Air War Vietnam explores one of the central paradoxes of modern warfare: how the United States achieved overwhelming airpower dominance in Southeast Asia yet failed to secure strategic victory.

In this episode of Mil History Talk, Hope and Brian examine the Vietnam air war from Rolling Thunder (1965–1968) through Arc Light, Linebacker I, and Linebacker II in 1972, explaining why massive bombing campaigns and advanced technology did not translate into political success. Hope drives the conversation with sharp questions, humor, and pop-culture comparisons, while Brian provides clear, grounded analysis of escalation, coercion, and strategic misalignment.

Together, they unpack the critical difference between tactical and operational success on the battlefield and true strategic decision at the political level. The episode also explores how North Vietnam adapted, endured punishment, and turned time into a strategic advantage—highlighting the enduring relevance of Clausewitz’s insights on war, will, and passion.

Air War Vietnam is not a critique of airpower itself, but a reminder that airpower only works when it is anchored to a coherent strategy and achievable political goals.

See the more detailed written article on our substack: Air War Vietnam - by Louis DiMarco - Mil History Talk