UNSC Armed Forces (UNSCAF) along with the Army, the Air Force serves as an aerial defense and support force.<ref name="HSP">[http://halostory.bungie.org/oconnor_mclees_080508.html '''Halo Story Page''': ''Interview with Frank O'Connor and Robert McLees'']</ref> It is tasked with organizing aerial operations, conducting tactical strikes and bombing runs, providing close-air-support for ground forces, and transportation of UNSC personnel.<ref name="reach">'''[[Halo: Reach]]''', campaign levels ''[[Tip of the Spear]], [[Long Night of Solace (level)|Long Night of Solace]]''</ref>
The '''UNSC Air Force''' is the aerial warfare service branch of the [[UNSC Armed Forces]] responsible for aerial and orbital defense.<ref name="osfm136"/><ref name="HSP">[http://halostory.bungie.org/oconnor_mclees_080508.html '''Halo Story Page''': ''Interview with Frank O'Connor and Robert McLees'']</ref> The Air Force maintains numerous orbital defense satellites and aerospace interceptors to defend [[human]] space, often working closely with the [[UNSC Navy]] and [[UNSC Army|Army]].<ref name="osfm136"/>
 
==Mission and roles==
[[File:H2A Terminals - ODPs.jpg|thumb|250px|The Air Force was charged with a planet's orbital and aerial defense]]
{{Quote|Provide aerospace defense and conduct space control operations.|The official mission statement of the UNSC Air Force<ref name="osfm136"/>}}
The official mission of the UNSC Air Force is to maintain aerospace superiority over the [[Human colonies|worlds]] of the [[Unified Earth Government]], as well as conduct space control [[operation]]s. In this capacity, the Air Force is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping air and space forces to interdict and destroy enemy attacks before and after they enter a world's orbit.<ref name="osfm136"/> The Air Force's collateral functions include:
 
*Deployment and maintenance UNSC unmanned defense satellites and [[orbital defense platform]]s.<ref name="osfm136"/>
*Monitoring and regulating military and [[civilian]] orbital activities.<ref name="osfm136"/>
*Development of doctrine, procedures, and equipment that are of common interest to the [[UNSC Army|Army]] and [[UNSC Navy|Navy]].<ref name="osfm136"/>
*Furnishing launch and space support for the Army and Navy.<ref name="osfm136"/>
 
The Air Force's orbital defense satellites and aerospace interceptors are among the first lines of defense for a colony. The Air Force's vigilance is crucial to a world's defense, ensuring that threats are detected early and either eliminated or delayed so reinforcements may be requested. The Air Force operates a network of quick reaction squadrons on [[Earth]] and the [[Inner Colonies]], which are prepped and ready to deploy with atmospheric fighters and military spaceplanes at the first sign of an attack. These fighters operate in chorus with orbiting surveillance and weapons satellites to delay and attrition attacks, while supporting available Navy [[UNSC Fleet Command|fleet]] assets. The Air Force takes the defense of in orbit and near orbit territory solemnly, operating both manned and unmanned fighters and [[drone]]s.<ref name="osfm136"/>
 
Other duties of the Air Force include maintaining security forces for airbase and [[spaceport]] defense.<ref name="H5G">''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'', Urban Mongoose REQ card</ref><ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/characters/jordan-gaines '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Jordan Gaines'']</ref> The Air Force also provides search and rescue support.<ref name="pl">''[[Halo Wars 2]]'', [[Phoenix Log]] – "Nightingale"</ref>


