Tenets of AirLand Battle Doctrine

Operational Concept

AirLand Battle doctrine has at its core the U.S. Army's operational concept.

This concept provides the central theme for our Army's approach to

contemporary warfare.

It extends to both the tactical and operational

levels.

The conduct of the AirLand Battle is based on the broad operational concept

of securing the initiative. AirLand Battle requires offensive action. The

initiative should be secured as early as possible. The initiative must be

retained and exercised aggressively to defeat the enemy.

Every weapon,

asset, and combat multiplier is employed to gain the initiative.

The

objective of all military operations is to throw the enemy off balance.

This is achieved with a powerful blow from an unexpected direction.

The

blow is then followed up rapidly to prevent the enemy's recovery.

This

operational concept applies to all forces operating worldwide. It applies

whether a force is attacking or defending.

"Rapidity is the essence of war; take advantage of the enemy's

unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack

unguarded spots."

Sun Tzu

Whenever possible, the enemy will be defeated by destruction of critical

units or facilities. This method is preferred to overall attrition. This

is particularly true about the operational level.

At the tactical level,

attrition may play an occasionally important role.

Attrition and the

substitution of massed forces for massed soldiers may be used to facilitate

decisive Maneuver at the operational and tactical levels.

This is true

especially in offensive operations.

Our operations must combine speed, violence, and surprise. Our actions must

disorient the enemy and prohibit a counteraction.

Operational planning

requires a combined arms effort on the AirLand Battlefield. The commander

must be flexible in his planning. He must quickly respond to opportunities

to exploit enemy weaknesses.

Tenets of AirLand Battle Doctrine

Four basic characteristics express the essence of the operational concept

and AirLand Battle doctrine:

o

Initiative.

o

Depth.

o

Agility.

o

Synchronization.

These tenets apply at both the tactical and operational levels.

They apply

at all levels of command.

5

IS7000