Soviet Attack Tempo: The Linchpin in Soviet Maneuver Doctrine
Abstract
The essence of Soviet maneuver theory rests on two tenets: rapid tempo and concentrated firepower. A dynamic relationship exists between these two conditions. For the Soviets to succeed in the attack they must organize their forces so that they can concentrate overwhelming firepower rapidly at a specific point of contact with the enemy. Tempo provides the cadence necessary for ground and air maneuver, combat support, and service support units to achieve this concentration of effort. This paper analyzes the strengths of tempo and firepower in Soviet maneuver doctrine and determines how these strengths can be countered. This will be done first by defining Soviet maneuver theory. Then the theory will be tested by examining specific tactical examples of Soviet offensive operations during World War II on the Eastern Front. Finally, Soviet maneuver theory will be reviewed in light of present Airland Battle doctrine within the context of the Central European battlefield. This study concludes that countering Soviet maneuver doctrine requires US commanders to focus on disrupting enemy attack tempo. This is done by extending the space and time that the Soviet's must move across the battlefield. Lengthening the battlefield must be an integrated effort combining countermobility planning with rapid maneuver to concentrate firepower at different moments during the fight.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 09, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA192586
Entities
People
- Richard H. Gribling
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College