Which of the following are considered the three elements of air power?

The three elements of air power are speed, height, and reach, which capture the core capabilities that air forces utilize to achieve operational effectiveness.

Speed refers to the ability to respond quickly to threats or missions, allowing for rapid deployment and engagement in combat scenarios. This agility provides a significant strategic advantage, enabling forces to exploit opportunities as they arise.

Height relates to the altitude at which aircraft operate. The capability to operate at various altitudes not only impacts the effectiveness of weapons systems but also allows forces to avoid threats from ground-based defenses while maintaining a strategic overview of the battlefield.

Reach encompasses the operational range that air forces can project their power, which includes both the distance that aircraft can travel and the range of their weaponry. This ability to extend their influence over vast areas enables air forces to conduct missions far from their home bases, which can be critical in both offensive and defensive operations.

Understanding these elements helps to recognize how air power is not just about the physical aircraft but also involves strategic planning, operational doctrine, and the integration of various technologies and assets to achieve mission success.