Air Power in the Age of Total War

This insightful exploration of military strategy highlights the transformative role of air power during the first half of the 20th century, particularly in total war dynamics.

In Air Power in the Age of Total War, the author explores how the advent of air power transformed warfare during the first half of the 20th century. The book delves into the significant shifts in military strategy and tactics that air power instigated, affecting battles on both land and sea. Through comprehensive research from the late 1990s, the author presents a compelling argument that air power was not only a catalyst for change but also a vital element in the evolution of total war theory and practice.

The text highlights the direct consequences of air power, including the expansion of warfare to the home front, driven by bombing campaigns and the extensive economic mobilization needed to maintain air superiority. This analysis underscores the profound impact of air power on civilian life and national economies, reshaping the very fabric of society during wartime. The book also addresses the transition away from total war principles with the advent of the Cold War, as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) began to replace traditional air power in strategic military considerations.

Air Power in the Age of Total War serves as an essential resource for students and scholars of international history, war studies, and strategic defense. By providing a nuanced understanding of 20th-century warfare, the work invites readers to reflect on the implications of air power and its enduring legacy in modern military conflicts.