Who has the responsibility for OPSEC?

Operational Security (OPSEC) is a vital aspect of military operations that involves protecting sensitive information from adversaries. The responsibility for OPSEC does not rest solely on a specific role or rank within the organization; rather, it is a collective obligation that involves every individual in the Air Force.

The rationale behind this collective responsibility is that OPSEC practices rely on the awareness and vigilance of all personnel to identify potential vulnerabilities and secure information that could be exploited by opponents. Commanders may set the policy and ensure that OPSEC is integrated into operations, and team leaders may enforce practices among their teams, but ultimately, it is the responsibility of every member to understand the importance of OPSEC and to actively participate in safeguarding sensitive information.

Everyone, regardless of rank or role, must be trained to recognize and mitigate risks associated with information that could pose a security threat if disclosed. This ensures a cohesive effort towards maintaining the secrecy of operations and safeguarding mission success.