Defense Concept - Mechanized Division
Abstract
The study was undertaken to generate feasible resolutions to shortcomings in our efforts to address the current threat against CENTAG. These shortcomings exist in terms of perceptions, attitudes, tactical doctrine, analysis of the threat, and the appreciation of political realities. A defense evenly disposed by divisions across CENTAG is destined to fail. Should war ever come, the Warsaw Pact would necessarily conduct its main attack on an extremely narrow front in order to attain its objectives. The only hope for a successful defense lies in a method which optimizes the use of terrain and forces. Inherent in this contention is the requirement to employ a defense which maximizes the capabilities and minimizes the vulnerabilities of every available weapons system. The study concludes that the force specific defense provides an alternative. It overcomes many of the disadvantages of other defense concepts. It has problems of its own such as the adverse psychological effects of moving enemy forces both forward of and behind occupied positions and the inherent difficulty in resupplying bypassed forward forces. It is, however, a reasonable application of principles to the situation at hand. It is, when compared with other defense concepts, feasible. It is particularly, but not uniquely, applicable to a European scenario.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 06, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADB006703
Entities
People
- Kenneth F. Jodoin
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College