Bomber Force 2000: Operational Concepts for Long-Range Combat Aircraft
Abstract
This research paper seeks to synthesize analyses of air power theory and doctrine, historical insights from major operations, current thinking, and the emerging strategic environment to detail concepts for improved planning and execution of future air operations. These operations would fully integrate bombers as long-range combat aviation assets. The search for a type of aircraft to fit the doctrine derived from early interpretations of air power theory has hindered development of bomber potential. The use of atomic weapons at the end of World War II and the ensuing Cold War further obscured understanding of bombers--their real contribution hinging on viewing them as long-range combat aircraft. Today, the bomber is not obsolete, but its traditional nuclear paradigm is. The emergence of regional threats combined with a shrinking defense establishment and the global compression of time and space demand full integration of bomber aircraft into the US air power arsenal. These aircraft provide a theater commander with a unique capability to rapidly respond across the spectrum of conflict from a peacetime show of force to major nuclear or non- nuclear conflict. However, for the operational commander to employ bomber assets effectively requires a full recognition of bomber attributes and a thorough understanding of their capabilities. Strategic, Reorganization,Technology, Conflict, Capabilities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 08, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA279378
Entities
People
- Jeffrey K. Beene
Organizations
- Naval War College