Conventional Conflict's Impact On The Air Leg Of The Triad
TOPIC SPONSOR: AF/A10C
What are the effects of prolonged conventional conflict on the nuclear air leg capabilities? How credible will that deterrent be after engaging in a prolonged conventional conflict? Is it possible to bring mass fire effects without committing the entire strength of our bomber force, thus subjecting them to attrition? Will the U.S. still have a credible air leg after tanker losses through attrition and maintenance backlogs? How will current recapitalization programs (medium bomber and fewer nuclear-certified tankers) affect the future air leg's capabilities and contribution to deterrence?
- Scott-DeLeon, Jonathan D., "The Great Flying Fleet: The Bomber's Conventional Role in the 21st Century Air Force," SAASS thesis, 2021, 114 pgs.
- Zito, Major Joseph, "The Trillion-Dollar Triad: Yes, We Can (and Must) Afford It," Air Force Fellows paper, 2022, 2 pgs.