Leveraging America's Aircraft Carrier Capabilities. Exploring New Combat and Noncombat Roles and Missions for the U.S. Carrier Fleet

摘要

On numerous occasions over the past 50 years, U.S. military and civilian defense leaders have relied on aircraft carriers and their air assets, not only as key forward-based elements of the nation's deterrent and warfighting force but also when the United States has needed to project military power, engage in hostile operations, provide humanitarian relief, or fulfill a range of other hostile and nonhostile missions. Because they offer unparalleled mobility, provide sustained military presence, can send signals of U.S. concern and possible action, and free the United States from having to conduct flight operations from foreign bases or obtain permission from foreign powers to fly over territory, aircraft carriers likely will continue to be an asset of choice for years to come. Indeed, it is entirely possible that, as the United States seeks ways to stretch its defense dollars, pursue the Global War on Terrorism, and meet other national-security challenges, policymakers will increase their reliance on aircraft carriers, using them more often and in more situations, than they have in the past, especially if the vessels have the additional capabilities to respond appropriately. The current and expected use of aircraft carriers led the U.S. Navy in fall 2004 to commission the RAND Corporation to explore new and nontraditional ways that the U.S. might be able to employ aircraft carriers in pursuit of traditional and emerging military and homeland defense missions. Over six months, RAND created and convened two Concept Options Groups (COGs)-small groups of experienced military and civilian experts, defense analysts, and potential users who work together to identify promising ways to employ military might in nontraditional ways-to explore possible nontraditional roles for aircraft carriers. One COG explored and identified new ways that aircraft carriers could be used in combat operations the second COG examined ways that the vessels could be used in noncombat missions.