Psychological Impact of Airpower
Abstract
Airpower's contributions to a given campaign plan are typically planned and assessed primarily in terms of actual destruction of enemy equipment, facilities, and personnel. Often overlooked is the substantial psychological impact airpower has on the forces targeted. World War II, the first year of the Korean War, and the 1991 Gulf War provide examples in which airpower played a key role in reducing enemy morale, and hence, combat effectiveness. Conversely, the latter portion of the Korean War and the Vietnam War illustrate how airpower's potential contributions can be dissipated if not properly employed. To maximize airpower's inherent ability to create a significant psychological impact on the battlefield, "lessons learned" from these conflicts should be institutionalized in the form of Joint and supporting Service doctrine to guide operational commanders and their staffs in future planning efforts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 18, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA351576
Entities
People
- Bruce A. Lindblom
Organizations
- Naval War College