Final answer:
The Air Expeditionary Group (AEG), particularly the Air Expeditionary Squadron (AES) within it, is the component of the AETF responsible for establishing and operating an air base.
Step-by-step explanation:
The component of the Air Expeditionary Task Force (AETF) that is capable of establishing and operating an air base is the Air Expeditionary Group (AEG). The AEG is responsible for setting up base operations, establishing security, and maintaining mission support functions, which can include tasks like communications, intelligence, and other logistical needs essential for airfield operations. The Air Expeditionary Squadron (AES) within the AEG is more specifically focused on the tactical level of establishing and operating air bases in AETF deployments.
The component of the air expeditionary task force (AETF) that is capable of establishing and operating an air base is known as the Air Base Opening (ABO). The ABO has specialized units and personnel that are trained in the construction, maintenance, and operation of air bases.
These units typically include engineers, communications specialists, logisticians, and security forces. They are responsible for setting up infrastructure such as runways, hangars, fuel facilities, and command centers to support air operations.