==History==
==History==
The [[human]] [[Outer Colony]] of [[Meridian]] was home to an impressive UNSC Air Force garrison. When the colony was [[Battle of Meridian|attacked]] by the [[Covenant]] in [[2548]], the Air Force aided in Meridian's defense, leading to an extended battle lasting three years.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/locations/meridian '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Meridian'']</ref> The Air Force was present during the [[Fall of Reach]], where their [[D77-TC Pelican]] dropships and [[UH-144 Falcon]]s provided transport and close air support to [[UNSC Army]] and [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine]] forces. Additionally, Air Force [[GA-TL1 Longsword|Longsword interceptors]] provided air support for ground forces, and [[YSS-1000 Sabre]] fighters had a significant role in [[Operation: UPPER CUT]].<ref name="reach"/><ref group="note" name="lnos">Sabre pilots encountered in the level ''Long Night of Solace'' wear outfits identical to those worn by the Air Force Falcon pilots in ''Tip of the Spear'', implying they are part of the same branch. This uniform is distinguished by [[UNSC Army BDU|those]] used by the [[UNSC Army]] troopers in the game by its teal-and-white coloration as well as the lack of shoulder or knee guards.</ref> The Air Force would later participate in the [[Battle for Earth]], notably engaging in an [[operation]] with Marine forces to destroy [[Type-27 Mantis]] emplacements, allowing [[Battle Group Victory]] to attempt to destroy the [[High Prophet of Truth]]'s [[Forerunner Dreadnought]].<ref name="lootcrate2">'''[[Halo Legendary Crate]]''', ''[[Halo Legendary Crate/Data Drops|Data Drop #2]]''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo 3]]''', campaign level, ''[[The Storm]]''</ref>
The UNSC Air Force was formed as one of the four service branches of the [[UNSC Armed Forces]] in [[2163|December 2163]].<ref name="unsc"/> The Air Force participated in the [[Insurrection]].<ref name="dmr"/>
 
During the [[Human-Covenant War]], the Air Force maintained strong lines of defense on [[Earth]] and the [[Inner Colonies]], amassing an impressive kill ratio against invading [[Covenant]] forces despite their substantial technological and numerical disadvantage.<ref name="osfm136"/> The [[human]] [[Outer Colony]] of [[Meridian]] was home to an impressive UNSC Air Force garrison and orbital defense grid. When the colony was [[Battle of Meridian|attacked]] by the Covenant in [[2548]], the Air Force aided in Meridian's defense, leading to an extended battle lasting three years.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/locations/meridian '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Meridian'']</ref> The Air Force was present during the [[Fall of Reach]], where their [[D77-TC Pelican]] [[dropship]]s provided transport and close air support to [[UNSC Army]] and [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine]] forces. Additionally, Air Force [[GA-TL1 Longsword|Longsword interceptors]] provided air support for ground forces, and [[YSS-1000 Sabre]] fighters had a significant role in [[Operation: UPPER CUT]].<ref>''[[Halo: Reach]]'', campaign levels, "[[Tip of the Spear]]" and "[[Long Night of Solace (level)|Long Night of Solace]]"</ref><ref group="note" name="lnos">Sabre pilots encountered in the level ''Long Night of Solace'' wear outfits identical to those worn by the Air Force Falcon pilots in ''Tip of the Spear'', implying they are part of the same branch. This uniform is distinguished by [[UNSC Army BDU|those]] used by the [[UNSC Army]] troopers in the game by its teal-and-white coloration as well as the lack of shoulder or knee guards.</ref> The Air Force would later participate in the [[Battle for Earth]], notably engaging in an [[operation]] with Marine forces to destroy [[Type-27 Mantis]] emplacements near [[Voi]], allowing [[Battle Group Victory]] to assault the [[High Prophet of Truth]]'s [[Forerunner Dreadnought]].<ref name="lootcrate2">''[[Halo Legendary Crate]]'', [[Halo Legendary Crate/Data Drops|Data Drop #2]]</ref><ref>''[[Halo 3]]'', campaign level, "[[The Storm]]"</ref>


In [[2558|February 2558]], the Air Force was involved in the [[Requiem Campaign]] alongside other UNSC forces.<ref>'''[[Spartan Ops]]''', [[S1/Memento Mori|S1E5 ''Memento Mori'']]</ref>
In [[2558|February 2558]], the Air Force was involved in the [[Requiem Campaign]] alongside other UNSC forces.<ref>''[[Spartan Ops]]'', [[S1/Memento Mori|S1E5 ''Memento Mori'']]</ref>


