U.S. Air Force Doctrine: A Perspective

Abstract : A changing threat, increased competition for scarce funding, and differing perceptions of the role of tomorrow's military may radically change the way the Air Force is structured and employed by the turn of the century. Sound doctrine could be the cornerstone for the Air Forces response to the future. Chapter I begins by examining definitions of doctrine, tracing its history, analyzing the three sources of doctrine and its purposes,and identifying shortfalls in each category. The next chapter, while reviewing the Air Force's doctrine development process, asserts that air power doctrine has not been developed through a rigorous process. It needs to be. Chapter III explains where the responsibility for air power doctrine has been, where it is today, and where it should be. Next, Chapter IV confirms that the Air Force sustains, trains, and equips along doctrine lines. The assessment shows, however, the Air Force lacking in organizing according to current doctrine. Finally, Chapter V highlights some controversial doctrine areas of combat support, close air support, and space.