Israeli Air Superiority in the 1967 Arab-Israeli War: An Analysis of Operational Art.

Abstract : This paper analyzes the Israeli Air Force (lAF) practice of operational art in the planning and execution of the preemptive air strike against Egypt in the 1967 Six Day War. This key action shaped the Israeli victory and was the product of thorough planning and operational artistry. The lAF practice of operational art was influenced by a cohesive national strategy and a complementary military doctrine. The evolution of Israeli strategy and doctrine, through two previous wars, led directly to the development of an operational design to defeat Israel's enemies and ensure Israel's survival. The Israeli practice of operational art is analyzed by first examining the origins of the Six Day War to understand the basis of the Israeli strategy. Second, by examining the formulation of Israeli doctrine, the fundamental mihtary principles which guided lAF employment of air power. Third, by analyzing the lAF practice of operational art in terms of the present day concept of operational design, specifically the operational idea or scheme. Fourth, by relating relevant lessons from the IAF practice of operational art to the present day employment of air power. Israel's strategic vulnerability, small population, and limited resources required a substantial military qualitative advantage to avoid destruction. The sound practice operational art ensured this qualitative advantage was present. A clear understanding of the concepts of operational art provided a framework for superior planning and the execution of air power to achieve the operational, and in turn, strategic objectives necessary to win the Six Day War.