The one effective method of defending one's own territory from an offensive by air is to destroy the enemy's air power with the greatest possible speed.
Giulio DouhetTo have command of the air means to be able to cut an enemy's army and navy off from their bases of operation and nullify their chances of winning the war.
Giulio DouhetTo conquer the command in the air means victory; to be beaten in the air means defeat.
Giulio DouhetIn order to assure an adequate national defense, it is necessary - and sufficient - to be in a position in case of war to conquer the command of the air.
Giulio Douhet