HAFMD1-4 — Chief Of Staff Of The Air Force

HAFMD1-4 governs the Chief of Staff of the Air Force’s mission, organizational relationships, and responsibilities.

Search HAFMD1-4

  • Publication number: HAFMD1-4
  • Title: CHIEF OF STAFF OF THE AIR FORCE
  • Date: 2012-03-07

View HAFMD1-4 on armypubs.army.mil


It describes how the Chief of Staff assists the Secretary of the Air Force and how the Air Staff and supporting offices are organized. Compliance with HAFMD1-4 is mandatory, and the directive identifies duties, authorities, and reporting relationships.

Topics covered

  • Chief of Staff mission
  • Department of the Air Force authority
  • Air Staff composition
  • Direct Reporting Units
  • Vice Chief delegated authority

Questions and answers

What is the Chief of Staff of the Air Force’s mission?

The Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) assists the Secretary of the Air Force (SecAF) in conducting the affairs of the Department of the Air Force as set forth in Title 10 of the United States Code (10 USC) and relevant Department of Defense (DoD) issuances. (paragraph 1)

Who has legal authority to conduct the affairs of the Department of the Air Force?

The SecAF is responsible for, and has all legal authority necessary to conduct, the affairs of the Department of the Air Force. (paragraph 2)

What role does the CSAF serve in relation to the SecAF?

The CSAF serves at the pleasure of the President, is the principal military advisor to the SecAF, and acts as the agent of the SecAF in executing responsibilities under 10 USC § 8033. (paragraph 2)

What must the CSAF report to the SecAF about military advice and operations?

To the extent that CSAF’s independence is not impaired in the performance of duties as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), CSAF shall inform the SecAF regarding military advice rendered by members of the JCS on matters affecting the Department of the Air Force. (paragraph 2)

What offices and personnel does the Air Staff include?

The function and composition of the Air Staff is established by 10 USC § 8031. It includes the Chief of Staff, Vice Chief of Staff, Assistant Chief(s) of Staff, Deputy Chiefs of Staff, Surgeon General of the Air Force, Judge Advocate General of the Air Force, the Chief of the Air Force Reserve, and other such offices as the SecAF may establish or designate (such as the Assistant Vice Chief of Staff), and civilian employees in the Department of the Air Force assigned or detailed to the Air Staff. (paragraph 2)

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