The Effects of Operational Encirclements,

Abstract

Military theorists expect successful encirclement operations to produce high payoffs in war. Unfortunately, say these theorists, encirclements also incur great risks. Soviet encirclement operations at Korsun and Minsk in 1944 validate the promise of increased benefits, but demonstrate that the risks can be overcome by employing sound battlefield techniques and superior numbers. A comparison of the two World War II operations against contemporary warfare conditions identifies surprise, air superiority and nuclear weapons as major factors contributing to the success or failure of encirclements. This paper concludes that encirclements remain applicable today, but they are not a remedy for all situations. Additionally, campaign planners should know the pros and cons of encirclement employment and should consider incorporating it in their plans when possible.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 13, 1987
Accession Number
ADA184965

Entities

People

  • Rick Gutwald

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

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  • Counter WMD
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  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
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