Defending the Joint Force: Lessons Learned from Joint Base Balad

Abstract : Italian general Giulio Douhet long ago noted that it is easier and more effective to destroy the enemy's aerial power by destroying his nests and eggs on the ground than to hunt his flying birds in the air. This concept is reflected in Force Doctrine Document 1, Force Basic Doctrine: Air and space power is most vulnerable on the ground. Thus, force protection is an integral part of air and space power employment. However, base defense--defending one's air assets on the ground--is one of the least understood operational aspects of airpower. Today's Force strategy for defending air bases is known as integrated defense (ID) (formerly known as air base defense or airbase ground defense). ID provides the requisite secure foundation from which the Force launches combat operations and protects its personnel and resources. Without strong ID, Force personnel and resources, as well as those of the joint force, are vulnerable to attacks that would decrease their combat effectiveness.