Terror from the Skies: Exploiting the Psychological Impact of the Heavy Bomber
Abstract
The authors propose ways for the operational commander to exploit the psychological impact of heavy bombers in conventional campaigns. The sources, nature, and present state of the bomber's mystique are analyzed. Positive (favorable), and negative (unfavorable) emotional responses to bombing campaigns during both World Wars, the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts, and other crisis are examined in light of behaviors evinced by friendly and enemy civilians and soldiers in these conflicts. The authors find that bombing civilian targets directly (which is inadvisable) produces the most negative effects; bombing military targets produce the most positive effects. The authors conclude the operational commander can best exploit the psychological impact of the heavy bomber by employing it against military vulnerabilities in campaigns designed to minimize civilian casualties. Such campaigns produce the most positive effects in the enemy's behavior or activities. Recommendations are offered for maximizing positive effects, and minimizing negative effects, of using heavy bombers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 11, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA236876
Entities
People
- Christopher D. Miller
- Dennis C. Porter
Organizations
- Naval War College