The Key Role of Air Power in the Defence of Australia

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA283187 | Open PDF

Abstract:

The defence of the island continent of Australia poses difficult problems for its population of 17 million people. While there are no aggressors on the horizon, the defence of the country requires a clear focus to put in place an effective defence at a time of continuing resource constraints. Air power assumes a key role in the defence of Australia because its characteristics, such as mobility, flexibility, versatility, speed of response and reach, are well-matched to Australias unique situation. While the defence of the sea-air gap to the north remains the prime consideration for defence planners, a task for which air power is well-suited, an offensive strategic strike capability is essential. The flexible strike capability provided by airpower can deter enemies, allow the initiative to be regained and the risks of gradual attrition of friendly forces to be avoided.

Author(s):
Birrer, Kenneth N.
Author Organization(s):
AIR WAR COLL MAXWELL AFB AL
Descriptive Note:
Final rept.
Pagination:
0032

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release, Document Partially Illegible
Distribution Statement:
Approved For Public Release; Distribution Is Unlimited. Document Partially Illegible.

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Monitor Series:
AWC
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.1_Maneuver; JCA_3.1.1_Maneuver to Engage; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_3.1.2_Maneuver to Insert; JCA_1.1_Force Management; JCA_7.1.1_Prevent Kinetic Attack; JCA_7.1_Prevent; JCA_7_Protection; JCA_5.2_Understand; JCA_5.2.2_Develop Knowledge and Situational Awareness; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_2_Battlespace Awareness; JCA_2.2_Collection; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_8_Building Partnerships; JCA_6.4.1_Secure Information Exchange; JCA_6_Net Centric; JCA_1.4.1_Force Health Protection; JCA_1.4_Force Support
Communities of Interest:
Air Platforms
Descriptor(s):
*AIR DEFENSE, *AUSTRALIA, *AIR POWER, *DEFENSE PLANNING, MILITARY STRATEGY, GEOGRAPHY, ISLANDS, NATIONAL DEFENSE, NATIONAL SECURITY, AIR STRIKES, THREAT EVALUATION, GEOPOLITICS
Field(s)/Group(s):
Government and Political Science, Geography, Defense Systems, Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics
Keyword(s):
ISLAND CONTINENTS, GEOSTRATEGY
Report Date:
1993 Apr 01