Making Coalition Air War Work

This paper seeks, via comparison of three historical cases, to understand how the USAF should interact with coalition air forces to optimize support of national interests. The examined cases are France and the United States of America during World War I, Germany and Romania during World War II, and the United States of America and the Republic of Vietnam during the latter portion of the Vietnam War. To assess major sources of functionality or dysfunction in the air coalitions, this paper focuses on the relationships between commanders, interaction of the organizations, interplay of ideas, and role of military equipment. Several themes emerge from the analysis that give insights into how the USAF should deal with other air forces to support national interests. Senior American Airmen must thoroughly understand the objectives and circumstances of both parties. This permits an assessment of level of commitment, nature of commitment, and unique capabilities of the minor air force that translates into a more effective use of allied capability and better interpersonal relationships. In addition, the critical nature of interpersonal relationships demands leaders with professional courtesy and an ability to communicate effectively with allies. This will require expanded language instruction throughout the service.