Air Power Development Centre #23: Taking It To The Streets: Exploding Urban Myths About Australian Air Power (2007) By Gareth B. S. Neilson
 
All indications are that there is an increased likelihood of military forces having to operate in urban areas against unconventional adversaries in the future. However, at the same time, military forces must also be able to counter the more conventional state-on-state security threats which may well arise if unconventional adversaries are allowed to extend their agenda. This paper examines the capabilities of air power to achieve joint synergies at each of the tactical, operational and strategic levels of conflict to contribute to military victories that support national security objectives across the unconventional and conventional dimensions of operations. The paper assesses current and future air power capabilities that can be brought to bear in urban conflict as well as its interdependent relationship with ground forces. The articulation of specific doctrine, procedures, and training capabilities are considered as necessary foundational elements for ensuring success in joint operations in this challenging arena of conflict. Air power alone cannot win urban battles. However, a joint approach reliant on Special Forces can create efficient precision strike capabilities even in the most complex urban areas. A combined arms approach to urban operations will be able to control the tempo of battle becoming a war-winning factor. The effects of such an approach will exceed the individual contributions of the three services and effectively ‘tip the balance’ in favor of conventional forces and their governments.
 
Soft Cover
79 Pages
In Fair to Good Condition