Commander, Air Group

Commander, Air Group is a Department Head and senior position for Star Fleet Officers on board Starships (specifically Carriers, Starbases and Planetary Installations. They are in charge of all small-craft pilots, their craft, flight plans and training, and have a significant input to battle strategy.

History

During the early years of the Aircraft Carrier in Earth's mid twentieth century, the commander of the air group (known as the "CAG" in the US Navy) was the most senior officer of the embarked squadrons and was expected to personally lead all major strike operations, coordinating the attacks of the carrier's fighter, bomber, and torpedo planes in combat. The CAG was a Department Head of the ship reporting to the carrier's Commanding Officer.

As technology developed and Carrier Groups became larger and more capable, the position of CAG was changed from that of an operational position to a staff position. The CAG remained in charge of a Carrier's aircraft, but was now head of a team of 30-40 officers and enlisted charged with overseeing carrier operations and reporting directly to the Carrier Group's Flag Officer.

Duties and Responsibilities

Generally holding the minimum rank of Lieutenant Commander or Major, the Commander, Air Group reports to the First Officer and Commanding Officer about the readiness, training and maintenance of an Air Group. Though now a staff position that recruits from Tactical, Aviation or Marine departments and not expected to engage in the day-to-day leading of missions, it is not unheard of for a CAG promoted from the position of Squadron Leader to continue to "lead from the front" when it is deemed necessary.