#24 The Evolution of Close Air Support from WWII to GWOT with Dr. Steve Call

Send us a text In this conversation, Dr. Steve Call discusses the evolution of air support in military operations, focusing on the role of Tactical Air Controllers (TACPs) and the historical context of air-ground integration. He highlights lessons learned from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, emphasizing the importance of close air support (CAS) in modern warfare. Dr. Call also addresses current challenges facing CAS and the future of air support in the military, advocating for a deeper understanding of operational concepts versus strategies. takeaways ALO tours were seen as a dark hole in careers. American military integrates air support tightly with ground units. The history of air-ground coordination is rich and complex. Lessons from WWII shaped modern air support strategies. Post-WWII, the Air Force focused on strategic bombing over CAS. Korean War required a reinvention of CAS tactics. Vietnam War established NCOs as key players in air support. Desert Storm showcased the effectiveness of CAS. Post-9/11 operations highlighted the need for coordination. Current trends threaten the effectiveness of CAS. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Steve Call 04:43Steve's Military Background and Education 08:57The Evolution of Tactical Air Control 12:48The Importance of Air-Ground Integration 16:48Historical Context of Close Air Support 20:57The Dilemma of Air and Ground Forces 24:46Post-War Air Power Perspectives 28:56The Reinvention of Close Air Support 32:48The Fighter Mafia and Its Impact 36:53Lessons from History and Future Implications 37:41The Impact of Desert Storm on Air Power 41:35The Role of Close Air Support in Modern Warfare 53:49Challenges Facing Close Air Support Today 56:47The Future of Air Force Close Air Support 01:03:55The A-10 vs. F-35 Debate 01:06:48Final Thoughts on Close Air Support Strategy Dr. Steve Calls Books: Danger Close: Tactical Air Controllers in Afghanistan and Iraq Selling Air Power: Military Aviation and American Popular Culture after World War II Support the show