Air Power

Question 1

Define Air Power

Answer 1

The ability to project power from the air and space to influence the behaviour of people or the course of events

Question 2

Name the 3 core attributes of Air Power.

Answer 2

1. Speed
2. Height
3. Reach

Question 3

Explain the Attribute of Speed.

Answer 3

Allows missions to be completed quickly allowing for potential exploit for time. In tactical situations high speed reduces exposure to hostile fire and ensuring survivability.

Question 4

Explain the Attribute of Reach.

Answer 4

The omnipresence of air allows air power to employ its capabilities at distance, including deep into enemy lines and isolated territories.

Question 5

Explain the Attribute of Height.

Answer 5

Allows airmen to observe and dominate the activities on the surface of the globe or under the sea, this allows for direct fire and the exploitation of the third dimension which is key for survivability.

Question 6

Name 3 other advantages of air power.

Answer 6

1. Ubiquity
2. Agility
3. Concentration

Question 7

Name the 5 disadvantages of air power.

Answer 7

1. Cost
2. Limited payload
3. Basing
4. Weather
5. Fragility

Question 8

Name the 4 Pillars of Air Power.

Answer 8

1. Control of the Air
2. Intelligence and Situational Awareness (ISR).
3. Attack
4. Air mobility

Question 9

Define Control of the Air (Air supremacy/superiority).

Answer 9

Air control is a
fundamental principle of air power.
Total Air superiority ensures Hostiles cannot function effectively.

Question 10

Define Intelligence, Surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR).

Answer 10

Providing military commanders critical information about activity on the ground in the air and at sea (using the sentry, tornado or sentinel)

Question 11

Define Air Mobility.

Answer 11

The ability to deploy, sustain and recover personnel and

equipment, often over significant distance

Question 12

Define Attack.

Answer 12

Air attack can deter adversaries, disrupt their activities in any weather conditions, day or night.

Question 13

Define Agility in Air Power.

Answer 13

The ability to rapidly respond to the change of operations.

e.g. from air policing to a full-scale war.

Question 14

Define Ubiquity in Air Power.

Answer 14

Ability to deliver overwhelming

force whenever and wherever it is required, theoretically through AAR.

Question 15

Define Concentration in Air Power.

Answer 15

allows it to focus overwhelming power at the decisive time and place.