Heavy Close Air Support: The B-1 as a Close Air Support Weapon

摘要

This thesis determined the currently equipped B-1 bomber to be a partiallyeffective close air support (CAS) weapon when enemy and friendly forces are not intermingled. With improvements planned over the next ten years the aircraft will be fully effective. The conclusion was reached by examining the CAS mission as performed by the U.S. Army and Air Force, the criteria for effective CAS, and the current and planned capabilities of the B-1. The criteria were derived from requirements developed by the Army and Air Force to determine the effectiveness of alternative CAS aircraft. These requirements were developed during a search for an A-10 replacement. Ten criteria were established in three areas: responsiveness, firepower effectiveness, and survivability. The criteria evaluated were availability, proximity, flexibility, communications capability, target acquisition, payload, accuracy, lethality, maneuverability, and probability of survival. The B-1 capabilities were determined using technical orders and instructional texts. Capabilities planned in the B-1 conventional upgrade program were also evaluated. Weapon effectiveness data were determined using Joint Munition Effectiveness Manuals on personnel, armor, and artillery targets. Survivability evaluations included ESAMS and RADGUNS modeling against SA-4/6/7/9/11/13/14 and ZSU-23/4 threats. B-1, B-1 B, Bomber, Close air support.