The USAF and Technological Asymmetry: A Critique of Current Air Power Theory and Doctrine.

Abstract

This monograph examines the question of whether the United States Air Force (USAF) is too reliant upon technological asymmetry. It examines four possible paths to over-reliance and then surveys Air Force doctrine and air power theory. The study then assesses that doctrine and theory in light of potential over-reliance on technological asymmetry. The analysis shows that the USAF is over-reliant on technological asymmetry. The current air power theory and doctrine of strategic attack requires technology to replace some aspects of human decision making, technology to replace strategy (to a degree), the elimination of fog and friction, and certainty regarding enemy reactions in order to be effective. These assumptions, which are the foundation of the theory, require careful and rigorous examination - which the Air Force has not yet accomplished. Over-reliance on technological asymmetry raises fundamental concerns, and USAF thinkers must address these concerns in order to make the theory and doctrine truly viable. (MM)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 19, 1995
Accession Number
ADA301022

Entities

People

  • Karen S. Wilhelm

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems
  • Human Systems
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Air Defense
  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Complex Systems
  • Employment
  • Geography
  • Governments
  • International Organizations
  • Military Organizations
  • Munitions
  • New York
  • Nuclear Weapons
  • Precision-Guided Munitions
  • United States
  • Warfare
  • Weapons Effects

Readers

  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Strategic Security Studies