Balancing Act: Synergy of Combat Airpower Functions

Abstract : This study analyzes the role of combat airpower functions in war. The author first examines the how functions of force are traditionally balanced to achieve maximum effects on the battlefield through an examination of Carl von Clausewitz and J.F.C. Fuller. He then compares and contrasts traditional military theory with initial airpower theories, concluding that the domain of air is not so unique as to change the nature of war. The study examines how the Prophets of Air Power Giulio Douhet, Billy Mitchell, and Hugh Trenchard- pushed newly developing air forces toward imbalanced force structures. The author examines the works of other airpower theorists of the interwar period, such as Claire Chennault and John Slessor, to determine if there were more balanced approaches to airpower that would still be relevant today. He examines the effective air campaigns of two World War Two Airmen, Major General Pete Quesada and General George Kenney, revealing how their balanced approaches to combat airpower were key to their successes. With an understanding of traditional military vs. airpower theory, and examples of successful air campaigns, the author uses a three-sided model to reframe the functions of combat airpower. Within this framework, he demonstrates how elements can and must be balanced to meet any and all possible demands placed upon combat airpower in future conflicts.