What is an airstrike?

What is an airstrike?

In the "Newspeak" of today's media, released by DoD no less, an "airstrike" is what occurs when one air-delivered weapon detonates on the ground. Many of you familiar with the term "airstrike" consider them to be formations of aircraft, one or two dozen aircraft, acting in concert to hit a target or group of aimpoints. "Strike packages" consisting of dozens of "sorties" of individual aircraft are flown against assigned targets over the course of days or weeks.

To me, flying multiple "airstrikes" a day is impressive, until I learned what today's definition of the word really means. That said, U.S. and coalition airpower is having an effect on ISIS with precision weapons delivered on target. This capability was purchased at great cost, it mitigates risk to our aircrew, and because of their superior training - also purchased at great cost - you don't hear about their success. The airpower capability we possess and the professional conduct of our men and women operating it what is impressive.