The Use of Tactical Airlift as a Tool of Foreign Policy
Abstract
During the Berlin blockade, the United States supported the beleaguered city with airlift support. After a year, the Soviet Union gave up-- the allies had won. In the years since, the United States had provided humanitarian aid around the world with the quick response of its airlift capability, and this aid is used as an extension of its foreign policy. For example, in Africa, the United States has provided food in an attempt to stem the tide of communism. In some cases, the aid was provided through the United Nations because the country needing the aid did not match our definition of human rights, they advocated terrorism, or one of several other foreign policy factors. In the Western Hemisphere, the Monroe Doctrine is closely tied to our foreign policy, but has not always been a guiding principle. Nicaragua is a prime example where under President Reagan no aid was provided following a 1988 hurricane. Our military-airlift aircraft quickly deliver nearly every form of humanitarian aid around the world. Tactical-airlift aircraft are a key factor in this transportation equation because it has the capability to move it closer to the area where the aid is needed through airdrops and because of its ability to land on short, unimproved strips. For example, following an earthquake in the interior of Peru, C-130s and C-123s airdropped and airlanded equipment and supplies directly into the mountains. Tactical airlift has a positive impact on US humanitarian-aid efforts which are an extension of our foreign policy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA241168
Entities
People
- Dennis L. Voss
Organizations
- Air War College