Transport-Bombers: A Conceptual Shift in Precision Guided Munitions Delivery
Abstract
The US Department of Defense has identified a shortfall in bomber and transport capabilities necessary to execute the two nearly simultaneous Major Regional Contingencies called for in the President's National Security Strategy. One option to fill the bomber and transport shortfall, though one not discussed in current studies, is to develop transport-bombers. This study addresses three main questions to determine the transport-bomber's usefulness. The first is whether commanders can use such an aircraft in ways that truly enhance force application and mobility operations without unduly undermining one in favor of the other? The answer, because of technology enhancements and budget constraints, is definitely yes. The second question targets technology specifically by asking whether engineers could place some elements of both missions on a single aircraft? Again the answer appears to be positive. Finally, the study analyzes budgetary and operational constraints in an attempt to answer the question of the appropriate force mix. In the end, either three squadrons of C-l7s or two squadrons of B-747-400s provide the necessary capability. The C-17 is a more versatile and flexible mobility platform than the B-747 and engineers have identified all the technological challenges that will allow it to rapidly convert into a bomber. The B-747, on the other hand, can employ twice as many missiles, carry more than two and one-half times the number of cargo pallets and fly further than the C-i 7. However, its ability to "swing" promptly remains unproven and it requires intratheater airlift support to move its cargo to forward operating bases.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA421895
Entities
People
- Bryan J. Benson
Organizations
- Air University