[citation needed] The field of trajectory optimization has made use of the concept since the 1950s in the form of energy analysis.
All other states such as altitude and flight path angle are approximated as infinitely fast compared to the specific energy dynamics.
Aircraft-specific energy is used extensively in the energy–maneuverability theory governing modern aircraft dogfighting tactics.
The primary goal of air combat manoeuvring is to maintain an optimal aircraft-specific energy.
Speed allows an aircraft the ability to potentially outmaneuver adversaries, and altitude can be converted into speed, while also providing extended range for guided munitions (due to lower air density and therefore lower drag at any given velocity).