What lesson was learned in World War I regarding air control?

The lesson learned in World War I regarding air control emphasizes the critical importance of dominating the airspace over the battlefield. Control of the air provides significant advantages; it allows for unimpeded movement of ground forces, the ability to conduct air support operations, and the capacity to disrupt enemy movements and logistics.

Air superiority can deter enemy operations and provide the attacking force with freedom to maneuver, conduct reconnaissance, and strike targets at will without fear of being attacked from the air. This was evident in various battles during WWI where air power played a pivotal role in the outcome, demonstrating that possessing control of the skies often correlated with successful military campaigns.

While controlling the ground, naval routes, or having superior numbers are all advantageous in military strategy, none of these guarantees victory without the added layer of air superiority. Therefore, the understanding that “if you control the air, you cannot be beaten” became a fundamental tenet of military strategy going forward into future conflicts.