==Organization==
==Organization==
The UNSC Air Force is subordinate to [[UNSC High Command]], organized under the [[UNSC Armed Forces]]. Like the [[UNSC Army]] and most elements of the [[Marine Corps]], the Air Force is structured under the [[Unified Ground Command]].<ref name="catalog">[https://forums.halowaypoint.com/yaf_postsm2969317_Catalog-Interaction.aspx#post2969317 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Catalog Interaction - page 14'']</ref> Within the Air Force are a number of major commands tasked with different administrative and operational roles. Among these are the [[Air Combat Command]], which is tasked with gaining air superiority and providing support for ground forces, and the [[Wikipedia:Air Mobility Command|Air Mobility Command]], which contains [[Air Mobility Express]], assigned to airlift materiél and personnel during wartime.<ref name="reach"/><ref>[http://www.thefreedictionary.com/air+mobility+express "The Free Dictionary" article on 'AMX']</ref> The Air Force also contains security forces which are responsible for airbase and [[spaceport]] defense.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/characters/jordan-gaines '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Jordan Gaines'']</ref>
===Administration and structure===
The UNSC Air Force is one of the five service branches of the [[United Nations Space Command]]'s [[UNSC Armed Forces|Armed Forces]],<ref name="unsc"/> subordinate to [[UNSC High Command]]. The senior officer of the Air Force holds a seat on the [[UNSC Security Council]], the senior leadership cabinet of the Armed Forces.<ref name="osfm120">''Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual'', p. 120-122</ref> The current senior officer is [[General]] [[R. Dellert]].<ref name="HE8"/> The Air Force is structured under the [[Unified Ground Command]] (UniCom), which coordinates the Armed Force's terrestrial and close-orbit missions.<ref name="osfm120"/>
 
Within the Air Force are a number of major commands tasked with different administrative and operational roles. Among these are the [[Air Combat Command]], which is tasked with gaining air superiority and providing support for ground forces, and the [[Wikipedia:Air Mobility Command|Air Mobility Command]], which contains [[Air Mobility Express]], assigned to airlift materiél and personnel during wartime.<ref name="reach"/><ref>[http://www.thefreedictionary.com/air+mobility+express "The Free Dictionary" article on 'AMX']</ref> The UNSC Air Force also maintains a [[Wikipedia:Signals intelligence|signals intelligence]] (SIGINT) division.<ref>''Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual'', p. 113</ref>
 
===Relationship with other branches===
The UNSC Air Force supports other service branches of the UNSC Armed Forces by ensuring air superiority, as well as providing other branches with special transport capabilities, supply drops behind enemy lines, and close air support against entrenched enemy positions. The Air Force works closely with the [[UNSC Navy]] and [[UNSC Army]], supplying both service branches with launch and space support. The Air Force works to develop doctrine, procedures, and equipment that are of common interest to the Army and Navy, as the other two branches do for the Air Force. The Air Force commonly supports the Navy in fleet engagements, providing close orbit fighter support.<ref name="osfm136"/>
 
The Air Force maintains a close relationship with the nascent [[Spartan Operations]] branch, working closely with the [[Spartan]]s in all major campaigns. The Air Force was the first service branch of the Armed Forces to directly collaborate with the Spartan branch, funding a joint-operations laboratory to test innovative ways in which Spartan supersoldiers can augment their existing capabilities, as well as certifying Spartans to operate the Air Force's latest-generation strike fighters.<ref name="osfm136"/>


==Personnel==
==Personnel==
Large numbers of airmen serve in the UNSC Air Force. Rank is divided between officers and enlisted. For a list of ranks within the Air Force, see [[UNSC rank structure]].
Large numbers of airmen serve in the UNSC Air Force. The bulk of the [[UNSC Armed Forces]]' [[pilot]]s serve in the Air Force, fulfilling crucial roles operating aircraft and spacecraft. Pilots are relatively lightly armored with [[fatigues]] with teal-toned camouflage and white chest armor geared for long-flight mobility.<ref name="enc57">''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]'', p. 57 (2011)</ref> On missions in a vacuum, the suit can be sealed off and an enclosed [[CH252 helmet|standard combat helmet]] is worn with it.<ref name="reach"/> Each suit features [[extra-vehicular activity]] integration for exoatmospheric operations that are associated with a given [[dropship]] deployment.<ref name="enc57"/>


