Development of Helicopter Capabilities in the U.S. Army During the Korean and Vietnam Wars
Abstract
The Vietnam War was the first conflict with a large helicopter involvement from the U.S. side. It was the biggest vertical capability use on the battlefield ever and was innovative and effective. It was unique on the battlefield, especially when enemy did not have any similar air mobility and sky cavalry capabilities. One can be surprised when understands how long it took to the Army to prove the necessity and develop this innovative capability. During the Korean War the Army had used very limited number of helicopters as logistical and transportation tools. The Army introduced a combat role of helicopters only in the Vietnam War. So, why did it take so long to the Army to obtain organic combat helicopters as an integral part of its capabilities? In this thesis the author addresses history of vertical capability incorporation into the Army during 19501973. The author uses parallel comparison of the Army and the Marine Corps' approach to the new helicopter capability. It provides clear picture of who was better and why, what challenges they met and how the challenges could be mitigated or overcame. This study provides a great example of a different approach to military innovation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1020430
Entities
People
- Denys Soboliev
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College