A New Beginning or the End of an Era? Future Use of the C-130 for the Airborne Forcible Entry Capability
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to study the argument over the best use of AMC's newest asset; the C-130 Hercules. History and doctrine appear to support the use of the C-130 in the airborne forcible entry mission. Ill defined requirements and diminishing capabilities of both the C-130 and the airborne division support the search for an alternative mission for the aircraft. History, doctrine, capability, and requirements for the C-130 to perform personnel airdrop are examined. The conclusion examines several alternatives that could logically result from this debate. These include: (1) the elimination of mass airborne personnel drops as a valid method of forcible entry; (2) maintaining this capability, but eliminating the role of the C-130 in this mission, and (3) maintenance of the status quo continued C-130 support for the airborne division.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA354215
Entities
People
- Cameron W. Torrens
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology