Naval Surface Fire Support: Not Just a Substitute for Naval Gunfire
Abstract
This paper examines the Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) concept from a requirements perspective in an attempt to answer the question: Is NSFS a viable supporting concept for Operational Maneuver From the Sea (OMFTS)? The historical relevance of naval gunfire (NGF) connotes overwhelming firepower used to subdue formidable land defenses in support of the of amphibious forces. NGF achieved prominence in support of amphibious operations during World War II. In the intervening years, NGF capability steadily declined without significant improvement or change in doctrine, though the nation's attention to power projection has increased. The uncertainty associated with the Post Cold War era challenges military strategists to determine an appropriate and justifiable force structure within the United States. The Department of Defense will continue to downsize while the need to credibly project power will remain constant or increase. Without a clear threat, many perceive an opportunity to fix domestic ills through downsizing defense. The current National Security Strategy is one of "Engagement and Enlargement." Recent experience indicates limited military intervention, or Military Operations Other Than War (MOOTW), will define the nature of conflict for the near future to quell conflicts before they blossom into global conflagrations that threaten the status quo. Military visionaries are challenged to develop more efficient war fighting concepts to meet both national desires and the ambiguity of future threats. OMFTS reflects an innovative approach that meets the desires for a smaller military while maintaining the ability to project seaborne power in support of the full range of military operations. The NSFS concept merges the economies of advanced technology and sea-based firepower to support OMFTS. NSFS is much more than NGF and affords a flexibility that accommodates both MOOTW and war.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA516263
Entities
People
- T.n. Stent
Organizations
- Marine Corps University