There are two parts to protection. The first part involves actions to make
friendly forces hard to locate and destroy. These actions include:
o
Security.
o
o
Cover.
o
Camouflage.
o
Deception.
The second part involves actions directed at troop health and morale.
It
also includes supply inventory and equipment maintenance.
The effects of
protection contribute to combat power.
Leadership
Leadership is the crucial element of combat power. It is the element upon
which all others depend. The primary function of leadership is to inspire
and motivate soldiers. Leadership helps soldiers to perform difficult tasks
in difficult situations.
The effect of leadership contributes to combat power.
A superior leader
understands and uses all of his available means to win battles.
This
requires intelligent, flexible planning. A tactical commander must consider
logistical and troop readiness. This includes training and motivation under
all conditions.
The quality of leadership is the crucial element of
superior combat power.
Combat Imperatives
These imperatives are guidelines for the conduct of operations on the
AirLand Battlefield. They are derived from the principles of war discussed
in Learning Event 1.
The imperatives are the result of time and battle
tested techniques that form the basis for developing tactics. These tactics
are appropriate for METT-T (mission, enemy, terrain, troops, and time
available). The imperatives of combat power are:
o
Ensure unity of effort.
o
Direct friendly strength against enemy weaknesses.
o
Designate and sustain the main effort.
o
Sustain the fight.
o
Move fast, strike hard, finish rapidly.
o
Use terrain and weather.
o
Protect the force.
Insure Unity of Effort
The principles of war that provide the basis for this imperative are:
o
Objective.
o
Simplicity.
o
Unity of command.
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IS7000
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