Adapting Airpower in Counterinsurgency: A Roadmap for the Operational Planner
Abstract
Over its first 100 years, the airplane has become an integral part of American combat power and a difference maker on the battlefield. Yet when applied to counterinsurgency, many struggle to draw conclusions regarding its effectiveness and utility. Today, the operational commander faces new and irregular enemies operating in diverse environments. American combat forces will be forced to evolve in response to adversaries who respect its conventional advantages and instead search to exploit seams in its capabilities. Historically, airpower has been invaluable in counterinsurgency efforts, although it has largely been ignored doctrinally. Without suitable doctrine, the joint planner is left to wonder how to best apply airpower in these counterinsurgencies. This paper offers the planner a starting point. It explores the historical application of airpower in COIN and analyzes selected historical examples to identify best practices and crucial mistakes. The paper concludes with some critical guidelines for the future employment of this capable arm of American power.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 06, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA476729
Entities
People
- James Mccall
Organizations
- Naval War College