The Airborne Force Role in Operational Maneuver
Abstract
The purpose of this monograph is to identify the airborne force role in operational maneuver. Specifically, the monograph attempts to define how airborne forces can contribute to the establishment of a theater of operations or other elements of operational design. Theory reveals that modern operational maneuver often needs protection either from fires or other forces. History shows that armies have used airborne forces to seize bases of operations, protect lines of operations, extend culminating points, secure decisive points, and contain enemy centers of gravity. In the final analysis, airborne forces seem best suited for seizing bases of operations and extending culminating points. They are less suited for containing an enemy-center of gravity. The critical point about employment of airborne force's is to follow the Eisenhower doctrine of dropping a force where a converging conventional force may rapidly link up with it or ensuring it can protect itself if isolated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 14, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA274363
Entities
People
- Anthony J. Tata
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College