From COBRA to the Seine, August 1944: A Microcosm of the Operational Art

Abstract

This study attempts to provide a contextual example of many of the concepts and terms of the operational art as demonstrated by the Allies in France during August 1944. The action from Operation COBRA to the Seine River crossings is first described, highlighting key operational concepts and terms. Then these concepts are discussed, defined, sketched, mapped and redefined where appropriate, all in an effort to present a more complete understanding of the terms and concepts on which AirLand Battle and FM 100-5 are built. The following terms and concepts are addressed: Theater strategic objectives, Sequenced activities, Branches and sequels, Center of gravity, Culminating point, Decisive terrain, Lines of operation, and Operational maneuver.The study reveals at least two areas where perhaps FM 100-5 needs more thought. These are center of gravity and defensive culminating point.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 09, 1986
Accession Number
ADA174270

Entities

People

  • Scott B. Cottrell

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Army
  • Artillery
  • Artillery Fire
  • Availability
  • Battles
  • Center Of Gravity
  • Classification
  • Command And Control
  • Crystal Structure
  • Directives
  • Military History
  • New York
  • River Crossings
  • Schools
  • Security
  • Universities
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Aquatic Ecology
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Systems Analysis and Design