The Essentials of Operational Momentum.
Abstract
This monograph discusses the concept of operational momentum as it relates to achieving and exploiting depth during offensive operations. Its purpose is to identify those elements which are essential to achieving an maintaining speed and mass required for operational momentum to overcome enemy resistance and penetrate in depth to strike decisive points. This presentation begins with the observation that success in the operational offensive ultimately requires striking the enemy in depth. It proceeds with an analysis of three different theoretical approaches to subject as developed by J.F.C. Fuller, Basil H. Liddell-Hart, and Mikhail Tukhachevskiy. These theoretical approaches are subsequently examined in the context of selected major operations and campaigns conducted since the beginning of World War II. The results of this examination suggest essential elements for operational momentum which are presented in the conclusion to this paper along with perceived implications for the U.S. Army.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 05, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA184741
Entities
People
- Brian A. Lovatt
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College