From rivals to partners: AirSea Battle and the US air force–navy relationship |
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Authors: | Kevin Marsh Christopher M Jones |
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Institution: | 1. Department of Political Science, The College of Wooster, Kauke Hall 303, 400 E. University St., Wooster, OH 44691, USA;2. College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Bradley University, 226 Bradley Hall, Peoria, IL 61625, USA |
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Abstract: | AirSea Battle (ASB) has generated significant publicity, controversy, and debate among scholars, analysts, commentators, and observers of US defense strategy. However, a research gap exists concerning formal analysis of the impact of the operational concept on the relationship between the US Air Force (USAF) and the US Navy (USN). The impact of the ASB operational concept on the USAF–USN relationship is examined across the issue areas of strategy, budgets, weapons procurement, and training. These four issue areas represent important areas of historical conflict and competition between the Air Force and Navy. The conclusion is that ASB is ushering in a new era of Air Force–Navy partnership that advances the inter-service dynamic from “jointness” toward integration. The emergent USAF–USN partnership therefore represents a significant development in US defense politics and defense strategy. |
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Keywords: | AirSea Battle defense strategy US Navy US Air Force defense politics |
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