Boots in the Air: Moving the New Army Brigade
Abstract
The perennial role of the Army in the armed forces has been to bring dominant combat power to bear in the form of firepower from heavy divisions. In post-Cold War engagements, the variable nature and increased frequency of conflicts warrant a review of how the Army is to perform its traditional role. Indeed, rapid arrival of a new type of combat power to a conflict may prove more necessary than traditional heavy forces. Army Chief of Staff General Eric Shinseki's vision statement of 26 October 1999 addressed this idea and introduced a future Army of lighter, leaner forces. Currently, experimental units known as Interim Brigade Combat Teams are moving toward operational readiness, with the objective being the capability to deploy anywhere in the world in 96 hours. This study analyzes the new brigade and the capability for the Air Force to meet the associated airlift requirements. The author explores the value of such a unit for the United States armed forces and the potential airlift capacity in the coming decade to move the brigade in the desired time-frame. The conclusion is that the requirements exceed capability, both currently and for the immediate future. Next the author examines possible avenues to rectify the shortfall, including budget and force structure adjustments, in order to procure more airlift assets. The final section concludes that increased airlift is inextricably tied to brigade feasibility. Thus, without a joint approach to development, funding, and planning, deploying the brigade will remain only a vision.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA391777
Entities
People
- Scott F. Smith
Organizations
- Air University