Notes: Originally published in 1921, Douhet's work was an important one with regard to the use of strategic offensive air power in future warfare. An Italian General, Douhet advocated the establishment of an air force as an arm in its own right, independent of, and more important than, an army or navy. One of his key arguments was that there was no defence against air attack and, therefore, a bomber force should be used to destroy that of the enemy in order to secure victory. Large-scale attacks would also be made on the enemy's industrial capability to destroy it and demoralise the civilian population. Douhet envisaged the use of high explosive, incendiary and gas bombs being used in a future war and his theories, although looked upon as prophetic, have been criticised on a number of points.

Subject: Air Raid Precautions/Civil Defence
Subject: Weapons/delivery systems
Subject: Incendiary/smoke/warfare/weapons
Subject: Offensive operations

Record last modified: 25 September 2005