Transport Bombers: A Conceptual Shift in Precision-Guided Munitions Delivery.

摘要

The U.S. Department of Defense has identified a shortfall in bomber and transport capabilities necessary to execute the two nearly simultaneous major regional contingencies called for in the president's national security strategy. One option to fill the bomber and transport shortfall, though one not discussed in current studies, is to develop transport bombers. This study addresses three questions regarding the transport bomber's usefulness. The first question is whether commanders could use such an aircraft in ways that truly enhance force application and mobility operations without unduly undermining one in favor of the other. The answer, because of technology enhancements and budget constraints, is definitely 'yes.' The second question targets technology by asking whether engineers could place some elements of both missions on a single aircraft. Again, the answer appears to be positive. This study analyzes budgetary and operational constraints in an attempt to answer the third question, which is what is the appropriate force mix. The answer is that either three squadrons of C-17s or two squadrons of B-747-400s would provide the necessary capability. The C-17 is a more versatile and flexible mobility platform than the B-747, and engineers have identified all the technological challenges that will allow it to rapidly convert into a bomber. The B-747, on the other hand, can employ twice as many missiles, carry more than 2 1/2 times the number of cargo pallets, and fly farther than the C- 17. However, its ability to 'swing' promptly remains unproven, and it requires intra-theater airlift support to move its cargo to forward operating bases.