An American Operational Maneuver Group.
Abstract
Carl Von Clausewitz wrote that a fundamental principle (of the defense) is never to remain completely passive, but to attack the enemy frontally and from the flanks, even while he is attacking...induce the enemy to deploy his force in an attack...we in turn attack with those forces which we have kept back...This attack can take place the moment the enemy actually attacks...disorganize it... force it into retreat... The Soviet operational maneuver group (OMG) will attempt to disorganize NATO and force rapid capitulation. Some have asked, Could the same concept be employed by using a US Army division in an OMG role operating up to 150 kilometers forward of the NATO FLOT for periods of up to seven days? This study examined the feasibility of a divisional OMG attacking cross-FLOT to destroy Soviet follow-on forces, command and control centers, logistics bases and cut lines of communication forcing them to withdraw. Based on the analysis, it was concluded that the logistical support requirements and anticipated combat losses are of such a magnitude that US forces should not plan for commitment of a divisional OMG in the European environment. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 22, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA156989
Entities
People
- W. A. Brinkley
Organizations
- United States Army War College