Timing and Tempo

Timing and tempo is no longer listed by the United States Air Force as a principle of war. However for many years it enjoyed the status of a principle of war in the list codified by that service. As it was the only service to do so, some may have concluded that it was a consideration that was uniquely or especially applicable to the application of air power. And indeed, given the characteristics inherent in a balanced air force — speed of action and reaction, reach, extreme mobility, flexibility, fire power and the ability to concentrate combat power over a wide area — timing and tempo could well have special relevance to air forces. On the other hand why had no other air force embraced this principle, particularly as it had been brought to notice by the world’s largest and most powerful air force?