What was one leading factor in establishing the need for a Department of the Air Force?

The establishment of the Department of the Air Force was significantly driven by the increased emphasis on airpower speed and capability. During and after World War II, it became evident that air dominance was crucial in modern warfare. The successful use of strategic bombing and the need for rapid aerial responses highlighted airpower’s vital role in national defense.

As military strategies evolved, the demand for a dedicated department that could focus specifically on the development, organization, and deployment of air forces became clear. This push was reinforced by the recognition that air operations needed specialized knowledge and resources distinct from land and naval forces. The unique requirements of air missions, combined with the need for advanced technology and tactics to maintain superiority in the air, underscored the necessity of an independent Department of the Air Force, thus allowing for better coordination and emphasis on the aerial domain.