The Source of Basic Doctrine: Fundamental Characteristics of Airpower

Basic doctrine about airpower should begin with an identification of the inherent and fundamental characteristics of air forces. Doctrine then spells out the implications of these fundamental characteristics for military strategy and operations. The fundamental characteristic of air forces is that their basic items of equipment (aircraft) operate in the medium of the air. As stated in the Air Force Dictionary 1 Basic air doctrine deals with the phenomenon of flight, with the new relationships that exist as a result of hitherto unrealized speeds, range, mobility, and flexibility, and their application to the principles of war. .. . So far, so good. But various iterations of basic doctrine about air-power have had a mixed record in terms of the degree to which they have provided a basis for advocating important roles for air forces in joint operations.