ULTRA: Its Operational Use in the European Theater of Operations, 1943- 1945.
Abstract
Much has been written concerning ULTRA intelligence and its niche in World War II history. What has been lacking is an examination of its use on combat operations at the operational level of war. Timeliness and integration with all intelligence sources available to the field command are key in ULTRA's successful use. Intelligence must be timely, arriving early enough to influence the operational planning process or leaving enough time for reaction if it is to be used for targeting or maneuver. ULTRA's timelines were sufficient for Army Group/Air Army utilization. The system for its dissemination to Army/Tactical Air Command level was, however, not structured to support its rapid use. This study examines the dissemination of ULTRA to the operational level in the European Theater of Operations and its integration into the command decision process. The study also establishes that ULTRA was more effective when fused with other sources to present an all-source picture than when it was used as a single source, albeit one with potentially great insight into the mind of an opposing German commander.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 03, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA234706
Entities
People
- G. D. Gribble Jr
Organizations
- United States Army War College