Paradigm Found: The Nuclear and Nonlinear Battlefields
Abstract
This monograph explores the similarity between the nuclear battlefield of the Pentomic Era and the nonlinear battlefield described in TRADOC Pamphlet 525-5 AirLand Operations: A Concept for the Evolution of AirLand Battle for the Strategic Army of the 1990's and Beyond. This concept is based on the assumption that future battlefields will be nonlinear (more open, less dense). Since the ideas in this pamphlet will guide developments in doctrine, organization, training, materiel, and leader and soldier development, examining this nonlinear battlefield is important. Many aspects of the Pentomic Era's nuclear battlefield are similar to the nonlinear battlefield. If a strong enough connection can be made between the two, some of the nuclear battlefield's testing and analysis data could be used to guide future nonlinear battlefield analysis. The methodology used for objectively determining similarity between the two battlefields is based on comparing the nonlinear battlefield described in TRADOC Pamphlet 525-5 to the nuclear battlefield described in various Pentomic Era books, articles, and studies. The test criteria are: battlefield characteristics (descriptive aspects which set the battlefield apart from preceding descriptions); battlefield relationships (relationships between activities, friendly and enemy forces, and combat and sustainment forces); and combat power dynamics (from FM 100-5 Operations - maneuver, firepower, protection, and leadership). Additionally, the Soviet view of the nonlinear/ nuclear battlefield relationship is discussed as further evidence linking the two battlefield descriptions. Finally, the monograph ends with comments on the utility of studying military history.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 04, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA264451
Entities
People
- Marc Legare
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College