Long-Range Strikes: A Critical Yet Insufficient Military Strategy

The senior Air Force leader responsible for future strategic development cautions against the over-reliance on distanced combat strikes as a go-to military tactic.

During an event at the Hudson Institute on Wednesday, Major General Joseph Kunkel highlighted that a strategy relying solely on extended-range assaults is unlikely to achieve victory.

Responding to inquiries about the Air Force's strategy focus, Kunkel humorously painted a picture of conducting warfare from the safety of a remote location, essentially pushing buttons from afar.

He noted, however, that such tactics often result in lags in operational tempo, which can be detrimental.

While acknowledging their transformative nature, Kunkel stressed that long-range strikes alone might fail to sustain relentless pressure on opponents.

To secure victories, he argued, forces must also engage closely and attack frequently.

It's essential to incorporate capabilities that can maintain consistent operational tempo and mass, Kunkel asserted.

The Role of Combined Arms

Kunkel indicated that while the Air Force would integrate more advanced long-distance attack techniques, reliance on a diverse array of military tools remains crucial.

There have been ongoing efforts within the Air Force to enhance these long-range striking abilities, mindful of potential conflicts with powerful nations like China.

In an earlier statement from January, the former Air Force Secretary mentioned concerns regarding limited long-distance offensive capabilities.

The newly unveiled B-21 Raider Bomber, central to the Air Force's evolving long-range strategy, is suggested to require expansion beyond the initially proposed 100 units.

Current forces heavily lean on shorter-range fighter aircraft, with bombers being less abundant, indicating a potential need for strategic balance adjustments, as per the former Secretary's suggestion.

Adaptive Responses to Evolving Threats

Despite advancements in long-distance capabilities, Kunkel was firm in stating that the Air Force would not transition to a fully distanced force.

He emphasized the need for customizing military strength to confront distinct threats and acknowledged that merely producing new fighter planes won't ensure success.

Analysis reveals that sweeping reforms in the Air Force alone are not a solution, Kunkel observed.

The Pentagon was not available for additional remarks on Kunkel's statements as requested by the press.