3X8 Artillery Tactics: Before, During, and After Operation Desert Storm

Abstract

This thesis examines the 3X8 direct support field artillery battalion in the Army's heavy divisions from its inception in 1976 to its present state. The study places special emphasis on documenting the operational change of the firing battery from primarily platoon-based operations before Operation Desert Storm to primarily battery-based operations during and after Operation Desert Storm. The thesis compares platoon and battery-based operations with the Army's initial intent for 3X8 operations, the Army's current doctrinal manuals, and its future artillery systems. The two future direct support systems studied are the M109A6 Paladin system (currently being fielded) and the Advanced Field Artillery System (AFAS). The thesis concludes in determining that platoon-based operations should be the primary method of employing firing batteries in 3X8 battalions both now and with future systems. The thesis makes a number of recommendations to facilitate platoon and battery-based firing battery operations.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 03, 1994
Accession Number
ADA284474

Entities

People

  • Henry S. Larsen Iii

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Ammunition
  • Artillery
  • Artillery Ammunition
  • Artillery Fire
  • Artillery Tactics
  • Artillery Units
  • Command And Control
  • Employment
  • High Explosive Ammunition
  • Howitzers
  • Lessons Learned
  • Organizational Structure
  • Personnel Management
  • Projectiles
  • Self Propelled Guns
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Military Science
  • Systems Analysis and Design