Two-Story F-35 Squad Ops Mission Planning Facility

The F-35 Squadron Operations Mission Planning Facility (MPF) at Ebbing Air National Guard Base (ANGB) is more than just a building—it’s a strategic investment in the future of secure flight planning and combat readiness. This cutting-edge facility is designed to meet the highest standards of security and functionality, offering ICD-705-compliant spaces for flight planning and training, aircrew equipment maintenance, and essential combat crew support. The facility’s design accommodates up to three foreign partners with dedicated secure systems, reinforcing Ebbing ANGB’s role as a hub for international defense collaboration.

Addressing the complexities of the site is paramount to the project’s success. With existing utilities in close proximity and numerous concurrent construction activities, strategic coordination and innovative solutions are required to prevent disruptions and enhance efficiency. The project’s location, at a lower elevation than surrounding areas, presents stormwater management challenges that demand innovative and cost-effective solutions to prevent flooding. Furthermore, the potential future connection to a Squad Ops Facility necessitates thoughtful integration without escalating current project costs, a challenge that the Project Development Team (PDT) is tackling head-on. Compliance with ICD-705, particularly the stringent requirements of TEMPEST/SAPF boundaries, adds another layer of complexity, emphasizing the need for meticulous planning and design to safeguard sensitive information.

By focusing on three core functions—Adapt Site, Protect Intelligence, and Control Environment—the Value Team is driving the project towards unparalleled success. By optimizing utility layouts, improving access and parking, and innovating stormwater solutions, the Adapt Site initiatives aim to create a seamless and efficient operational environment. Protect Intelligence efforts are centered on simplifying security measures without compromising the stringent ICD-705 standards, exploring options like a one-story facility to streamline construction and reduce costs. Meanwhile, the Control Environment focus ensures that the facility provides a comfortable and reliable workspace, with advanced systems for temperature, ventilation, and humidity control. The Value Proposals accepted by the design team were so significant in nature that it demanded a complete reconceptualization of the project to capture this value adds and ensure minimal opportunity loss.  Another Value Study is planned to be conducted on the reimagined project to further assess additional opportunities for value improvement.