At the Water's Edge
Geo-politics and national security from the practitioner's seat. Insight beyond the headlines.
At the Water's Edge
#24 The Evolution of Close Air Support from WWII to GWOT with Dr. Steve Call
summary
In this conversation, Dr. Steve Call discusses the evolution of air support in military operations, focusing on the role of Tactical Air Controllers (TACPs) and the historical context of air-ground integration. He highlights lessons learned from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, emphasizing the importance of close air support (CAS) in modern warfare. Dr. Call also addresses current challenges facing CAS and the future of air support in the military, advocating for a deeper understanding of operational concepts versus strategies.
takeaways
- ALO tours were seen as a dark hole in careers.
- American military integrates air support tightly with ground units.
- The history of air-ground coordination is rich and complex.
- Lessons from WWII shaped modern air support strategies.
- Post-WWII, the Air Force focused on strategic bombing over CAS.
- Korean War required a reinvention of CAS tactics.
- Vietnam War established NCOs as key players in air support.
- Desert Storm showcased the effectiveness of CAS.
- Post-9/11 operations highlighted the need for coordination.
- Current trends threaten the effectiveness of CAS.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Steve Call
04:43
Steve's Military Background and Education
08:57
The Evolution of Tactical Air Control
12:48
The Importance of Air-Ground Integration
16:48
Historical Context of Close Air Support
20:57
The Dilemma of Air and Ground Forces
24:46
Post-War Air Power Perspectives
28:56
The Reinvention of Close Air Support
32:48
The Fighter Mafia and Its Impact
36:53
Lessons from History and Future Implications
37:41
The Impact of Desert Storm on Air Power
41:35
The Role of Close Air Support in Modern Warfare
53:49
Challenges Facing Close Air Support Today
56:47
The Future of Air Force Close Air Support
01:03:55
The A-10 vs. F-35 Debate
01:06:48
Final Thoughts on Close Air Support Strategy
Dr. Steve Calls Books: