Soviet Constraints in Southwest Asia: A Military Analysis.
Abstract
This memorandum examines in a military context the factors which constrain Soviet military operations in Southwest Asia. The major drawbacks considered are the manner in which the Soviet has built its forces and how its force structure limits Soviet power projection capabilities; the impact of geography and weather upon armor-heavy military operations; the effect of distance consideration in Southwest Asia, given the performance capabilities of Soviet military equipment; and the political risks Moscow would have to expect if it initiates military operations in the mid-range. The author concludes that the main constraint upon the Soviet Union in this area is political. It is a lack of friends and allies; a lack of assured access to facilities; and a general dislike not only for the USSR but the Communist system. Therefore, the primary US response to the Soviet Union threat must continue to be essentially political, bolstered by military capabilities. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 07, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA109669
Entities
People
- Keith A. Dunn
Organizations
- United States Army War College