exploited to the greatest advantage.
In assigning missions to an air
assault battalion, the commander's primary concern is to maximize its unique
capabilities.
He must also carefully consider its inherent limitations.
For example: an air assault battalion should not be assigned the mission of
conducting a deliberate defense in a high intensity environment for an
extended period of time.
Such a mission would cause an air assault
battalion to forfeit its superior tactical mobility.
Such considerations
will be addressed in our discussions to follow on air assault division
Air Assault Division Capabilities
The unique and highly mobile characteristics of the air assault division
give it capabilities that other divisions lack.
There are a number of
capabilities the air assault division has that should be considered when
employing air assault forces. Listed below are significant capabilities of
the air assault division that need be considered:
o
Attack from any direction in otherwise inaccessible areas over
wide frontages.
o
Responds immediately and maneuvers rapidly to concentrate,
disperse, or redeploy to influence the tempo and frequency of
engagements.
o
Provides combat elements for economy of force roles.
o
Can act as a highly responsive mobile reserve force.
Air Assault Division Limitations
Just as the air assault division has capabilities, there are definite
limitations that must be considered.
Listed below are a number of
significant limitations that must be considered:
o
Ground mobility limited to walking speed.
o
Limited protection against
nuclear,
chemical,
and
conventional fires.
o
Sensitive to adverse weather which restricts air operations.
o
Requirements for large, continuing amounts of logistic support.
o
Additional time is required to prepare adequate positions if
expected to fight against armor due to limited protection.
Now that we have reviewed the mission, capabilities, and limitations of the
air assault division, let us consider the organization of the air assault
division.
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IS7003
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