Giulio Douhet

Giulio Douhet

Italian general, military theorist
Date of Birth: 30.05.1869
Country: Italy

Content:
  1. Giulio Douhet: Italian General and Military Theorist
  2. Air Warfare Theory
  3. Chief of Central Aviation Directorate
  4. "The Command of the Air"
  5. Dominance in the Air

Giulio Douhet: Italian General and Military Theorist

Early Life and Military Career

Giulio Douhet was born in 1869 in Caserta, southern Italy. He joined the army in 1882, serving in artillery units. Douhet graduated from the Artillery and Engineering Academy in Turin and the General Staff Academy.

Air Warfare Theory

In 1912-1915, Douhet served in the Italian Air Force. He proposed the use of 500 bombers in World War I against Austria, but his plan was rejected. Douhet criticized the leadership and was imprisoned for his views.

Chief of Central Aviation Directorate

After the Italian defeat at Caporetto, Douhet was released from prison and appointed Chief of the Central Aviation Directorate in 1918. However, he resigned after only five months.

"The Command of the Air"

In 1921, Douhet published his influential book "The Command of the Air." He argued that aviation should play a dominant role in warfare, with aerial bombardment targeting enemy government and economic centers.

Dominance in the Air

Douhet continued to develop and defend his theory until his death in 1930. He believed that air supremacy could lead to victory by overwhelming the enemy's morale and infrastructure.

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