Meaning: The quote "Air power is like poker. A second-best hand is like none at all - it will cost you dough and win you nothing" by George Kenney, a soldier, provides an insightful analogy between the use of air power in military strategy and the game of poker. This comparison sheds light on the critical importance of having a strong and effective air power capability in warfare, emphasizing that a subpar or insufficient air power presence can be costly and ultimately ineffective.

In poker, having a strong hand is crucial for success. A second-best hand may lead a player to invest money in the game, only to find that it does not yield any winnings. Similarly, in military operations, having a robust air power capability is essential for achieving strategic objectives. Without it, the investment of resources and efforts may not result in the desired outcomes, akin to having no hand at all in a poker game.

The analogy also highlights the concept of relative strength and the potential consequences of being outmatched. In poker, a player with a second-best hand may be outmatched by opponents with stronger hands, leading to a loss of resources without gaining any rewards. In the context of air power, a military force with inferior air capabilities may find itself at a disadvantage when facing adversaries with superior air power, potentially incurring losses without achieving meaningful results.

George Kenney's background as a soldier adds weight to the analogy, as it reflects firsthand experience and understanding of the importance of air power in military operations. Throughout history, air power has played a significant role in shaping the outcomes of conflicts, influencing strategic decision-making, and impacting the overall balance of power between opposing forces. Kenney's quote encapsulates the understanding that air power is not just a tool in warfare but a critical component that can tip the scales in favor of those who wield it effectively.

From a strategic perspective, the quote underscores the need for military planners and decision-makers to prioritize the development and maintenance of a strong air power capability. It serves as a reminder that compromising on air power or settling for a "second-best hand" in this domain can be detrimental to overall mission success and may result in wasted resources and potential vulnerabilities.

In modern warfare, air power encompasses a wide range of capabilities, including aerial combat, surveillance and reconnaissance, strategic bombing, and logistical support. These capabilities are essential for achieving air superiority, conducting precision strikes, and providing crucial support to ground and naval forces. As such, the quote by George Kenney resonates with the ongoing debates and discussions surrounding defense budgets, force modernization, and the allocation of resources for air power capabilities.

In conclusion, George Kenney's analogy comparing air power to poker effectively conveys the critical importance of having a strong and effective air power capability in military operations. The quote encapsulates the idea that settling for a subpar air power capability is akin to having no hand at all in a poker game – it can be costly and ultimately ineffective. This perspective serves as a valuable insight for military strategists, policymakers, and anyone involved in the planning and execution of military operations.