Which position is typically held by the Air and Missile Defense Commander?

The Air and Missile Defense Commander is usually a position that requires extensive knowledge and experience in surface warfare and air defense tactics. The captain of a cruiser is often responsible for these tasks due to the cruiser’s capabilities in air defense, including advanced radar systems and missile systems specifically designed to intercept aerial threats.

Cruisers play a crucial role in naval formations, functioning as air defense screens for carrier strike groups. The onboard systems and the experiences typically found at this level of command prepare the captain to effectively manage air and missile defense operations, coordinating with other ships and aircraft to ensure comprehensive defense coverage.

In comparison, while the captain of a destroyer also plays a crucial role in air and missile defense, it is the cruiser that is generally more heavily equipped for this role. The chief tactical officer on a carrier focuses more on flight operations and carrier strike group tactics than direct air defense. Likewise, the executive officer of a submarine would be primarily concerned with sub-surface operations instead of air and missile defense roles. These distinctions clarify why the captain of a cruiser is the most fitting choice for the position of Air and Missile Defense Commander.