Clearing the Air

The United States finds itself engaged in a global conflict unlike any other it has ever faced, either in scope or length. The long term commitment of military forces demands serious consideration of the structure of our military forces. Efforts to transform America's military are underway, but we need to examine the very basis of our thinking with regard to the use of military force. As we alter the shape and capabilities of our armed forces, we depend more on interoperability and synergy to get the mission accomplished. As such, we must make sure that our armed forces are used in a fashion that will leverage their strengths to the maximum extent possible. To do that, we must reevaluate each arm of the military and the theory that underpins its use. Airpower, the newest form of military power, is no exception to this requirement.