The Effects of Interdiction in World War II: The European Theater of Operation
Abstract
This study analyzes the Allied interdiction campaign of World War II in the European Theater of Operation and identifies the target types that were most effective in supporting the land battle. The analysis is divided into strategic and tactical interdiction. The strategic interdiction campaign was aimed at German resources and lines of communication. The tactical interdiction campaign was in more direct support of the land battle; therefore, the analysis is conducted by type ground campaign supported. Investigation reveals that the strategic interdiction campaign was most effective in supporting the land battle when striking lines of communication. The tactical interdiction campaign was most effective in a battlefield isolation role which included targets within the battlefield area. As a general rule, interdiction was more effective when employed in concert with the ground commanders scheme of maneuver. The high value targets identified were marshalling yards, rail lines, roads, defiles, supply dumps, troop concentrations, enemy columns, bridges, communication centers, signal communications, and anti-aircraft artillery.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 07, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA151688
Entities
People
- Thomas B. Poole
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College