What was the primary goal of Operation Rolling Thunder?

The primary goal of Operation Rolling Thunder was to apply pressure through air power against North Vietnam. This military campaign, conducted from 1965 to 1968, aimed to weaken the North Vietnamese government's resolve and diminish its ability to support the Viet Cong insurgency in South Vietnam. The strategy involved extensive bombing raids targeting infrastructure, supply lines, and industrial resources, intended to disrupt North Vietnam's capacity to wage war.

This focus on air power was fundamental to the operation, as it sought to use aerial bombardment not only as a means of tactical advantage but also as a psychological weapon against the enemy. The hope was that sustained air attacks would force North Vietnam to negotiate on terms favorable to the United States and its allies. Understanding this context is crucial, as it reflects the broader military strategy and objectives during the Vietnam War, highlighting how air power was perceived as a vital tool in shifting the dynamics of the conflict.