This paper examines the new definition of strategic attack contained in Air Force Doctrine and seeks to uncover why it remains a fixture in American military operations despite the controversy regarding its efficacy. Since the advent of aircraft, airpower advocates have expounded on the idea of causing an enemy's collapse by circumventing fielded combat forces and directly striking political, economic, and industrial centers of gravity. When put to the test in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, heavy bombers employing strategic attack with conventional weapons seemed to produce mixed results because of poor weapons accuracy, bomber vulnerability, and insufficient targets. Only the use of nuclear weapons appeared to prove the decisiveness of strategic attack. Thus, strategic attack is often associated with nuclear weapons, heavy bomber aircraft, and specific target sets. Moreover, since strategic attack flies in the face of traditional force-on-force warfare, many critics believe that overzealous Airmen attempting to dominate joint operations wildly exaggerate the efficacy of conventional strategic attack. To alleviate these misperceptions, the Air Force completely revised its Doctrine Document 2-1.2 Strategic Attack in September 2003. Using historical case studies, this paper tests the new definition and explains why strategic attack continues to appeal to high-level decision makers and military commanders. This paper asserts that the definition is valid, but could be improved if it excluded standard target sets. Additionally, strategic attack has lasting influence because it can: 1) provide an alternative option when a ground commitment is not feasible, 2) create disproportionate effects to the effort expended, and 3) directly affect enemy will without engaging enemy fielded forces.
This paper examines the new definition of strategic attack contained in Air Force Doctrine and seeks to uncover why it remains a fixture in American military operations despite the controversy regarding its efficacy. Since the advent of aircraft, airpower advocates have expounded on the idea of causing an enemy's collapse by circumventing fielded combat forces and directly striking political, economic, and industrial centers of gravity. When put to the test in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, heavy bombers employing strategic attack with conventional weapons seemed to produce mixed results because of poor weapons accuracy, bomber vulnerability, and insufficient targets. Only the use of nuclear weapons appeared to prove the decisiveness of strategic attack. Thus, strategic attack is often associated with nuclear weapons, heavy bomber aircraft, and specific target sets. Moreover, since strategic attack flies in the face of traditional force-on-force warfare, many critics believe that overzealous Airmen attempting to dominate joint operations wildly exaggerate the efficacy of conventional strategic attack. To alleviate these misperceptions, the Air Force completely revised its Doctrine Document 2-1.2 Strategic Attack in September 2003. Using historical case studies, this paper tests the new definition and explains why strategic attack continues to appeal to high-level decision makers and military commanders. This paper asserts that the definition is valid, but could be improved if it excluded standard target sets. Additionally, strategic attack has lasting influence because it can: 1) provide an alternative option when a ground commitment is not feasible, 2) create disproportionate effects to the effort expended, and 3) directly affect enemy will without engaging enemy fielded forces.
The United States Air Force has long favored attacking electrical power systems.Electric power has been considered a critical target in every war since World War II,and will likely be nominated in...
In this paper, I will argue that the employment of the current doctrine regarding strategic attack is morally deficient when it gives priority to force protection over noncombatant immunity. My...
The AttackA terrorist team has just set off four explosive devices in an international airport close to New York City. The leader of the terrorists, Ahmad Khalin, survives the attack and plans to...
Discover your next great read at BookLoop, Australiand online bookstore offering a vast selection of titles across various genres and interests. Whether you're curious about what's trending or searching for graphic novels that captivate, thrilling crime and mystery fiction, or exhilarating action and adventure stories, our curated collections have something for every reader. Delve into imaginative fantasy worlds or explore the realms of science fiction that challenge the boundaries of reality. Fans of contemporary narratives will find compelling stories in our contemporary fiction section. Embark on epic journeys with our fantasy and science fiction titles,
Shop Trending Books and New Releases
Explore our new releases for the most recent additions in romance books, fantasy books, graphic novels, crime and mystery books, science fiction books as well as biographies, cookbooks, self help books, tarot cards, fortunetelling and much more. With titles covering current trends, booktok and bookstagram recommendations, and emerging authors, BookLoop remains your go-to local australian bookstore for buying books online across all book genres.
Shop Best Books By Collection
Stay updated with the literary world by browsing our trending books, featuring the latest bestsellers and critically acclaimed works. Explore titles from popular brands like Minecraft, Pokemon, Star Wars, Bluey, Lonely Planet, ABIA award winners, Peppa Pig, and our specialised collection of ADHD books. At BookLoop, we are committed to providing a diverse and enriching reading experience for all.
Buy Educational Books and Textbooks Online at BookLoop
Shop School Textbooks for Primary, Secondary, and Higher Education
At BookLoop, we make it easy to buy school textbooks online in Australia for every stage of learning. Our extensive
textbook collection includes curriculum-aligned primary school books,
secondary school books, and resources for TAFE courses, vocational training, and university studies.
Each title is selected for accuracy, quality, and alignment with the Australian Curriculum, supporting teachers, students, and schools across the country. Whether you’re preparing for exams, classroom learning, or distance education, BookLoop’s range of educational books ensures your students have the right materials to succeed.
Teacher Resources, Classroom Tools and Professional Learning
Empower your teaching with teacher resources and classroom support materials from BookLoop.
Our collection includes lesson planning guides, literacy and numeracy workbooks, STEM education resources, and assessment tools that help educators deliver engaging, effective learning experiences.
We also stock a wide selection of preschool and early years education books tailored to early childhood development, classroom management, and student wellbeing.
Teachers can access everything from professional development books to interactive classroom activities — all carefully curated to enhance teaching outcomes and student success.
Educational Books and Learning Resources for Every Subject
Find educational books for students across a variety of subjects including English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, and the Arts.
BookLoop partners with trusted Australian publishers to provide up-to-date resources that meet classroom requirements and support independent learning.
Whether you’re a school administrator sourcing bulk textbook orders, a parent preparing for the new term, or a teacher updating your classroom library, BookLoop is your one-stop online bookstore for all education and teaching materials.
Sign In
your cart
Your cart is empty
Menu
Search
PRE-SALES
If you have any questions before making a purchase chat with our online operators to get more information.
