4 Air Power Doctrine and the IAF A doctrine of war consists in a common way of objectively approaching the subject; second, in a common way of handling it. — Ferdinand Foch: Precepts. 1919 ‘Doctrine’ is derived from the Latin ‘doctrina’ and signifies a code of beliefs or a body of teachings. In military terms, doctrine refers to the central beliefs that enable an organisation to optimally fulfil its national obligations. Air power doctrine refers to the central beliefs and principles of the IAF that guide the employment of air power in the furtherance of national objectives. These beliefs have been acquired from the study and analysis of experiences in conflicts and crises, as well as field exercises, equipment tests etc in peace time. Where experience is lacking, the IAF in its collective wisdom analyses the theory and postulates action. Thus a doctrine is a guide to the “best way to conduct Air Force affairs” IMPORTANCE OF DOCTRINE The national strategy is determined by the Union Cabinet and is based on the National Security Policy. Its purpose is to combine all components of national power, political, diplomatic, economic, military, technological, informational, social and cultural, to 25