Russia’s and NATO’s use of air power in comparison: what is to be expected?

This research analyses the Russian approach to the use of air power supporting direct subordination to ground forces in comparison with NATO’s approach of an independent component directly conducting the military objective through deep air operations. By drawing upon mostly open sources, this paper sheds light on possible advantages and limitations of both sides’ peculiar approaches in regards to possible future military encounters. Despite taking NATO’s evolution of air power into account, it becomes clear that the Russian military air forces cannot fully adapt in the near future due to mainly historical, economic, technological and geopolitical factors. Therefore, Russia’s air forces are rather unbalanced and incapable of applying the full potential of air power. Through analysing the origins and emphasising further implications as to future development, this research highlights the importance for NATO to focus more on achieving and maintaining air superiority including exploitation of its clear advantage in long-range aviation.