Sustaining the Tempo: A New Method of Overwatch
Abstract
General Schwarzkopf was unhappy with the tempo of the VII Corps attack during Operation Desert Storm. Likewise, a recent Rand study of over 115 NTC battles highlighted the technique of overwatch as a significant detractor to sustaining tempo in the attack. As the new Field Manual 100-5, Operations completes the evolution of American doctrine from the 1976 Active Defense to the 1992 notion of Quick, Decisive Victory with Minimum Casualties, the U. S. Army must ensure its tactics change to support the new vision. The capstone doctrine calling for elevated tempo diverges with the cautious overwatch technique. The purpose of the monograph is to analyze the components of fire and maneuver and determine if overwatch is an insufficient technique for sustaining tempo in the attack. Likewise, the methodology seeks to determine the best method of maintaining tempo and protecting the attacking forces. BG Hamilton Howze and then LTC William E. DePuy developed the technique of overwatch shortly after World War II. Essentially, DePuy devised the idea of overwatch from stationary positions based upon the declining quality of his infantry and technological limitations. Further, overwatch is rooted in the American Army's traditional reliance on firepower. As such, the methodology pursues a historical review of German use of Soviet tactics to achieve elevated tempo, a summary of relevant theory, a study of physics in the attack, and an analysis of American and Russian attack tactics. The research concludes that the American technique of overwatch hinders the tempo of force in the attack.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA262659
Entities
People
- Anthony J. Tata
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College