Steven Paget (editor) - Allies in Air Power: A History of Multinational Air Operations

Introduction

Multinational Air Power: The Context

Steven Paget

Multinational military operations predate air power significantly, but the trajectories of both are now intertwined as contemporary air operations are generally characterized by international cooperation. This fact has been encapsulated in the doctrines of air forces around the world. The United Kingdoms Air and Space Power doctrine has outlined: Our dependence on multinational cooperation means we must take every opportunity to promote interoperability and engage with a broad range of potential partners. These range from the most technologically sophisticated air forces to less familiar and capable but potentially likely partners. 1 The Royal Australian Air Forces Air Power Manualnotes succinctly: In the prevailing geostrategic environment, there is a high likelihood that any major operation involving Air Force will be conducted within a coalition. 2

Unilateral air operations are becoming increasingly rare for most air forces as the norm of fighting alongside others is now deeply entrenched. 3 Frequency should not be equated with simplicity, however, because multinational operations have at all times been hallmarked by significant challenges. 4 Indeed, although multinational air operations have been conducted since the birth of flight, barriers to integration have persisted into the contemporary era. The speed with which air power has progressed and its status as a dominant, if not the dominant military technology over the last century have served only to heighten the challenges experienced when air power is conducted in a multinational environment. 5 Contributions from different nations provide many benefitsfrom niche capabilities to political credibilitybut they also present a number of challenges.