Accession Number:

ADA617140

Title:

Enhanced Army Airborne Forces: A New Joint Operational Capability

Descriptive Note:

Research rept.

Corporate Author:

RAND ARROYO CENTER SANTA MONICA CA

Personal Author(s):

• Gordon, IV, John
• Schaefer, Agnes G.
• Shlapak, David A.
• Baxter, Caroline
• Boston, Scott
• McGee, Michael
• Nichols, Todd
• Tencza, Elizabeth

Report Date:

2014-01-01

Pagination or Media Count:

137.0

Abstract:

This report was written as part of a project entitled Joint Operational Concepts for an Uncertain Future. The focus of the research became an effort to assess the challenges that U.S. Army airborne forces may face in the future and identify capabilities airborne forces will need to effectively address those challenges. This report summarizes threats to the current U.S. airborne force and explores the concept of an airborne light armored infantry force as a possible means to mitigate those threats. Additionally, the report examines possible vehicle options for such a concept, as well as joint requirements that the concept might generate, particularly in terms of the amount of airlift that an Army airborne unit with an increased number of vehicles could require. The research also examines potential uses for such an airborne light armored infantry force, advantages and disadvantages of the new concept, and issues related to implementation. Importantly, the research focused on near-term options the next three to five years to improve the capabilities of today s airborne forces.

Descriptors:

• *AIRLIFT OPERATIONS
• *JOINT MILITARY ACTIVITIES
• *MILITARY CAPABILITIES
• AIR DEFENSE
• AIRBORNE
• ARMY AVIATION
• MILITARY FORCES(UNITED STATES)
• MILITARY OPERATIONS
• MILITARY REQUIREMENTS
• THREATS

Subject Categories:

• Military Aircraft Operations
• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE