This monograph discusses the importance of understanding US airpower (Air Force, Navy, Marines and Army) in order to better appreciate its tactical contribution to joint warfighting. Even after the Persian Gulf War misunderstandings persist and seem to come about because of fixations on roles and performances in earlier eras. Historical examples and quantitative data are used to present a more realistic picture of present US airpower capabilities. The monograph uses four historical examples to provide a broad perspective on how US airpower matured. Tactical airpower impacts are traced starting with the battle for Buna in the Southwest Pacific during World War II. The analysis continues with the defense of the Pusan perimeter in the Korean War, the US response to the 1972 invasion of the South by North Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf War. Quantifiable airpower characteristics for each period complement the qualitative historical evidence. The analysis closes with the highlighting of enduring strengths and recurring weaknesses. The monograph concludes that American airpower has changed considerably since the early days of WW II. What exists today is a remarkable constellation of still evolving capabilities that are all at once integrated, interdependent and complementary. While not perfect, history has clearly shown that US airpower has emerged as a devastatingly effective tactical weapon in battle. The key remaining question is whether or not US military leaders truly appreciate how airpower has changed.

ADA 262658 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.)