Future Shock: A Case for the B-2 Bomber
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to stimulate thought on what forces the United States should procure in the future in light of current and projected political and economic climates. In this spirit, different types of conventional forces are compared using the cost of a Naval Carrier Battle Group as the point of departure. The forces are then placed in a hypothetical scenario meeting the criteria of a Major Regional Contingency, in an effort to determine which weapon system is the most cost effective in terms of cost to deliver a weapon. The combat effectiveness of each weapon system is also determined in terms of the time it takes to destroy an armored division, and finally, the time it would take each weapon system to render typical enemy forces combat ineffective. Finally, the conclusion of this study is that the weapon of choice to lead American Air Power into the 21st Century, is the B-2. It is the B-2 that is ideally suited for halting an enemy's front line invasion force, or attack targets that are long-range and require quick reactions in mass. The B-2 is the only weapon system capable of projecting air power world-wide at a moment's notice. When considering the future force structure of the U.S. Air Force, a robust B-2 force of at least 40 available aircraft is essential if the United States continues to desire long-range, rapid power projection. When one considers the cost effectiveness of the B-2 in terms of the cost per weapon delivered, the B-2 is the best choice for the future.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA425689
Entities
People
- Paul H. Dijulio
Organizations
- Air University