Communist Insurgencies and the Relevance of the Concepts of Center of Gravity and Decisive Points,
Abstract
This paper analyzes the relevancy of the terms center of gravity and decisive points at the operational level of war in communist insurgencies. It begins by proposing acceptable meanings for the terms center of gravity, decisive points, subversion, insurgency, and counter insurgency. The subsequent portion of the analysis explores the characteristics of insurgent warfare. Historical examples illustrate each characteristic by establishing a situation and context of historical significance. It is in this context that the study examines the characteristics of communist insurgency and their relation to the terms center of gravity and decisive points at the operational level of conflict. The monograph concludes by recommending that the military adopt the terms center of gravity and decisive points to its doctrine concerning insurgent warfare. Furthermore, it recommends that the military should not transpose the terms' classical definitions directly to modern doctrine but instead should amend them somewhat to enhance their applicability to modern warfare. (sdw)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 12, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA195564
Entities
People
- Melvin E. Richmond Jr
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College