Creating Air Refueling Doctrine: Preserving Experience in Writing

Abstract : Without written operational air refueling doctrine, the difficulty of accurately estimating the utility and criticality of air refueling will continue. This paper describes the current state of air refueling doctrine and suggests a systematic approach for the establishment of a concise, dedicated, operational air refueling doctrine document. In an attempt to clarify mysterious doctrine terminology, working definitions and examples of doctrine are reviewed. Aerospace doctrine from 1941 to today is examined, illustrating how doctrine has evolved. A doctrine development process is suggested and air refueling historical experiences are analyzed in an attempt to develop basic doctrinal concepts. The doctrinal concepts derived (from the historical experiences) influence how tankers are employed today. A suggested doctrine development process is illustrated by applying a 'doctrine process' model devised by Colonel Dennis Drew, USAF, Ret. Drew compares the doctrine development process in steps similar to those of written academic research and emphasizes the continuous nature of the doctrine process. The paper concludes that the Air Force can benefit from the creation of an operational air refueling doctrine document and makes specific recommendations for the establishment of an air refueling doctrine development process.