UNSC Air Force personnel wear distinctive uniforms. [[Pilot]]s wear [[fatigues]] with teal-toned camouflage and white chest armor. The suit lacks the additional knee, shin or shoulder armor plating worn by most Army troopers or Marines. On missions in a vacuum, the suit can be sealed off and an enclosed [[CH252 helmet|standard combat helmet]] is worn with it.<ref name="reach"/> Additionally, the air force operates its own [[UNSC Air Force Pilot helmet|pilot helmet]], which is compatible with all other UNSC armor systems.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', ''Armory''</ref> This helmet is presumably used in normal missions while the combat helmet is worn on operations where direct combat, such as [[boarding|boarding action]], is expected.
The ranks of Air Force personnel are divided into enlisted airmen, [[non-commissioned officer]]s, and commission officers. Along with [[Spartan Operations]], the Air Force is one of the only service branches of the Armed Forces that does not select or utilize [[warrant officer]]s.<ref name="osfm139">''Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual'', p. 139-143</ref>


==Equipment==
==Equipment==
===Infantry weapons===
===Infantry===
The UNSC Air Force maintains an inventory of small arms and other infantry weapons and appears to share some resources with the [[UNSC Army]]. The Air Forces use the [[MA37 Individual Combat Weapon System]] as the standard [[assault rifle|assault weapon]] during the Human-Covenant War, although this was replaced by the [[MA5D assault rifle]] by [[2557]]. The [[M392 DMR]] was used for medium-range suppression, although after [[2548]] they would replace it with the [[BR55 battle rifle|BR55 series]].<ref name="EVGBR">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 21''</ref> Ultimately, however, the succeeding [[M395 DMR]] would once again be adopted by the Air Force.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/dmr '''Halo Waypoint''': ''DMR'']</ref>  In addition, the [[M6 series]] is the standard personal sidearm of the Air Force. During the [[Fall of Reach]], the [[M6G magnum]] was used by Air Force personnel, while the [[M6H magnum]] became the standard personal sidearm as of [[2555]].<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/magnum '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Magnum'']</ref> The [[M45 shotgun]] is used by personnel for close-quarters combat.
The UNSC Air Force maintains an inventory of small arms and other infantry weapons and shares some resources with the [[UNSC Army]]. The [[M392 DMR]] was used for medium-range suppression, commonly employed by the Air Force's combat rescue teams during the [[Insurrection]] and [[Human-Covenant War]]. However, after [[2548]], the DMR would be replaced with the [[BR55 battle rifle|BR55 series]].<ref name="dmr"/><ref name="EVGBR">''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'', p. 21</ref> The Air Force used the [[MA37 assault rifle]] as the standard infantry [[assault rifle]] during the Covenant War,<ref name="reach"/> although it has since been replaced by the [[MA5D assault rifle]]. The [[M45 shotgun]] is used by personnel for close-quarters combat. The [[M6 series]] is the standard personal sidearm of the Air Force. During the [[Fall of Reach]], the [[M6G magnum]] was used by Air Force personnel,<ref name="reach">''[[Halo: Reach]]''</ref> while the [[M6H magnum]] became the standard personal sidearm of the Air Force as of [[2555]].<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/magnum '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Magnum'']</ref>


Snipers operate with the [[SRS99-AM sniper rifle]] for long-range suppression and anti-matériel operations. The [[M319 grenade launcher]] is used for medium-range suppression and anti-fortification duties. The Air Force also operates the [[M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose Grenade]]. Anti-armor fire is provided by the [[M41 rocket launcher]].<ref name="reach"/>
Air Force [[sniper]]s operate with the [[SRS99-AM sniper rifle]] for long-range suppression and anti-matériel operations. The [[M319 grenade launcher]] is used for medium-range suppression and anti-fortification duties. The Air Force also operates the [[M9 fragmentation grenade]]. Anti-armor fire is provided by the [[M41 rocket launcher]].<ref name="reach"/> The Air Force operates several vehicles for security patrols, including the [[M290 Mongoose]], specifically the Urban variant.<ref name="H5G"/>


