School of War
Ep. 6: Frank Ledwidge on Airpower
Nov 23, 2021
Frank Ledwidge, a senior fellow at the Royal Air Force College and expert in military history, dives into the transformative role of airpower. He discusses its pivotal evolution from World War I skepticism to a key military strategy in WWII. Key insights include the chilling impact of strategic bombings and the legacy of contested air raids, such as the Chinese embassy incident. Ledwidge also explores the implications of air warfare today and its intriguing transition into space, highlighting the urgent need for innovative strategies in an evolving battlefield.
41:21
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Quick takeaways
- Air power transitioned from reconnaissance to a fundamental element of warfare, shaping tactics across multiple conflicts throughout history.
- The evolution of air power highlights the need for strategic innovation in modern warfare, particularly with emerging challenges in space.
Deep dives
The Evolution and Significance of Air Power
The concept of air power has evolved significantly from its early days, particularly during the First World War, when it shifted from being viewed as a mere sport to a critical element of warfare. Key historical events, such as the Battle of the Marne, highlighted its importance as a reconnaissance tool, enabling armies to exploit weaknesses in enemy lines. As air power advanced, it became integral not only for gathering intelligence but also for influencing strategic outcomes in battles. The intertwining roles of air power in reconnaissance, control of the skies, and attack have shaped military strategies throughout history and remain relevant today.
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