The Air Force and Grand Strategy
Abstract
This study examines the implementation of American grand strategy and the Air Force s contributions to it during periods of constrained national resources. First, the writer investigates grand strategy in general and American grand strategy in particular. The results provide a working definition of grand strategy and explain the essence of American grand strategy, thereby delivering a framework with which the evidence can be judged. Next, the author assesses two examples of American grand strategy during periods of constrained national resources. These periods are the years between World War I and II (1919-1939) and President Eisenhower s Administration years (1953-1960). These assessments pay particular attention to two main points: how the Air Force contributed to American grand strategy and how airminded leaders articulated that contribution. The writer then evaluates the emerging foreign and domestic challenges, as well as the opportunities facing the United States in the early twenty-first century. The final section of the study applies the insights gained from the two historical examples to the likely future. The current strategic environment demands two things: the responsible, economic provision of airpower s unique contributions to national defense and the effective articulation of those contributions by inspired, airminded leaders.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA617323
Entities
People
- Nelson D. Rouleau
Organizations
- Air University