Impact of Weather on Military Operations: Past, Present, Future
Abstract
Weather has been a significant, and sometimes decisive, factor in military operations throughout history. This paper reviews some of the more striking examples where weather played a major role in the outcome of military battles or campaigns and discusses its probable impact on future military operations. The more detailed examples are limited to the period of World War II and after; however, a few classic cases from earlier history also are discussed. History shows that as weapon systems become more complex and costly, accurate weather information (climatological data, observations, and forecasts) becomes increasingly important for their effective and efficient employment. Most modern commanders have recognized intuitively the importance of weather information; however, only recently have studies been made to quantify the value of military weather service. The results of these studies, some of which are summarized herein, dramatically illustrate that the current and potential benefits to military operations from a viable and responsive weather service far exceed the costs of such service.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 13, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0911125
Entities
People
- Gary D. Atkinson
Organizations
- United States Army War College