the operational art of war iv air combat

Ironically, as we witness a rebirth of thinking at the operational level of war, nearly all the literature discussing operational art, campaign planning, and maneuver warfare is too narrowly focused on a continental approach. Throughout the Pacific campaigns of World War II, the seizure of advanced naval and air bases by amphibious forces provided intermediate objectives leading to the unconditional surrender of Japan.Įach of these historical examples illustrates elements of what is now popularly referred to as operational art. In the Peninsula Campaign during the Napoleonic wars, Wellington used sea-based expeditionary forces to gain a lodgment on the continent, ultimately compelling France to fight on two fronts.

For example, in the Second Punic War the Roman General Scipio landed in Iberia, striking the Carthaginian center of gravity in hopes of defeating Hannibal.

As was so clearly demonstrated in Operation DESERT STORM, the Navy-Marine team has unique capabilities to offer those seeking to enhance their operational art.įor over 2,000 years power projection by amphibious forces has contributed to securing the strategic aims of many nations. Unified commanders concerned with warfare at the operational level would do well to consider amphibious forces.

The operational art of war iv air combat