The Key Role of Air Power in the Defence of Australia

Abstract

The defence of the island continent of Australia poses difficult problems for its population of 17 million people. While there are no aggressors on the horizon, the defence of the country requires a clear focus to put in place an effective defence at a time of continuing resource constraints. Air power assumes a key role in the defence of Australia because its characteristics, such as mobility, flexibility, versatility, speed of response and reach, are well-matched to Australia's unique situation. While the defence of the sea-air gap to the north remains the prime consideration for defence planners, a task for which air power is well-suited, an offensive strategic strike capability is essential. The flexible strike capability provided by airpower can deter enemies, allow the initiative to be regained and the risks of gradual attrition of friendly forces to be avoided.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 1993
Accession Number
ADA283187

Entities

People

  • Kenneth N. Birrer

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Attrition
  • Boats
  • Counterair Operations
  • Geography
  • Governments
  • Guided Weapons
  • Military Organizations
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Naval Warfare
  • Political Systems
  • Topography
  • United States
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP).
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Systems Analysis and Design