To Win - Not Just Avert Defeat
The AirLand Battle doctrine represents a rebirth of the strategic and
operational offensive.
It is a recognition that the strategic defensive
cannot be decisive. The concept of the strategic offensive is the focus of
current AirLand Battle doctrine. It is represented by the emphasis given to
securing the initiative.
Army forces may be outnumbered on the next battlefield.
This fact is
another reason for the development of AirLand Battle doctrine. To win when
outnumbered may entail the acceptance of greater risk. The focus of warfare
needed to be shifted from a firepower approach to one of maneuver. AirLand
Battle doctrine has significantly increased the focus of warfare to a
maneuver approach.
Changing Nature of the Battlefield
AirLand Battle doctrine was developed in recognition of the changing nature
of the battlefield. It emphasized changes in technology and enemy doctrine
and tactics. The impact of technology has resulted in many changes on the
battlefield.
Military forces are more dispersed, yet more lethal and
mobile. The character of the battlefield is nonlinear. It is extended in
spatial scope to see deep and strike deep. A full range of weapons may be
used including conventional, nuclear, chemical, and electronic.
The side
that combines air and ground systems on the modern battlefield will secure a
great advantage.
AirLand Battle doctrine was developed with the technological impact in mind.
Technology is viewed as a means to an end.
It is not an end in itself.
That is, technology does not drive the doctrine.
To Fight in Depth - Time, Space, and Resources
AirLand Battle doctrine includes the concept of thinking in depth.
This
means planning ahead or anticipating future actions and operations on the
battlefield.
It is important to extend time in terms of planning and
resources (both men and material). At brigade and above, commanders should
not be totally consumed with the current fight. They should be anticipating
outcomes and planning for future operations.
Depth of resources allows for maintenance of the rapid tempo and high levels
of lethality.
Depth in men and material permits the continuous combat we
expect on the battlefield.
Summary
AirLand Battle doctrine is a maneuver approach to warfare. It is the Army's
view of the battlefield of the 1980's. AirLand Battle doctrine
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