In the history of organised conflict, the use of air power is a relatively recent development. Nevertheless, air power has proved to be a major element of conflicts over the past seven decades, and has now become a critical part of the national security strategies of many states. This course will examine the changing roles of air power in 20th century wars, the place of air power in achieving military and national strategic objectives, and the challenges of applying air power in current and future conflicts, especially those where force may not be the deciding factor.