It is always good to remember the basics at all the times.
With the ongoing debate about proposed organisational changes, it will be worthwhile revisiting the basics related to application of airpower.
Effective airpower application requires a unique perspective. This perspective has been formed through a century of air operations experience.
Following quotes, principles, guidelines and tenets are part of doctrinal publications of the air Forces world over.
Air warfare cannot be separated into little packets; it knows no boundaries on land and sea other than those imposed by the radius of action of the aircraft; it is a unity and demands unity of command.
-Air Marshal Arthur Tedder
The other Services have air arms—magnificent air arms—but their air arms must fit within their Services, each with a fundamentally different focus. So those air arms, when in competition with the primary focus of their Services, will often end up on the short end, where the priorities for resources may lead to shortfalls or decisions that are suboptimum. It is therefore important to understand that the core competencies of [airpower] are optional for the other Services. They can elect to play or not play in that arena. But if the nation is to remain capable and competent in air and space [sic], someone must pay attention across the whole spectrum; that is why there is an Air Force.
-General Ronald R. Fogleman,
15th Chief of Staff, USAF
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