American Airpower: The Emergence of a Dominant Tactical Advantage
Abstract
This monograph discusses the importance of understanding US airpower (Air Force, Navy, Marines and Army) in order to better appreciate its tactical contribution to joint warfighting. Even after the Persian Gulf war misunderstandings persist and seem to come about because of fixations on roles and performances in earlier eras. Historical examples and quantitative data are used to present a more realistic picture of present US airpower capabilities. The monograph uses four historical examples to provide a broad perspective on how US airpower matured. Tactical airpower impacts are traced starting with the battle for Buna in the Southwest Pacific during World War II. The analysis continues with the defense of the Pusan perimeter in the Korean war, the US response to the 1972 invasion of the South by North Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf war. Quantifiable airpower characteristics for each period complement the qualitative historical evidence. The analysis closes with the highlighting of enduring strengths and recurring weaknesses.... American airpower, 1972 Invasion of S. Vietnam, Battle for Buna - WWII, Persian Gulf War, Pusan Perimeter Battle - Korea.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 14, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA262658
Entities
People
- Robert R. Soucy Ii
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College