Luftangrep

Luftangrep (Norwegian for airstrike) denotes attacks conducted by aircraft against defined targets on land or at sea as part of a military operation. They can form part of a broader campaign or be executed as stand-alone actions and may target enemy troops, installations, supply lines, air defenses, or, less commonly, civilian infrastructure. Modern Luftangrep typically employ a mix of munitions, including bombs, missiles, and precision-guided weapons, and can be launched from high altitude, low altitude, or from aircraft operating in coordination with naval and ground forces. Unmanned aerial vehicles and stealth platforms have increased accuracy and reach in many conflicts.

Types of Luftangrep include strategic bombing aimed at undermining an adversary’s war-fighting capacity, tactical or close air support to assist allied ground forces, interdiction to disrupt supply routes, and punitive or coercive strikes intended to compel a political outcome. The choice of targets is influenced by doctrine, terrain, force readiness, and international constraints.

Historically, air power emerged in the early 20th century and expanded rapidly during World War II, with extensive air raids targeting cities, industries, and military bases. Since then, air campaigns have evolved with jet power, guided munitions, and drones, shaping military doctrine and civilian exposure to conflict. Modern Luftangrep can be conducted with varying degrees of precision, visibility, and risk to civilians.

Legal and ethical frameworks, particularly international humanitarian law, require distinction between military objectives and civilians, proportionality in force used, and precautions to minimize civilian harm. Despite safeguards, civilian casualties and infrastructure damage remain contentious, influencing public opinion and post-conflict reconstruction.

See also: air power, aerial bombing, precision-guided munitions, drone strike.