basic doctrine of the indian air force   20 of shock to air-landed or airborne troops. Concentration is also applicable to large volumes of relief that can be delivered in disaster and humanitarian relief contingencies. This ability to concentrate quickly is the characteristic which must be exploited fully if air power is to be used to its maximum potential, both as a tool for force projection and nation building. Offensive Action. Only air forces have the ability to carry offensive action deep into enemy territory while operating from secure bases. Defensive action may prevent defeat, but wars can be won only by offensive action. This principle of war, which is also the central characteristic of air power, is often neglected or overlooked by policy-makers unversed in the application of military power. Offensive capability provides the best defence. It changes one’s stance from reactive to active and allows one to seize and hold the initiative in operations. The potential to apply air power offensively is a positive contribution to deterrence. It forces a potential aggressor to look at his own vulnerabilities and divert resources to their defence. The effectiveness of deterrence depends on the perception of the potential enemy regarding the likelihood of success in relation to the costs and penalties he will incur. Air power, with its inherently offensive characteristic can raise the costs, and impose penalties that would be unacceptable to the potential aggressor. Combined together, the core characteristics of air power coupled with modern space enabled communication systems, sensors; precision positioning and navigation capabilities offer tremendous capabilities that can decisively influence both the strategic and operational environment. Reach. The medium of air and the continuum of space does not hinder the employment of air power. Isolated and distant targets in difficult terrain do not prevent engagement of such targets from the third dimension. Modern technology has matured to such an extent that air power has unparalleled reach, and if exploited correctly, will provide a tremendous advantage to the side exploiting it.