===Vehicles===
===Aircraft===
The UNSC Air Force operates several vehicles for Security, including the [[M290 Mongoose]] and the M290-M Gungoose, specifically the Urban variant.<ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''', Urban Mongoose REQ card''</ref>
The Air Force operates a wide variety of aircraft. The [[D77-TC Pelican]] [[dropship]] is used primarily for the pickup and transportation of personnel, vehicles, and equipment, but also has significant offensive capabilities. The Pelican is capable of carrying numerous armament configurations, including [[Scorpion missile|Scorpion anti-tank missiles]], [[ANVIL-II Air-to-Surface Missile|Anvil II air-to-surface missiles]], as well as a chin-mounted 20mm autocannon. The Air Force also operates [[EV-44 Nightingale]]s, a medical and maintenance support aircraft utilized by Air Force rescue squadrons.<ref name="pl"/>


===Aircraft===
The UNSC Air Force operates a number of [[space fighter]]s, the most common of which is the [[GA-TL1 Longsword]].<ref name="feetfirst">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-feet-first '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Feet First'']</ref> The Longsword is a multi-role fighter that can be used in a variety of missions, including ground support, anti-ship attacks, and combat with other fighters.<ref name="reach"/><ref>''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide'', p. 112</ref> The Air Force also maintains the [[YSS-1000 Sabre]] as a space superiority fighter. This prototype aircraft possesses powerful [[Energy shielding#Human energy shielding|energy shielding technology]], and is designed for the dual purposes of peak acceleration and maneuverability in orbital combat.<ref name="reach"/> In addition to the Sabre, the Air Force also fielded the [[F-41 Broadsword]] throughout the Human-Covenant War and the [[Post-Covenant War conflicts|post-war conflicts]]. Following the Covenant War, the remaining [[B-65 Shortsword]] inventory was transferred to the Air Force Reserve or scrapped, depending on their condition.<ref name="feetfirst"/>
The UNSC Air Force operates a wide variety of aircraft. The [[D77-TC Pelican|D77-TC Pelican]] is used primarily for the pickup and transportation of personnel, vehicles and equipment, but also has significant offensive capabilities. It is capable of carrying numerous armament configurations, including [[Scorpion missile|Scorpion anti-tank missiles]], [[ANVIL-II Air-to-Surface Missile|Anvil II air-to-surface missiles]], as well as a chin-mounted 20mm autocannon. The Air Force also operates [[EV-44 Nightingale]]s, utilized by rescue squadrons of the Air Force.<ref>'''[[Halo Wars 2]]''', ''[[Phoenix Log]]: Nightingale''</ref>


The UNSC Air Force operates a number of [[space fighter]]s, the most common of which is the [[GA-TL1 Longsword]].<ref name="Bulletin">[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/en-us/blogs/headlines/posts/the-halo-bulletin-9-24-14 '''Halo Waypoint''': The Halo Bulletin: 9.24.14'']</ref> The Longsword is a multi-role fighter that can be used in a variety of missions, including ground support, anti-ship attacks, and combat with other fighters.<ref>'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 112''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: Reach]]'''</ref> The Air Force also maintains the [[YSS-1000 Sabre]] as a space superiority fighter. This prototype aircraft possesses powerful [[Energy shielding#Human energy shielding|energy shielding technology]], and is designed for the dual purposes of peak acceleration and maneuverability in orbital combat.<ref name="reach"/> In addition to the Sabre, the Air Force also fielded the [[F-41 Broadsword]] throughout the Human-Covenant War and the [[Post-Covenant War conflicts|post-war conflicts]]. Following the [[Human-Covenant War]], the remaining [[B-65 Shortsword]]s were transferred from the [[UNSC Navy]] to the Air Force Reserve.<ref name="Bulletin"/>
The majority of the Air Force's atmospheric forces are comprised of unmanned combat air vehicles, such as the [[F-99 Wombat]]. Such [[drone]]s are expendable and can be deployed in large numbers very quickly.<ref name="osfm136"/>


