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Conventional Conflict's Impact On The Air Leg Of The Triad

  • Published
  • By AF/A10C
  • AF/A10C

TOPIC SPONSOR: AF/A10C

What are the effects of prolonged conventional conflict on the nuclear air leg capabilities? How credible will that deterrent be after engaging in a prolonged conventional conflict? Is it possible to bring mass fire effects without committing the entire strength of our bomber force, thus subjecting them to attrition? Will the U.S. still have a credible air leg after tanker losses through attrition and maintenance backlogs? How will current recapitalization programs (medium bomber and fewer nuclear-certified tankers) affect the future air leg's capabilities and contribution to deterrence?