Airpower Synergies for the New Strategic Era: The Complementary Roles of Long-range Bombers and Carrier-Based Aircraft

 

by Charles M. Perry, Laurence E. Rothenberg, and Jacquelyn K. Davis

This monograph is part of IFPA's continuing assessment of the post-Cold War security environment and the contribution of American military posture to global security. It examines the bomber-versus-carrier debate over how best to project U.S. power and maintain a presence abroad. It establishes that rather than competing for dominance, long-range U.S.-based bombers, such as the B-2, and carrier-based aircraft should be seen as complementary systems. The study describes the synergy that exists between a virtual presence, which relies on remote-sensing capabilities and long-range bombers, and the forward-deployed, visible forces that rely on aircraft carriers. The study also analyzes the emerging global security environment, which is characterized by diverse threats that require a mix of capabilities, and points to a number of mission areas where the complementary qualities of bombers and carriers can be exploited.

related monograph: CVX: A Smart Carrier for the New Era

 

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"As part of the Defense Review, the ultimate value of airpower employment will undoubtedly continue to enjoy long debate. The Report goes a long way in highlighting the issues central to that debate and that of our long-range national security planning. Thanks again for your continuing contributions to Navy and national security planning."

VICE ADMIRAL J.O. ELLIS, USN Deputy Chief of Naval Operations Plans, Policy and Operations