United States Air Force Contributions to Saudi Arabian Air Defense: Present Needs and Future Options
Abstract
This report discusses the background that has led to the longterm augmentation of the Royal Saudi Air Force's (RSAF) air defense system with a detachment of deployed US E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft which began in September 1980. The regional and global threats to Saudi Arabia are examined, as are the weaknesses present in the RSAF air defense system in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Planned improvements to Saudi air defense under the PEACE SENTINEL and PEACE SHIELD Foreign Military Sales programs are detailed along with the current status of both programs. Recognizing the growing organic air defense capabilities of the Saudi Air Force, an assessment is made with respect to the present and future need for continued active involvement of US AWACS in the defense of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Specific recommendations regarding continued US augmentation are made for a variety of threat scenarios. Keywords: Military assistance; Deterrence; Airborne warning/control system; AWACS aircraft; Threat evaluation; Saudi Arabia; Foreign military sales; Logistics support; Military training; Resource allocations/ deployment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA217293
Entities
People
- Michael A. Nelson
- Thomas P. O'neill
Organizations
- Air War College