Kenneth W Sharpe

Aviation at the Operational Level of War: What Air Force Functions Properly Fall Under Army Aviation? Kenneth W Sharpe

This monograph evaluates the operational level employment of airpower. The operational roles and missions identified were evaluated to determine whether each should be an Air Force or Army responsibility. The primary determining factor employed in making the decision was the degree to which the responsibility enhanced combat power. Several main missions are identified and then placed into the four categories of combat power listed in Army Field Manual 100-5, Operations. Three historical examples of airpower employment were examined in detail to provide examples air force and army integration. Current Air Force and Army doctrine was traced from World War II and assessed for adequacy of support to the AirLand Battle. Results of the evaluation are that most roles and missions fall under the proper service. The main exception is close air support which, though still vital as a mission, should be placed under the responsibility of the Army.