Striking and offensive moves in aikido

I would like to ask what kind of strikes or attacks aikido employs. I rarely see striking techniques in aikido books or demonstrations but i heard that atemi is a vital part of aikido.
So what kind of striking moves does aikido use? Straight punches? Knivehand? Or even kicking?
Please tell me.

Pre-war "aikido" yes. Post-war, not as much emphasis on atemi. I believe the change is due to O'Sensei's spiritual enlightenment.

in aikido striking mean to strike the mind meaning to distract them not to hurt them. but some people dont beleive in it. but the always do strait punches if you would call them the come from the center. at least that what i know

[This message has been edited by Short_Stack (edited 04-20-2005).]

There’s a good deal of "sword hand" combat if you know where to look. This is mostly due to the fact that aikido is synthesized from sword techniques.