Battle of Algiers: Counter Insurgency Success
Abstract
American forces conducting future counterinsurgency (COIN) operations can achieve success using the same tactics that the French Army used in 1957 in Algeria. As the Marine Corps and the Army continue to prosecute the long war, they can expect to be confronted with conflicts similar to what the French Army experienced almost 60 years ago in Algeria. Parallels exist between the Battle of Algiers and the U.S. experience in Iraq. By drawing upon and understanding the tactical experience of the French in Algiers, we can prepare ourselves for future insurgencies our military may face and achieve success. The tactics the French employed in the Battle of Algiers have come under great scrutiny by modern scholars, despite the successful results they produced. The Army Field Manual 3-24 (FM 3-24) incorporates many of the experiences of the French Army in conducting a counterinsurgency operation. In conclusion, the tactics employed by the French Army in the Battle of Algiers resulted in successfully eradicating the insurgent movement in Algiers. The success achieved by the French Army will be hard to replicate in future COIN scenarios if the United States and its military focus on partnership building and not on destroying the enemy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 28, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA600812
Entities
People
- Lou H. Royer
Organizations
- Marine Corps University