Western Way of War
Air Power Beyond Tactical Effects
Aug 13, 2020
Stuart Atha, an expert in air force planning, and Peter Roberts, a commentator on military strategy, dive deep into the evolving role of air power in modern warfare. They discuss the shift from traditional air force tactics to strategies emphasizing synchronization and political utility. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting air power to counter adversaries like Russia and China and the significance of multi-domain operations involving drones. They underscore NATO's collaborative potential and the need for innovative approaches in modern military planning.
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Quick takeaways
- Air power's historical relevance extends beyond close air support, demanding a comprehensive strategy integrated with land and naval forces.
- Adapting air power to counter advanced A2AD systems requires leveraging technological advancements and innovative operational frameworks within NATO.
Deep dives
The Evolving Concept of Air Power
Air power has become synonymous with close air support in modern Western militaries, reflecting a narrowed focus based on recent operational experiences rather than a comprehensive understanding of its broader utility. The historical significance of air power spans various roles, from strategic bombing during the Cold War to integrated campaigns in conflicts like Iraq and Afghanistan. However, the recent distractions and debates about drone warfare have seemingly diluted the appreciation for air power's full spectrum of capabilities. To maintain an edge in global conflicts, it's essential to rediscover and leverage air power as part of a holistic military strategy that integrates with land, naval, and diplomatic efforts.
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