The Development of RAF Strategic Bombing Doctrine, 1919-1939 (Praeger Studies in Diplomacy and Strategic Thought) - Hardcover

Scot Robertson

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0275949974 ISBN 13: 9780275949976

Publisher: Praeger (UK), 1995

Synopsis

The history of strategic bombing is inextricably intertwined with the history of the Royal Air Force. This book explores the question of doctrinal development in the RAF. It employs a neo-Clausewitzian analysis to reveal that the RAF based the preparation of its strategic bombing force on supposition and hypothesis. Rather than review the evidence of the First World War objectively to determine the fundamental principles of strategic bombing, the RAF adopted a subjective approach. The failure to develop a realistic theory of strategic bombing and to test it through a dialectical process resulted in a lack of attention to the equally necessary element of doctrine. Bomber Command was incapable of carrying out a strategic bombing campaign because it failed in peace to develop the necessary doctrine.

About this title

About the Author

SCOT ROBERTSON is an analyst in the Force Development Branch of the Department of National Defence in Ottawa. He has contributed a chapter on Hugh Trenchard to a recent collection on military heretics and a chapter on the legal and moral aspects of the strategic bombing campaign during the Second World War, and has written extensively on arms control and various aspects of contemporary strategic issues. He is presently preparing a monograph on the British Chiefs of Staff Committee and the Defence Requirements Committee.

Edition details

• Publisher: Praeger (UK)
• Publication date: 1995
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0275949974
• ISBN 13: 9780275949976
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 224