Kharkov and Sinai: A Study in Operational Transition
Abstract
The actions a force takes from the successful defense to the initiation of a counteroffensive is operational transition. The campaigns studied are Manstein's counteroffensive against the Soviets on the Eastern Front from Feb to Mar 1943 and the Israeli counteroffensive against the Egyptians in the 1973 Arab-Israeli War. The author concludes that the essential elements of operational transition that may be used to guide campaign planning are: 1) Ends- ways-means-risk must be harmonized so that strategy, operational art and tactics are synchronized to pursue the positive aim of counteroffensive .2) The operational commander should understand and apply the analytical tools of operational design to be successful in the defense and transition to the counteroffensive. These concepts are those of the center of gravity, the culmination point, determination of decisive points and designation of lines of operation and support. This understanding and application produces a workable, initial campaign plan that focuses on setting the conditions for the transition of the counteroffensive. 3) Through application of intelligence, deception, generation of operational reserves and sustainment, the operational commander must meld the combat power resources of leadership, maneuver, firepower, and protection into a force capable of executing his campaign plan.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 29, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA202271
Entities
People
- James E. Sikes
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College