Forcible Entry in the 21st Century
Abstract
This paper addresses the viability of a forcible entry operation within the context of the missions required of amphibious forces in today's threat environment. In the past, massive fleets carrying the landing forces were able to overcome the well-prepared defender by directly assaulting the beach and securing a lodgment through attrition warfare. The current state of the amphibious forces does not allow this type of warfare to exist today. The capabilities and limitations of the amphibious ships and assault craft do not make forcible entry operations feasible. The paper examines the operational functions and elements of Operational Maneuver From The Sea, amphibious lift requirements, and the advantages and disadvantages of assault craft currently in the naval inventory. The paper highlights those characteristics most likely to cause the problems during a forcible entry operation and proposes solutions to overcome these obstacles. It concludes with the assertion that forcible entry operations are currently not feasible with the state of the amphibious forces with regards to the tenets of maneuver warfare.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 05, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA389770
Entities
People
- Scott A. Edwards
Organizations
- Naval War College