Who is Out There? Tactical Reconnaissance Formations for the Heavy Division
Abstract
The purpose of this monograph is to examine the organization of tactical reconnaissance formations within the heavy division to determine how they should be organized to accomplish the missions they will be assigned. The Army of Excellence has significantly lightened the Divisional Cavalry Squadron and, as a result, numerous critics have raised a great hue and cry about the demise of cavalry's tanks and ground reconnaissance capability. This monograph will historically examine the operations of tactical ground reconnaissance units of the Germans, the Russians, and the Americans during World War II in the European Theater of Operations. Specifically, we will examine the type of missions that were assigned to reconnaissance units; whether they fought for information or depended on stealth; and, finally, whether they used ad hoc reconnaissance groups or heavy organic reconnaissance assets to seek tactical combat information. After an analysis of Soviet reconnaissance doctrine and a comparison with American doctrine, we can safely conclude that the heavy division's tactical reconnaissance formations need to be able to flexibly employ all types of combat units and utilize both stealth and combat techniques to extract information on the enemy. However, the source for these extensive capabilities is carried within the heavy division itself. Infantry and tank units, as well as engineers, artillery, aviation, and others must be prepared to conduct the reconnaissance mission within their capabilities and reinforce the efforts of the scouts and cavalry. We must realize in our doctrine and our training that reconnaissance is a combined arms affair which cannot be left solely to the scout.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 06, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA211468
Entities
People
- James G. Diehl
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College