A 'Full Spectrum' Air Force

<p>The Chief of Staff of the Air Force stated in September 2008 that the U.S. Air Force was the force of first and last resort. In the current complex environment of failed states transnational terrorism and hybrid warfare it seems that in this context the U.S. Air Force must be prepared to fight along the entire spectrum of conflict. This research paper begins with an analysis of the spectrum of conflict with a novel model envisioned by Mr. Shawn Brimley a former senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). This model helps explain the current nature of the spectrum of conflict. Next the paper explores areas along the spectrum of conflict where the U.S. Air Force may have gaps in capabilities that may be exploited by future adversaries. The paper identifies two gaps: one at the lower end of the spectrum that is associated with our current counter insurgencies (COIN) in Iraq and Afghanistan and another gap at the higher end of the spectrum associated with growing anti-access strategies employed by both China and Iran. The paper then posits two force structure recommendations to fill these capabilities. For the lower end counter insurgency portion of the spectrum the paper suggests a COIN aircraft and for the higher end anti-access portion of the spectrum the paper suggests a long range strike system.--Abstract from web site. <br>Topic: 09A8002 - How would an Airman write Grand Strategy for the 21st Century?</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p><br>