This thesis is a study of a tactical combat system. It examines the capabilities of the attack helicopter to determine the suitability of its employment in operations other than war (OOTW). Suitability is established based upon those attack helicopter capabilities most applicable to OOTW. They include mobility, agility, and firepower. Additionally, the attack helicopter possesses a less tangible capability manifest in its effect on the psyche of both sides of the OOTW conflict. Further explanation of this psychological effect resides within this thesis. This thesis draws several conclusions. First, there is no prescriptive solution with which to determine the need for attack helicopters in a particular operation other than war. Second, in assessing attack helicopter suitability, the commander's analysis of the environment must encompass a "political" analysis which spans the three levels of conflict (tactical, operational, and strategic) tailored in terms of the OOTW environment. Third, while exercising restraint, commander's can employ the firepower capabilities of the attack helicopter in collateral-damage sensitive operations. Fourth, no other tactical combat system combines its capabilities to address the OOTW scenario with the level of synergy as does the attack helicopter. Finally, combat crew training in weapons employment techniques, and research and development of munitions can facilitate the suitable application of the attack helicopter in the OOTW environment. The majority of the analysis of this thesis focuses on the firepower capabilities of the attack helicopter. This capability separates the attack helicopter from other rotary wing systems. Furthermore the effects of this capability provide the greatest concern for employment in operations other than war.

ADA 299307 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)