Fixed Permanent Fortifications at the Operational Level of War
Abstract
Throughout history the use of fixed permanent fortifications has waxed and waned depending on the technology and warfare of the day. Several of the forward looking military writers have predicted an increase in the use of fixed permanent fortifications in the future. They believe advances in the technology of sensors and robotics may cause a shift toward the use of fortifications at the operational level. Current Army doctrine and the AirLand Battle Future concept do not attach any operational significance to fixed fortifications. This monography examines whether the use of fixed permanent fortifications has any value at the operational level in the future. First the classical theorists are examined to establish a theoretical framework for the use of forts. Then the historical examples the Maginot Line, the Bar-Lev Line, and DESERT STORM are analysed with respect to the operational design of the use of permanent fortifications. This is followed by an analysis of how new technology will affect the effectiveness of fixed permanent fortifications. Finally, the ten imperatives of AirLand Battle are used as criteria to determine if fixed permanent fortifications have a value for the United States military at the operational level of war. Conclusions are based on the evaluation of the theoretical, historical, and technological review considered against the ten tenets of AirLand Battle doctrine.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 10, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA240407
Entities
People
- Harold L. Chappell
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College