Operation Cartwheel, 1943-1944: Integrated Force Projection to Overcome Limited Access

The inherent problems of limited access in an island campaign magnify when examined through the lens of projecting force on ones enemy. General Douglas MacArthurs campaign through New Guinea and the Solomon Islands provides a focused environment to examine the applicability of using airlift as an option to overcome limited access, while enhancing force projection. The capability of planners and crews to deal with the limitations associated with airlift is evident through the lens of five dimensions. The dimensions of staff utilization, tactical and operational effects, indirect effects, airlift capabilities, and combined arms integration support each other to show how airlift employment provides a force projection capability. The applicability for future operations lies in understanding the impact of each dimension and ensuring full implementation of limitations and effects. Only through this understanding of integrated employment can future forces gain true achievement of unified action.