Theater Applications of the Future Bomber Force

The author examines the advantages and disadvantages for the operational commander of using the future bomber force in conventional and contingency scenarios. The inherent strategic bomber capabilities of range, payload and flexibility are discussed. The technological advances in stealth and advanced munitions are examined, as are the USAF plans for the future bomber force incorporating these technologies. The author contends the combination of the inherent bomber characteristics with the technologies of stealth and advanced munitions creates a revolution in the commander's power projection capabilities. The author examines the application of the force in three conventional scenarios: counter-terrorism peacetime contingency, and major regional conflict. One finding is the improved capabilities facilitates the use of the military option for decision makers; this may preclude adequate consideration of diplomatic, economic and political options. The author concludes that the commander can apply the bomber force across the spectrum of conflict; that the force's ability to provide rapid initial response, precision, mass, and sustained firepower are useful in all three scenarios. The author contends the bomber force can free the commander of some forward basing constraints, allows the commander to retain the option of unilateral action, and provides the commander with a rapid-response force option to show resolve or disrupt an adversary's plans. Recommendations for the theater commander include integration of bomber units into the planning process, ensuring targets are of sufficient value, and providing the intelligence network to exploit the rapid response capability. Bombers, Stealth, Precision munitions, Spectrum of conflict.