Strategic Mobility - Is Emphasis Still Needed

Abstract

Our strategic mobility capabilities have been a widely debated and controversial issue--do we have enough lift capability to get what is needed, where it's needed, in time to make a difference? The military strategy of the US is critically dependent on our ability to rapidly deploy and sustain combat forces worldwide. The concept of deterrence is an important element of this military strategy. If it is to remain effective, potential enemies must not only recognize our readiness but also our ability to quickly project forces. We rely upon a strategic mobility triad (strategic airlift and sealift, and prepositioning) to accomplish this crucial task. This triad faces significant shortfalls in view of other current requirements. Will the changing global environment favor or worsen these mobility shortfalls? This study, intended as a guide for the Joint Flag Officer Warfighting Course, includes synopses of selected journal articles and excerpts of other sources. It reviews the current state of our strategic mobility triad, its perceived future requirements, and how both may be affected by the changing international scene.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1990
Accession Number
ADA241199

Entities

People

  • John W. Dalton
  • Larry G. Radov

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Ground and Sea Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Aircraft Industry
  • Aircrafts
  • Airframes
  • Attrition
  • Cargo Aircraft
  • Congress
  • Employment
  • Logistics
  • Marine Transportation
  • Military History
  • National Security
  • Personnel Management
  • Transport Aircraft
  • United States Transportation Command
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Maritime Combat Support and Expeditionary Logistics.
  • Strategic Security Studies