A modern force of fighter aircraft will be ineffective unless directed and controlled while airborne and protected from pre-emptive strikes while on the ground.

Air Force Air Surveillance Operators work to defend Australia’s considerable airspace using sophisticated electronic equipment to detect, identify and control, the interception of enemy or unknown aircraft and surface vessels. This important task falls to members of No. 41 Wing (41WG) within the Surveillance and Response Group (SRG).

A major role in Airspace Battle Management, the surveillance of airspace is concerned with establishing and maintaining an up-to-date and complete picture of air and surface activities within Australia's airspace, using a network of radars.

An Australian designed and built Over the Horizon Radar (OTHR) system allows long range surveillance coverage of Northern Australia and its approaches. Three of these radars form the Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN). ASOPs are employed extensively within the JORN system and are trained to operate radar systems, technologically advanced computers, advanced display systems, extensive communications systems (including satellite data links), and intelligence equipment.

In addition to JORN an ASOP might be employed at a Control and Reporting Unit (CRU), one of which, No. 114 MCRU, is entirely mobile and works from transportable cabins. Members of this unit receive extra training in field craft, ground defence operations, and specialist driver operations, as they may be deployed to remote or offshore locations at short notice.

Due to the nature and complexity of the ASOP job shift-work is often required and TEAM WORK is essential, especially when on deployment. All members should be prepared for temporary duties at any location when placed on specialist training courses, assigned exercise duty, or when required as relief/reinforced manning at another unit. Selected ASOPs may also be employed as instructors at the Surveillance and Control Training Unit (SACTU).

Here are just a few examples of an ASOP's areas of responsibility, however there are many more. The duties and work schedule of an ASOP are rotated on a regular basis, in fact junior ASOPs may perform a variety of three or four in a single day.

Picture Manager (PICMAN). PICMANs set up and operate tactical computer displays and Intelligence systems, working with other sections to classify and identify aircraft.

Movements Operator (MOVOP). MOVOPs interpret surveillance information received from various sources regarding aircraft movements and enter the relevant information into the tactical computer system used by the PICMAN.

Intelligence Operator (INTOP). INTOPs aid the production of the overall air picture by communicating with external agencies and using data entry, manipulation of a Graphical User Interface and recording of information.

Electronic Warfare Operator (EWOP). The EWOP uses information systems to aid in the identification of electronic emissions detected during operations. This information is then passed to the surveillance team for incorporation in the surveillance picture.

Over The Horizon Radar Detection and Tracking Operator (ODTO). ODTOs interpret and analyse information received from an Over the Horizon Radar to detect and track air and surface targets in order to develop an air/sea picture of Australia’s approaches. ODTOs also operate supplemental surveillance and intelligence gathering equipment.