A Dynamic Analysis of the Medium Tank Battalion. Volume II
Abstract
An analysis of alternative organizations of the U.S. Army Medium Tank Battalion is conducted using the computer-assisted war game BATTLE (Battle Analyzer and Tactical Trainer for Local Engagements). The purpose of this study is to determine the best organization to conduct an active defense in a non- toxic conventional environment against Soviet breakthrough tactics. The scope of the study is limited to operational aspects of a defensive battle conducted by a tank battalion with not more than fifty-four tanks, an organic anti-tank (TOW) company, and an attached mechanized infantry company. Attack helicopter and close air support are excluded. Weapons performance characteristics are for those systems in the U.S. and Soviet active inventory. A battalion with 4 tanks in a platoon, 3 platoons in a company, and 4 tank companies in the battalion provides the best organization to defeat a Soviet attack with minimum losses. Target servicing capability, fire distribution, survivability, and flexibility are found to be the best compared to all other alternatives examined.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA058119
Entities
People
- G. P. Schurtz
- J. J. Steele
- M. J. Lowe
Organizations
- Naval War College