Which of the following is NOT part of the Total Force components?

Total Force components consist of various categories that contribute to the operational capabilities of the U.S. Armed Forces. These include the Regular Air Force (RegAF), the Air Force Reserve, and the Air National Guard. Each of these components plays a critical role in providing a balanced and ready military force.

The option identified as not part of the Total Force components is National Civilian Contractors. This is because contractors, while they may provide essential support and services to military operations, do not fall under the formal military organizational structure or under the command of military leadership. Instead, they operate as civilians engaged through contracts with the Department of Defense.

In contrast, RegAF and the USAF Reserve are integral parts of the Total Force, with the former being the active-duty component and the latter augmenting the active force and providing operational support. Department of Defense Contractors, while also civilian, can still be associated with military operations within contracted roles, but the National Civilian Contractors specifically do not have a defined military role and are therefore not considered part of the Total Force structure.