Which element was crucial for achieving Total Air Superiority in Operation DESERT STORM?

Achieving Total Air Superiority in Operation Desert Storm was fundamentally linked to enhanced battlefield awareness and the suppression of enemy air defenses. This operation showcased the importance of gaining control of the airspace as an essential component of modern warfare, allowing allied forces to operate without the threat of enemy air attacks.

The suppression of enemy air defenses involved a combination of advanced technology, tactics, and targeted strikes aimed at disabling or destroying enemy radar and surface-to-air missile systems. By neutralizing these threats, allied forces were able to dominate the skies, which in turn facilitated other military operations on the ground and at sea, transforming the effectiveness of the overall campaign.

Enhanced battlefield awareness comes from a thorough understanding of the enemy's capabilities, movements, and strategies. This was significantly bolstered by intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, allowing forces to identify targets quickly and respond to threats with precision. Such awareness contributed to successful air operations that were both proactive and reactive, ensuring that allied forces maintained the upper hand throughout the operation.

While ground-based maneuvers, increased infantry deployment, and naval escort missions are important aspects of military strategy, they did not play the pivotal role in securing air superiority that enhanced battlefield awareness and suppression of enemy air defenses did during Operation Desert Storm