United States Army Special Forces - the 21st Century Urban Challenge
Abstract
Global urbanization and the international security environment are increasing the chances that the U.S. will face urban warfare situations in the 21st century. Potential adversaries may take advantage of cities in an attempt to offset US advantages in maneuver, firepower and technology. The US will likely fight as part of a coalition, making command and control a very difficult task in built-up areas. Urban fighting is often nonlinear and conducted on three levels: subterranean, ground level, and aboveground level. Buildings block line of site communications and this makes coordinated actions above the small unit level extremely difficult. The likelihood of heavy casualties makes urban assaults a far less acceptable approach than an indirect approach such as isolating the enemy within an urban area. Regardless of whether a direct or indirect strategy is employed, intelligence is equally critical. The greatest shortfall that Russian forces encountered in Chechnya was the need for accurate and timely HUMINT on enemy leaders, troop concentrations, strong points and logistic centers. In urban scenarios involving US forces, Special Forces may be asked to conduct a broad range of missions including special reconnaissance, direct action, unconventional warfare and foreign internal defense. In addition, other activities including coalition warfare support, peace keeping support and humanitarian assistance operations will probably involve Army Special Forces units. This research project looks out to the year 2020 in order to study the ramifications of urban warfare on the roles, missions, and training of Army Special Forces units. As part of my conclusions, I have recommended areas of emphasis to prepare for the 21st Century urban warfare challenge.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA380140
Entities
People
- Matthew P. Mcguiness
Organizations
- United States Army War College