Surprise and Maskirovka in Contemporary War
Abstract
The Soviets firmly believe that the nature, means, and potential im pact of surprise and maskirovka evolve in consonance with changing conditions and changing times. This conviction is consistent with, if not an inevitable product of, their dialectical view of history. Changes in national attitudes (political, social) and mores, although difficult to measure, are part of the dialectical process. They determine impact and influence the atmosphere in which surprise and maskirovka are employed. More easily understood is the effect that changing technology has on prospects of achieving surprise. It is in this area that the potential effects of maskirovka's future use have been most pronounced. The introduction of new weapons systems, nuclear weapons, computer technology, and a wide variety of technological innovations has confronted military planners with new problems. The Soviets certainly consider pertinent to the modern era the basic intent, method, technique, and perhaps the basic principles of surprise and maskirovka derived from a study of experience. The basics must, however, be constantly and carefully reconsidered in the light of technological change, to ensure their continued applicability in contemporary or future war. Post-war writings had indicated that the Soviets have sought to keep abreast of those changes. Keywords: Reprints.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA216491
Entities
People
- David M. Glantz