Initiative
AirLand Battle doctrine identifies initiative as the greatest advantage in
war. Initiative is the ability to set the terms of battle by action. The
chief doctrinal corollaries of initiative are the requirements for:
o
Well-defined, thoroughly understood objectives.
o
Understanding the commander's intent.
o
Aggressive, independent action by subordinates to accomplish the
mission.
Initiative is oriented toward offensive operations and the employment of
maneuver on the battlefield.
Forces both attacking and defending are
expected to seize and retain the initiative. Retaining the initiative will
help to defeat the enemy and prevent his recovery. Independent actions by
subordinate commanders must compensate for:
o
The effects of electronic warfare.
o
The destruction of friendly forces and headquarters.
o
Lapses in command and control communications.
Depth
Depth in the AirLand Battle refers to time, space, and resources. Combat on
the AirLand Battlefield will be far-reaching.
Actions in depth will
influence the outcome of the battle.
The commander must protect his own
rear area.
He must also attack the enemy's neutral forces and support
facilities.
The commander considered all of his available resources to
conduct deep battle.
Depth in the AirLand Battle is represented by the commander's provisions for
continuous action. These provisions include the commander's readiness to
o
Carry the battle into new areas.
o
Fight and support for extended periods.
o
Continue his operations if the enemy
resorts
to
chemical
or
These provisions can determine the overall success of the force.
The
commander must be prepared to convert battlefield successes into campaign
advantages.
To date, deep battle in the enemy's rear area has been the most discussed
feature of AirLand Battle. Attack of enemy forces in depth is an integral
part of the doctrine. It requires a realistic plan that is linked to the
commander's central concept for an operation. The purpose of deep attack in
the AirLand Battle is to complement the central concept of operation. Deep
action is a necessary part of a unified operational plan.
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IS7000
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