==Behind the scenes==
==Behind the scenes==
Initially, author [[Eric Nylund]] expressed the opinion that its role and function would have been absorbed into the [[UNSC Navy]], though denied that this was canon.<ref>[[Archive:Letter - Re:UNSC Army]]</ref> Later, in an interview, [[Frank O'Connor]] confirmed the existence of an Air Force as a branch of the UNSC, specifically the UNSC-DF along with the UNSC Army.<ref name="HSP"/>
Initially, author [[Eric Nylund]] expressed the opinion that its role and function would have been absorbed into the [[UNSC Navy]], though denied that this was canon.<ref>[[Archive:Letter - Re:UNSC Army]]</ref> Later, in an interview, [[Frank O'Connor]] confirmed the existence of an Air Force as a branch of the [[UNSC Armed Forces]], specifically the UNSC Defense Force along with the [[UNSC Army]].<ref name="HSP"/>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
Line 68: Line 93:
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Battle Born]]'' {{Mo}}


==Notes==
==Notes==

Revision as of 21:13, January 8, 2019

UNSC Air Force

Founded:

December 2163[1]

Affiliation:

Unified Earth Government[1]

Branch:

UNSC Armed Forces[1]

Type:

Air force[2]

Role:

Aerial and orbital defense[2]

Engagements:

Commanders:

General R. Dellert[4]

 

The UNSC Air Force is the aerial warfare service branch of the UNSC Armed Forces responsible for aerial and orbital defense.[2][5] The Air Force maintains numerous orbital defense satellites and aerospace interceptors to defend human space, often working closely with the UNSC Navy and Army.[2]

Mission and roles

The Air Force was charged with a planet's orbital and aerial defense

"Provide aerospace defense and conduct space control operations."
— The official mission statement of the UNSC Air Force[2]

The official mission of the UNSC Air Force is to maintain aerospace superiority over the worlds of the Unified Earth Government, as well as conduct space control operations. In this capacity, the Air Force is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping air and space forces to interdict and destroy enemy attacks before and after they enter a world's orbit.[2] The Air Force's collateral functions include:

  • Deployment and maintenance UNSC unmanned defense satellites and orbital defense platforms.[2]
  • Monitoring and regulating military and civilian orbital activities.[2]
  • Development of doctrine, procedures, and equipment that are of common interest to the Army and Navy.[2]
  • Furnishing launch and space support for the Army and Navy.[2]

The Air Force's orbital defense satellites and aerospace interceptors are among the first lines of defense for a colony. The Air Force's vigilance is crucial to a world's defense, ensuring that threats are detected early and either eliminated or delayed so reinforcements may be requested. The Air Force operates a network of quick reaction squadrons on Earth and the Inner Colonies, which are prepped and ready to deploy with atmospheric fighters and military spaceplanes at the first sign of an attack. These fighters operate in chorus with orbiting surveillance and weapons satellites to delay and attrition attacks, while supporting available Navy fleet assets. The Air Force takes the defense of in orbit and near orbit territory solemnly, operating both manned and unmanned fighters and drones.[2]

Other duties of the Air Force include maintaining security forces for airbase and spaceport defense.[6][7] The Air Force also provides search and rescue support.[8]

History

The UNSC Air Force was formed as one of the four service branches of the UNSC Armed Forces in December 2163.[1] The Air Force participated in the Insurrection.[3]

During the Human-Covenant War, the Air Force maintained strong lines of defense on Earth and the Inner Colonies, amassing an impressive kill ratio against invading Covenant forces despite their substantial technological and numerical disadvantage.[2] The human Outer Colony of Meridian was home to an impressive UNSC Air Force garrison and orbital defense grid. When the colony was attacked by the Covenant in 2548, the Air Force aided in Meridian's defense, leading to an extended battle lasting three years.[9] The Air Force was present during the Fall of Reach, where their D77-TC Pelican dropships provided transport and close air support to UNSC Army and Marine forces. Additionally, Air Force Longsword interceptors provided air support for ground forces, and YSS-1000 Sabre fighters had a significant role in Operation: UPPER CUT.[10][note 1] The Air Force would later participate in the Battle for Earth, notably engaging in an operation with Marine forces to destroy Type-27 Mantis emplacements near Voi, allowing Battle Group Victory to assault the High Prophet of Truth's Forerunner Dreadnought.[11][12]

