B-2 SPIRIT (multi-role bomber)
Because of its long range, stealthiness and capability to launch precision munitions, the B-2 is the most likely candidate should the United States decide to launch air strikes from the continental United States.

B-1B LANCER (multi-role bomber)
Capable of supersonic flight, the B-1 can deliver both precision and unguided munitions, and is able to operate from forward bases.

B-52 STRATOFORTRESS (long-range, heavy bomber)
Although not a stealthy aircraft, the B-52 carries a large bomb load and is capable of delivering a wide range of weapons, including air-launched cruise missiles. In addition, it is capable of operating from forward bases in Europe and Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.

F-15 E STRIKE EAGLE (dual-role fighter: air-to-air, air-to ground) and the
F-16 FIGHTING FALCON (compact, multi-role fighter)
Versatile strike aircraft which can carry a wide range of precision munitions. As short-range aircraft, these would require access to forward air bases.

E-3 SENTRY (AWACS)
Provides all-weather airborne early warning and command and control.

KC-135 STRATOTANKER (refueler)
The backbone of the Air Force's tanker fleet, the KC-135 would be a part of virtually any strike package, whether it be re-fueling long-range bombers on their flights to and from the target, or "topping off" short-range strike aircraft before they go in to the target area.

 
Combat Vessels

CVN-68 Nimitz Class Aircraft Carrier
The centerpiece of the U.S. Navy's carrier battle group, capable of launching powerful air strikes against inland targets while remaining safely out at sea.

CG-47 Ticonderoga Class Cruiser
Capable of area air defense, anti-ship warfare and land attack.

DDG-51 Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer
Capable of area air defense, anti-ship warfare and land attack.

SSN-688 Los Angeles Class Submarine
Capable of anti-ship warfare and land attack. Capable of launching cruise missiles while either surfaced or submerged.

 
Carrier-based Aircraft

F-14 TOMCAT (multi-role strike fighter)
An air superiority and ground attack fighter capable of speeds in excess of Mach 2.

F/A-18 HORNET (all-weather fighter and attack aircraft)
A versatile fighter capable of air-to-air combat and ground attack.

EA-6B PROWLER (electronic warfare aircraft)
Supports both Navy and Air Force strike missions by jamming enemy radar, electronic data links and communications.

 
Precision Munitions

TOMAHAWK CRUISE MISSILE
Tomahawk missiles can find targets up to 1,000 miles away with guidance Earth-orbiting satellites and are capable of travelling at up to 550mph.

JOINT DIRECT ATTACK MUNITION (JDAM)
A guidance tail kit that converts existing unguided free-fall bombs into accurate, adverse weather "smart" munitions, JDAM improves the accuracy of unguided, general purpose bombs in any weather condition.

JOINT STANDOFF WEAPON (JSOW)
Employing a tightly coupled Global Positioning System (GPS)/Inertial Navigation System (INS), the JSOW is capable of day/night and adverse weather operations, deployable from both carrier- and land-based aircraft.

 
Compiled by:

Chris Hellman
CDI Senior Analyst
chellman@cdi.org

Emily Clark