The Italo-Turkish War was waged between the Kingdom of Italy and the Ottoman Empire from 1911 to 1912, primarily over control of Libya. As the conflict escalated, new methods of warfare began to emerge, particularly the use of aircraft for military purposes. On November 1, 1911, Second Lieutenant Giulio Gavotti piloted a Wright Model B aircraft in a mission that would change the course of warfare forever. This marked the first time bombs were dropped from an aircraft in a combat setting, displaying a novel approach to assaulting enemy positions from the air.

Gavotti targeted Ottoman artillery positions and troop concentrations, dropping several small bombs over the territory, which was not only a demonstration of the capabilities of aviation but also an early insight into the devastating potential of aerial bombardment. Gavotti's mission underscored the strategic importance of air power and set a precedent for subsequent military operations in which air support would become a critical element.

As aviation technology evolved, other nations began to explore bombers and fighter aircrafts, further integrating air power into their military strategies. The psychological impact of aerial bombing was also notable, as it instilled fear among enemy troops and civilians alike, marking a tactical shift in how wars would be fought in the 20th century. Gavotti's flight was a small but pivotal point in military history, bridging traditional ground battles with future air wars.