In February 2558, the Air Force was involved in the Requiem Campaign alongside other UNSC forces.[13]

Organization

Administration and structure

The UNSC Air Force is one of the five service branches of the United Nations Space Command's Armed Forces,[1] subordinate to UNSC High Command. The senior officer of the Air Force holds a seat on the UNSC Security Council, the senior leadership cabinet of the Armed Forces.[14] The current senior officer is General R. Dellert.[4] The Air Force is structured under the Unified Ground Command (UniCom), which coordinates the Armed Force's terrestrial and close-orbit missions.[14]

Within the Air Force are a number of major commands tasked with different administrative and operational roles. Among these are the Air Combat Command, which is tasked with gaining air superiority and providing support for ground forces, and the Air Mobility Command, which contains Air Mobility Express, assigned to airlift materiél and personnel during wartime.[15][16] The UNSC Air Force also maintains a signals intelligence (SIGINT) division.[17]

Relationship with other branches

The UNSC Air Force supports other service branches of the UNSC Armed Forces by ensuring air superiority, as well as providing other branches with special transport capabilities, supply drops behind enemy lines, and close air support against entrenched enemy positions. The Air Force works closely with the UNSC Navy and UNSC Army, supplying both service branches with launch and space support. The Air Force works to develop doctrine, procedures, and equipment that are of common interest to the Army and Navy, as the other two branches do for the Air Force. The Air Force commonly supports the Navy in fleet engagements, providing close orbit fighter support.[2]

The Air Force maintains a close relationship with the nascent Spartan Operations branch, working closely with the Spartans in all major campaigns. The Air Force was the first service branch of the Armed Forces to directly collaborate with the Spartan branch, funding a joint-operations laboratory to test innovative ways in which Spartan supersoldiers can augment their existing capabilities, as well as certifying Spartans to operate the Air Force's latest-generation strike fighters.[2]

Personnel

Large numbers of airmen serve in the UNSC Air Force. The bulk of the UNSC Armed Forces' pilots serve in the Air Force, fulfilling crucial roles operating aircraft and spacecraft. Pilots are relatively lightly armored with fatigues with teal-toned camouflage and white chest armor geared for long-flight mobility.[18] On missions in a vacuum, the suit can be sealed off and an enclosed standard combat helmet is worn with it.[15] Each suit features extra-vehicular activity integration for exoatmospheric operations that are associated with a given dropship deployment.[18]

The ranks of Air Force personnel are divided into enlisted airmen, non-commissioned officers, and commission officers. Along with Spartan Operations, the Air Force is one of the only service branches of the Armed Forces that does not select or utilize warrant officers.[19]

Equipment

Infantry

The UNSC Air Force maintains an inventory of small arms and other infantry weapons and shares some resources with the UNSC Army. The M392 DMR was used for medium-range suppression, commonly employed by the Air Force's combat rescue teams during the Insurrection and Human-Covenant War. However, after 2548, the DMR would be replaced with the BR55 series.[3][20] The Air Force used the MA37 assault rifle as the standard infantry assault rifle during the Covenant War,[15] although it has since been replaced by the MA5D assault rifle. The M45 shotgun is used by personnel for close-quarters combat. The M6 series is the standard personal sidearm of the Air Force. During the Fall of Reach, the M6G magnum was used by Air Force personnel,[15] while the M6H magnum became the standard personal sidearm of the Air Force as of 2555.[21]

Air Force snipers operate with the SRS99-AM sniper rifle for long-range suppression and anti-matériel operations. The M319 grenade launcher is used for medium-range suppression and anti-fortification duties. The Air Force also operates the M9 fragmentation grenade. Anti-armor fire is provided by the M41 rocket launcher.[15] The Air Force operates several vehicles for security patrols, including the M290 Mongoose, specifically the Urban variant.[6]

