Symbiosis Between National Power Elements: An Air Power Focus

The symbiotic relationship between industry, sea power and the national economy was evident during the industrial revolution. Britian’s ability to harness this relationship was a key factor in her rise to power, which is recognised in Mahan’s strategy. During World War II, this symbiotic relationship evolved as air power came of age since strategic bombing was a new threat to industry and the economy. This period contains many lessons for Air Force and Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG), as competition escalated to conflict and preparedness changed to mobilisation. The Cold War was a period of great power competition that saw rapid technological advancements. The collapse of the Soviet Union illustrates the perils of an unbalanced relationship between the elements of national power. Throughout these eras there are lessons that are applicable to middle powers like Australia.