Project CHECO Southeast Asia Report. Rolling Thunder, July 1965 - December 1966
Abstract
This study of air operations against North Vietnam - ROLLING THUNDER - is concerned primarily with the policies and plans governing the program. Emphasis has been placed on the Air Force role although vital contributions made by other services also must be recorded in order to achieve a well-balanced picture. It is hoped that this report, when read in conjunction with other CHECO studies dealing with different facets of ROLLING THUNDER, will contribute toward a better understanding of this program. A definitive study and evaluation of ROLLING THUNDER remains in the future since the program is still in progress. For the present, it can be said that air operations have not stopped the flow of men and material from the North into South Vietnam, but they have forced Hanoi to pay a heavy price for its continued support of the insurgency. They have not brought Hanoi to the point of negotiating peace terms nor caused a complete demoralization of the North Vietnamese. However, air strikes have caused serious economic dislocations in the North and dramatically illustrated U.S. power and determination - as well as restraint. The cumulative effect of the selective bombing of North Vietnam targets cannot be currently assessed, but it will probably have considerable impact on communist plans for the future conduct of the war. The ROLLING THUNDER program unquestionably has had a salutary effect on the morale of our South Vietnamese allies. These accomplishments are especially noteworthy when viewed against the numerous political restraints which have hindered the effective employment of air power. The unique experience gained from the ROLLING THUNDER program is expected to make a valuable contribution to U.S. strategic air plans and policies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 15, 1967
- Accession Number
- ADA486573
Entities
People
- Lee Bonetti
- Wesley R. Melyan
Organizations
- Pacific Air Forces