Aircraft

The Air Force operates a wide variety of aircraft. The D77-TC Pelican dropship is used primarily for the pickup and transportation of personnel, vehicles, and equipment, but also has significant offensive capabilities. The Pelican is capable of carrying numerous armament configurations, including Scorpion anti-tank missiles, Anvil II air-to-surface missiles, as well as a chin-mounted 20mm autocannon. The Air Force also operates EV-44 Nightingales, a medical and maintenance support aircraft utilized by Air Force rescue squadrons.[8]

The UNSC Air Force operates a number of space fighters, the most common of which is the GA-TL1 Longsword.[22] The Longsword is a multi-role fighter that can be used in a variety of missions, including ground support, anti-ship attacks, and combat with other fighters.[15][23] The Air Force also maintains the YSS-1000 Sabre as a space superiority fighter. This prototype aircraft possesses powerful energy shielding technology, and is designed for the dual purposes of peak acceleration and maneuverability in orbital combat.[15] In addition to the Sabre, the Air Force also fielded the F-41 Broadsword throughout the Human-Covenant War and the post-war conflicts. Following the Covenant War, the remaining B-65 Shortsword inventory was transferred to the Air Force Reserve or scrapped, depending on their condition.[22]

The majority of the Air Force's atmospheric forces are comprised of unmanned combat air vehicles, such as the F-99 Wombat. Such drones are expendable and can be deployed in large numbers very quickly.[2]

Behind the scenes

Initially, author Eric Nylund expressed the opinion that its role and function would have been absorbed into the UNSC Navy, though denied that this was canon.[24] Later, in an interview, Frank O'Connor confirmed the existence of an Air Force as a branch of the UNSC Armed Forces, specifically the UNSC Defense Force along with the UNSC Army.[5]

Gallery

  • An Air Force Pelican dropship.

    An Air Force Pelican dropship.

  • Pilot hul-3.jpg

    The Air Force's pilot helmet.

  • The YSS-1000 Sabre, an experimental Air Force starfighter.

    The YSS-1000 Sabre, an experimental Air Force starfighter.

  • An atmospheric variant of the GA-TL1 Longsword, the UNSC's primary combat fighter.

    An atmospheric variant of the GA-TL1 Longsword, the UNSC's primary combat fighter.

  • The F-41 Broadsword, the UNSC's postwar space superiority fighter.

    The F-41 Broadsword, the UNSC's postwar space superiority fighter.

List of appearances

Notes

  1. ^ Sabre pilots encountered in the level Long Night of Solace wear outfits identical to those worn by the Air Force Falcon pilots in Tip of the Spear, implying they are part of the same branch. This uniform is distinguished by those used by the UNSC Army troopers in the game by its teal-and-white coloration as well as the lack of shoulder or knee guards.

Sources

  1. ^ a b c d e Halo Waypoint: UNSC
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual, p. 136-138
  3. ^ a b c Halo Waypoint: DMR
  4. ^ a b Halo: Escalation, Issue #8
  5. ^ a b Halo Story Page: Interview with Frank O'Connor and Robert McLees
  6. ^ a b Halo 5: Guardians, Urban Mongoose REQ card
  7. ^ Halo Waypoint: Jordan Gaines
  8. ^ a b Halo Wars 2, Phoenix Log – "Nightingale"
  9. ^ Halo Waypoint: Meridian
  10. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign levels, "Tip of the Spear" and "Long Night of Solace"
  11. ^ Halo Legendary Crate, Data Drop #2
  12. ^ Halo 3, campaign level, "The Storm"
  13. ^ Spartan Ops, S1E5 Memento Mori
  14. ^ a b Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual, p. 120-122
  15. ^ a b c d e f g Halo: Reach
  16. ^ "The Free Dictionary" article on 'AMX'
  17. ^ Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual, p. 113
  18. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia, p. 57 (2011)
  19. ^ Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual, p. 139-143
  20. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, p. 21
  21. ^ Halo Waypoint: Magnum
  22. ^ a b Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder - Feet First
  23. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, p. 112
  24. ^ Archive:Letter - Re:UNSC Army

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United Nations Space Command
Leadership
Organisation
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History, culture and traditions
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