Файл:The use of air power for maritime homeland defense (IA theuseofirpowerf109452519).pdf

This thesis uses a capabilities-based methodology to determine what gaps exist in the military[alpha]s current ability to perform maritime homeland defense against unconventional and asymmetric opponents. This approach reveals that including joint air assets as part of the maritime defense force can significantly enhance protection of the homeland. In the short term, the military can use air power from each of the services for long-range maritime surveillance and interdiction. Additionally, using aircraft for maritime defense combat air patrol provides an effective and efficient last line of defense. Over the longer term, an investment in new technologies including non-lethal weapons and persistent surveillance platforms can make the joint force an even more effective guarantor of U.S. maritime security.