A Concept for the Tactical Employment of Light Infantry in Central Europe
Abstract
Recently, authors in western military journals have indicated that defense of restricted terrain and urban areas are the most suitable missions for Light Infantry Divisions in Central Europe. This monograph argues that those missions are not appropriate. In a high intensity conflict, light infantry units must be employed offensively in accordance with a tactical style more suited to their training and organization. This paper includes a study of the use and misuse of light forces since the beginning of World War II. The primary conclusion is that our Light Infantry Divisions must operate in Europe in the same way that they intend to fight in a low intensity conflict--i.e. they must be offensively oriented and fight in an unconventional style that focuses on disrupting rather than destroying the enemy. Our military doctrine must reflect that light infantry forces operate in this manner. A secondary conclusion concerns our lack of infantry in Europe. Since defensive missions in high intensity warfare require conventional dismounted infantry, the Army should bring more regular infantry divisions back into the force structure.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 05, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA179453
Entities
People
- Gregory C. Gardner
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College