Exploiting the Vertical Dimension: Continuing Development of the Soviet Desant Force Structure.
Abstract
The Soviet concept of 'desant' is defined in their Military Encyclopedia Dictionary as forces, specially prepared and landed or designated for landing on the enemy's territory for the purpose of conducting combat actions. In other words, it encompasses both the force and the landing of the force together in one term. The evolution of the Soviet DESANT system remains a dynamic process. Their approach is primarily a systems approach, i.e., the interrelationships of technology, force structure, operational concepts and man himself. If we in the West are to be successful in accurately perceiving Soviet force developments in all arenas, we must come to grips with understanding this unique approach to development. If we can do this, we will avoid the tendency to define Soviet military capabilities on the basis of a 'snapshot' that reflects only a stage of development. By viewing trends in a systems context, with an understanding of the Soviet dialectical approach to military development, we can acquire some predictive ability and reduce the time lag between particular Soviet developments and our understanding of them. Keywords: Airborne assault operations; Military tactics; Operational art; Helicopters; Power projection; Logistics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA194146
Entities
People
- Graham H. Turbiville Jr.
- James F. Holcomb Jr.