The first use of aviation in the military came in the form of what?

The use of aviation in the military first emerged with lighter-than-air balloons. This innovation allowed military forces to gain a significant strategic advantage by providing aerial reconnaissance and observation capabilities during battles. Ballooning was utilized notably during the American Civil War, where they were deployed to scout enemy positions, gather intelligence, and direct artillery fire from elevated viewpoints.

The advancements in balloon technology allowed for tethered flights, which facilitated communication and observation, marking a pivotal moment in military tactics. Establishing this early form of military aviation paved the way for future developments in aerial combat and transportation, but the foundational role of lighter-than-air balloons is recognized as the catalyst for utilizing aviation in military operations.