High Speed Jets in a Low Speed War: The Utility of Tactical Airpower in Low-Intensity Conflict
Abstract
This monograph discusses an often forgotten aspect of low-intensity conflict (LIC), tactical airpower. LIC is an environment, not a mission, and as such is often misunderstood. The US view of conflict is primarily Eurocentric and the subtleties of combat of combat of less than midintensity often escapes the average military planner. Once a decision to engage in LIC is made, all the tools at the disposal of the planner should be considered, and tactical airpower should not be dismissed out of hand. The monograph is divided into three main sections. FIrst is a discussion of the nature of LIC and of tactical airpower. In section two, three case histories of the use of tactical airpower in LIC are presented. The third section is a look at USAF capabilities to perform the LIC mission today and notes several shortfalls. The paper concludes with a recapitulation of the utility of airpower in LIC. The shortfalls in USSF ability to prosecute LIC are highlighted and suggestions for improvement are offered. Keywords: Close air support; CAS; Military tactics; Special operations; Huk Rebellion; Philippine insurection; Afghanistan; SOW; LIC; Counterinsurgency. (KT)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 20, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA215765
Entities
People
- Raymond O. Knox
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College