LEARNING EVENT 3
DYNAMICS OF BATTLE
Introduction
The dynamics of battle reflect the interaction of the decisive elements of
combat.
Both tangible and intangible factors decide battles.
Tangible
factors include attrition and the effects of firepower and maneuver.
Intangible factors refer to troop training and motivation.
Leader skills
are also intangible factors. These factors are related to combat power. It
is important to understand the role of combat power in fighting battles.
The component elements of combat power are:
o
Maneuver.
o
o
Protection.
o
Leadership.
The dynamics of battle also include the combat imperatives. The principles
of war described in Lesson 1 provide the basis for the imperatives. There
are seven combat imperatives:
o
Insure 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, and finish rapidly.
o
Use terrain and weather.
o
Protect the force.
The effectiveness of the elements of combat power depends upon the skill of
the commander.
The commander's effectiveness in enhanced through his
understanding of the combat imperatives. The following discussion explains
the elements of combat power.
Included is a description of the combat
imperatives.
Maneuver
Maneuver is viewed by different people to mean different things.
Maneuver
can be viewed as:
o
A type of force.
o
A specific combat action.
o
Movement on the battlefield.
o
An approach to warfare.
Another distinction concerns the operational and tactical views of maneuver.
At the operational level, the objective is to focus maximum strength against
the enemy's weakest point.
Maneuver involves offensive actions at the
tactical level.
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IS7000
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