Follow-On Force Attack -- Now and In the Future
Abstract
Soviet military doctrine calls for the use of echeloning to penetrate prepared defenses. FOFA counters this strategy by reducing the combat power of the follow-on forces to produce manageable force ratios at the in-contact battle. The FOFA concept offers a framework within which to employ new technology systems to locate, delay, disrupt and destroy targets in the enemy rear. From inception, FOFA has been controversial but since its formal adoption in 1986 the rationale for the concept has strengthened. Doubts about affordability and technical feasibility have been largely dispelled. The introduction of the operational maneuver group and possible countermeasures by the Soviets have diluted but not invalidated the effectiveness of the concept. Troop reductions in Europe will increase the need for FOFA: its high technology and effectiveness are the best substitutes for fewer men. FOFA is not overaggressive nor inconsistent with NATO's defensive nature: the concept is simply a better way of doing what it has always been planned to do. FOFA is unique. The concept provides a lead in coordinating the design, manufacture and operation of the weapon systems which inevitably will result from new technology. FOFA is a key element of SACEUR's plans for the defense of Europe now and in the future.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA241051
Entities
People
- Avb Hawken
Organizations
- Air War College