Final answer:
Mutual aid can offset Air Force resource requirements in certain situations, with the primary responsibility for defense lying with the nation directly threatened.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mutual aid can offset Air Force resource requirements in certain situations. According to the information provided, in cases involving aggression, military and economic assistance may be provided when requested in accordance with treaty commitments. However, the primary responsibility for defense lies with the nation directly threatened.
This concept can be related to the example of the United States contributing troops, materials, and expertise to address foreign problems. When the United States entered the second Iraq war, it did so with a consortium of other nations. However, some nations decreased their involvement, becoming 'free riders,' benefiting from the collective action without contributing directly to its cost.
In summary, mutual aid can be used to offset Air Force resource requirements, but the primary responsibility for defense lies with the nation directly threatened.