The Role of the Fighting Vehicle on the Airland Battlefield
Abstract
The specific objective of this thesis is to determine how the fighting vehicle evolved; the roles of fighting vehicles of other countries; possible roles of future fighting vehicles; and what changes are required in organization, design, and/or doctrine to support the role of the fighting vehicle. The ability of the U.S. Army to operate at a higher tempo than an enemy is fundamental to its war-fighting doctrine. One aspect of an increased tempo is the capability of the armored force to execute its mission. In an effort to increase its capability, the U.S. Army is modernizing its armored forces. In the last decade, the Abrams tank has replaced the M60, the Bradley Fighting Vehicle has replaced the M113, and numerous supporting systems have been introduced or upgraded within the heavy divisions. Unfortunately, rapid modernization has out paced the doctrine. We understand the end result: defeat the enemy. Lamentably, the ways and means to accomplish this task are not so clear. The role of the tank on the battlefield remains unchanged: defeat the enemy's tank. The role of the fighting vehicle on the battlefield is where the issue is unclear. Does the fighting vehicle carry the infantryman to battle, but not participate in it? Does the fighting vehicle destroy the enemy's fighting vehicle? Does the fighting vehicle support the infantryman in his dismounted missions with direct fire? Must the fighting vehicle accomplish all of these tasks? This thesis examines these equations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA227430
Entities
People
- William G. Gessner Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College