Air Defense in the 'Lower' End of the Conflict Spectrum
Abstract
This monograph discusses the importance and growing role of air defense in the lower end of the conflict spectrum. There is not a broad understanding in our current doctrinal literature of the increasing air threat in low intensity conflicts and 'limited wars' and how air defense can be used to counter that threat. This monograph examines the air defense demands that these modern conflicts may engender and shows how they have implications for U.S. air defense doctrine. The study first examines the general role of air defense in tactical theory and then develops theoretical guidelines for a tactical theory of air defense in the low-intensity to limited war range of the conflict spectrum. Next, the historical examples of Vietnam, Afghanistan, The Falklands and Lebanon are analyzed to test the validity of the theoretical constructs. Finally, current doctrine is compared to the findings of the theoretical and historical examinations to determine how well it meets the demands of low- intensity conflicts and limited war. The monograph concludes that a doctrinal void exists between current air defense doctrine and the demands of the lower end of the conflict spectrum. Doctrinal guidelines are presented to provide the basis for a needed and suitable air defense doctrine. Keywords: Military doctrine strategy; Unconventionally warfare; Limited war; Low intensity conflicts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 09, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA211004
Entities
People
- Gary J. Tocchet
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College