Designing a Strategic Bomber

Developing a strategic bomber in today's budget constrained environment is a challenging prospect. The design requirements must address conflict across the spectrum and remain relevant regardless of the enemy America faces. The operational concept for strategic bombers must address a multitude of considerations despite the complexity of a changing environment. The key to enduring relevancy is operational adaptability through flexible organizations, tactics, and technology. This monograph examined the employment of strategic bombers during three campaigns: B-29 operations in the Pacific Theater, B-52 operations during Desert Storm, and strategic bomber operations during Operation Enduring Freedom. This examination revealed that the Air Force modified the technology and tactics employed by strategic bomber crews during the course of each campaign. The operational concept for strategic bombers has evolved over time. Air Force leaders must strive for complete knowledge of the enemy and operational environment, but assume that they will never achieve complete understanding. To overcome this limitation, the Air Force must design flexibility into the organizations, tactics, and technology they use to execute strategic bomber operations.