"Airpower Alone Won't Win Wars"
In an interview, military analyst and lawyer Frank Ledwidge discusses the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East and how airpower isn't the deciding factor in these conflicts.
Interview Questions and Answers
Russia and Ukraine's Air War
Description: In the beginning of the war, the West assumed that Russia would destroy the Ukrainian air force and that no Russian soldier would cross the border beforehand. However, Russia's different approach to airpower proved to be a game-changer. Instead of focusing on air superiority, Russia deployed powerful ground-based air defense systems to deny Ukraine's air force access to the battlefield.
Takeaways:
- Russia's different approach to airpower has proven to be effective in denying Ukraine's air force access to the battlefield.
- Ground-based air defense systems play a crucial role in denying the enemy access to the airspace.
Airpower's Limitations
Description: Frank Ledwidge asserts that relying on airpower alone is not the key to victory in wars, whether traditional or insurgent. In conflicts such as Iraq and Kosovo, ground troops were ultimately needed to consolidate victories.
Takeaways:
- Airpower alone is insufficient to win wars.
- Ground troops are often essential to consolidate victories in conflicts.
Israel's War Against Hamas
Description: In Israel's current war against Hamas, the use of the air force can be counterproductive if used indiscriminately. By focusing on minimizing civilian casualties, Israeli commanders can reduce political damage to the nation.
Takeaways:
- Careful use of the air force during conflicts can help prevent political backlash.
- Minimizing civilian casualties is crucial for maintaining global support.
Compliance with International Humanitarian Law
Description: Compliance with international humanitarian law is not just a matter of ethics but also a practical consideration in the modern world. Nations must comply with the law to cultivate a positive image in the international community.
Takeaways:
- Compliance with international humanitarian law can enhance nations' reputations.
- Ethics and practical considerations are intertwined in the modern world.
The Limits of Air Wars
Description: Air wars have their limitations, as witnessing civilian casualties can significantly impact a nation's stance. Nations must adhere to international humanitarian law to maintain global support and avoid political damage.
Takeaways:
- Air wars are not an infallible solution to conflicts.
- Nations must balance military objectives with humanitarian concerns to maintain support.
Support for Ukraine
Description: Though Western leaders claim to support Ukraine "as long as it takes," their commitment remains limited by practical and political restrictions. The lack of significant arms left to give to Ukraine means a clear victory may be challenging to achieve.
Takeaways:
- Western leaders' commitment to support Ukraine is limited by practical and political constraints.
- Achieving a clear victory in Ukraine may prove challenging due to limited arms supplies.
