Groping in the Void: The Problem of Battle Handover in the AirLand Battle Future Environment
Abstract
This report examines current U.S. military doctrine on the subject of battle handover to determine its applicability to the conditions of maneuver war. Army theorists are considering a new operational concept that assumes the likelihood of maneuver war in the years ahead. Known as AirLand Battle Future, the concept anticipates a nonlinear battlefields, deep and continuous operations, and rapid deployment. The fluidity of operations on such battlefields complicates the relationship between reconnaissance and combat units, both of which must coordinate closely during battle handover. These factors may force the Army to revise its current doctrine, which was founded on assumptions of battlefield linearity. Theoretical relationship between reconnaissance and combat forces, using the writings of several theorist, made clear the importance of focusing scarce reconnaissance assets on the enemy's center of gravity and decisive points, which shift frequently in maneuver war. The intelligence thus generated is crucial in determining the best place to hand over the battle to combat forces.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 21, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA236010
Entities
People
- Lance A. Betros
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College