Airpower as a Second Front
Abstract
Throughout this century, nations have taken advantage of the speed, range, and flexibility of airpower to engage enemy forces on multiple fronts. Opening a second "air front" creates a synergistic effects with other operations, improving overall economy of force and increasing the probability of an outcome favorable to the United States and its allies. Of course, the concept of a second front is not new. Classic objectives in land warfare include dividing enemy forces, diverting enemy resources, spoiling advances on other fronts, and reestablishing the initiative. Airpower gives theater commanders a greater ability to realize these objectives. Unconstrained by geography, airpower can strike all of an enemy's warfighting capabilities, almost simultaneously. An enemy determined to defend against attacks from the vertical dimension must spread his resources across many points of attack, not just two or three.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA530394
Entities
People
- Mark A. Gunzinger
Organizations
- Air University