The Strategic Bomber and Low-Intensity Conflict

Abstract

The value of strategic (long range) bombers as a key component of the United States nuclear deterrent force has been well established. The utility of employing these same aircraft in conventional operations has been demonstrated, although less well accepted. As the probability of major conflict with the Soviet Union declines in the 1990s, the likelihood that the United States will find itself engaged in a Third World conflict is increasing. This paper examines the feasibility of employing the strategic bomber in low-intensity conflict scenarios. Furthermore, it proposes that the conventional B-52G has the potential to increase the United States options, flexibility, and responsiveness to conflicts in the Third World. The B-52 is an available and cost effective interim alternative until either the B-1b or b-2 can fully assume a dedicated conventional role. Keywords: Low intensity conflict, Strategic bombing, Bomber aircraft, Theses.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1990
Accession Number
ADA229938

Entities

People

  • John A. Breed

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Counter WMD
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerial Warfare
  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Combat Areas
  • Combat Forces
  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Conventional Capabilities
  • Conventional Warfare
  • Fire Control Systems
  • Military Operations
  • Military Organizations
  • National Security
  • Naval Mines
  • Treaties
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare
  • Weapons Effects

Readers

  • Asian Economic Studies
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Missile Defense Systems.