Army Aviation's Role In Peace Operations.

Abstract : The end of the Cold War and the demise of the Soviet Union has resulted in increased regional conflicts and instability throughout the world. In areas where U.S. national interests have been threatened, we employed our Army to protect our interests or assist an ally. As a member of a joint task force (JTF) or multinational coalition, the Army has conducted humanitarian assistance, peacekeeping, and peace enforcement operations. Since these initiatives have been conducted in peacetime and since their missions were not entirely hostile, these operations are doctrinally classified as operations other than war (OOTW) . In each of the operations discussed in this study, Army Aviation has been a major contributor. Army Aviation provides the force commander a great deal of flexibility and versatility across the spectrum of OOTW. Army Aviation has the unique capability to perform combat, combat support, and combat service support missions. This study will examine lessons learned from 'Operation Provide Comfort,' 'Operation Restore Hope,' and 'Operation Uphold Democracy.' It will review joint doctrine, and Army doctrine to determine the adequacy of current aviation doctrine, force structure, and training required to support peace operations.