Evolution of Multi-Domain Operations and Prospects for Application of Aerospace Power

The term multi-domain operations (MDO) encompasses the traditional physical domains as well as the rapidly expanding domains of space and cyber. It strives for selective interdependence and integration between services, down till the tactical level. Achieving information superiority and decision dominance through cross-domain application, synergy and tempo are central to successful MDO. Aerospace power’s intrinsic attributes, doctrinal percepts, actual combat experience of cross-domain operations and proficiency in network-centric operations resonate well with MDO. While countries, like the United States, the People’s Republic of China and Russia, are moving towards MDO in their unique way, there exists a lack of congruence amongst the services owing to incompatibilities in doctrine, concept of operations and capabilities. A clear understanding of the domains and their interplays in the MDO environment is a pre-requisite, with integration, technology and innovation as key elements. Concurrently, kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities have to be continuously upgraded to match/outdo the adversary to compete in the MDO paradigm.