The Evolution of Designations: Attack Planes and Bombers in US Air Force History

Understanding the differences between attack aircraft and bombers in the United States Air Force (USAF) requires a dive into historical designations and strategic roles. These aircraft were once clearly delineated, but modern technology has blurred the lines between them, leading to more versatile and interconnected roles.

Why the Designations Matter

The distinction between attack aircraft (designated A) and bombers (designated B) was established by the US Army Air Corps in the 1930s when the service had its own designation system. These designations were meant to reflect the different roles and capabilities of the aircraft involved. For instance, an attack plane was designed to strike at shorter ranges, often supporting ground troops near the front line, while bombers were equipped for long-range strategic missions.

Early Designations and Their Roles

The designation system for different aircraft types was further refined to include TB (torpedo bombers) and SB (scout or dive bombers) in the US Navy. By the end of World War II, the Navy began to use the A designation for attack aircraft with the introduction of the AD Skyraider. The AD Skyraider, developed by Douglas Aircraft, was capable of both dive-bombing and torpedo attacks, blending the roles of an attack plane and a dedicated bomber.

The Transition to the Modern USAF

After World War II, the US Army Air Forces evolved into the United States Air Force (USAF). The A designation for attack aircraft was largely phased out, leading to some unique situations, like the B-66 Destroyer. This aircraft was based on the Navy's A3D Skywarrior, which was originally designated A for attack but then designated B after being adopted by the USAF. This highlights how the role classification could be influenced by service integration.

The 1963 Service Designation Changes

In 1963, the USAF and the United States Navy decided to merge their service designations, returning to a more uniform system where A stood for attack. This marked a full circle in the evolution of these designations, bringing clarity and consistency to the roles of these aircraft.

modern Roles: Tactical vs. Strategic

Defining Attack vs. Bomber Roles

While the distinction between attack aircraft and bombers in the old designations was clear, modern usage and terminology have blurred these lines. Generally, a bomber is given a specific target to attack and can back up additional targets if needed. In contrast, an attack aircraft is given an area to patrol and can engage any targets it encounters within that area.

However, this distinct line can become more diffuse. For example, a B-1 bomber equipped with laser-guided bombs used for ground support operates in a manner that some would consider attack aircraft. It can be seen as a large drone, operating independently to find and destroy targets until its weapons are expended.

Future Roles: Drones and Multi-Role Aircraft

With the advent of advanced technology, attack planes have faced competition from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Drones can perform many of the roles traditionally held by attack aircraft, often with greater efficiency and flexibility. In the near future, bombers may also face a similar fate, with advanced technologies allowing for more versatile and targeted attacks.

The B-21 Raider, a new generation bomber, showcases a shift towards more versatile, multi-role capabilities. In essence, the B-21 can operate like flying wolf packs, striking at any target, whether on the ground, at sea, or in the air, merging the functions of a fighter, attack plane, and bomber into one platform.

As technology advances, the roles of attack aircraft and bombers are continuing to evolve, making it increasingly difficult to strictly define the difference between these aircraft types. The line between tactical and strategic roles is becoming blurred, and the integration of new technologies and platforms is likely to further complicate these designations in the future.