In Search of High Ground. The Airpower Trinity and the Decisive Potential of Airpower

Abstract

This article introduces an original construct to explore the relationship of the key elements of airpower and to create a better understanding of the factors necessary for the most effective employment of airpower in combat. This construct-the Airpower Trinity, consisting of theory, technology, and practice- is derived from the concept of the Clauzewitzian Trinity. After an introduction of the Airpower Trinity, the evolution of these key elements is reviewed. This review reveals the criteria and circumstances required for balance among the three. Finally, it provides a look into the future of airpower, exploring how the balance can be maintained in peacetime and exploited in war.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1998
Accession Number
ADA529564

Entities

People

  • David K. Edmonds

Organizations

  • Air University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerial Warfare
  • Air Defense
  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Aircrafts
  • Bombing
  • Center Of Gravity
  • Fighter Aircraft
  • Military Aircraft
  • Military Force Levels
  • Military Organizations
  • Second World War
  • United States
  • Unmanned Systems
  • War
  • Warfare
  • Weapons

Readers

  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies