Employing the New Breed of Stand-Off Weapons in the Operational Theater.
Abstract
Emerging technology precision stand-off weapons currently in the appropriation's process, are but one element of a rising tide of evolutionary, if not revolutionary changes in the armed forces of the U.S. What role will the new breed of stand-off weapons play in light of the currently proclaimed Revolution in Military Affairs? Possessing the characteristics of superior accuracy, low cost, flexibility, speed of employment, and stand-off force protection, the new breed of stand-off weapon can form an overwhelming projection of force in the operational fires equation. History is replete with examples of stand-off weapons and their contribution to the armed forces they support, but almost devoid of occasions where stand-off weapons were singularly responsible for operational or strategic victory. In those instances where overwhelming stand-off weapons superiority existed, outcome at the tactical level was never in question. Despite this, a homogeneous force of stand-off weapons rarely succeeds outside the tactical level due to inherent limitations. It is employment of the heterogeneous, combined-arms force that ensured operational success. Intrinsic flexibility of a heterogeneous force, a versatile doctrine and coherent organization, represents the optimum mechanism for meeting the various contingencies across the spectrum of war. Nevertheless, properly employed, the new breed of stand-off precision guided weapons can form a decisive edge for the military capable of exploiting their potential.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 07, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA325821
Entities
People
- Christopher J. Shultz
Organizations
- Naval War College