Understanding Airpower: Bonfire of the Fallacies
Abstract
Dr. Colin Gray recognizes that there will always be defense debates. He also believes that some of the frequently contested debating terrain can and need to be clarified and settled. In this study, this noted strategic scholar addresses assumptions and conventionally held ideas about airpower that are wrong. Professor Gray identifies and discusses nine fallacies: (1) the USAF should abandon large-scale regular warfare; (2) airpower is inherently a strategic weapon; (3) airpower is driven by technology rather than ideas; (4) airpower is about targeting; (5) airpower must be subordinate to land power; (6) the theory of strategic airpower is flawed; (7) an independent USAF interferes with an effective joint force structure; (8) airpower is a minor player in counterinsurgency (COIN); and finally, a longstanding issue, (9) the 21st century is about missiles, space, and cyber power and airpower is yesterday's revolution. The discussion of these fallacies should stimulate the appetite of most thoughtful Airmen, but also serious advocates of all services and everyone interested in national defense.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA550429
Entities
People
- Colin S. Gray
Organizations
- Air University