Projecting power from the sea: The RN contribution to the air battle

Abstract

In determining a perspective for the future, we must maintain a deterrent effort to threaten strategic targets, also working to coordinate the three services into one effective fighting force. In this comprehensive article Admiral Loughran argues that Trident is still essential to this scenario, albeit in a deterrent, rather than an offensive, role. Strategic and tactical intelligence is the key to operations. Projecting power from the sea cannot be maximised without sufficient air support, as highlighted in two recent conflicts where the flexibility of the Air arm enabled the performance, where necessary, of a three in one role—air to air, air to ground and reconnaissance. With air superiority achieved, it is”, equally essential that, the same degree of control is maintained underwater to ensure the, supply of materials to ground forces. With, the freedom of the seas .crucial to both economic well‐being and national and international defence, the Royal Navy will enter the 21st Century working ‘with its’ ...