Combined Ops separates its main functions into dedicated components so that each user role has access to the information and capabilities relevant to their operational responsibilities. Rather than providing a single interface for every task, the ecosystem connects specialized environments for mission planning, operational coordination, and real-time airspace management.
DCS AOC Tools is designed for group AOC members, commanders, and authorized mission editors who are responsible for preparing and managing the operational information for a mission. It provides the environment for creating projects, importing DCS World mission files, and preparing operational documentation such as the ATO, ACO, SPINS, and Communications Plan.
DCS Mission Planner is designed primarily for pilots and operation participants. It provides access to the operational information prepared through DCS AOC Tools, while also providing dedicated mission-planning features for flight preparation, including navigation planning, countermeasures configuration, and Takeoff and Landing Data calculations.
DCS Airspace extends the workflow into real-time mission execution. It is designed for ATC, AWACS, and GCI operators who need access to operational and flight information while managing and monitoring the airspace during a live DCS World mission.
This separation allows each component to focus on the needs of its users while keeping the underlying operational information connected across the Combined Ops ecosystem. Information prepared by AOC members can therefore be made available to pilots and participants through DCS Mission Planner and used by airspace controllers through DCS Airspace, according to the access and operational configuration of the mission.
For projects created in DCS AOC Tools, the project must be made available to participants before it can appear in DCS Mission Planner. To do this, open the project's properties and enable Visible in Mission Planner.
See the AOC Tools / Project Properties and Info section of the Combined Ops Wiki for detailed information about project visibility and configuration.